WORLD WATCH

In Belgium, tram service that links Flemish coastal resorts will carry extra security guards after drivers went on strike to protest inadequate security. The strike took place the day after a tram was shot at between Wenduine and Blankenberge, the sixth such incident in the last few weeks. A window was broken, but no one was injured. The transit company, drivers union and police reached an agreement to place eight security guards on the trams. Police also agreed to be more vigilant along the coast.

Chile: Llaima volcano, about 400 miles south of Santiago near Chile's popular lakes region and surrounded by Conguillio National Park, erupted July 1, causing authorities to order the evacuation of about 40 residents and recommend against travel to the area because of the danger from lava flows and mudslides. The volcano is one of South America's most active, and this eruption follows a New Year's Day blast that forced the park to evacuate tourists and residents.

Indonesia: Despite Indonesia's success in bringing terrorists to justice and thwarting attacks before they occur, the threat of terrorism lingers, as indicated by the arrest of 10 suspected terrorists who reportedly placed bombs in a popular tourist cafe in Bukittinggi, Sumatra, only to call off the attack because too many Indonesians would die. They decided to turn their attention to Jakarta before police arrested them. In addition, Bali's former police chief said that Bali remains a target because not enough has been done to improve security after bombings there in 2002 and 2005. On the other hand, the U.S. State Department lifted its 8-year-old travel warning on Indonesia this year and has no plans to reinstate it.

South Korea: For more than two months Koreans have been protesting the resumption of imports of U.S. beef - which had been suspended over fears of mad cow disease - in largely peaceful demonstrations in Seoul, but in late June the rallies became increasingly unruly, prompting authorities to state on June 29 that they would crack down on violent protesters. They began using water cannons and fire extinguishers to block demonstrators and threatened to use tear gas. The focal point of the protests has been Seoul Plaza in front of City Hall, with attempts to move north toward the presidential residence. Tourists should steer clear of such gatherings and remain vigilant if in the vicinity of protests.

Tibet: Chinese authorities reopened Tibet to foreign tourists June 25, but key monasteries remain closed, and it may be some time before everything returns to normal for foreign visitors. The main sites in Lhasa, such as the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple and Norbulingka, are open, but important monasteries such as Drepung and Sera remain closed. In addition, there is no guarantee that sites open today will be open tomorrow, as authorities could close them in response to further political incidents.

Information: Before visiting potentially dangerous areas, contact the Citizens Emergency Center at the State Department in Washington, D.C. Call 1-888-