BOSTON – A global travel alert didn't stop people from accessing Logan Airport terminals Thursday. Travelers lined up at international ticket gates even as devastating scenes in the Middle East have residents in other foreign cities fearing unrest could spread.
The State Department has issued a global caution. “Due to increased tensions in various regions of the world, the potential for terrorist attacks, protests, or violent actions against U.S. citizens and interests, the Department of State advises U.S. citizens abroad to demonstrate increased caution,” the State Department said.
Alena Cherapau signed up for the government's Smart Traveler plan before her trip to Belarus. “It’s very helpful because if something happens to you, they’ll know, you’re probably in this country,” she explained.
The State Department's warning asks travelers to “remain vigilant in areas frequented by tourists.” He advises people to sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment program to receive alerts and make it easier to locate them in an emergency. It also invites travelers to follow the U.S. State Department's social media accounts.
Security analyst Ed Davis said people should take this seriously. “If you're going to a foreign country you have to have a plan, you have to know where the embassy is, you have to know where the hospitals are, you have to have your passport with you at all times in case something happens “Davis said. said.
“Well, it's not going to change what we do, but it's just good to be aware, to know what's going on, to be aware of your surroundings,” Breanna Gunderman said. She was planning to take a flight to Iceland. She and her traveling companion Samara Lull said they planned the trip with safety in mind. “Just to make sure people know where they’re going and what our route is,” Lull said. “We want to be safe.”
“We don’t have to be afraid,” Davis said. “I'm not trying to scare anyone, but the reality is we're in uncharted territory here when it comes to these coalitions and how they're going to manifest.”
