However, safety while traveling could also be enhanced with a few smart decisions. While there has always been some degree of concern with international travel, there is no reason a person has to spend an entire trip worrying about safety issues. Whether traveling on business or for pleasure, there are specific steps to take during the planning phase but also while abroad to include the following recommendations.
In-Depth Research
Any current travel concerns or confirmed risks for a country being visited could be acquired from a local travel agent or through any number of reputable online travel websites. With the information gathered, an individual would have the opportunity to make an informed decision to continue with the trip or reschedule for a later date.
Smart Traveler Enrollment Program
This United States government program is free and designed to assist US citizens traveling within foreign countries. By signing up for the program, someone on an overseas trip would be notified in case of a family emergency back home but also receive assistance if faced with some type of crisis.
Medical Coverage
Depending on the international destination, personal medical insurance might cover expenses incurred in case of emergency. However, if a policy does not offer medical coverage, it would be worth purchasing a special policy for travelers. Unfortunately, there are many reports of people who have been forced to pay a significant amount of money out-of-pocket or have received compromised care while in a foreign country by not having medical insurance.
Travel Information and Documentation
Someone on an international trip should carry important travel information and original documents such as passport, visa, and travel itinerary. In addition, a copy of everything should be kept in each piece of luggage and left with a family member of friend back home. Other information would include a list of people to contact in case of an emergency to include phone numbers and if a person has a major medical condition or depends on specific medication, the name and phone number of the doctor should be included along with prescription information.
United States Embassies and Consulates
These government agencies provide assistance to American citizens 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year. When planning an international trip, the phone numbers for both agencies should be obtained specific to the country traveling to and carried around securely.
Laws and Customs
Regardless of destination, the laws of the country a person plans to visit must be followed. Therefore, the most pertinent laws should be researched prior to travel. Keep in mind that knowing a country’s customs is not required but to avoid an uncomfortable or even potentially dangerous situation by unintentionally offending someone local, it would also be recommended to become familiar with customs for the country.
Crime Prevention
Even when going to a country deemed safe, an individual should always use common sense to avoid becoming the target of a crime. A few examples of things a person should NOT do include the following:
o Wear expensive jewelry
o Carry a significant amount of cash around
o Be on the streets after dark
o Dine, shop, or sightsee alone
o Accept a package from an unknown party
o Leave luggage unattended
Restrictions and RegulationsFor both the country being visited and home country, there are restrictions and regulations regarding things that can and cannot be brought in as a way of preventing a catastrophic environmental occurrence but also terrorist attack. There are a number of online resources a person should research prior to departure that provide a comprehensive list of acceptable and unacceptable items.
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