Safe Travels – Tips for Preparing for Vacation

A number of recent news stories reported deaths, assault and poisoning in the Dominican Republic. These incidents raise the question of how safe it is to travel. The US Department of State four-level travel advisory system provides guidance on precautions for countries around the world.  Level four is “Do not Travel” and Level One is “Travel with Normal Precautions.”  The Dominican Republic rates a Level Two (Exercise Increased Caution). The site provides descriptions of criminal activity in each country as well as tips for safe travels.

While the advisory shows the majority of countries listed are Level One, many popular destinations rate a Level Two. These include Mexico, the Bahamas, Jamaica, Turks and Caicos and many countries in Europe.  Millions of Americans travel to these locations annually without incident.  However, it is important to research ahead and follow some key steps while away.

Before you Leave

Prepare for your trip by doing the following:

• Research. Most importantly, use the Department of State website to understand areas to steer clear of and special precautions you may want to take.
• Paperwork. Check your passport. Confirm it is not set to expire within six months of your visit.  Some countries prohibit travel within that window. Don’t get stuck! Also be sure to keep copies of all of your important documents on your phone or computer in case anything is lost or stolen,
• Sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program. You will receive updates and advisories about the country you are visiting. Also, when you are in the country, the local US embassy or consulate will know you are there. They can reach you if there is an emergency or to provide notifications as needed.
• Give travel details/itinerary to a friend or loved one. Make sure someone knows where you are and when you are expected back so they can sound the alarm if anything changes.
• Prepare for a crisis – Hurricanes, fires and other natural disasters can occur at any time. Be sure you have enough food, water and medicines for you and the family. Your trip could be extended unexpectedly by an emergency.

At the Locale

• Stay low-key. Don’t attract unwanted attention by flashing money or valuables.  Definitely leave jewelry at home. Try not to make it obvious you are a tourist!
• Use the Buddy System.  If you are traveling with companions, always go places in pairs or bigger groups.
• Keep an eye on your stuff. It is so easy to take a dip in the pool or the ocean and leave your bag sitting on the lounge chair.  Especially at a resort, you have a false sense of security!  If you have to leave your items, be sure there is nothing in there you would be sad to lose to an opportunistic thief.
• Use official tour guides.  The idea of seeing how the locals live is enticing, but scheduling a tour or excursion with someone other than an official company may not be the safest option.
• Watch your food and drinks. Never leave your food or drinks unattended. Someone might slip something into them to drug you or even poison you.
• Stay alert (and sober).  While the idea of a vacation is usually to relax, don’t let your guard down too much. Stay aware of your surroundings and don’t drink to the point where you are not in control.
• Keep things close to the vest. No need to share your travel plans with a stranger you meet at the pool or cafe.
• Keep things close to the vest (literally). Tether your bag to you in some way so that no one can snatch it and run off.
• Report anything odd. If there is a strange smell in your room, report it.  Are things missing or  does it seem someone was in your room? If so, report it.  If someone is lurking who seems out of place, report it.  Better to be safe than sorry.

Trust your Instincts

Walk with confidence. Have situational awareness at all times. Trust your instincts.  There are many things you can do to ensure you are not a target.  While travel has risk no matter where you go, being prepared, doing your research and following basic safety guidelines can help make your trip both fun and secure.

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