U.S. Warns Travelers Visiting These 10 European Countries, Citing Terrorism Concerns
The U.S. Department of State routinely urges U.S. citizens to visit its website to learn about Travel Advisories for countries they plan to visit.
“We issue a Travel Advisory for each country of the world,” the State Department explains. “Travel Advisories follow a consistent format and use plain language to help U.S. citizens find and use important security information. Travel Advisories apply up to four standard levels of advice, describe the risks, and provide clear actions U.S. citizens should take to help ensure their safety.”
Those four levels of advisories are:
- Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions
- Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution
- Level 3: Reconsider Travel
- Level 4: Do Not Travel
Earlier this week, the State Department issued new Travel Advisories for 81 countries.
Importantly, among those advisories, the State Department issued Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution Travel Advisories for numerous countries in Europe. Those advisories explained that travelers should “exercise increased caution due to terrorism.”
Here’s what you need to know about those 10 European countries.
European Countries Under The Threat Of Terrorism
In each of these European countries, “terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks,” the State Department explains. “Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas.”
Those 10 countries are:
- Belgium
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Denmark
- France
- Germany
- Italy
- Kosovo
- Netherlands
- Spain
- United Kingdom
Other Important Warnings In These Countries
Travelers to three of these countries need to be mindful of these other warnings as well.
First, travelers visiting France are also warned of possible civil unrest.
“Demonstrations in Paris and other major cities continue in France and are expected to continue in the coming weeks,” the State Department explains. “Property damage, including looting and arson, in populated tourist areas has occurred with reckless disregard for public safety. Police have responded with water cannons, rubber bullets, and tear gas.”
Meanwhile, travelers visiting Spain are also warned of possible civil unrest.
“Demonstrations in Spain are common,” the State Department explains. “They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events.”
Finally, travelers visiting Bosnia and Herzegovina are also warned of the presence of land mines. Although minefields and landmines are typically marked clearly, several people are killed or injured each year by landmines, according to the State Department.
You can learn more about the travel advisories for any of these countries and others, at the State Department’s website.
Planning or considering a European vacation? Consider all our Europe content, including
