Stay Safe Abroad: What the State Department's Rare Global Travel Alert Means for You

Stay Safe Abroad: What the State Department's Rare Global Travel Alert Means for You - What Prompted the Alert?

The State Department's decision to issue a worldwide travel alert didn't come out of nowhere. This rare, blanket warning was prompted by a series of recent terrorist attacks and threats across the globe.

Though the alert itself doesn't ban travel or impose any restrictions, it's intended to make Americans rethink any unnecessary trips abroad. The underlying message is clear: We're living in dangerous times, so exercise caution.

The most immediate trigger was a series of bombings over the past two weeks in Turkey, which has experienced a wave of suicide attacks this year. The latest blast in Istanbul's busy Ataturk Airport killed dozens and spread fear across Europe of more attacks.

This bombing came on the heels of the horrific shooting at a nightclub in Orlando, Florida – the deadliest terror attack on U.S. soil since 9/11. The gunman, who pledged allegiance to ISIS, opened fire on the crowded venue popular with the LGBTQ community.

Though incidents like the Turkey bombing and Orlando shooting directly preceded the alert, experts say it was also motivated by a broader escalation of ISIS threats against the West during Ramadan.

In late May, ISIS spokesman Abu Mohammad al-Adnani called on followers to launch attacks in Europe and America during Islam's holy month, urging strikes on civilians at gatherings and tourist attractions.

The State Department pointed to this appeal from ISIS leadership as part of the reasoning behind its alert. There are also worries of "lone wolf" attackers inspired by these calls to violence.

The alert specifically warned of threats in Europe, where countries like France and Belgium have faced deadly strikes on restaurants, theaters and transit hubs in the past year. But it applied the warning globally to underscore that no place should be considered off limits from terrorism.

Stay Safe Abroad: What the State Department's Rare Global Travel Alert Means for You - Which Countries Are Most Affected?

The State Department's global travel alert applies broadly, but some regions face heightened threats. Travelers should be particularly cautious visiting countries that have endured recent attacks or feature ongoing security concerns.

Europe tops the list of vulnerable destinations in the wake of the Istanbul airport bombing. Turkey has weathered over a dozen major attacks this year alone. Strikes on tourist areas demonstrate terrorists' willingness to target visitors along with locals. France also remains on edge after the devastating November 2015 Paris attacks. Extra security precautions are still in place, especially at major attractions.

Belgium suffered an ISIS bombing targeting the Brussels airport and subway system just months ago. The UK meanwhile continues to expand surveillance and anti-terror efforts after attacks in London in 2005 and 2013. Germany was rocked by a shooting at a Munich mall just weeks ago, while the recent Bastille Day truck attack in Nice killed over 80 people.

Beyond Europe, instability plagues the Middle East and parts of Africa. War-torn Syria is clearly off limits, along with neighboring Iraq. Libya is similarly dangerous and not recommended for travel. Egypt faces ongoing threats, especially in the Sinai Peninsula where a Russian airliner was downed by a suspected bomb last year.

Yemen and Somalia offer fertile ground for terrorist activity and kidnappings. Nigeria has battled Boko Haram militants for years, while attacks have spread to neighboring countries like Mali, Burkina Faso and Ivory Coast. Afghanistan remains hazardous despite international troops' presence.

Even Asia faces pockets of risk, like the Abu Sayyaf militants plaguing the Philippines. Indonesia has also faced occasional attacks, and Bangladesh suffered an ISIS-claimed hostage standoff at a Dhaka cafe in early July. Meanwhile, Pakistan continues to battle extremist violence.

India merits particular caution after strikes on hotels and transit hubs over the past decade. Hyderabad and New Delhi saw bombings as recently as February, so vigilance is warranted. Australia and New Zealand have lower threat levels currently, though their citizens have been targeted in the past.

Stay Safe Abroad: What the State Department's Rare Global Travel Alert Means for You - What Are the Specific Threats?

Terrorist attacks make headlines, but pickpocketing, robbery and assault are far more likely occurrences. Petty theft plagues tourist sites and public transport worldwide. Pickpockets thrive in crowded subways, trains and buses. Thieves on motorbikes or scooters often snatch smartphones and purses right out of victims’ hands. Violent mugging is also a problem, especially at night in isolated areas.

Travelers should keep valuables secure and maintain situational awareness. Only carry minimal cash, and avoid overt displays of wealth that attract thieves. Areas with high crime rates require extra vigilance. Use hotel safes, and don’t wear flashy jewelry that marks you as a tourist. Be wary of scams where criminals pose as helpful locals to catch you off guard.

Beyond theft, sexual assault presents risks for women travelers. Staying with trusted locals is ideal, along with sticking to populated streets. Research cultural norms, as harassment is often widespread in countries with traditional gender roles. Avoiding excessive drinking also helps maintain control and reduce vulnerability.

Road safety is another major concern in the developing world. Traffic collisions are a leading cause of injury and death abroad. Standards vary widely, so never assume roads are as orderly as back home. Drivers often ignore signs, signals, lanes and speed limits. Pedestrians and cyclists share busy streets with cars and trucks. Animals like cows and goats may wander into traffic. Driving at night multiplies hazards.

Ride share services don’t necessarily adhere to regulations, so take licensed taxis from official stands when possible. If hiring private drivers, have your hotel or hosts make arrangements. Always wear seatbelts, and resist the urge to take photos or video on moving buses. Focus on defensive driving techniques, and don’t be pressured to speed unsafely.

Air travel comes with its own risks, though fatal airline crashes are rare globally. The downing of Metrojet 9268 over the Sinai Desert and Malaysia Airlines 370's baffling disappearance underscore the need for caution on certain carriers. Avoid flying airlines banned by the EU and subject to other sanctions. Reputable Asian and Middle Eastern operators like Singapore, Emirates and Qatar Airways maintain solid safety records.

Natural disasters like earthquakes, volcanoes and storms endanger travelers worldwide as well. Research weather patterns, stand clear of unstable terrain and abide by any evacuation orders. Emergency preparation helps minimize harm, along with checking for appropriate insurance coverage.

Stay Safe Abroad: What the State Department's Rare Global Travel Alert Means for You - How Long Will the Alert Last?

With no defined endpoint, the State Department's open-ended global travel alert has left many travelers in limbo. Though warnings typically remain active for just a few weeks or months, officials say this one will stay in effect until the security situation improves. And that could take the rest of the year, if not longer.

Past advisories issued after major attacks like September 11 and the 2002 Bali nightclub bombing lasted six months on average. But today's diffuse terror threats make it impossible to predict when the alert might be lifted.

The duration depends on ISIS, Al Qaeda and other extremist groups' future actions. A reduction in threats could lead the State Department to downgrade the alert. But additional high-profile attacks would likely prolong the warning.

Terrorism expert Michael Boyle says to expect the alert to continue "indefinitely" barring a stunning turn of events. "It’s unlikely the risks will diminish significantly in the near future,” he says. “Until ISIS is decisively defeated, attacks against soft targets across the world are probable.”

While the alert brings anxiety, seasoned travelers largely accept the risks. “I’m not going to let terrorists dictate where I travel,” says Danielle Pointing, who runs the Wandering On Wheels blog. “Horrible things can happen anywhere these days. I take precautions, but won't live in fear.”

Frequent flyer Akhil Sharma agrees. “Bombings are scary, but the chances of being caught in one are tiny compared to daily hazards back home,” he argues. “Driving is far more dangerous than flying.”

Still, many tourists find themselves uneasy in the wake of recent attacks like those in Belgium and Turkey. “I never used to look over my shoulder in airports or train stations, but now I'm jittery,” confesses citizen of the world Carrie Bradley. “Constant vigilance gets exhausting.”

Officials urge the smart precautions Bradley endorses over avoidance. “Travel is still generally safe with proper vigilance,” contends State Department spokesperson Mark Toner. “People shouldn't put their lives totally on hold.”

Stay Safe Abroad: What the State Department's Rare Global Travel Alert Means for You - What Does This Mean for Travelers?

The State Department's global travel alert sends a sobering message to Americans planning trips abroad: we live in dangerous times, so be vigilant. For many prospective travelers, their first instinct may be to cancel or postpone vacations until the warning lifts. But seasoned globetrotters urge not to let terrorism deter you from seeing the world if you take sensible precautions.

"A travel alert definitely gives me pause, but I try to keep things in perspective," says Danielle Pointing, who runs the Wandering On Wheels blog. "As terrifying as attacks on tourists feel, data shows I'm still exponentially more likely to get hit by lightning at home than killed abroad by terrorists."

Pointing doesn't ignore the risks entirely, but aims for pragmatic precautions. "I avoid places like Egypt and Turkey right now, stick to busy areas, and keep tabs on local media. But I won't barricade myself in my hotel either."

For student Caitlyn Dow, already wary after Brussels and Paris, the global alert almost prompted her to bail on a long-planned study abroad semester in Barcelona. But she found comfort in the university's heightened security measures.

"In the end, I didn't want fear to ruin this once-in-a-lifetime chance," Dow says. "I'm avoiding big crowds and demonstrations, but otherwise trying to just be smart without getting paranoid."

Frequent business traveler Akhil Sharma argues terror concerns need perspective compared to everyday dangers back home. "Driving is way riskier than flying, even now," he points out. "And crime statistics show most American cities are more dangerous than Europe."

Sharma has colleagues afraid to attend London conferences and clients nixing Mediterranean cruises. But he keeps globetrotting for work undeterred. "I take reasonable precautions, but won't alter my life completely," he insists.

For vacationers like Carrie Bradley, already uneasy post-Brussels and Istanbul, the alert may prove the final straw. "I'm postponing my solo Eurotrip to next year," she reveals. "Constant vigilance is exhausting. I just want to relax on my rare vacation time."

But while Bradley sees the world as scarier lately, mature travelers take a philosophical approach. "Anywhere, anytime, we could be in the wrong place at the wrong time," reflects avid wanderer Tim Green. "I focus on living life fully despite uncertainty."

Stay Safe Abroad: What the State Department's Rare Global Travel Alert Means for You - Tips for Staying Safe While Traveling

Staying safe while traveling should be every globetrotter's top priority. Terror threats understandably instill anxiety, but seasoned wanderers know most trips go off without incident by using common sense. Practical precautions mitigate the minimal risks without drastically changing your lifestyle or abandoning travel dreams.

Frequent flyer Danielle Pointing runs the Wandering On Wheels blog and has explored over 60 countries. She suggests packing a small medical kit with bandages, antibiotics and other essentials in case of illness or injury abroad. Locating the nearest hospital and emergency numbers for your destination also provides peace of mind.

Pointing recommends only carrying minimal cash and one credit card, keeping valuables in hotel safes, and remaining alert in crowded areas prone to pickpocketing. "I keep my passport locked up and make photocopies to carry instead while sightseeing," she adds. "Avoiding dangerous areas and staying near others at night are key too."

Photographer Akhil Sharma travels perpetually for work assignments and relies on local hosts for guidance. “I ask hotel staff or fixers about any neighborhoods or situations to avoid,” Sharma explains. “Areas that seem risky to them warrant extra vigilance or just steering clear.”

Staying in touch with concerned loved ones back home is another of Sharma’s go-to safety steps. “I send quick texts to let my wife know I’ve arrived safely if I’m somewhere unstable. A short email update every few days keeps everyone at ease.”

Frequent business traveler Tim Green swears by the SOS feature offered by most medical and emergency evacuation providers. “After arriving in-country, I register my trip dates and itinerary. Then if anything happens, they handle everything from hospitals to chartering jets.”

For student Caitlyn Dow, studying abroad in Barcelona, her university's infrastructure brought comfort. “The emergency text alerts, increased security staff and mandatory check-ins made me feel safer,” Dow explains. “Buddy systems prevented anyone from going out alone at night too.”

Travel blogger Carrie Bradley collects recommendations from locals instead of relying on websites when planning solo trips. “Expats and native residents know the best areas and hours to avoid,” she says. “I adjust my exploration based on their insider knowledge.”

Stay Safe Abroad: What the State Department's Rare Global Travel Alert Means for You - How Travel Companies Are Responding

With tourists understandably anxious after the recent wave of attacks, travel providers find themselves scrambling to reassure clients even as bookings slow. Companies walk a fine line conveying realistic caution while preventing excessive fear from decimating business.

Industry giant Expedia aims for a measured tone in communicating terror threats to customers. “We take a fact-based approach, providing threats alerts without hyperbole to enable informed decisions,” says Vice President of Global Communications Desiree Fish. “Guest safety is always our top priority.”

Fish explains that Expedia partners with local hosts to continuously monitor dangers. “If conditions deteriorate in a specific region, we’ll recommend postponing travel there.” Expedia also allows penalty-free cancellations or rebookings for trips impacted by terrorism.

Smaller agency Journey Travel takes a hands-on role with clients. “We contact customers traveling to turbulent areas to discuss risks and precautions,” reveals Journey owner Amanda Jones. “Our local fixers provide security if clients still wish to continue the planned itinerary.”

Adventure outfitter Wild Frontiers emphasizes preparation over avoidance. Founder Jonny Bealby recently guided nervous travelers through safe passage in Turkey. “With 15 years’ experience on the ground, we vet drivers and routes to circumvent trouble spots,” he relates.

Bealby customizes journeys to each client’s risk tolerance. “Some prefer to skip active conflict zones. We design equally amazing adventures closer to home for them.” Wild Frontiers also provides 24/7 support should emergencies arise.

Veteran solo traveler and blogger Carrie Bradley applauds providers’ transparency regarding potential dangers. “I’ve changed destinations a few times after candid risk assessments from tour operators,” she reveals. “They know local conditions inside out.”

Bradley believes travel companies play a crucial role curbing misplaced fear. “With so much sensationalized news, their nuanced perspectives ground me. They've convinced me a few times not to unjustly avoid somewhere.”

Stay Safe Abroad: What the State Department's Rare Global Travel Alert Means for You - What Happens If You Decide to Cancel Your Trip?

Deciding to cancel an upcoming trip, whether for security concerns or other reasons, often leaves travelers in a frustrating bind. Depending on when and how you booked, cancellation can mean losing most or all of what you paid. But not all reservations are created equal, so your options vary case by case.

As Torsten Jacobi knows well, airfares come with an array of restrictions and change fees. Basic economy tickets on full-service airlines are invariably non-refundable. Regular economy class may allow changes for a stiff penalty, but likely won't provide a full refund either. Business, first class or flexible fares offer the most leeway, sometimes even free cancellation if done ahead of time.

Wanderluster Carrie Bradley once made the difficult choice to cancel a dream solo Eurotrip after the Brussels bombing. “I had two award tickets booked through United MileagePlus,” she recalls. “Luckily the airline granted a full mileage redeposit due to extenuating circumstances.” However Bradley's prepaid hotels, trains and tours were non-refundable at that late stage. “I recouped a little through resale sites, but still lost hundreds,” she laments.

Danielle Pointing of Wandering On Wheels faced a similar predicament postponing her Asia itinerary over Zika fears. “The cruise line refused any refund or credit since I booked a promotional rate,” Pointing explains. She sacrificed the full payment, but made changes to her refundable flights for just a rebooking fee. “Trip insurance would’ve helped,” Pointing admits, “but I gambled and lost.”

Akil Sharma once ate a pricey ticket to join colleagues at a Sharm el-Sheikh conference that was hastily relocated after troubles in the Sinai. “My company booked me in business class on Emirates, which normally allows changes,” he notes. “But because it was a discounted rate, I could only get future credit minus a cancellation penalty.”

Tim Green swears by refundable fares and hotels when possible, paying more upfront for flexibility. “Between work commitments and aging parents’ health, I’ve had to cancel suddenly a few times,” Green relates. “The extra cost guarantees I can bail without losing everything if plans change.” He says travel insurance also helps recoup costs for covered reasons.

While trip cancellation leaves costly losses, travel providers often accommodate changes in volatile situations. “Most reputable companies waived normal penalties after terrorism in Paris and Brussels,” reveals blogger Carrie Bradley. And excursion hosts may offer substitute destinations or activities if you're leery of visiting planned sites.