I worked for several years as a Travel Host for a major travel company escorting tour groups to resort destinations in foreign countries. During that time I saw a lot and learned a lot. One of the most important things I learned was how to keep my charges safe and out of trouble.
Over 200,000 American teenagers and young adults travel to timeshare and hotel resort areas throughout the Bahamas, Jamaica, Mexico and various other foreign country destinations during college spring break each year. Most will simply enjoy their travel and vacation without incident. But several may actually die in accidents or be killed. Many hundreds will be arrested and placed in horrible jails. Many hundreds more will make tragic mistakes that may affect them for the rest of their lives.
There are, unfortunately, dozens of ways to create problems for yourself when traveling abroad. The good news is that it is really very easy to stay safe and have a great time. It just takes a little know how and common sense. Following are six proven spring break travel tips that you can use.
Travel Tip number one. Before you travel, become generally familiar with the basic laws and customs of the country you plan to visit. A great source for getting a good overall feel for any country is the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) World Factbook . The CIA is a whole lot more than a bunch of clandestine spooks chasing bad actors around the globe, as sometimes characterized by Hollywood. Use their services to learn about the country you will visit.
Travel Tip number two. Remember that reckless behavior while in another country can do more than ruin your vacation; it can land you in a foreign jail or worse. To have a safe trip, avoid risky behavior and plan ahead. Alcohol is involved in the vast majority of arrests, accidents, violent crimes, rapes, and deaths suffered by Americans on Spring Break.
Young people should travel in at least pairs and always use a buddy system. One person should remain sober and drug free on the buddy plan. There have always been and will always be predators looking for easy targets of opportunity. These creeps wait in the shadows and look for the impaired; the drunk, stoned, and otherwise defenseless targets.
Travel Tip number three. Phone home every couple days to assure family members of your safety and let them know where you are. Remember old mom and dad? Well, they really do want to hear from you. If you happen to later get in a jam it will help if they have a good idea of where you are. Let your hotel or timeshare [http://www.edisneytimeshare.com] resort know where you are going and your approximate time schedule.
Travel Tip number four. Remember, you are in a foreign country! The laws are different than those in the US and you are subject to the laws and customs regulations of the country you are visiting. Respect the people, the culture, and the laws and you will be fine. Acting arrogant or being ignorant, can lead to big problems. A foreign country law can impose harsh penalties for violations that would be considered minor in the United States. Remember that U.S. citizenship in no way exempts travelers from full prosecution under the host country criminal justice system.
Travel Tip number five. Holiday makers should use extreme caution when renting vehicles and anything else that moves. This includes jet skis, mopeds, and even beach bikes. Many are not properly serviced and in poor condition. Many are uninsured or under-insured. Read rental contracts carefully to be sure your own insurance will cover you in the event of an accident.
Travel Tip number six. Drivers of any vehicle, including jet skis and mopeds, should exercise extreme caution. Always ask the rental agency about local laws and procedures before operating the vehicle. The US Department of State has received many reports of scam equipment rental operators. The scam is to sometimes use locals to form a mob which then intimidates young customers into paying exorbitant amounts for damage to rented equipment that never actually occurred.
Stay safe, have fun, and enjoy your travel adventure!
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