In the wake of the recent terrorist event in Paris, the U.S. State Department has updated its worldwide caution to “provide information on the continuing threat of terrorist actions and violence against U.S. citizens and interests throughout the world”.

While the State Department’s message is a long ways from an alert or warning, which would cite specific localized threats, it does ask U.S. travelers to “maintain a high level of vigilance and take appropriate steps to increase their security awareness”.

To read the entire caution, click here.

When traveling, be security aware.

Our Thoughts

To be completely forthright, when Carol and I read such announcements, it does give us pause as our brains first give us an emotional response.  But the rational part of my brain steps in and informs me that a pickpocket is a far more likely situation, and frankly, I suppose we’re no more safe in our own large cities than being in London, Paris, or Rome.

So, are we to let the terrorists win and keep us huddled in fear in our homes?  If we all took that approach, then multiple billions would be lost to travel destinations around the world, which cripples economies, and plays into the terrorist’s desire.

No, our State Department is not suggesting that we stay home.  Our State Department is asking us to be diligently aware of our surroundings, and enjoy ourselves as we all explore the world.

For us, that means that we will avoid areas that have high risk, and continue to enjoy other parts of the world where greater awareness is the order of the day.

What are your thoughts? Share those thoughts in the comments section below.

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