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 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!
