German Tourists Prefer Europe

Fewer Germans are choosing to spend their vacation outside of Europe as terrorist and health risks deter them from traveling further afar, according to a survey released on Wednesday. While 21 percent of Germans left the continent for their holidays in 2004, only 13 percent are planning to do so this year, the survey by Europ Assistance Group found. Terrorist threats were the decisive factor for 47 percent of those questioned to stay in Europe, closely followed by health risks. Vacations by the sea are still the most popular ones, however: 67 percent want to hear the waves during their work break.