Is it Safe to Travel to Europe in Summer?
This question seems to be on the tip of everyone’s tongue, and the elephants in the room are ISIS and refugees. For many Americans, Europe is a far away dream on the ‘ol bucket list, and getting over there is expensive, long, and a complete culture shock for those who have never traveled often out of the country. In recent horrific terrorist events of Paris and Brussels, it is indeed weighing on the minds if this is the best time to take the opportunity to experience Europe. In these times of being frightened about ‘what if’ we have to not think like that, or else ‘what ifs’ will start to become a crutch for not living fully.
As an American living abroad, a young female traveler, and someone who has spent a lot of time in Greece and Sweden (both which have a fair hand at helping and organizing the Syrian refugees), I can honestly give my opinion on your trip to Europe.
Yes, it is safe to travel to Europe.
In fact, it’s never been better! Wars have been raging on throughout your life time, and although this hits a bit closer to home in Western cities, it has never been a better time to travel freely. Airline prices are getting cheaper and the knowledge sharing of cool things to do is flowing like Niagara Falls. But of course you should always be conscious of a couple things, and be vigilant.
- Keep your personal belongings close to you. (Ladies, zip your purse)
- Don’t act a fool (use your ’12 inch voices’ in trains, restaurants, museums)
- Don’t hold your wallets open or count your money openly after getting it from the ATM
- Research bars and nightlife before you go out so you know where you are going
- Don’t do anything that you wouldn’t do in your home country (European countries DO have rules, although Italians may drive like they don’t)
- Make sure to be respectful of other cultures (You are a visitor there to experience, not to make fun of)
How was Europe Effected in 2016?
The summer will no doubt have the refugee crisis in the news for 2016, but Europe has 742 million people. And there are about 2 million refugees coming in (give or take). Unless you are feeling humanitarian, this would not effect your vacation unless you are traveling through the migrant route in Europe, or to ports that are helping refugees pass through. If you want to learn more about how the refugee crisis is effecting Europe, BBC has some amazing charts to help you understand.
Going to Greece for Summer 2016
There are some areas in Greece you should probably avoid setting up camp. By this, I unfortunately have to tell you to put your trip to the mostly touristic Greek islands of Lesvos, Kos, and Rhodes on hold. Not to say that if you are dying to visit these islands you cannot, but be aware that you will definitely run into some current events. There are many, many more amazing islands to visit other than the ones effected.
Where to Travel
With 50 countries to choose from, it can be overwhelming! I would start by thinking what type of history you are interested, and what you want to do for activities. United Kingdom, Italy, France, Spain and Germany are usually the hot spots for tourism, and are great places to start your European adventure. Keep in mind that Northern Europe will be a lot cooler and have some rainy days in the summer. So if you are planning on hopping around, you will need to pack accordingly.
When to Travel
When coming to Europe in summer, you are going to have a couple months where there will be too many tourists lurking around. You also need to think about high season, mid season, and low season.
