The State Department Reworded Its France Advisory After Riots

The U.S. State Department published an updated travel advisory for France on October 21, keeping it at Level 2, which urges travelers to exercise increased caution. The update cites both terrorism and recent unrest, following riots linked to widespread protests and demonstrations.

According to the reporting, violence and property damage have occurred, and protests can disrupt transportation and prompt police to use water cannons and tear gas. The coverage does not name the causes of the protests or specific cities, and the guidance applies to France as a whole rather than to particular regions.

The advice is practical. Travelers are told to avoid demonstrations and areas of unrest, since rioting may continue, and to stay away from large crowds and areas with heavy police presence. The advisory also reminds visitors to watch for pickpocketing and phone theft at tourist sites and in crowded public places.

It repeats the standing warning that terrorist groups continue to plan attacks in France, possibly with little or no warning. Level 2 is not a do-not-travel notice, but the State Department recommends enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, which sends embassy alerts and makes it easier to locate citizens in an emergency.

Sources: TravelPulse