What To Do If You Get In Trouble Abroad
Traveling through another country can be scary at time but wouldn't you want peace of mind knowing that in the event that you get into trouble that you know just want to do to help yourself. Here are some preemptive things that you can do to avoid getting into any trouble. Be familiar with the laws of that country, you don't need to know everyone of them but know they ones that apply to tourists, know where you can and cannot go, where is considered a safe area and what areas are considered dangerous. The State Department can provide the information that you need.
When traveling abroad you don't want to stand out as a tourist but in some countries that may be an easy thing to do. In the event that you want to go sight seeing, make sure that you leave all of your jewelry back at the hotel or better yet, don't take any with you. You cannot lose what you do not have. Try to wear normal clothes, nothing too flashy and make sure that you wear appropriate clothing. Try to carry travelers' checks, in the event that you lose them or if you get robbed, you will be able to be reimbursed for them. Of course never leave your luggage unattended and never take anything from strangers in a different country.
Make sure that you sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program; this will allow the State Department to better assist you in the event that you get into trouble. Signing up is free at travel registration.state.gov. It is also important to sign your passport and fill out the emergency information. In the event that you get sick you will have a valid passport and visa. It would also be a good idea to leave itinerary information with friends and family so they can know where you are going or where you have been. Keep your cell phones charged at all times, keep the State Department number on your phone.
In the event that you get sick, a good idea to have medical insurance. If you have health insurance, ask your provider if you would be covered overseas in the event that you get sick. If it doesn't you can purchase supplemental insurance as well, some airlines may also offer health insurance too but it can be costly, so make sure that you have that covered.
It can be fun to travel to other countries but the most important thing is to stay safe. Keep all of the state department information with you at all times. Check out the US Embassy in Angola and make sure that you know where it is. Keep the local police department number with you at all times too. The best way to stay safe is to make sure that you read and understand the necessary laws that you need to stay safe. Stay on main roads and stay at well known hotels, and leave your valuables at home.