Paris Attacks and Tourism

The devastating November Paris attacks have impacted tourism and the economy per the Paris Convention and Visitors Bureau with hotels seeing a sharp fall in the number of visitors.

The weak euro had made Paris a popular destination with shoppers this year. Paris is located in the heart of Europe and it is easy to get to, with its 2 international airports and extensive and efficient rail network with connections to major European cities. Besides shopping, tourists travelled to see Paris’s famous monuments: The Eiffel Tower glowing at night with its 20,000 light bulbs, Notre Dame Cathedral, the Sacré Cœur Basilica and the Arc de Triomphe.

However, it is being reported that the recent attacks have now deterred many travelers. Tourism administrations such as the China National Tourism Administration (CNTA) are advising Chinese travel agencies to take extra caution with tour groups in France and warned Chinese tourists to avoid large public gatherings and the places where the attacks occurred.

The impact was bigger than after the Charlie Hebdo attack in January perhaps since tourists were targeted this time at a concert hall, a major stadium, restaurants and bars. The foreign embassies in Paris, issued a security alert calling on nationals to stay indoors. Many Travel agencies have provided emergency contingency plans, providing full refunds for tourists who wish to cancel already-booked trips.

Hopefully soon Paris will be the famous traveling destination of the years past. Paris has been and still is truly a legendary city. It has inspired artists, musicians, culinary experts and countless others for many years.  And at night Paris is truly magical especially as it transforms for the holiday season!

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http://www.bbc.com/news/business-34965000