Laura Seabrook's Ramblings

As per the article in the TIMES COLONIST:

OTTAWA -- Despite a warning from Australian officials to "exercise caution" while travelling to Canada, our country remains a "dream vacation" spot according to the Australian High Commissioner to Canada.

Smart Traveller, a website run by Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, warns Australians to brace for potential natural disasters and severe weather in Canada.

They list earthquakes, avalanches, tornadoes, snowstorms and forest fires as possible safety risks.

The advisory names Alberta and British Columbia as places that are subject to avalanches and earthquakes that can occur at "any time." Australian Leigh Barnier, 21, was killed by an avalanche at Big White near Kelowna on Jan. 6.

The advisory also lists the possibility of a terrorist attack in Canada.

"We advise you to exercise caution and monitor developments that might affect your safety in Canada because of the risk of terrorist attack," the website said.

"Pay close attention to your personal security and monitor the media for information about possible new safety or security risks." Despite the advisory, Australians appear to be flocking to Canada.

More than 200,000 Australians visited Canadian countries last year, a 10 per cent jump, according to the Canadian Tourism Commission.

The Canadian Tourism Commission is forecasting another four per cent increase in Australian visitors to Canada this year.

"This market is growing for Canada," said Sylvie LaFleur, the executive director of overseas marketing at the Canadian Tourism Commission.

"Our research indicates Canada is safe, friendly and secure." Australian High Commissioner to Canada William Fisher told Global National the travel advisory is a blanket warning for all western countries.

"It might seem at first glimpse a bit alarming, but the fact is every other country is a whole lot alarming," said Fisher.

"It's really a little bit off the wall to say it's directed at Canada," said Fisher.

Fisher notes a tourist industry survey in Australia, which year after year, shows Australians choosing Canada as the top vacation destination.

Out of eight Australians killed overseas last year, two were snow-related deaths in Canada, and that may have prompted the advisory, according to Fisher.

He said the Canadian warning is among the least alarming Australia has.

Australia has also issued "exercise caution" advisories on Britain and the United States. (my highlighting)

Golly, and I was thinking of going there next year!