ME&MEE

Spring break, a time for fun, sun, and various shenanigans.  But, seriously, to stay safe and healthy it’s a good idea not to forget that being in a different environment means you should do your “homework” before you travel.  Here are some simple tips to help students make the most of their mid-term vacation this year.

1.  Do Your Homework. Find out whether you will need to have a passport or visa to travel to your destination. The U.S. Department of State website provides this information.  Get background information about where you are going by visiting the CIA Factbook site, which features overviews of the history, climate, political situation, demographics and industries of countries around the world.
2. It’s All About the Benjamins. Read up on exchange rates and make sure you know how much you are really paying for your purchases. Contact your bank and credit card companies with your itinerary so they know to authorize payments. You may also want to ask them about ATMs and getting the best exchange rates.
3. Get to Know the Phone. Learn how to make phone calls from your destination, whether you are in an emergency or just to check back with friends and family at home.
4. Share Your Plan. Make sure to leave copies of your itineraries and passports with family members at home. If you should lose your passport or luggage, having additional copies of these important documents can help you get out of a jam.
5. Lock it Up. Once at your destination, make sure to secure your personal documents. Take advantage of in-room or front-desk safes by locking up passports, credit cards, and other important documents and valuables.
6. Speak the Language (or at least know the important words). If you have food allergies, be sure to write down how to say those foods in the language spoken in the country you are visiting. It is amazing how people can communicate without speaking the same language, but if your throat swells after eating shellfish, you may want to learn how to say shrimp in Spanish.
7. Empty Your Wallet. Avoid carrying excessive amounts of money and multiple credit cards and make sure to have a back-up credit card. If you become a victim of theft or lose your card, you won’t be stuck without money. When you return home, make sure to check your statements to ensure safe transactions occurred.
8. Get Covered. Check with your health insurance company to see what medical coverage you have in your destination country.  Make sure to get the necessary vaccinations if there are country specific health warnings where you are visiting. Avoid illness by visiting your health care provider 4-6 weeks ahead of time, following his or her recommendations for preparation and treatment in the case of sickness.
9. Look Both Ways.  Too many spring breakers are hurt or injured each year while vacationing. Make sure to set and follow personal rules for safety: always travel with at least one other person, limit exposure of valuables including jewelry, avoid excessive drinking, and beware of unmarked taxis or other public transportation. 
10. Behave Yourself. For Real.  Respect local customs, establishments and people and remember that spring break is an excuse to relax, not to act inappropriately. Many countries have different laws regarding public safety, water safety, and violations of law, so make sure you know these rules before visiting. If you find yourself in trouble, contact the closest U.S. Consulate.