Whatever happened to hot girl summers? Well, wherever they went, they've been replaced by a travel advisory summer as the U.S. State Department has been dishing out travel warnings like free samples at Costco.
In May alone, we at Travel Off Path have already covered 11 countries with newly issued advisories, in addition to the next 2 popular European destinations we're exploring now, so 13 total.
Following the U.K. as the most recent European nation singled out by the State Dept., there's another pair of highly sought-after vacation spots, especially during summer.
Both are being designated as ‘Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution', so there's no need to be overly concerned; just be aware.
The only countries stamped with ‘Level 4: Do Not Travel' reissued advisories this month are Venezuela, Russia, Myanmar, and Somalia
Let me guess – this is your shocked face. 😑
Europe, though, is largely safe and home to some of the dreamiest destinations in the world. Many of which are speckled around Germany and Spain, the two latest countries in a string of travel advisories this month.
Germany: If You See Something, Say Something
We've all been to airports, train stations, and smelly subways with “if you see something, say something” plastered on the walls.
Ever since the world changed on 9/11, travelers and commuters have been unofficially deputized as extra eyes and ears in hopes of protecting ourselves and those around us from potential harm.
But it's not just the U.S. that has a target on its back. Just like the aforementioned U.K. advisory, terrorism is a global threat.
As if Germany hasn't been through enough over their turbulent timeline, intel says terror plots are on the rise — enough for the State Dept. to reissue a travel advisory update for Americans to be aware of potential attacks when exploring Berlin's vibrant arts and all-night ragers, timeless villages of Bavaria, and of course, Munich's world-famous Oktoberfest which actually takes place the tail-end of summer in September.
Remember, the latest update still reflects Level 2 status, so there's no imminent danger. However, the State Dept. was very detailed on where American visitors should stay most vigilant.
Here are some examples:
- Touristy hotspots
- Airports, trains, or bus stations
- Markets and shopping malls
- Government buildings
- Hotels, nightclubs, and restaurants
- Religious institutions and universities
- Public parks
- Major sporting and cultural events
In the State Department's own words, “Terrorist groups and lone actors remain a constant threat in Germany and Europe”. Attacks can occur with little to no warning, just like the Christmas Market tragedies in Berlin in 2016, followed by similar instances in Magdeburg last winter.
Spain: Terror Threats & Civil Unrest
Where to even begin with Spain?
This record-breaking country has seen a rush of tourists to the point locals have sprayed noticeable outsiders with water guns, along with taking over streets in protest, demanding them to ‘go back home'.
But an overflow of tourists is not the only cause of disruptions. Like in America, people take to the streets when they disagree with government policies, and that's mostly the case for Spain, where demonstrations have become commonplace.
In Spain's newly updated advisory, The State Dept. is urging Americans to avoid any said gatherings and if you find yourself near one, it's best to obey local authorities and get out of dodge.
Secondly, like the U.K. and Germany, Spain is a target for terrorism too. Travelers in Spain should remain aware of their surroundings is the same public places listed above for Germany.
I know a few people who traversed Spain by train a couple of weeks ago and they couldn't have loved their trip more, whether it was the mesmerizing Flamenco performances, sensational tapas, world-class beaches and never-ending flow of wine.
Most importantly, they all felt safe. However, the State Department's wording is slightly more concerning than Germany, reading “Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Spain”.
It doesn't matter which country you're in — if you see something, say something. Additionally, it never hurts to enroll in the STEP program.
How Serious Is ‘Level 2' Designation?
It's important to remember the sheer scale of travel. It would be one thing if there were a concerning advisory for Bhutan, one of the least visited nations in the world.
But when it comes to popular destinations like Germany and Spain, over 99% come back home unscathed, whereas I can't even get out of bed without my cat clawing a new hole in my t-shirt.
Point being, crime, especially when it comes to terrorism and civil unrest, are largely unpredictable.
Here's a better example — last week the U.S. Embassy issued an urgent security alert for Honduras with intel of mass shootings at specific locations and dates.
That's not the case here in Germany and Spain, which have ‘Level 2' status and align with other popular European countries like France, Turkiye, and Italy.
For comparison's sake, here's a refresher of all 4 levels the State Department issues:
- Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions
- Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution
- Level 3: Reconsider Travel
- Level 4: Do Not Travel
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.