(Creative Commons)

Americans should use caution when traveling to Europe, particularly Britain, France and Germany, said the U.S. State Department in a statement issued Sunday. The alert comes after counterterrorism officials in Europe and the U.S. analyzed intelligence that suggests the possibility of plots coming out of Pakistan and North Africa.

The threat level in Britain was also raised by the British government from "general" to "high," traveling Britons were advised to be careful when traveling to France and Germany.

The U.S. statement noted the likely involvement of Al Qaida and urged travelers to be alert to the possibility of terrorist attacks.

"We are not, repeat not, advising Americans not to go to Europe," said Patrick Kennedy, under secretary for managment in a briefing on the Europe travel alert.

Kennedy advises American travelers to use common sense when traveling to Europe.

• Reduce the number of luggage tags that identify you as an American.
• Register with the American consulate or embassy in the area you are traveling and know how to contact them in the event of an emergency.
• Move quickly away if you see an unattended package, hear loud noises or see something happening.
• Make sure you know how to use a pay phone.
• Avoid public demonstrations and civil disturbances.

The travel alert expires on Jan. 31, 2011.

Read more here.