Georgetowners Remain Unconcerned about European Travel

As of Oct. 4, four nations, the United States, Great Britain, Sweden and Japan, have issued formal warnings regarding European travel. This comes after roughly a month of increased concern from European nations over the threat of terrorism. The U.S. State Department's warning did not advise against travel to Europe, but instead encouraged increased vigilance on the part of Americans abroad.  

The official statement on the Department's website  warns U.S. citizen about potential terror attacks in Europe. "European governments have taken action to guard against a terrorist attack and some have spoken publicly about the heightened threat conditions…U.S. citizens should take every precaution to be aware of their surroundings and to adopt appropriate safety measures to protect themselves when traveling." (The alert can be found in its entirety here)

The French Embassy in Washington did not provide any insight into raised concerns over safety abroad. Embassy personnel explained that it is not tradition for the Embassy to discuss matters of intelligence and national security; pertinent information is issued by the appropriate government ministries. 

Has the recent alert affected travel plans? A representative from Georgetown's Passport Executive Travel said, "We haven't had anyone express any concern and we handle a tremendous amount of international travel plans."

It would seem for now most Georgetowners are content to continue their travels abroad. D.C.'s world of street closures for suspicious packages and metal detectors at many building makes precautions a daily part of life.