Terror alert for Europe

Sunday, October 03, 2010

Subscribe to this blog

Enter your e-mail address to receive updates:

The U.S. State Department issued a "terrorism alert" for Europe on Sunday. Does that mean you shouldn't travel there with your kids?

Maybe. Maybe not. Here's what the State Department says:

"Current information suggests that al-Qa'ida and affiliated organizations continue to plan terrorist attacks. European governments have taken action to guard against a terrorist attack and some have spoken publicly about the heightened threat conditions.

Terrorists may elect to use a variety of means and weapons and target both official and private interests. U.S. citizens are reminded of the potential for terrorists to attack public transportation systems and other tourist infrastructure. Terrorists have targeted and attacked subway and rail systems, as well as aviation and maritime services. U.S. citizens should take every precaution to be aware of their surroundings and to adopt appropriate safety measures to protect themselves when traveling."

I remember being young and heading to England when the Irish Republican Army was bombing the London subway on a somewhat regular basis. My mom was worried sick about the idea of me being there when something horrible happened. I, of course, went anyway.

Now that I'm a mom, I can understand how she felt and why she didn't want me to go. I wouldn't want my own kids in harm's way. But the sad reality is that we are all potentially in danger anywhere we are. So should you reconsider your travel plans? Maybe. But I won't.

Cindy Richards is the mom of two who gets her muse from traveling the world, usually with kids in tow. She also writes for TravelingMom.com, where she also serves as editor.

See more of Cindy's stories here.