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.
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