Australians asked to avoid travel to 12 countries

Even the UAE has issued travel warnings to its citizens asking them to avoid travel to Syria.

Surprisingly, the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has advised its citizens to "reconsider your need to travel" to a number of countries including Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Pakistan, Egypt and Lebanon.

Countries issue travel advisories based on perceived threats which may include terrorism, political upheavals or crime related issues. While a government issues an advisory against travel, it is ultimately the travelers decision to make the choice of whether or not to go. Here is what the Australian Government has to say on the matter: "We do not and cannot make decisions for you about whether, when or where you should travel. The decision to travel is a personal responsibility and Australians are responsible for their own safety. Our travel advisories aim to help you make well-informed travel decisions."