My wife and I are traveling to Paris next June. What safety precautions need we be aware of in light of the recent attacks.
My guess and faith in humanity says: Nothing other than what you would do at home. Ask again in May and maybe my answer will be different.
Thank you for your response James.
http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings.html
State department is not issuing France specific alerts as of today.
For Franch specific warnings:
http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/country/france.html
Safety and security
Political violence in Paris and throughout France
is relatively uncommon, although there are occasional instances of
extremely large demonstrations simultaneously occurring in many French
cities. Large demonstrations in Paris are generally managed by a
strong police presence, but even demonstrations intended to be
peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly escalate into violence.
We recommend that U.S. citizens avoid demonstrations if possible, and
exercise caution if within the vicinity of any demonstrations. Some
sporting events, such as soccer matches, have occasionally degenerated
into violence that continued into the streets.The Government of France maintains a threat rating system, known
locally as “Vigipirate,” similar to the U.S. Department of Homeland
Security Advisory System. Under this system, the government routinely
augments police with armed forces and increases visibility at
airports, train and metro stations, and other high-profile locations
such as schools, major tourist attractions, and government
installations. Over the last few years, there have been arrests of
suspected militant extremists allegedly involved in terrorist plots.
French authorities have spoken publicly about the heightened threat
conditions for terrorist attacks in Europe.After a series of terrorist attacks between January 7 and January 9,
2015, in Paris in which 17 civilians and the 3 perpetrators were
killed, the Government of France raised the “Vigipirate” level and
continues to evaluate its security posture on a regular basis.
Up-to-date information is available on the “Vigipirate” website in
French and travelers may consult Travel Information and Messages on
the U.S. Embassy France website for the latest information in English.Although U.S. citizens have not been specifically targeted in
terrorist attacks in France in recent history, travelers should remain
vigilant. Immediately report unattended packages observed in public
places, or any other suspicious activities, to French law enforcement
authorities. French authorities are proactive and will respond
immediately. If there is a security incident or suspicious package, do
not linger in the area to observe....
November 20, 2015 : Paris Terrorist Attacks – Updated Information
In the wake of the November 13, 2015 terrorist attacks in Paris,
terrorist organizations and the Government of France indicate the
strong possibility of follow-on attacks. In this context, and with
the holiday season approaching, the U.S. Embassy in France advises
U.S. citizens to exercise extreme caution at commercial institutions,
shopping malls, places of worship, schools, clubs, restaurants, public
transportation systems, high-profile sporting events, residential
areas, business offices, hotels, public areas, and other tourist
destinations. So-called “soft targets” represent a potential target
for terrorist activities. Read more
I will be back in Europe in February and in June. In September with some luck I will be in Asia in the mountains in the heart of the "... stan" countries. The only thing special that I am doing is making sure that my hotels have good cancelation policies and while I have purchased the long haul tickets in advance I am buying the short trip tickets a little closer to travel time. But I always do that so its not really in reaction to what's going on now, more like do it yourself travel plan insurance.
Check in April and May of 2016. No one knows now, what the situation will be that far ahead.
Thank you for your comments James and Harold. Living on Maui is pretty easy, and I feel assured all will be well when we depart for Paris in June. Appreciate your travel comments.
I want to go to France by seeing the tension there because of recent terror attack in Paris I'm to postpone my tour for the next 2 months. Call me coward but I love my life. I'm watching France Travel Video instead. :)
I too am hoping all is back to normal, as normal can be, come May next year for my trip. Im a DOD contractor so hopefully the travel ban will be lifted by then. Fortunately I pay for Travel Insurance when I go overseas.
Cross our fingers and hope for the best.
Thank everyone for your travel comments. We look forward to our trip next June.
I think you should watch news some days (5 days at least) prior to your visiting France.