1. How To Be a Tourist Without Looking
Like One
Avoid attention-grabbing attire; dress conservatively. Don't
wear expensive-looking jewelry; avoid displays of affluence.
A flashy wardrobe or one that is too casual can mark you as
a tourist.
2. Be a Safe Packer
Simply put, travel light. You can move more quickly and will
be more likely to have a free hand. You will also be less likely
to set your luggage down, leaving it unattended.
3. How To Deter a Pickpocket
When you have to carry passports, cash, credit cards etc., conceal
them in several places rather than putting them all in one place.
Avoid handbags, fanny packs and outside pockets that are easy
targets for thieves. Beware of groups who create a distraction
while picking your pocket. Be careful in crowded places: subways,
train stations, elevators, tourist sites, etc.
4. Ensure You Will See the Sights
If you wear glasses, pack an extra pair. Bring them and any
medicines you need in your carry-on luggage.
5. Avoid Trouble at Customs
Keep medicines in their original, labeled containers. Bring
copies of your prescriptions and the generic names for the drugs.
If a medication is unusual or contains narcotics, carry a letter
from your doctor attesting to your need to take the drug. If
you have any doubt about the legality of carrying a certain
drug into a country, consult the embassy or consulate of that
country first.
6. A Picture Could Be Worth More Than
Words
Pack an extra set of passport photos along with a photocopy
of your passport information page to make replacement of your
passport easier in the event it is lost or stolen.
7. For the Things Money Can't Buy
Bring travelers checks and one or two major credit cards instead
of cash.
8. Some Things You Can Leave Behind
Leave a copy of your itinerary with family or friends at home
in case they need to contact you in an emergency. Also leave
photocopies of your passport identification page, airline tickets,
drivers license, and the credit cards that you plan to bring
with you.
9. Need Assistance? The U.S. Embassy
Can Be a Friend
If you plan to stay more than two weeks in one place: register
with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate through the State
Department's travel registration website at https://travelregistration.state.gov.
Registration will make your presence and whereabouts known if
it is necessary to contact you in an emergency.
10. Do Your Homework
Learn a few phrases in the local language so you can navigate
around more easily and can signal your need for help.
Research ahead of time: The Department of State's Consular Information
Sheets are available for every country of the world. They describe
entry requirements, currency regulations, unusual health conditions,
the crime and security situation, political disturbances, areas
of instability, and special information about driving and road
conditions. They also provide addresses and emergency telephone
numbers for U.S. embassies and consulates.
Finally, Bring Your Passport
If you are getting one for the first time or need to renew,
visit http://travel.state.gov/
for more information.
For more information from the U.S. Department
of State:
Internet: The most convenient source
of information about travel and consular services is the Consular
Affairs home page. The web site address is http://travel.state.gov
.
Telephone: Overseas Citizens Services
at 1-888-407-4747 can answer general inquiries on safety and
security overseas. This number is available from 8:00 a.m. to
8:00 p.m. EST, Monday -Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
Callers who are unable to use toll-free numbers, such as those
calling from overseas, can obtain information and assistance
from OCS during these hours by calling 1-202-501-4444.
In Person: Consular Information
Sheets, Travel Warnings and Public Announcements are available
at any of the regional passport agencies and U.S. embassies
and consulates abroad.
###