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Featured Schools Abroad:
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Students have four incredible locations to choose from in England and whether it is Brighton—often d... [more]
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The BA (Honours) Graphic Design curriculum ranges from introductions to design and ideas, typography... [more]
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...and more
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Get comprehensive information on distance education programs in North America.
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Avoiding Trouble Overseas
Recent statistics indicate that approximately 2,500 American citizens are arrested abroad each year. According to the Department of State, unlike the United States, few countries believe 'you are innocent until proven guilty.' Once you leave US soil, US laws and constitutional rights no longer apply. US consular officers can visit jailed Americans to see that they are being treated fairly and humanely, but they cannot get them out of jail or intervene in a foreign country's legal system on their behalf. In short, there are consequences for illegal actions and the United States Government can't protect you.
Legal systems vary dramatically around the world. Students should find out about applicable laws and policing from locals, if not before arriving. Take particular note of traffic violations and laws concerning drugs and alcohol. If students are going to be in a country for more than a couple of weeks, they should register at the American Embassy or Consulate. This is helpful to students and their families, if there is need to locate family members in the event of an emergency.
If students find themselves in trouble overseas, the Consular Officer at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate can provide certain assistance and advice. Aid is available in the event of illness, injury, natural catastrophe, evacuations, destitution, or death. However, embassies can not cash checks, lend money or serve as attorneys for American citizens.
In case of an emergency, the Office of Overseas Citizens Services can also assist American students abroad as well as their families. They can be reached 24 hours a day by calling (202) 647-5225 or at http://travel.state.gov/overseas_citizens.html.
For a safe journey, keep the following precautionary points in mind:
Let people know where you are. Leave travel arrangements, a list of addresses, phone and fax numbers or email addresses of contact people for your program with friends or family.
Make copies of your passport's data page and any visas. Keep a copy separate from the originals while traveling and leave one at home with your family. This will help to obtain a replacement passport in the event that a passport is lost or stolen. Travelling with extra photos will also aid in obtaining a new passport quickly.
Carry your contact details with you. Be sure to include the address and phone number of your hotel or host family. Include the school where you are studying as well. If you are in a country that uses a scripted language, make sure you have the contact details written clearly and properly in that script.
Check local customs and abide by them carefully. While some countries have restrictions on things like photography, others have strict rules that apply to religion, dress, food, drink, business procedures and social behaviors. Your body language may give very different messages than you intend. In some cultures, the casual male-female interactions and freedom of dress common to you may embarrass or offend people in other cultures. These inappropriate actions can jeopardize your safety.
Consult local people about transportation, safe areas, how to handle homeless people or solicitations. Use government-regulated transportation or consult local people on the safest way to get around town. Walking alone can be hazardous. Avoid isolated areas and only walk during daylight hours. Panhandlers and hustlers often seek out travelers and can be very persistent. If bothered, continue walking and say "no" repeatedly in a loud and clear voice, using the local language. If you are still being followed go into the nearest store or hotel.
Keep your keys, wallet, handbags and other essentials concealed. If you have access to a safe, use it. Leave anything you can't bear to lose at home.
Avoid demonstrations or civil disturbances. These can quickly turn violent.
To ensure you experience the safest journey possible, learn as much as you can ahead of time about the history, culture, politics and customs of the country to which you are travelling. Respect all customs, manners, rules and laws.
Safety tips for families of students travelling overseas:
Ensure that you know all travel details of the tour including its purpose, transport to be used throughout the tour, activities to be carried out and accommodation details.
Agree upon the arrangements to be made in case the student needs to be sent home early and photocopy the first page of their passports.
Consider the possibility of giving the student access to a credit card or cell phone that can be used overseas if necessary.
Know how to contact the student in the event of an emergency and ensure that they know how to contact you.
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