Giving Thanks - Travel Safe

Sue Steenhoven – Point of Departure and Just Girls Travel
I have been very busy booking people all over the world. I am still sending folks to Paris, Africa, Germany, Belgium and Australia, New Zealand and yes even the Mall of America sometimes.
The world is a wonderful place to explore and the more you travel the more you know there are loving people all over the world.  On Facebook on Friday I was reminded of friends I have acquired around the world as those who welcomed me in their homes in Paris on my last visit reported that they were safe. 
Yes, there are those out there who will try and put fear in our travel plans and daily lives but we can't just hide.  We must continue to live and understand new cultures and explore. I have compiled a list of things you can do prior and during travel to stay safe abroad and to use care and common sense - no matter where we travel.
o             Leave your itinerary, and passport data page, with a friend or family member back home so you can be contacted in case of an emergency.
o             Know and respect the laws in the country you are visiting.
o             Follow your instincts and avoid any areas or situations that seem as though they could become dangerous.
o             Remain alert to their surroundings at all times.
o             Avoid all demonstrations, as even peaceful ones
o             Ask tour guides and hotel officials about any planned demonstrations in the locations they plan to visit.
o             Do not display expensive looking jewelry, large amounts of money or other valuable items. Also, do not leave luggage unattended in public areas and do not accept packages from strangers.
o             Check with your cell phone provider prior to departure to see if your phone is capable of roaming on GSM or 3G/4G international networks.
o             Check your medical insurance coverage to make sure it applies overseas. If it doesn’t, consider buying travel insurance that covers overseas medical attention and medical evacuation.