Australia issues travel warning for Hong Kong

‘Protests have become more unpredictable and are expected to continue’

Hong Kong is one of the world's greatest cities (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Australia has raised its travel alert for Hong Kong, putting it on the same footing as countries including Sri Lanka, Sierra Leone and El Salvador.

The Australian government’s ‘Smart Traveller’ service has warned travellers to the Special Administrative Region of China to “exercise a high degree of caution” because of the ongoing protests.

Demonstrations have taken place in Hong Kong since June in protest at a controversial proposed bill that would allow for criminal extradition to China.

Hong Kong is the most-visited city in the world, with almost 30m arrivals every year, according to Euromonitor. Until recently it was also one of the safest.

“Protests have become more unpredictable and are expected to continue,” the advice from the Australian government reads.

“Tourist areas have been affected. There is a risk of violent confrontation between protestors and police, or criminally-linked individuals, particularly at unauthorised protests.

“The risk is greater at night and on weekends. We strongly recommend you avoid large public gatherings. Monitor local media and follow the advice of local authorities.”

On Monday, protestors called a general strike that paralysed much of the city’s infrastructure.

Police fired tear gas at multiple locations in Hong Kong to disperse demonstrators. Tear gas was reported in the areas of Tin Shui Wai, Wong Tai Sin and Tai Po, while two cars were filmed ramming into separate crowds of protesters.

The UK’s Foreign Office hasn’t changed its official travel advice for Hong Kong, but has warned tourists of the possibility of “significant violence” during clashes between police and protestors.

“You should be prepared that the situation around protests and public gatherings could change quickly, with the potential for significant violence,” the FCO advice reads.

“Unauthorised protests have become more frequent and widespread, affecting many areas across Hong Kong, including some areas popular with tourists on Hong Kong Island and in Kowloon. Compared to authorised protests, unauthorised protests are met by a more rapid and more severe police response.

“Recent unauthorised protests have attracted heavy use of tear gas, including in built up and residential areas.”

A Hong Kong Tourist Board spokesperson said: “As the safety and security of travellers in Hong Kong is of the utmost importance, the Hong Kong Tourism Board continues to monitor the current situation closely.

“At present, tourist activities in Hong Kong continue as usual. Hotel and tourism operators are also monitoring the situation, and are prepared to provide necessary assistance to minimise disruption to travellers in the event that unforeseen circumstances arise.”

The US and Canada still advise its residents to take “normal security precautions” if they’re travelling to Hong Kong.