Travel-Safety, Number 1 PriorityNo matter where you travel, travel-safety should always be uppermost in your mind. There are ways you can protect yourself. Wing Sze Tang is an expert. Take some advice from him Be Informed: Read up on the social and political situation in the regions you are traveling through. Check the State Departments website (travel.state.gov) for country specific reports and advice, including alerts and advisories. The British Foreign & Commonwealth Office also maintains a detailed report of travel warnings, listed by country on its website (fco.gov.uk). Stay Connected: Bring a cell phone or a PDA that works overseas, or buy a pre-paid phone on the GSM network when you arrive. And make sure the device remains adequately charged. Know Who To Contact: Find out the number at the local consulate at your destination (see usembassy.gov). In a crisis, you can also call the State Department’s Overseas Citizens Service (202-501-4444). Register Your Travel Plans: Send your itinerary and contact details to the U.S. State Department, if you’re heading to a high risk region. This way you can be reached in case of emergency. Do it online (travel.state.gov) and you’ll receive travel warnings be email as well. Buy Travel Insurance: Consider plans that include security/repatriation services. Ask your insurance company if it provides evacuation plans. If you prefer, you could sign up for MedjetAssist (medjet.com), a private membership company that arranges emergency jet transportation. Vet Your Hotel: Choose a property with good security features and access control, such as a well-staffed lobby and electronic room locks. Keep A Low Profile: Tourists are targets because they look out of place. Avoid dressing in a flashy manner and don’t wear valuables. Apple Vacations - Best Buys!
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