The U.S. State Department on Friday issued a warning to Americans traveling abroad to be extra cautious over the holidays. The warning cited the hostage incident last week in Syndey, Australia, which underscores the need for travelers to be vigilant. U.S. citizens traveling abroad are advised to be mindful that terrorist groups, or those inspired by them, can pose unpredictable threats in public venues. Analysis of past attacks and threat-reporting strongly suggests that terrorists are focused on hotels, shopping areas, places of worship and schools. The travel alert expires March 19, 2015. For more information, go to
http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/english/alertswarnings/worldwide-travel-alert.html.