Summary - on 13/11, there have been a number shooting incidents in central Paris (10th/11th arrondissements) resulting in a number of casualties - Read more details here at 4Hoteliers.com.
On the behalf of its members and the European tourism community, the European Travel Commission (ETC) conveys its heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of the victims and reiterates its full support, particularly to the people and the Authorities of France.
“Today our society is attacked, showing that we face a truly global threat. Europe remains a safe and welcoming destination and should respond accordingly with more unity and democracy” said ETC President, Peter De Wilde, strongly condemning the attacks in France.
The World Committee on Tourism Ethics, meeting in Paris on 16 November 2015, strongly condemns the terrorist attacks perpetrated last week in the capital of France and recently in other parts of the world.
We express our heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of the victims in this tragic moment and recall that terrorism is a global threat that requires a strong and coordinated action from the international community.
The French people have always stood up for the universal values we all share and we are confident that they will once again endure beyond the hate that these hideous acts want to generate.
Terrorism poses a direct threat to international stability, prosperity and to the cultural heritage of mankind. It targets the lives of innocents all around the world and it menaces the livelihoods of millions as it aims to paralyse our societies with fear and destroy our economies, including tourism.
As the body responsible for interpreting, applying and evaluating the provisions of the UNWTO Global Code of Ethics for Tourism, the Committee recalls that tourism as a force for peace, human rights and mutual understanding is the fundamental axis of the UNWTO Global Code of Ethics for Tourism.
Article I of the Code states that “The understanding and promotion of the ethical values common to humanity, with an attitude of tolerance and respect for the diversity of religious, philosophical and moral beliefs, are both the foundation and the consequence of responsible tourism; stakeholders in tourism development and tourists themselves should observe the social and cultural traditions and practices of all peoples, including those of minorities and indigenous peoples and to recognize their worth.”
The Committee has decided to maintain, as scheduled, its 16th Meeting of Committee, in Paris as a clear statement of support to the French people and our common fight against any form of terrorism.
Marriott International: Given the ongoing situation, we are sensitive to the potential impact on our guests. As such, we are waiving cancellation fees for guests holding existing reservations at all 15 Marriott properties in Paris through November 28, 2015.
Even as airlines operated a normal schedule of flights into and out of Paris on Saturday, travellers with future plans to visit the French capital reconsidered their options after the series of terror attacks. Some quickly cancelled their tickets, a worrisome sign for the travel and tourism industries.
Travel agents said some clients called to cancel trips, and one advocacy group for business travellers predicted that corporations would let frightened employees do the same.
Nov 16: UNWTO strongly condemns the attacks in Paris
UNWTO is deeply shocked by the tragic attacks perpetrated in Paris. On the behalf of the international tourism community, UNWTO expresses its heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of the victims and to the French people in this difficult moment.
"On the behalf of the international tourism community, UNWTO conveys its heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of the victims and expresses its full solidarity with the people and the Government of France” said UNWTO Secretary-General, Taleb Rifai.
“We are facing a global threat and this is not an attack on France, it is an attack against us all” he added.
Nov 15: Thousands of tourists caught in Paris in aftermath of attacks
As Parisians lined up to donate blood and concerned friends and family sought information about loved ones, many tourists " here to enjoy one of the loveliest cities in the world " were making abrupt plans to return home.
Paris authorities warned travelers to allow for extra time at the airport, as heightened security could increase wait times. Thankfully for those wishing to return home quickly, there have been no major delays.
Air France assured passengers flights had not been canceled, while also echoing the government's warning that security measures are being adapted to the situation in real time, and delays should be expected. (Source: Mashable.com)
Nov 14: Marriott International's Statement on Terrorist Attacks in Paris
We are deeply saddened by the tragic events in Paris and our thoughts and prayers go out to the victims, their loved ones and all those impacted. At this time, all of our guests and employees have been accounted for and there has been no direct impact to our hotels. The safety and security of our guests and employees is always a top priority. We will continue to monitor the situation.
Given the ongoing situation, we are sensitive to the potential impact on our guests. As such, we are waiving cancellation fees for guests holding existing reservations at all 15 Marriott properties in Paris through November 28, 2015. Additionally, we are working with our group and special event customers on a case by case basis. For reservation information please contact Marriott International global reservations at (800) 228-9290. Those in countries outside of the United States should contact the Marriott International toll-free number in their country.
British Foreign Office Nov 14: On Friday 13 November, a number of terrorist incidents took place in central Paris (10th/11th arrondissements) resulting in a number of casualties. There were further terrorist incidents near to the Stade de France stadium, also resulting in casualties. British nationals are advised to exercise caution in public places and follow the advice of the local authorities. French Government advice is currently to stay indoors. Systematic border control checks have been implemented at all entry points into France. On Saturday 14 November 11 stations on Paris Metro lines 3,5,8,9 will be closed along with bus services crossing the 10th and 11th arrondissements.
Members of the public who have been directly affected by the incidents in Paris, or who are concerned about family members and friends who may be directly affected can call the Foreign and Commonwealth on 020 7008 0000.
There is ongoing disruption to cross channel services due to migrant activity in and around Calais. Check online with your chosen operator and plan your journey to avoid disruption. See this information on the situation. Information about alternative routes and operators is available via this interactive map.
Industrial action by farmers may cause road blockades and closures. See theBison Futé website for the latest traffic news.
There are large numbers of illegal migrants in and around Calais, who may seek to enter the UK illegally. You should keep vehicle doors locked in slow moving traffic and secure your vehicle when it is left unattended.
Robust border security means that anyone who attempts to transport an illegal migrant across the border faces a considerable jail term.
The 21st session of the conference of the parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate change (COP21) will be held in Paris from 30 November to 11 December 2015. A large march in central Paris is planned on 29 November and further protests are expected at the end of the conference on 12 December. If you see groups of protestors or security forces gathering, you should take extra care, leave the area and follow the advice of the local authorities. Traffic may also be heavier in Paris and between Paris airports and central Paris. Access to real-time information on traffic conditions is available at Sytadin.
There is a high threat from terrorism. Due to ongoing threats to France by Islamist terrorist groups, and recent French military intervention against ISIL, the French government has warned the public to be especially vigilant and has reinforced its security measures.
The New York Police Department said it had bolstered security at high-profile locations around the largest U.S. city on Friday in response to what officials believe were coordinated attacks in Paris which have killed at least 140 people. (Source: www.infowars.com)
British Foreign Office Nov 13: There have been a number of explosions near to the Stade de France stadium, also resulting in casualties. You are advised to exercise caution in public places and follow the advice of the local authorities.
French Government advice is to stay indoors. If you are concerned about a family member, contact 00 33 1 44 51 31 00. Systematic border control checks have been implemented at all entry points into France. On Saturday 14/11 Paris Metro lines 3,5,8,9 and 11 will be closed along with bus services crossing the 10th and 11th arrondissements.
There is ongoing disruption to cross channel services due to migrant activity in and around Calais. Check online with your chosen operator and plan your journey to avoid disruption. See this information on the situation. Information about alternative routes and operators is available via this interactive map.
Industrial action by farmers may cause road blockades and closures. See theBison Futé website for the latest traffic news.
There are large numbers of illegal migrants in and around Calais, who may seek to enter the UK illegally. You should keep vehicle doors locked in slow moving traffic and secure your vehicle when it is left unattended.
Robust border security means that anyone who attempts to transport an illegal migrant across the border faces a considerable jail term.
The 21st session of the conference of the parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate change (COP21) will be held in Paris from 30 November to 11 December 2015. A large march in central Paris is planned on 29 November and further protests are expected at the end of the conference on 12 December. If you see groups of protestors or security forces gathering, you should take extra care, leave the area and follow the advice of the local authorities. Traffic may also be heavier in Paris and between Paris airports and central Paris. Access to real-time information on traffic conditions is available at Sytadin.
There is a high threat from terrorism. Due to ongoing threats to France by Islamist terrorist groups, and recent French military intervention against ISIL, the French government has warned the public to be especially vigilant and has reinforced its security measures. See Terrorism
Around 17 million British nationals visit France every year. Most visits are trouble-free. The most common problem reported is pick-pocketing. SeeSafety and security
The Emergency phone number in France is 112.
You should apply for a free European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) before you travel. If you already have an EHIC, make sure it hasn’t expired. Some medical costs aren’t covered by the EHIC so you should also take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance before you travel. See Health
The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating overseas on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.
More details: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/france
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