Will Americans Travel To Europe And Will They Need To Bring Visas?


A new survey has revealed whether or not Americans plan to travel in Europe this coming summer. It seems like Americans are split on international travel. While Europe has been plagued by security concerns and terror threats, a new survey conducted by Travel Leaders Group reveals that France is still a top attraction for American travelers.

For both individuals and groups with upcoming Europe travel plans in summer 2016, France was still selected as the top country that they will likely visit. The country is followed by Italy, Germany, Spain, and the United Kingdom. Italy, including Rome, is a no-brainer since it offers plenty to see and do things to do in Rome, including eating authentic Italian food and drinking wine, according to Withlocals guide.

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France, Germany, and Italy are still the top countries that Americans want to visit in 2016. [Photo courtesy of Andrei Tudoran/Shutterstock]
However, only 26 percent said that they do not plan to visit Europe between now and the end of the year, as safety is still one of the top five reasons why they have no plans to visit the area. In addition, 16 percent said they have no interest in traveling to Europe while a little over 6 percent said they do not have vacation time.

That’s not all, though. Another key finding has been discovered from those who do not have plans to travel to Europe this year. The other majority, more than 48 percent of survey respondents, has stated the reason why is that they have other vacation plans; however, it’s unclear whether or not that vacation is outside of the U.S. Meanwhile, 31 percent said that they won’t be traveling to Europe due to expenses.

The survey was conducted from April 4, 2016, to April 30, 2016, and was conducted among 3,431 consumers throughout the U.S., Travel Leaders Group CEO Ninan Chacko told PR Newswire.

“The ‘new normal’ in today’s world means potential risks of travel exist just about everywhere, including here at home. So perhaps it’s not surprising that our latest survey data indicates that many Americans will not let fear and threats overtake their desire to embrace the world and experience other cultures; France is a primary example.

“While each person must decide on their personal level of comfort in traveling to any destination – even those within the U.S. – the survey data shows many are still choosing Europe, and France specifically, as their destination of choice. Travel continues to be one of the single-most powerful catalysts for addressing ignorance, fear and hate. Based our survey findings, a significant number of American travelers agree.”

Americans may need visas to travel to France and other parts of Europe, if the European Union requires it. According to Forbes, the E.U. could require North Americans to obtain their visas upon visiting Germany, Italy, Spain, and 22 other E.U. member nations. It’s likely that this policy won’t get passed, but there’s still a chance since the European Commissioners pushed for it last week.

As of right now, both Americans and Canadians can visit all 28 E.U. nations without needing a visa, as long as they stay less than three months during a six-month period. On the other hand, the U.S. does not require any of the 28 E.U. nations to arrive to this country without needing a visa. Only those living in Bulgaria, Croatia, Poland, and Romania need a visa before entering the nation.

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Americans may need a visa to travel to Europe. [Photo by Victor Maschek/Shutterstock]
On the flip side, the countries of Fiji and Turkey will anticipate plans for visa-free travel to Europe. The E.U. will invite member states and lawmakers to vote by the end of June, in order to lift visas for Fijians and Turks to take short-term leisure and business trips.

What are your thoughts? Do you have plans to travel to Europe this summer? If so, which parts? Or let us know why you’re not planning to visit Europe anytime soon. Would you like to be able to travel to Europe without needing a visa? Sound off below in the comments section.

[Photo Courtesy of gopixa/Shutterstock]

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