There are still many beautiful places on this planet that attract thousands of travellers who wish to learn more about various cultures, and to enjoy meeting and sharing moments with peaceful people of all races or religious persuasions, as a part of the human experience.

Tourism is the word that covers this global trend that millions have engaged in for many years, despite major wars that disrupted the ability to travel without the risk involved when nations clash over disagreements over ideology or doctrines.

It has been a part of world history for centuries.

People still love to travel and that keeps tourism alive for many countries including our island of Bermuda. However, in this new era of modern communication with so many able, through cyber space technology, to tap into websites flowing with evil intent, the field is widened for the vulnerable to fall prey to any group seeking recruits to destabilise world peace and stability.

As a result, tourism is now threatened by that dreaded word terrorism, where even the lone wolf can become a weapon of mass destruction.

Airlines and cruise ship operators are constantly updating security measures to protect travellers from an increasing threat by terrorist groups that have no boundaries for unleashing acts against those who oppose their version of life on earth.

It is that lone wolf who, on the surface might appear as a quiet normal person, can become a threat. That is why security groups around the world are constantly appealing to the public to be alert and watchful for activity that could indicate potential danger. Many leading authorities on security will admit they fear the lone wolf because that person seldom leaves a trail of connection with others when planning to inflict harm.

Two recent incidents show how quickly things can unfold when a person decides to act on negative impulses.

A passenger on an airline in the United States suddenly jumped out of his seat and made a rush for the cockpit, and it took quick action by other passengers to subdue him until the aircraft could make a safe landing.

No one was hurt and the man apparently had mental issues.

At the New Orleans international airport, even with tight security, a man managed to attack security personnel with a machete, injuring one female worker, before being shot by police. He died later and so authorities were not able to learn more about his motive for trying to harm innocent people carrying out their duties. It seemed another case of the lone wolf syndrome.

Still very fresh in the minds of travellers is that Tunisia tragedy, which resulted in the deaths of a number of tourists who simply wanted to visit a museum while on a cruise.

It was a clear indication of how far terrorists will go to create fear in their quest for recognition and power.

It is a disturbing trend that has affected tourism in some areas where people are reluctant to visit because of increased safety risk.

It is a known fact that many people are reviewing plans to visit parts of Europe as a result of threats from the notorious Isis group.

It is a shame to have world tourism held hostage by any terrorist group and that is something the world powers will have to confront.

It is not clear whether the war against terrorism is being won or lost as each week seems to produce more blood letting through suicide bombers or brutal attacks by gunmen who target men, women, and children in war torn areas.

One can only wonder what the future holds for our children playing in nursery schools if nothing changes in this strange war against terrorism that continues to threaten world safety and global tourism.