Protests in France escalated into violence across many cities on 17-18/10, featuring clashes with police, arson attacks on public buildings, and looting of hundreds of stores. The unrest has prompted some tourists to alter their plans, including one family vacationing in Paris who had to evacuate their hotel near Republique square.
On the evening of 18/10, the French president condemned the violent acts, yet the government has not declared a state of emergency or a nationwide curfew. To date, France has not reported widespread cancellations of hotel bookings or tours. Below is essential information for travelers planning a trip to France during this time.
**Current situation in France**
France experienced a wave of protests accompanied by severe violence on 17/10, followed by continued clashes and looting in Paris on 18/10. The demonstrations initially protested rising living costs and declining public service quality. However, extremist groups clashed with police, committed arson, and looted stores, according to Reuters.
Currently, over 2,400 people have been arrested, and nearly 1,000 police and gendarmes have been injured. The 19th-century clock tower at Limoges city hall collapsed due to fire, and 50 stores were damaged, according to AP.
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Protests in France on 17/10. Photo: AFP |
**Cities affected by unrest**
Violence was reported in Paris, Marseille, Lyon, Limoges, Bordeaux, and other cities. Key developments in these cities include:
| Protest situation in some French cities (as of 18/10)
**Traveler advisories** Many governments have issued level two advisories, recommending caution when traveling to France. On 19/10, the German foreign ministry warned of the ongoing risk of protests and violence, advising travelers to avoid gatherings. The UK foreign office recommended that visitors monitor news, update information from service providers, and comply with local authorities' guidance. Meanwhile, the US advised its citizens to avoid protest areas, locations with a heavy police presence, and crowded public spaces. The Australian and Malaysian foreign ministries advised travelers to exercise caution when visiting France due to the risk of terrorism. They also noted regulations regarding visas, the European entry/exit system (EES), and potential delays at border crossings. **Should you cancel your trip?** Travelers do not necessarily need to cancel their trips but should closely monitor the security situation in France. Before departure, travelers should check the latest advisories from diplomatic agencies, local authorities, and the operational status of tourism services and public transport. Paris, Marseille, Lyon, and Limoges are areas that require close monitoring due to reported serious incidents. Tourists should avoid large gatherings, refrain from stopping to observe or film in areas where clashes occur, and allow extra time for travel to airports and train stations. Protests may disrupt traffic even if airports or attractions are not directly affected. Travelers should clarify with their service providers about rebooking fees, refunds, and insurance coverage in case of civil unrest; do not assume security issues are covered by insurance. For those who have booked tours, rescheduling or canceling depends on the terms of airlines, hotels, tour operators, and insurance contracts. Travelers should contact their service providers to confirm alternative options and refund entitlements. Anh Minh (According to Reuters, AFP, foreign ministries' websites) |
