I’ve received a few emails from concerned travellers wondering if it’s safe in Paris for visitors.
As a citizen of the world who has had 45 home addresses in several countries (Australia, New Zealand, USA, France and Greece), I gave these questions a lot of thought before answering.
When I heard about the shocking and unbelievable atrocious terrorist attacks in Paris, I was stunned. Speechless. Disbelieving.
Then I kicked into gear and started contacting my friends who live in Paris, and further afield in other parts of France.
Hearing back from each one of them sent waves of relief flooding through me, until finally I’d heard back from them all.
As the entire world was stunned, we each had emotions which were hard to control, hard to understand, and felt unbelievable loss for many whose lives were taken way too soon.
I understand some people’s fear about travelling to Paris after this horrific event, but the bottom line is, awful things can and do happen everywhere.
If we live in fear and stay at home, we won’t have the amazing adventures we’re meant to have.
I can’t guarantee my own safety 100% outside my own door or anywhere in the world, but I still travel and do my best to stay safe.
In fact, when I was last in Paris, I was staying just a block away from one of the locations in the 11th arrondissement where people died — it was such a lovely neighbourhood and no-one could have known in advance.
I totally realise that something awful could happen in or near the sleepy little beach-side village where I live here in Australia — any time — any day, and so I choose to not be fearful.
To answer your question “Is Paris safe to visit?” – yes
But do your own research, and if your country’s government issues travel warning against Paris — listen to those – they won’t be permanent, just during unrest or other events.
In the meantime, continue to plan your trip and have the time of your life!
If you have any other questions, please do get in touch (by email or on Facebook) so we can chat further.
Happy travels!
Sending big hugs, and please do write back to me and tell me ALL your stories about the wonderful (or not) time you had in Paris :-)
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