The U.S. State Department issued a Level 2 travel advisory for American planning to visit France. AP
Another travel warning has been issued for Americans planning to visit a popular European country. The State Department this week issued a Level 2 travel advisory for visitors going to France.
The advisory cites possible terrorism and civil unrest as cause for concern when visiting France.
“Pickpocketing and phone thefts are common, especially in crowded places. Terrorist groups continue to plan possible attacks in France and may attack with little to no warning,” reads a portion of the advisory. Travelers are encouraged to use extra caution during visits to France, particularly in crowded areas and tourist spots.
Airports, train stations, subways and tourist destinations are all prime areas for pickpocketing, the State Department says. Those areas and places like hotels, malls, sporting events and more are possible targets for terrorism.
A Level 2 warning is the second lowest on the State Department’s scale,
The warning comes just days after a similar advisory was issued concerning travel to Belgium and Italy. Possible terrorism was cited in both of those advisories as well.
Before visiting France, the State Department says travelers should enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive messages and alerts from the U.S. Embassy and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
Once in the country, visitors should also check local news reports for breaking news and “Avoid demonstrations and areas with significant police activity.” If tourists do encounter police, they are advised to cooperate with instructions given by police.
