Travelers warned to avoid Fiji

With the security situation uncertain in Fiji, various countries, including the United States and Australia, have recommended their citizens delay travel to the South Pacific nation.

A military leader, Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama, staged a coup Monday, accusing Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase's administration of being corrupt.

The U.S. State Department urged Americans to defer all non-essential travel in an announcement on its Web site, www.travel.state.gov There were military roadblocks in place in Suva, but the airports remained open.

Many Australians vacation or have business in Fiji, and the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs said: "We advise you to reconsider your travel to Fiji ... The security situation remains highly uncertain, and reactions to the coup could lead to violent clashes. You should avoid all government buildings, military installations, military activity ... " For more details, go to www.smartraveller.gov.au/ Both the U.S. and European Union have threatened to cut assistance to the country because of the coup. Fiji has suffered three coups in the past 19 years.