A popular travel destination for Americans, especially in summer, Italy was recently reclassified as a Level 2 travel warning from the U.S. State Department. Originally the basic Level 1 advisory, recent increased threats of terrorist-related violence across Italy mean international travelers are highly encouraged to exercise increased caution.

According to the advisory, “there is a risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Italy.” The advisory included a list of common targets for terrorist attacks:

• Hotels, clubs and restaurants
• Tourist spots
• Transportation centers
• Shopping malls and markets
• Religious sites
• Airports
• Public areas
• Parks
• Sporting and cultural events
• Local government buildings
• Schools

The advisory also included tips for Americans soon traveling to Italy. Travelers are encouraged to stay alert in tourist spots, check local media for breaking news and be prepared to adjust plans, review the Country Security Report for Italy, and enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to receive messages and alerts from the U.S. Embassy.

Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, the state department noted.

Other popular tourist destinations also with Level 2 advisories include the United Kingdom, Germany, Belgium, Spain, Sweden and France. Many European nations currently combat ongoing terrorism threats.

On May 8, the U.S. Department of State upped the United Kingdom’s advisory from Level 1 to Level 2, stating, “Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in the United Kingdom. There is also risk of isolated violence by dissident groups in Northern Ireland, focused primarily on police and military targets.”

Have you traveled to a country with a Level 2 travel advisory before? What was your experience like? Do you have any other tips for travelers about to visit a Level 2 country? Email us at letters@globaltravelerusa.com. Please include your full name and location.