Feb 18 2009
Travel Preparation Tip: U.S. Department of State Website
When planning for trips, most of us gather numerous guidebooks, visit several travel-related websites, and ask the advice of our friends and family that have visited before.
One website, not usually used by travelers, is the U.S. Department of State Website devoted to Travel. Believe it or not, the site offers a variety of very useful, often overlooked, information that can help one plan for travel safety. Although it is, of course, geared towards American travelers, others will find it beneficial as well.
Topics include:
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Up-to-date Travel Warnings about destinations that are considered to be “dangerous or unstable.”
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Country-Specific Information with details on entry/exit requirements, crime rates, traffic safety tips, and more for hundreds of countries.
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Passport Information on applying for the first time, renewing, or handling a lost or stolen passport.
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Contact information for U.S. Embassies and Consulates overseas (something all
U.S. citizens should carry when visiting a foreign destination). -
A specific section on Spring Break in Mexico with advice on Mexican law, specific issues that exist in some of the top spots (like the location of a strong undertow in
Cancun), and how to avoid illegal taxis.
The site also offers helpful information and brochures on topics like marriage abroad, absentee voting, the birth of
U.S. citizens overseas, and other tips on living overseas. There is even a section on “Special Planning Considerations” with special tips for student travelers, senior travelers, and travelers with disabilities.
Be sure to add the U.S. Department of State Website to your list of favorite travel websites and check it before each trip for some important information.
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