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The worldwide travel alert was issued just as news surfaced that bin Laden, the mastermind behind the Sept. 11 attacks, had been killed in an American operation.
"Given the uncertainty and volatility of the current situation, U.S. citizens in areas where recent events could cause anti-American violence are strongly urged to limit their travel outside of their homes and hotels and avoid mass gatherings and demonstrations," the State Department cautioned.
So, what does this mean for travelers heading abroad? The State Department recommends that travelers remain alert, suggesting that they monitor local news, stay in touch with family and friends, and enroll in the its Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), to receive updated information on travel and security issues. Not very precise, but apparently that’s because neither is the potential threat.
Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano said in a statement on Monday that the Department of Homeland Security would not be issuing a National Terrorism Advisory System alert at this time because "we will only issue alerts when we have specific or credible information to convey to the American public."
The NTAS replaced the color-coded threat system.
Furthermore, the Transportation Security Administration has not released a statement about whether there will be tighter security at the nation’s airports in light of the news.
In a speech late Sunday, President Barack Obama reminded Americans that despite the important victory, the threat of terrorism remains.
Bin Laden's "death does not mark the end of our effort," President Obama said. "There's no doubt that al Qaeda will continue to pursue attacks against us. We must — and we will — remain vigilant at home and abroad."
Does the news about bin Laden make you nervous about security and travel? Let us know by commenting below.
More from Budget Travel:
What to do when the State Department issues a travel alert
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The threat of terrorism has been with us for many, many years. I did not let it stop me from traveling in 2001 and I certainly will not let me stop traveling in 2011. As a matter of fact, I am headed for Paris on Thursday...
Posted By phyllis lemoine on May 2, 2011, 4:16 PM
How should I act? President B.O. says be VIGILANT! Should I have smacked that swarthy guy next to me on the flight to Miami after he ignored the first request to "turn off all electronic devices"? Please advise further all-seeing-all-knowing chief executive leader. If not, just continue with your inane generalities.
Posted By Shindig on May 5, 2011, 7:46 PM