March 16, 2019Spring Breakers this year will once again dominate the number of travelers that will crowd the airline industry this year. According to the United States Transportation Security Administration (TSA), they are expecting over 107 million passengers and crew members between March 14 and April 28. This number showing a projected 3% increase on the number of passengers from the same period last year.
While airline safety and security is the TSA’s primary objective, the hidden perils of traveling goes beyond the gates at the airport, and reaches even the most luxurious all inclusive resorts frequented by spring breakers each year.
One can never be too careful when it comes to safety while traveling. Kingston, Montego Bay and Spanish Town in Jamaica are currently under a Level 2 Travel Advisory according to the US State Department due to high crime rates in these areas. The Bahamas also fell under a Level 2 Travel Advisory due to violent crimes such as burglaries, armed robberies and sexual assault, with vast majority of crimes occurring on New Providence and Grand Bahama Islands. Most of the 31 Mexican states are still under a Level 2 Travel Advisory due to high instances of criminal activities. 11 of them at a Level 3 Travel Advisory, which means you should reconsider travel if you can because of violent crimes and gang activities. A small handful of them fell under a Level 4 or a Do Not Travel Advisory. These states include Colima, Guerrero, Michoacan, Sinaloa and Tamaulipas.
Whether or not your spring break travel destination was listed above, extra caution is advised especially for those who will be traveling to unfamiliar locations. Here are a few things you can do to stay safe while exploring unfamiliar territories on your spring break getaway.
Stay With Your Group
Grouping up and watching out for each other can make it less likely for you to get involved in a robbery. If you have a smaller group, it is imperative that when you are out and about in unfamiliar areas to always go with a crowd in well lit public areas.
This also means:
a. Avoid walking or driving at night
b. Avoid secluded areas even in resorts
Plan Your Local Transportation
Once you arrive at the local airport of your travel destination, how would you get to the hotel or resort you booked? Are you planning to go around and immerse in some of the local flair?
When you book your resort online or through a travel agent, you are usually presented ground transportation options you can add to your booking. This is usually the safest way you can get to your hotel or resort especially if you are not very familiar with the locality. Avoid public buses if you can.
Some resorts offer complimentary day trips to let you immerse a little. Most excursions also offer ground transportation services so they can pick you up at your hotel, and drop you off when you’re done.
Stay Sharp But Keep A Low Profile When In Public
When in public even in broad daylight, be keen of your surroundings and be watchful for anything that sticks out. When in doubt, trust your gut and your instincts on this one and stay safe.
Here are some tips that can help prevent robberies and other crimes when in public:
a. Don’t wear expensive jewelries when in public
b. Keep your wallet secure and don’t flash your cash and credit cards
c. Do not ever physically resist a robbery. Everything is replaceable, except your life.
d. Take extra caution when visiting banks or ATMs. Be aware of your surroundings and try to go in groups. When using the keypad to type in your pin code, keep it covered with your other hand to avoid exposing it to the next person.
e. Take the time to research common local scams. If you’re aware, it will be easier to spot a scammer when you see one.
Prioritizing Safety Even In Resorts
Even though incidences of crimes and theft are relatively low within resort premises, it is generally a good idea to play it safe and avoid making yourself a target. Sexual assaults occur frequently, even at all-inclusive resorts. Property theft has been a known occurrence as well.
Follow some of these tips and stay safe:
a. Do not answer the door unless you are expecting someone or know who it is
b. Keep all your valuables and important documents locked inside your room safe
c. For larger items like electronics and laptop computers, keep them locked inside your luggage before leaving your room.
d. Refrain from saying your room number out loud in the lobby or in public areas.
e. Avoid walking alone in secluded areas
f. Make photocopies of both sides of your credit and debit cards. If they get lost or stolen, it will make it easier to call the credit card company to freeze or replace your card.
g. Make photocopies of your passport and travel documents. If they get lost or stolen, it can help speed up the process of providing you with a replacement.
Ease Up On Hard Drinks
Nothing completes the picture of a tropical getaway than sand between your toes and an ice cold margarita in your hand. After all, part of the allure of all inclusive resorts is the unlimited food and drinks they offer.
If you would like a few drinks on your vacation, go for it. But do remember these safety tips when alcohol is involved.
a. Never leave your drinks unattended
b. Refrain from consuming drinks from open beverage sources like punch bowls
c. Limit yourself. Don’t get too drunk or wasted.
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)
The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is a free service offered to U.S. citizens and nationals who are traveling or living outside the country. It allows you to enter your information about your trips so the US Department of State can better assist you through consulates and embassies during emergency situations. As an added option, you can also sign up to receive email updates with travel advisories and other pertinent information concerning your travel destination.
Here are some ways consulates and embassies can help when you’re abroad facing certain difficulties:
a. Legal & Medical Assistance- they can provide the names of local attorneys and doctors who can help with your case as well as provide loans to financially-challenged Americans.
b. Provide information about dangerous conditions affecting your overseas travel or residence
Click here to read more about the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).(h
Conclusion:
When planning for your next trip, check the US State Department website and watch out for travel advisories for your intended destination. Consider changing travel plans when it involves areas with a Level 3 or 4 Travel Advisory.
Regardless, take extra caution when traveling to any destination you’ve never been to. Keep your valuables in a safe and always keep a watchful eye for anything unusual when in public. Keeping yourself informed along with some common sense goes a long way in keeping you and your family safe during your travels.
Please also check out our 22 Travel Tips For Your All Inclusive Vacation Package in Mexico and other travel articles on our site.
