Terror Threat Causes Cancellation of USO Trip

(Naples, Italy) Earlier this month, the U.S. Embassy in Cairo warned Americans "to avoid crowded tourist areas in Cairo until the current threat environment diminishes." As a result, a planned trip by U.S. citizens has been scratched with cancellation charges assessed.

From the Stars and Stripes:

Scores of Naples residents are out nearly $250 after the Navy canceled two United Service Organizations trips to Egypt over the Memorial Day weekend because of security concerns.

"The bottom line was the safety of personnel and families," said Capt. Stephen Hoefel, Navy Region Europe's public safety director.

The cancellation ended up costing the 92 prospective travelers 192 euros each in last-minute cancellation fees imposed by Egypt Air and travel agencies.

Each person had paid at least 849 euros for the trip.

"We gave back [to the participants] everything we got back from the agencies," said Naples USO director Simona Keeler. She said she understands people's frustration over the cancellation and monetary loss.

Historically, Egypt has been dicey with regard to security and recent attacks in Cairo and in the Sinai has raised the level of concern. It's reasonable to be extremely cautious.