Traveling Abroad

from Clayton's Personal Security Handbook

• Keep prescription drugs in their original container with a copy of the prescription.  If you have a condition requiring medication, make sure you take more than enough with you to cover any emergency that might occur during your trip.
• Leave conspicuous items such as jewelry, gold watches and expensive luggage at home.  Valuables tend to attract unwanted attention and increase personal risk.
• Do not carry personal financial information indicating wealth.
• Do not carry identification cards linking you to military or police reserve associations or support groups.
• Avoid areas and establishments frequented by military personnel of any nation.
• Always carry your passport and know the location and phone number of your nation’s nearest embassy or consulate.
• Learn about the country or countries you will be visiting.  Respect local laws, religious traditions, customs, business practices and standards of behavior.
• Before travel or immediately upon arrival learn the exchange value of the local currency.  Also find out where, when and how to conduct exchange transactions.
• Learn to use the local phone system.
• Do not discuss personal or business information with strangers.