U.S. Issues Travel Alert For Europe

The US government today issued a warning for American traveler to be vigilant while in any European state.

The US government sites intel about al-Qaeda potentially launching a terrorist attack somewhere in Europe, similar to the Mumbai shootings that took place in 2008.

While the US government did not specify a particular region within Europe, the British authorities said Germany or France may be likely targets.

Following in the footsteps of the US and UK, Canada also issued a warning for Canadian travelers to be extra cautious while traveling.

While I am not making light of a potentially dangerous situation, I have to question the value of issuing a travel warning for the entire continent of Europe.

I think the warning was excessively broad, and will instill more fear than vigilance. Additionally, in our global economy, we need to be cautious about issuing frivolous warnings that can effect national economies (ie, national tourism). Europe is a large place and there is more international travel within Europe than anywhere else on the planet.

Blanket warnings can often cause more harm than good by scaring potential tourists away from locations which may be perfectly safe, such as Greece or Switzerland. Similarly, both Canada and the US are vast nations. If there were to be a potential security threat in say, Vancouver or Los Angeles, there could be far reaching consequences if other national governments were to issue travel advisories for all of Canada and the US.

So, to international travelers, I say this: You should always be vigilant while traveling regardless of potential security threats. There are always chances of theft, assault, or worse no matter where one goes. General caution should always be used, but do not let fear rule your life.

Also, as a note, no matter where you go or when, it is always good to register with a local embassy or with the Register of Canadians Abroad service. They can be invaluable services in cases of civil unrest, such as the recent riots in France or in cases of natural disaster such as the earthquake it Haiti. It is always good to have a line of communication available.

Happy & Safe Travels