Very Important Reminders For Travelers

AzNmAnJLH

Golden Member
Feb 26, 2002
1,785
1
0
With the recent tragedy in Bali. The citizens of this world has been placed on an even higher alert as if 9/11 happened all over again. This tragedy proves the US's stance that we should remove terror from this world by any means is correct. Those cowards that committed these acts and all those that supported it and cheered for it should prepare themselves for a rude awakening when the world unites to eliminate them. Most travelers will already know all this but I would like those of us that don't travel much be aware if they should decide to go on a trip outside the U.S. To keep fellow north americans safe while abroad lets reviews some tips:


1) Always get the latest update (public announcements; travel warning; consular information sheets) by visiting http://travel.state.gov or by calling (202) 647-3000 or (202) 647-5225.

2) Be informed about diseases that are common among the populous you are visiting. Check your immunization and take preventive steps to reduce the chance of returning home with an unwanted life threatening disease. You could call the Center For Disease Control at 1-888-232-2338 or visit http://www.cdc.gov.

3) Have appropriate insurance for whatever goes wrong. Remember that Medicare/Medicaid does not cover healthcare costs outside the U.S.

4) Have a signed and valid passport. Make photocopies of the first two pages that shows your signature and photo. Keep one copy at home and another with you along with your passport.

5) Leave a copy of your intinerary at home with your family and have a copy in your place of residence during the trip. If you don't have an intinerary make an effort to draw one up.

6) Only transport your personal belongings, it is safer because you'll know exactly what is boarding the plane.

7) Being too flashy will draw too much attention to yourself. Blend in and enjoy your trip.

8) Don't smuggle stuff into the U.S. check http://www.treas.gov/ofac for reasons why and penalties for doing so.

9) Leave your kids at home, but in case you can't be aware that there is the U.S. Department of State's Office of Children's Issues, call them at (202) 736-7000.

10) After arriving at your destination always notify the closest U.S. or your government's embassy and register. Why should you do this? Well if that country ever goes into civil war you'll be accounted for. Otherwise do what you want.

Last of all remember to enjoy your trip at the same time keeping yourself safe and your family from harm. Understand local laws and abide by them. Keep an open communication with love ones throughout your trip.

P.S. Please contribute and share you comments

 

Kadarin

Lifer
Nov 23, 2001
44,296
16
81
Good advice.. Not particularly useful to me since I'm not planning on going overseas anytime soon, but one never knows.
 

Phuz

Diamond Member
Jul 15, 2000
4,349
0
0
Very cool post AzNmAnJLH.. put a linkto it in your sig!

Important info for anyone leaving the country.
 

denali

Golden Member
Oct 10, 1999
1,122
0
0
The first link travel.state.gov has outdated information. When I was traveling last year I found the site only somewhat useful because of the outdated information. Even after telling them that they had outdated information and providing the correct information they did NOT update the site.