U.S. citizens traveling in Europe are urged to pay particular attention to specific locations that might prove an attractive target for a terrorist attack.
Extremists continue to focus on tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities as viable targets. In addition, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, high-profile events, educational institutions, airports, and other soft targets remain priority locations for possible attacks.”
In another cautionary note, the Alert reminds travelers that places where large crowds gather are especially vulnerable.
Travelers also are advised to pay close attention to security information from local officials in the host country, who are responsible for the safety and security of all visitors.
The State Department spelled out specific actions travelers should take to help them deal with any situations that might arise:
- Follow the instructions of local authorities. Monitor media and local information sources and factor updated information into personal travel plans and activities.
- Be prepared for additional security screening and unexpected disruptions.
- Stay in touch with your family members and ensure they know how to reach you in the event of an emergency.
- Have an emergency plan of action ready.
The Alert also suggests enrollment in the Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), a free service in which travelers register their trip information with the nearest embassy or consulate of their destination. By doing so, they can receive important information about their destination and be contacted in the event of an emergency, such as a natural disaster, civil unrest or a family emergency.
As the summer travel season heats up, it will be interesting to see how recent terrorist events and the Travel Alert affect European travel. In addition, the Alert’s impact on “summer abroad” educational programs remains to be seen.
