Tips for Traveling to Europe Following Brussels Terror Attack
Deadly Belgium terror bombings have raised questions about visiting Europe.
— -- The deadly terror attacks Tuesday in Brussels have raised fears among travelers about their safety and questions about what they need to know as they plan trips abroad.
Terrorist group the Islamic State has claimed credit for the bombings, prompting worries that similar attacks could soon be carried out in Europe or the United States. Brussels Airport in Zaventem, Belgium, which remains a crime scene, has been shut down and will remain closed until at least Thursday.
And airports around the world have strengthened the screening of passengers, including many in U.S. cities, as well as London, Paris, Frankfurt and Amsterdam.
Here’s what travelers need to know before heading out on their trips:
U.S. State Department Issues a Europe-Wide Travel Alert
The U.S. government issued an alert on traveling in Europe, telling Americans to exercise particular caution during religious holidays and at large festivals or events.
The State Department warned of potential risks of travel to Europe because terror groups "continue to plan near-term attacks throughout Europe, targeting sporting events, tourist sites, restaurants, and transportation."
This travel alert is scheduled to expire June 20.
Smart Traveler Program
One more consideration for those going abroad: Register for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). It is run through the State Department and allows U.S. travelers to be much more easily located by an embassy or U.S. Consulate while they’re abroad.
Otherwise, following the instructions of local authorities while traveling is recommended. Staying in touch with friends and family back home is also helpful, and they should know how to reach you in the event of an emergency.
Waivers for Brussels-Bound Travelers
A majority of U.S. and global airlines are waiving rebooking fees for flights to Brussels in the wake of the terror attack.
Delta and United are among the airlines that issued policies for customers ticketed to fly to the city this month, and a number of European carriers have similar policies.
Although details vary by each carrier, most allow passengers to change itineraries without paying the standard penalty fee or the difference of a recalculated fare.
Regardless of the waivers, customers scheduled to travel to or through Brussels are advised to check carriers for any schedule disruptions, or if they are looking for flexibility in rebooking.
Another important note for those who paid for insurance plans: Check the cancellation coverage. The insurance companies often honor cancellation coverage within seven to 30 days of any terrorist attack.
Check With Travel Agents
Despite the fear of more attacks, travel agents say they anticipate a majority of travelers will still follow through on their trips to Europe. Travelers are not always able to avoid cities that are targets of terrorism, and there is no expectation of a decline in trips to Europe following the Brussels attack, according to Scott Carrozza of at First Class Travel Inc., in McLean, Virginia.
"As of right now, we’re not seeing any effect and it wouldn’t stop me from traveling abroad," Carrozza said. "We haven’t had any variance and, in fact, one of my corporate clients confirmed his trip to Brussels and will head out this week."
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