State Department warns students to be safe abroad
2:33 p.m., March 17, 2004--As UD students anticipate spring break, which begins after the last scheduled class on March 19, the U.S. State Department is warning those traveling abroad to be safe and smart.
According to the Bureau of Consular Affairs, more than 2,500 American citizens are arrested abroad each year, half of them on charges related to the possession of narcotics. The bureau also warns that dangerous situations can arise when alcohol is involved, and disorderly or reckless behavior should be avoided.
The bureau advises students traveling abroad that safety and security standards in foreign countries are often not the same as in the U.S.
A new pamphlet, Travel Tips for Students, released by the bureau includes the Top 10 Tips for Travelers:
1. Make sure you have a signed, valid passport and visas, if required. Also, before you go, fill in the emergency information page of your passport.
2. Read the Consular Information Sheets (and public announcements or travel warnings, if applicable) for the countries you plan to visit.
3. Leave copies of your itinerary, passport data page and visas with family or friends at home, so that you can be contacted in case of an emergency. Keep your host program informed of your whereabouts.
4.Make sure you have insurance that will cover your emergency medical needs (including medical evacuation) while you are overseas.
5.Familiarize yourself with local laws and customs of the countries to which you are traveling. Remember, while in a foreign country, you are subject to its laws.
6.Do not leave your luggage unattended in public areas and never accept packages from strangers.
7.While abroad, avoid using illicit drugs or drinking excessive amounts of alcoholic beverages, and associating with people who do.
8.Do not become a target for thieves by wearing conspicuous clothing and expensive jewelry and do not carry excessive amounts of cash or unnecessary credit cards.
9.Deal only with authorized agents when you exchange money to avoid violating local laws.
10. When overseas, avoid demonstrations and other situations that may become unruly or where anti-American sentiments may be expressed.
The Travel Tips for Students pamphlet, as well as another pamphlet, Travel Warning on Drugs Abroad, are available online, along with additional information, at [http://travel.state.gov/studentinfo.html].
Article by Kevin Tressler, AS 04
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