Germany travel warning: How safe is holiday destination as terrorism advice updated?
GERMANY holidays are very popular with many Britons throughout the year but with the country offering some of the best Christmas markets, the festive season is often a favourite time to travel to Germany. However, how safe is the holiday destination?
Germany is a top holiday spot for many British travellers thanks to its proximity to the UK. While the country offers something for everyone all year round, over the festive season Germany boasts a world-famous selection of Christmas markets. Consequently, many Britons may have holiday plans to head to Germany this Christmas - but how safe is the destination?
The UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) has now updated its travel advice to Germany.
It comes as the fear of terrorist attacks at Christmas markets escalates at this time of year.
Following the recent London Bridge terror attack in the UK, many are concerned about safety.
What is the latest update from the FCO about terrorism?
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The FCO has announced it has reviewed information about the threat from terrorism in Germany.
Terrorists are deemed “very likely” to try to carry out attacks in Germany.
Attacks could be indiscriminate, stated the FCO, “including in public places visited by foreigners such as restaurants, places of worship and markets (shopping centres).”
The government added: “The German government has announced that increased security has been put in place as a precaution at public buildings, major events, transport hubs and large public gatherings.”
Twelve deaths and a number of injuries were caused during a terror attack at Christmas market in 2016.
The tragedy occurred on 19 December 2016, when a lorry was driven into a crowd at a market in central Berlin.
The FCO explained: “The main threat is from extremists linked to Daesh (formerly referred to as ISIL) who claimed responsibility for the 2016 attacks in Germany.
“There is also a threat from individuals with an extreme right wing terrorist ideology.
“The German authorities have successfully disrupted planned attacks and made a number of arrests.”
It added: “There’s a heightened threat of terrorist attack globally against UK interests and British nationals, from groups or individuals motivated by the conflict in Iraq and Syria. You should be vigilant at this time.”
However, around two million British nationals visit Germany every year and most visits are trouble-free.
Germany is not the only European holiday destination which the FCO has updated its travel warnings for.
The government has also issued up to date travel advice to keep tourists headed to France safe this Christmas.
According to the FCO: “There is a general threat from terrorism.
"There may be increased security in place over the festive period, including at Christmas markets and other major events that might attract large crowds.
"You should remain vigilant and follow the advice of local authorities.”
The current terrorist threat level in France sits at 'Severe’.
The FCO adds: “Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in France."