Join the Discussion "France has said it will not support a U.N. resolution authorizing war on Iraq. What are your thoughts? Would the French position turn you off or make you more likely to visit the country?" Kelby

Related Resources • Poll: Do You Agree With France's Position On War? • D-Day Invasion • French Culture • Maps Of France

From Other Guides • US Homeland Security Codes • San Francisco Iraq War Protest March • Ten years after the Gulf War, US policy toward Iraq finds little support

Elsewhere on the Web • State Department's Worldwide Caution • State Department's France & Monaco Travel Advisory • Kelly Osbourne Cancels U.K. Awards Show Gig Due To Terrorism Fears

FEB. 15, 2003--With America on the brink of war with Iraq and the government raising its terrorist alert status, anyone longing to visit France may wonder if it is safe.

The U.S. government has made no specific warnings about France in recent weeks, however. The latest State Department travel advisory does mention that the French operate a national anti-terrorism plan, called "Vigipirate Renforce." The advisory states the following:

"Under this plan, in times of heightened security concerns, the government mobilizes police and armed forces and installs them at airports, train and metro stations, as well as other high profile locations such as schools, embassies, and government installations.

"In recent years, France has experienced political assassinations and random bombings. One U.S. citizen was injured in these attacks, but none have been killed. All passengers on subways and trains are urged to be aware of their surroundings and to report any unattended baggage to the nearest authority."

France opposes the U.S.'s push for force against Iraq, so travelers could face anti-American sentiment in France. But Americans are probably more likely to get pick-pocketed wandering the Champs Elysees.

While the government hasn't isolated France as a particularly dangerous country, it has issued general warnings for Americans traveling or living abroad. And some people are simply nervous about traveling in these uncertain times. The notorious Kelly Osbourne, Ozzy Osbourne's daughter, just canceled an appearance at an awards show in London, saying she would feel safer staying at home.

The government's "worldwide caution," issued Feb. 6, warns Americans to avoid demonstrations and increase awareness when in places where Americans tend to gather, such as churches, hotels, outdoor recreation events and resorts.

With the world so uncertain, it's normal to feel nervous. However, France has its own version of homeland security against terrorism. Even so, Americans traveling abroad and to France should have heightened awareness of their surroundings and take certain precautions.

If you do plan to travel there, why not honor the memory of the dead from wars past? There are several sites, monuments and museums in Normandy dedicated to D-Day and World War II.