OVERSEAS TRAVEL SECURITY FOR TODAY S HIGH RISK ERA

Transcription

1 International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 1 of 70 OVERSEAS TRAVEL SECURITY FOR TODAY S HIGH RISK ERA Table of Contents: 1. Dangerous Travel Pg Traveling To High-Risk Areas - Pg Personal Security Tips While Traveling - Pg Hiding Travel Money & Documents - Pg Keeping Your Valuables Safe While Traveling - Pg Avoiding Legal Difficulties When Traveling Overseas - Pg More Legal Tips When Traveling Overseas - Pg Good Manners Can Keep You From Being A Victim - Pg Security For Your Travel Luggage - Pg Traveling Abroad: Heed U.S. Travel Warnings - Pg Travel Tips Before You Travel To a Foreign Country - Pg Being Safe While Traveling Alone - Pg Tips For Women Traveling Alone - Pg Security Tips For First Time Travelers - Pg Twelve Important Travel Tips for Students - Pg Traveling Tips For The Disabled - Pg Things To Do When Traveling / Escorting Seniors - Pg Required Documents For Your Overseas Vacation - Pg How to Apply for a U.S. Passport - Pg Safe Travel - What to Bring 10 Simple Tips - Pg In-Flight Air Travel Rules - Pg Safari Travel Tips - Pg Six Wilderness Traveling Tips - Pg Travel Warning On Drugs Abroad: Don t Do It! - Pg Travel Safety - Using Your Intuition - Pg A Couple Final Travel Safety Tricks - Pg. 70 International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 1 of 70

2 International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 2 of 70 Dangerous Travel 101 Adventure, uncertainty and speculation are always associated with traveling and more so when the destination chosen for visit is itself dangerous. Visiting the routine places that provides one with a great change of location and views may be appealing to some but to those seeking more of adventure and uncertainty, criteria for choosing destinations are totally different. There is a craving for excitement beyond ordinary and a lust to experience the increased flow of adrenalin in the body of the traveler. Even the thought of going to such places can make many of us nervous but for the adventurous this excitement is the motive behind choosing such risky destinations. Moving away from one s homeland and going to unfamiliar places in itself can be risky. At the hometown one is familiar with the customs, traditions, law and order of the ruling government and also the common dangers prevalent in one s community. But in a foreign land, things are different and ignorance about the communal system and laws predominant in their country can lead a person in hazardous situations. To make the situation worse, once anyone has a problem, there is almost no one in a foreign land to help the person trapped in unsafe circumstances. Hence, the best rescue from such situations is always to prepare beforehand for all the dangers that may arise in due course of traveling. One must gather all information possible about the place where he is traveling, and the nature of hazards possible. like whether the place is prone to political instability, frequent communal riots or about any disease outbreak in that area. International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 2 of 70

3 International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 3 of 70 Apart from traveling for joy and adventure, many people need to travel to dangerous destinations as a part of their business trip. Many times people in high-profile jobs need to travel to not-so-secure places, but not much can be done about this - as the nature of their job demands such traveling. Employees need to travel long distances to overview and manage the situation at places that are remote from the main working area of the company. Many organizations also provide increased wages for the degree of threat involved at a particular place based on the political factors, crime rate, terrorism, communal volatility and other similar dangers. Travelers to such destinations need to practice extra alertness, precaution and prudence. Knowing about the potential risks of the place helps a traveler take precautionary measures beforehand. The best way to avoid conflicts is to stay away from them. One should never indulge in any controversies in a foreign land specially when they relate to any political issues and/or occur because of rivalry between local leaders. One should always stay away from local demonstration groups formed for protest against any current issues. Apart from political security, prevention against diseases at unknown destinations is equally significant. Having carefully planned meals and avoiding raw food helps greatly in preventing illness. Areas with inadequate hygiene and sanitation should always be avoided as an eating-place. Only water that has been properly treated with chlorine and other disinfectants should be consumed and to be on safer side, bottled water is highly recommended. Keeping certain guidelines in mind one can definitely make even the dangerous destinations a cool place to travel. International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 3 of 70

4 International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 4 of 70 Traveling To High-Risk Areas If you must travel in an area where there has been a history of terrorist attacks or kidnappings make it a habit to: 1. Discuss with your family what they would do in the event of an emergency. Make sure your affairs are in order before leaving home. 2. Register your travel with the Department of State. 3. Remember to leave a detailed itinerary and the numbers or copies of your passport or other citizenship documents with a friend or relative in the United States. 4. Remain friendly but be cautious about discussing personal matters or your itinerary. 5. Leave no personal or business papers in your hotel room. 6. Watch for people following you or "loiterers" observing your comings and goings. 7. Keep a mental note of safe havens, such as police stations, hotels, and hospitals. 8. Formulate a plan of action for what you will do if a bomb explodes or there is gunfire nearby. 9. Let someone else back home know what your travel plans are. Keep them informed if you change your plans. 10. Report any suspicious activity to local police, and to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. 11. Select your own taxicabs at random. Don't take a vehicle that is International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 4 of 70

5 International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 5 of 70 not clearly identified as a taxi. Compare the face of the driver with the one on his or her posted license. 12. If possible, travel with others in your group. 13. Be sure of the identity of visitors before opening the door of your hotel room. Don't meet strangers at your hotel room, or at unknown or remote locations. 14. Refuse unexpected packages. 15. Check for loose wires or other suspicious activity around your car. 16. Be sure your vehicle is in good operating condition. 17. Drive with car windows closed in crowded streets. Bombs can be thrown through open windows. 18. If you are ever in a situation where somebody starts shooting, drop to the floor or get down as low as possible. Don't move until you are sure the danger has passed. Do not attempt to help rescuers and do not pick up a weapon unless absolutely necessary to defend yourself. Just remember, you may be arrested for defending yourself with a weapon even if it was necessary to stay alive. If possible, shield yourself behind a solid object. If you must move, crawl on your stomach. International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 5 of 70

6 International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 6 of 70 Personal Security Tips While Traveling Minimize your chances of being a victim when traveling overseas. 1. Notify your immediate family of your departure and return dates, but don't otherwise publicize your travel or vacation plans. Always leave contact information with your family. Provide them with an itinerary, hotel names, phone numbers, airline flight info, and any other important travel information. It is a good idea to also leave them a copy of your passport. 2. Register your trip with the state department online or with your embassy upon arrival. 3. Check plane, train, and bus times before you travel. 4. Sit near other people or near aisles or doors. Learn the location of emergency alarms and exits. 5. Stay awake and alert when using public transportation. 6. Consider purchasing special clothing or accessories to hide your passport, money, or credit cards. Keep the majority of your funds in traveler's checks and hidden; carry some in your wallet or handbag. Use a money clip. If you are robbed, you may lose the money in the clip but will retain important credit cards and documents. International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 6 of 70

7 International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 7 of Keep valuables out of sight and luggage close at hand. If carrying a handbag, keep it in front of you, closed, with the fastening toward your body. Keep a wallet in your front pants pocket. 8. Let go if your bag is snatched. 9. Do some research on the area you are visiting. Talk to your security officer or consular colleagues regarding travel advisories or warnings. 10. When traveling, dress casually; dress down where appropriate. Be aware of local customs. 11. Don't wear excess jewelry. Reduce wallet and purse contents, particularly cards that denote affiliations, memberships, accounts, etc. 12. At airports, proceed through security checks and go to the boarding area as quickly as possible. These areas are usually the most secure in the airport. 13. In any crowded situation, be aware of any crowding or jostling, even if it appears innocent. This is often a ploy by pickpockets to distract you. 14. Be very careful any time you use a telephone calling card. International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 7 of 70

8 International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 8 of 70 Fraudulent uses of these cards are on the rise. Look for people observing your card or your fingers as you dial your code. Avoid being heard giving the number to local telephone operators. 15. Maintain a low profile, use common sense, know your surroundings, and have a safe trip. Don t bring attention to yourself with your clothing or your actions. Be alert, report anything suspicious, and obey security personnel. We live in dangerous times and have to remain ever vigilant. You never know when something bad may happen to you or your family. Follow the above tips to minimize your risk and increase the odds of you having an incident free holiday. International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 8 of 70

9 International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 9 of 70 Hiding Travel Money & Documents Travel money belts are still a good way to carry cash. They're common, and thieves know of them, but it isn't easy to tell if your belt has a hidden compartment, and it isn't easy for a robber to get at it quickly. It is a good way to carry some of your cash when you travel. Here are some more ways. There are travel options other than money belts for hiding cash and important papers. Use several of them, rather than putting everything in one place. Don't carry too much cash. It's easy now, almost everywhere, to access your money using an ATM, so carry enough for a few days, or a week at most. There are pouches that hang under your shirt to carry your passport and other papers. They're obvious if you're wearing a light shirt, but then it is always hard to thoroughly hide a passport on your body. In any case, it isn't easily accessible to pickpockets. I cut a pocket from some old pants and used a safety pin to attach it inside my travel pants. This has worked well on several trips. It's not noticeable, and would be difficult for a thief to get at without taking off my pants. However, it is inconvenient when I'm asked for my passport, since I have to reach into my pants. Hiding Travel Money In Shoes. If the inner soles of your shoes are removable, put twenty dollars under each one for emergencies. This works International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 9 of 70

10 International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 10 of 70 well for me, but then I don't have expensive shoes that could themselves be a target. It is just another place, and you should always have several different places to hide cash when traveling. Think creatively. Roll up a bill and put it in the handle of a disposable razor. Just don't throw it away by accident. Find or make other hiding places. If your money is in several hard-to-find places, it will take a persistent thief to find all of your cash. Make robbers truly work for their living. Hiding money in your hotel room requires some thought. There are many good places. Ask any thief, and he'll tell you the best ones. Just choose a safe hotel and be careful. Of course, hiding things will at least reduce the temptation for bad employees and lazy thieves. I once had a wallet stolen from a zippered back pocket. It was a decoy wallet, so the pickpocket's skill earned him a few pieces of paper. Another time I had to drag a robber off a bus and wait for police, but his accomplice escaped with our money. Travel is about adventure, but fortunately we can hide our travel money and documents well enough to avoid this kind most of the time. International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 10 of 70

11 International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 11 of 70 Keeping Your Valuables Safe While Traveling Traveling, be it just across state or to another country is always a great experience. To help people enjoy it rather than having an unfortunate incident such as losing one's passport or other items such as luggage, it is best to be prepared to avoid such things from happening. An essential item for any passenger traveling is the passport. This, as well as cash and the tickets, must be nearby at all times preferably in a small handbag or purse for easy accessibility. If it is possible, one should memorize the passport number just in case for some reason it gets lost. There is a high probability that when one travels, one usually uses the same bag for various trips. It is best to remove all the old destination tags and just have the new destination tag attached to avoid confusion. Also, for personal protection, one must have a lock and key for the bag and have it labeled both inside and outside the bag to avoid having another traveler from getting the luggage by mistake. Depending on the length of the trip, one should just bring enough bags, that one can carry. If the trip will take a few days or longer, choose a more appropriate bag to bring along. Taking such precautions will make the person feel comfortable and not helpless or immobilized when one is also not certain where the taxi stand or the bus stop is located. International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 11 of 70

12 International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 12 of 70 While traveling, one should be careful of the surroundings. One should never let a stranger look after the luggage because it is possible that they will put something in it or even steal it. During the trip, one should choose a hotel located on a well-traveled street. Usually, the more expensive the hotel, the better the security. The first thing to do when entering a hotel room is to check the windows, sliding doors and connecting rooms if there are any and make sure it is secure. Most hotels have a small vault in the room and safety deposit box, which is complimentary. When leaving the hotel, it is also advisable to leave the room key in the lobby and just claim it when entering the hotel room. Do not answer the hotel room door before verifying who it is. If someone claims to be a hotel employee and one does not recall making any requests from the help desk, it is best to call the front desk person first to verify. Most importantly, make sure the hotel room door is locked at all times. International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 12 of 70

13 International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 13 of 70 Avoiding Legal Difficulties When Traveling Overseas You should do your very best to avoid getting in trouble in a foreign country. When you are in a foreign country, you are subject to its laws and are under its jurisdiction. You can be arrested overseas for actions that may be either legal or considered minor infractions in the United States. Familiarize yourself with legal expectations in the countries you will visit. Country Specific Information includes information on unusual patterns of arrests in particular countries, as appropriate. abroad are: Some of the offenses for which U.S. citizens have been arrested Drug Violations - More than 1/3 of U.S. citizens incarcerated abroad are held on drug charges. Some countries do not distinguish between possession and trafficking, and many have mandatory sentences - even for possession of a small amount of marijuana or cocaine. A number of Americans have been arrested for possessing prescription drugs, particularly tranquilizers and amphetamines that they purchased legally elsewhere. Other U.S. citizens have been arrested for purchasing prescription drugs abroad in quantities that local authorities suspected were for commercial use. If in doubt about foreign drug laws, ask local authorities or the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. Possession of Firearms - The places where U.S. citizens most often experience difficulties for illegal possession of firearms are nearby - Mexico, International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 13 of 70

14 International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 14 of 70 Canada and the Caribbean. Sentences for possession of firearms in Mexico can be up to 30 years. In general, firearms, even those legally registered in the U.S., cannot be brought into a country unless a permit is obtained in advance from the embassy or a consulate of that country and the firearm is registered with foreign authorities on arrival. (Note: There are also strict rules about bringing firearms or ammunition into the U.S; check with U.S. Customs before your trip. Photography - In many countries you can be detained for photographing security-related institutions, such things as police and military installations, government buildings, border areas and transportation facilities. If you are in doubt, ask permission before taking photographs. Purchasing Antiques - Americans have been arrested for purchasing souvenirs that were, or looked like antiques, and which local customs authorities believed were national treasures. This is especially true in Turkey, Egypt, Thailand, and Mexico. Familiarize yourself with any local regulations of antiques. In countries with strict control of antiques, document your purchases as reproductions if that is the case, or if they are authentic, secure the necessary export permit (often from the national museum). It is a good idea to inquire about exporting these items before you purchase them. Know the rules before you go. Do your homework and learn the laws and customs of the country you will be visiting. Stay out of jail and have a great vacation. International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 14 of 70

15 International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 15 of 70 More Legal Tips When Traveling Overseas The very first thing you have to remember is that you are a guest in a foreign country and you are subject to their rules and regulations. Ignorance of the law is no excuse. You need to do some homework and find out what the laws of the country you are visiting are so that you stay out of trouble and have an enjoyable vacation. Obey Foreign Laws When you are in a foreign country, you are subject to its laws. It helps to learn about local laws and regulations and to obey them. Try to avoid areas of unrest and disturbance. Deal only with authorized outlets when exchanging money or buying airline tickets and traveler's checks. Do not deliver a package for anyone, unless you know the person well and you are certain that the package does not contain drugs or other contraband. Before you think about selling personal effects, such as clothing, cameras, or jewelry, you should learn about the local regulations regarding such sales. You must adhere strictly to local laws because the penalties that you risk are severe. Some countries are particularly sensitive about photographs. In general, refrain from photographing police and military installations and personnel; industrial structures, including harbor, rail, and airport facilities; border areas; and scenes of civil disorder or other public disturbance. Taking International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 15 of 70

16 International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 16 of 70 such photographs may result in your detention, in the confiscation of your camera and films, as well as the imposition of fines. For information on photography restrictions, check with the country's tourist office or its embassy or consulate in the United States. Once abroad, you can check with local authorities or with the Consular Section of the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. Legal Aid Because you are subject to local laws abroad, there is little that a U.S. consular officer can do for you, if you encounter legal difficulties. As stated previously, a consular officer cannot get you out of jail. What American officials can do is limited by both foreign and U.S. laws. Although U.S. consular officers cannot serve as attorneys nor give legal advice, they can provide a list of local attorneys and help you find adequate legal representation. The lists of attorneys are carefully compiled from local bar association lists and responses to questionnaires, but neither the Department of State nor U.S. embassies nor consulates abroad can assume responsibility for the caliber, competence, or professional integrity of the attorneys. If you are arrested, you should ask the authorities to notify a consular officer at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. Under international agreements and practice, you have the right to talk to the U.S. consul. If you International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 16 of 70

17 International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 17 of 70 are denied this right, try to have someone get in touch with the U.S. consular officer for you. When alerted, U.S. officials will visit you, advise you of your rights according to local laws, and contact your family and friends, if you wish. They will do whatever they can to protect your legitimate interests and to ensure that you are not discriminated against under local law. U.S. consuls can transfer money, food, and clothing to the prison authorities from your family or friends. They will try to get relief, if you are held under inhumane or unhealthy conditions or treated less favorably than others in the same situation. International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 17 of 70

18 International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 18 of 70 Good Manners Can Keep You From Being A Victim To say that today's business environment is becoming increasingly more global is to state the obvious. Meetings, phone calls and conferences are held all over the world and attendees can come from any point on the globe. On any given business day, you can find yourself dealing face-toface, over the phone, web conference, by and, on rare occasions, by postal letter with people whose customs and cultures differ your own. You may never have to leave home to interact on an international level. While the old adage "When in Rome, do as the Romans do" still holds true, business clients and colleagues who are visiting your country should be treated with sensitivity and with an awareness of their unique culture. Not to do your homework and put your best international foot forward can cost you relationships and future business. One small misstep such as using first names inappropriately, not observing the rules of timing or sending the wrong color flower in the welcome bouquet can be costly. There is no one set of rules that applies to all international visitors so do the research for each country that your clients represent. That may sound like a daunting task, but taken in small steps, it is manageable and the rewards are worth the effort. Keeping in mind that there are as many ways to do business as there are countries to do business with, here are a few tips for minding your global P's and Q's. International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 18 of 70

19 International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 19 of 70 Building relationships: Few other people are as eager to get down to business as we Americans. So take time to get to know your international clients and build rapport before you rush to the bottom line. Business relationships are built on trust that is developed over time, especially with people from Asia and Latin America. Dressing conservatively: Americans like to dress for fashion and comfort, but people from other parts of the world are generally more conservative. Your choice of business attire is a signal of your respect for the other person or organization. Leave your trendy clothes in the closet on the days that you meet with your foreign guests. Observe the hierarchy: It is not always a simple matter to know who is the highest-ranking member when you are dealing with a group. To avoid embarrassment, err on the side of age and masculine gender, only if you are unable to discover the protocol with research. If you are interacting with the Japanese, it is important to understand that they make decisions by consensus, starting with the younger members of the group. By contrast, Latin people have a clear hierarchy that defers to age. Understanding the handshake: With a few exceptions, business people around the world use the handshake for meeting and greeting. However, the American style handshake with a firm grip, two quick pumps, eye contact and a smile - is not universal. Variations in handshakes are based on cultural differences, not on personality or values. The Japanese give a light handshake. Germans offer a firm shake with one pump, and the French grip is light with a quick pump. Middle Eastern people will continue International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 19 of 70

20 International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 20 of 70 shaking your hand throughout the greeting. Don't be surprised if you are occasionally met with a kiss, a hug, or a bow somewhere along the way. Using titles and correct forms of address: We are very informal in the United States and are quick to call people by their first name. Approach first names with caution when dealing with people from other cultures. Use titles and last names until you have been invited to use the person's first name. In some cases, this may never occur. Use of first names is reserved for family and close friends in some cultures. Titles are given more significance around the world than in the United States and are another important aspect of addressing business people. Earned academic degrees are acknowledged. For example, a German engineer is addressed as "Herr Ingenieur" and a professor as "Herr Professor". Listen carefully when you are introduced to someone and pay attention to business cards when you receive them. Exchanging business cards: The key to giving out business cards in any culture is to show respect for the other person. Present your card so that the other person does not have to turn it over to read your information. Use both hands to present your card to visitors from Japan, China, Singapore, or Hong Kong. When you receive someone else's business card, always look at it and acknowledge it. When you put it away, place it carefully in your card case or with your business documents. Sticking it haphazardly in your pocket is demeaning to the giver. In most cases, wait until you have been introduced to give someone your card. International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 20 of 70

21 International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 21 of 70 Valuing time. Not everyone in the world is as time conscious as Americans. Don't take it personally if someone from a more relaxed culture keeps you waiting or spends more of that commodity than you normally would in meetings or over meals. Stick to the rules of punctuality, but be understanding when your contact from another country seems unconcerned. Honoring space issues: Americans have a particular value for their own physical space and are uncomfortable when other people get in their realm. If the international visitor seems to want to be close, accept it. Backing away can send the wrong message. So can touching. You shouldn't risk violating someone else's space by touching them in any way other than with a handshake. Whether the world comes to you or you go out to it, the greatest compliment you can pay your international clients is to learn about their country and their customs. Understand differences in behavior and honor them with your actions. Don t take offense when visitors behave according to their norms. People from other cultures will appreciate your efforts to accommodate them and you will find yourself building your international clientele. International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 21 of 70

22 International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 22 of 70 Security For Your Travel Luggage Let s talk about the subject of luggage security, which is most popular and we receive massive of questions from folks about how to choose good travel luggage. But today I am not going to talk about how to choose the good quality luggage as there is plenty of information about this already. Instead, we will talk about how to take care of your luggage safely during the trip, which I think is very important. Some of you who are frequent travelers may be familiar with problem of losing luggage or if this situation never happened to yourself so you might have heard about someone who lost luggage from time to time. Apart from this problem that many travelers usually have, is also problems of broken luggage due to accident or ineffective luggage transfer process by airline staff. The following details will guide you about information in terms of the correct way of using luggage. The first thing that you have to know is the capacity of the luggage that you have. In other words, you have to know that how much stuff your luggage can hold. My point is, the first rule of thumb to reduce the chance of luggage being broken during the trip - is you must not over pack the luggage. Over packing the luggage is the cause of damage that found the most. Over packing increases the pressure inside the luggage and this could cause a International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 22 of 70

23 International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 23 of 70 broken zipper or it has more chance of being broken when it is accidentally dropped. This happens particularly for people who have only one piece of luggage and they have to go on a long trip. My suggestion is you should find additional luggage. Apart from being careful not to over pack the luggage, you may find extra accessories to help you carry the luggage such as placing a protective strap around each bag. The other cause of luggage being lost is that they are stolen by a thief. In most cases, it was found that the cause is many people packed their valuables in carry-on luggage. To prevent this situation, you may have to pack these valuables in your main luggage, otherwise you are in risk to be a target of thieves and you may lose your luggage. However, there is no one who can predict what is going to happen in the future. There is a way however, to help you if you do lose your luggage. You may have to put your name and address inside each piece of luggage. Even though that won t help protecting your luggage from a thief, it will be useful if someone finds your bag and returns it to you. International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 23 of 70

24 International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 24 of 70 Traveling Abroad: Heed U.S. Travel Warnings Traveling abroad presents certain risks for Americans, especially in light of the recent bombings in London, England. For the most part, terrorists are the problem, although drug, gang, and criminal activities can also be a factor. In addition, local health conditions can be a separate problem. Thankfully, the U.S. State Department regularly issues and updates Consular Information Sheets for every country in the world. These sheets give valuable information to travelers, information you must know before you take your next trip. As mentioned, the Consular Information Sheets provide important information for travelers. You can also check the State Department's Current Travel Warning list to see which nations the U.S. government encourages Americans to avoid altogether. At the time of this writing, the following countries are listed: 1. Uzbekistan 2. Kenya 3. Iran 4. Iraq 5. Congo-Kinshasa International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 24 of 70

25 International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 25 of Nepal 7. Israel, the West Bank and Gaza 8. Afghanistan 9. Haiti 10. Nigeria 11. Saudi Arabia 12. Indonesia 13. Yemen 14. Colombia 15. Lebanon 16. Central African Republic 17. Pakistan 18. Kyrgyzstan International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 25 of 70

26 International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 26 of Philippines 20. Zimbabwe 21. Liberia 22. Côte d'ivoire 23. Algeria 24. Libya 25. Bosnia-Herzegovina 26. Sudan 27. Burundi 28. Somalia Several of the countries listed should be of no surprise to you as they are either embroiled in a war or are hotbeds of terrorist activity. These countries include: Iraq, Afghanistan, Yemen, Algeria, and Libya. Colombia is listed because of the ongoing violence related to the strong influence of the drug cartels there. Haiti is marked because of protracted civil unrest, while Uzbekistan has been identified as a possible International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 26 of 70

27 International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 27 of 70 terrorist breeding ground. In all cases the U.S. government warns Americans to avoid these countries as citizens may find themselves caught in the middle of an armed conflict. Please note that just because a country is not on the Current Travel Warning list, you should still obtain the country specific Consular Information Sheets from the State Department to be aware of certain risks. To find out current travel information, please visit the US State Department's site for international travel at: International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 27 of 70

28 International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 28 of 70 Travel Tips Before You Travel To A Foreign Country The best vacations come from the ones we are most prepared for. What can you do to best prepare yourself for foreign travel? Follow our tips and tricks to maximize your vacation experience. There are many things that you can do to prepare yourself and your family for travel. By being as prepared as you can be, you are setting yourself up for a great getaway that will minimize any unpleasant circumstances that sometimes arise with travel. In order to have the best vacation possible, I m going to share with you the must know tricks and travel tips before you travel. The very first thing you must do is RESEARCH. You want to learn as much as you possibly can about your destination prior to arrival. Yes, this is going to require some time and effort on your part but it is going to be more than worth it. This is the only way to truly understand what it is you want from your vacation and what you want to do on your vacation. destination. Here are some things that you should always know about your 1. Weather - You need to know what you should be packing and planning for. International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 28 of 70

29 International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 29 of Paperwork and Documentation - Know what is needed to travel to your particular destination. 3. Know if there are any diseases common to the area you will be traveling to this way you are able to take preventative measures. 4. Costs of local items You want to be able to properly plan your budget; remember to include taxes and tipping. 5. Holidays and festivals check to see when these occur for your destination as you may find limited services on those days. The best holidays / vacations are the ones we are most prepared for. Do yourself a favor; make it a habit to always know as much as you can about your destination before you travel. It ll make all the difference in the world! What are some other things that you can do to prepare yourself? Use these travel tips before you travel. 1. Make 2 photocopies of your passport. Take one and put it in a safe place or leave it with a friend. Take the other one with you and keep it in a separate place from your passport, this way should your passport become lost or stolen, you can use the copy to exit the country and it will also facilitate the replacement process. 2. yourself important information such as: airline numbers and flight information, credit card numbers, passport and driver s license numbers and International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 29 of 70

30 International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 30 of 70 anything else that may be of importance to you. This way if anything is lost or stolen, you are just an internet connection away. 3. Know your banking information. For your credit card, make sure that the valid dates will remain valid while you re traveling, know your available spending amount and don t forget to leave some room on it for emergencies. Check your ATM and debit cards daily and total limits. 4. Learn some local phrases. If you are traveling to a country with a foreign language, it s always nice to know some of the local phrases. Knowing the polite words and just a few local phrases will be a huge help. You will find that natives really appreciate this and will tend to be more receptive to your questions. Maybe you ll even make a new friend while you re at it! 5. Be aware of the voltage that s used for the country you re traveling to. If you are taking anything that requires an outlet; cell phone, computer, video camera, etc. make sure to purchase plug adapters. For things such as hairdryers, curling irons, electric razors, etc. try to purchase an actual voltage converter unless your appliance has multiple voltage currencies. When traveling to a foreign country it s always best to be as prepared as you can be. Do as much research as you possibly can, remember these travel tips before you travel and your trip abroad is sure to be a success. Here s your final checklist: Passport, tickets, car rental and hotel reservation receipts/agreements, credit cards, medications or prescriptions, International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 30 of 70

31 International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 31 of 70 if required, addresses, password and any other important information that you may need. Don t forget the most important thing: your adventurous travel mind, see and learn as much as you can and have the time of your life! International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 31 of 70

32 International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 32 of 70 Being Safe While Traveling Alone If you want to meet new people, find a mate, increase your awareness, experience personal growth, lower your blood pressure or just relax. TRAVEL! You can try an all-inclusive resort that will give you the safety of communal living, yet flexible enough to provide you with a detail experience of your chosen destination. You can increase your experience encounters by signing up for tours offered by your resort. These mega resorts offer tours for shopping, sightseeing, night life, educational and adventure. If you would rather travel to 2, 3 or more cities then a cruise may be your best choice. There are single cruises that are high end, (meaning they won't make you feel like you are on the prowl)! Safety is a serious issue and should not be taken lightly. Listed below are 15 tips to increase your safety factor: 1. When you check into your hotel, give your Bellman a $5.00 to $10.00 tip. Tell him your name and ask him a question about your stay at the resort, Keep this conversation, brief and professional 2. Use the Hotel safe for money, your travel documents and jewelry. If you use your room safe, be sure you know how to operate the safe properly. International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 32 of 70

33 International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 33 of Always try to originate your cab ride from your hotel. When away from your hotel try to avoid asking strangers for directions. If you get lost or need help, go to the nearest Hotel (the larger the better) and ask for help at the Front desk! 4. Select your 'return trip cab' with caution and always be aware of your surroundings. 5. Invest in a body purse or use a money belt. 6. Do not flash cash, foreign or domestic. If you are not sure of the money exchange, it is OK to leave a little extra money on the table. 7. When meeting people during your travel, do not give out your hotel room number. Meet people in the lobby or have the Hotel operator connect them to your room. 8. If you decide to go out with a suitor that you meet while traveling, have him/her pick you up at your Hotel. Find your Bellman, and casually mention that you are going out with one of the locals and ask a question about where to go? (The Hotel does not want anything to happen to you, because then who would pay the bill?) 9. ALWAYS remember to BE SAFE in personal or sexual encounters. Don't get caught up in the moment! At least not in a foreign country. International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 33 of 70

34 International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 34 of Remember, if you are an American, you could be a target! OR, they may want to marry you so they can move to the US. 12. Wait until the last day before your departure before giving out your home address or telephone number. (You would not want this information forwarded to a professional thief while you are away on vacation) 13. Try not to break anyone's heart. 14. If you get into trouble, contact the nearest US Embassy. 15. Leave a detailed itinerary with a friend or relative at home. Check in with this family member or friend often during your vacation International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 34 of 70

35 International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 35 of 70 Tips For Women Traveling Alone There has been an increase in the number of Americans traveling abroad - especially women traveling alone for either business or pleasure. If you are a woman traveling alone, you need to check the rules pertaining to women - in the country you will be visiting. Each country and culture has their own views of what is appropriate behavior for women. Although you may not agree with these views, it is wise to abide by the local laws and customs to avoid problems. Please become familiar with the laws and customs of the places where you wish to go. Here are two examples of situations you may encounter: 1. It is illegal in Laos to invite Lao nationals of the opposite sex to one's hotel room. 2. Foreigners in Saudi Arabia have been arrested in the past for "improper dress." Women traveling alone can be more vulnerable to problems in certain cultures. Keeping in mind the following information, can help make your trip as safe and rewarding as possible. International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 35 of 70

36 International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 36 of 70 Preparing for your trip Passports & Visas: Make sure your passport is still valid or apply for a new one long before you plan to travel. Make sure you have the right travel documents and visas for your destinations. For information on individual countries' entry and exit requirements, refer to your country s website/publication on Foreign Entry Requirements. Your Destinations: Make an effort to learn about the locations you plan to visit, their culture, and any problems that might be occurring there. What to Leave At Home: Leave a detailed itinerary and a copy of your passport's identification page with a friend or relative at home. Include names, addresses and telephone numbers where you will be staying. Leave a copy of your flight and ticket information with them as well. Many exciting and exotic destinations may have very conservative views about women. Being a foreigner makes you stand out; a woman traveling alone can be even more of an oddity in some places. You may wish to establish certain check in dates when you will either call, , fax, etc. to let someone know that you are all right. But remember that if you happen to miss a check-in, your loved ones may assume that you are having a problem or are in trouble. International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 36 of 70

37 International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 37 of 70 Leave any valuables, extra credit cards and jewelry - even fake jewelry - at home. Thieves often won't know the real from the fake until after they take it, so why risk your personal safety? Make sure you have adequate health insurance coverage while abroad and that your coverage includes medical evacuations. Your policy might not cover you overseas and you may need to purchase traveler's insurance. If you have any condition that might develop complications - especially if you are pregnant, check with your doctor before you go abroad. If you experience complications, a medical evacuation might still take several precious hours to arrange. If you take prescription medication, make sure you have enough to last the duration of the trip, including extra medication in case you are delayed. Always carry your prescriptions in their labeled containers as many countries have strict anti-trafficking laws and might be suspicious of pills in unlabeled bottles. Bring your prescription information and the names of their generic equivalents with you just in case. Off you go Safety and Security: Use common sense and be alert and aware of your surroundings. If you are unsure in general about the local situation, feel free to check with the American Citizens Services section of the local U.S. Embassy or Consulate for the latest security information. International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 37 of 70

38 International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 38 of 70 Don't announce that you are traveling alone! Some guides for women even advise wearing a wedding ring if you're single. If you feel like you're being followed, step into a store or other safe place and wait to see if the person you think is following has passed. Do not be afraid or embarrassed to ask for someone to double check for you to see if all is safe. Display confidence. By looking and acting as if you know where you're going, you may be able to ward off some potential danger. Ask for directions before you set out. No matter how modest your lodgings are, your hotel concierge or other hotel staff should be able to help. If you find yourself lost, do not be afraid to ask for directions. Generally, the safest people to ask are families or women with children. Getting the right information may save you from ending up in a potentially unsafe area. Hotels: Choose a hotel where security is good and transportation is readily available and nearby. Check that all the doors and windows in your room have locks and that they work. If you feel uncomfortable, ask hotel security to escort you to and from parking lots or your room at night. Always use your peephole and common sense about letting strangers into your room. Clothing: There is no doubt that fashion makes a statement. Unfortunately, not everyone will interpret how you dress the same way you would. What you consider casual clothing might be seen as provocative or inappropriate in other cultures. Thieves might choose you over another potential target based on your style of dress or the amount of makeup or jewelry you are International Security Training LLC Overseas Travel Security For Today s High Risk Era Page 38 of 70