Safety Tips for Travelers: What to Do if Disaster Strikes
Safety Tips for Travelers: What to Do if Disaster Strikes
Our hearts go out to the people of Belgium and all those affected by the recent attacks. These are stark reminders of the importance of standing strong, carrying on, and embracing the people and beauty within our reach. We are still proponents of leisure travel for learning about and engaging with people of other cultures. But taking precautions must be a top priority. There are things you can do before and during a trip abroad, to take care of yourself and those traveling with you, and to keep your friends and family apprised of your whereabouts should a serious incident occur while you are traveling.
Stay connected – meaning before you leave make sure your cell phone plan has the correct plan for you to use it abroad.
Use social media – while you may usually stay quiet on social media while you are traveling, if a serious attack occurs in a location you’re visiting, there are tools for using Facebook to let your friends and family know your status. See Facebook Safety Check. Hashtags for events come about immediately, and by following these, you can get relevant updates.
Review safety tips provided by experts, before your trip, so you can act quickly if needed. You can ask one of us or research online. Some helpful articles: What to Do If You’re Abroad During an Attack and Keeping Your Family Safe During a Terrorist Attack
Register for updates and be aware of travel alerts. Some resources: Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) and Alerts and Warnings from the State Department.
Get travel insurance, and be sure it covers acts of terror and other violent acts. We recommend Travelex, an insurance company well-versed in protecting your travel investment.
Be practical, but not alarmist – Is it safe to travel to Paris and other European cities?
Sadly, there are times when tragedy befalls travelers despite the best planning and diligence. If no catastrophes occur – as is still the vast majority of trips – you can focus on enjoying the trip secure in the knowledge that you’re prepared.
Related Blogs
Mel Vigman on AMA
By Travelong | Our Blog
Overall terrific trip along the Danube after three days in Prague. The AMA Sonata is new, sleek and comfortable; the crew were very polite, very efficient. Rooms were small but quite well planned and water pressure in showers always good. The tours were informative in positively beautiful sites, with equally beautiful cathedrals. Some tours were in very crowded popular spots e.g. Schonbrunn Palace. I preferred the less crowded ones. Tour guides ranged from good to excellent. Some highlights were: Vienna concert, local classic trio (La Strada) and on-board entertainer on keyboard, Tamas. Meals on boat were uniformly good but wine only so-so. Free time was barely adequate, but that may have been our fault for not taking more. We found great restaurants in Prague on our own, and other interesting events when we had the chance. Met very nice people on board. I took 400 plus photos.
Discover the Best Islands for Your Warm Winter Vacation
By Kris T. | Island Vacation
Winter is coming, and with the dropping temperatures, what could be better than packing your bags and jetting off to a sun-soaked island paradise? If you're dreaming of white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and tropical vibes, you're in the right place. Our travel experts have curated a list of the best islands to visit for an unforgettable winter vacation. Whether you're seeking relaxation, adventure, or a bit of both, these destinations promise to make your winter escape truly magical.
Embrace Fascinating Vibes in Bali, Indonesia
By Kris T. | Island Vacation
For those seeking a more faraway winter experience, Bali beckons with its rich culture and diverse landscapes. Explore ancient temples, surf the famous waves of Uluwatu, and unwind in luxury resorts surrounded by lush rice terraces. Bali is the perfect destination for a unique and memorable winter escape.
