BoomerBuzz Travel Magazine Summer 2015

boomerbuzz Family Friendly The Galapagos

EXPERIENCE Photo Journal: Off the Beaten Path

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Publisher’s Letter

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Family Friendly Central America

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Who Do You Want to Travel With?

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European River Cruises

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The WHATs of Cruising

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The WHYs of Cruising

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The Galapagos Experience

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Be Prepared!

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Discover a Sailor’s Paradise

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Off the Beaten Path

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Passport to Safety

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The WHATS of Cruising

31 The WHYS of Cruising BoomerBuzz Travel Magazine Sponsored by Boom Voyage Travel

Cover Photograph Contributed by Living the Dream Media/ Maria Golihar

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PUBLISHER & EDITOR Robin Roberson MARKETING MarketingWorks PUBLIC RELATIONS Isabell Rossignol CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Living the Dream Media/Maria Golihar CONTRIBUTING WRITERS George AvitĂşa Christina Castle Torrey Moseley Hanson Myers Jet Parker Peggy Emerton Schilling

Sponsored by Boom Voyage Travel

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Do you love to travel, but are maybe tired of the same places? Want a more fulfilling vacation? Set out for exciting new adventure at exotic locales!

We are happy to announce that BoomerBuzz Travel Magazine which is a quarterly publication with themed issues is sponsored by Boom Voyage Travel. It is our hope that you will look at travel in a new light with a focus on engaging that offer enrichment in your life. Boom Voyage Travel offers many outstanding value laden travel packages and opportunities, so check with them for all your travel needs.

This Summer 2015 issue, Exotic Locales showcases some fantastic European cruise ideas, not your normal sea-land excursions, but where you can enjoy famous historical sites and cities, quaint towns and country sides, castles and markets.

BoomerBuzz Travel Magazine ‌a bright, bold issue that will hopefully inspire you to plan a more rewarding vacation this year. Experience the Galapagos Islands, take the family to a fun filled Central American vacation spot or explore a Sailor’s Paradise. Be Prepared! gives great travel tips no matter where you may be going and the Whats and Whys of Cruising answer many questions you may have about taking a cruise. Plus, you can enjoy a photo journal of exotic places you may have only heard about.

Exotic Locales issue is definitely a kaleidoscope of travel options with a nod to being off the beaten path and I hope you enjoy every page!

Boom Voyage!

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FAMILY FRIENDLY CENTRAL AMERICA

Belize Besides being one of the best snorkeling spots on the Caribbean coast the beaches and forests of Belize are the perfect spot for a family vacation. Belize with kids offers activities like swimming, hiking, windsurfing and mountain biking, and between rappelling down cliffs, scaling waterfalls inside Mayan-artifact laden caves, climbing ancient temples and going on intense nature hikes into the rainforest, “big� kids and children alike will have 7

no complaints!

Split your time between the beachy resort towns and the jungle interior so you get a taste of all the adventures the country has to offer. Final perk: this is an Englishspeaking country.

Costa Rica Costa Rica's incredible biodiversity and variable climate offers a multitude of travel destinations to explore and enjoy. With so much to see, deciding where to go can often be the hardest part of your trip planning process. Often, a good first step is to choose one or two destinations, and then complementary locations can be

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found based on time proximity, and interest.

constraints,

Many travelers choose three or four destinations to visit in a 7-10 day period.

One of the reasons Costa Rica is such an exciting country to visit is that it affords visitors the opportunity to see multiple locations and habitats on a single vacation.

Guatemala Guatemala's abundant natural and cultural wealth makes it a great place to bring children.

Traveling with kids provides them with invaluable international experience. Whether you're exploring ancient Mayan ruins or walking through the rainforest, your kids are sure to have a great time in Guatemala.

Guatemala is a place of sensory overload. Kept apart from the rest of the world for 30 years by a brutal civil war (that ended in the 1990’s) Guatemala has, more than most places, its traditional culture intact. So when you go to the small towns off Lake Atitlan, you still see women wearing their native and very colorful Mayan costumes—not for the tourists, but because that is what they wear on a daily basis.

Religious processions wind through the streets and people still come down from small mountain communities to sell their handcrafted goods at market (the market at Chichicastanengo is an especial marvel). Best of all is interacting in a

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meaningful way with the people of Guatemala.

Yes, you’ll see a lot of hardship and poverty in Guatemala. But you’ll also meet a people whose resilience and courage is remarkable.

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Who Do You Want to Travel With?!

by Hanson Myers

The YOLO-er

Guaranteed to make every day of your trip unforgettable, the YOLO-er helps you to embrace every moment of your trip. Let’s face it; you can sleep in when you’re at home.

The Food Fan If

you’ve

ever

Travelling is all about letting your hair down

traveled

with

and having new experiences. With this

people

who

person, you will never forget that. Expect

don’t care about

sky diving one day, hiking the next, and

what they eat,

beer pong championships to round the

then

evening off.

you

will

know how great the Food Fan is to have around. Swapping noodles from the (usually) delicious local cuisine every day, the Food Fan is on a quest to broaden both their mind and their pallet. Their food enthusiasm is infectious and you will with no doubt end up trying the weirdest local dish on the menu.

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The Culture Vulture

and you will with no doubt end up trying the weirdest local dish on the menu.

The Culture Vulture doesn’t just want to get drunk on every continent. They want to use most of their waking moments exploring all of the new and different towns and cities they discover.

The OCP Travelers often like to be spontaneous, You may find the Culture Vulture annoying

enjoying the freedom of not knowing what

after five hours sleep, as they try to get you

they will be doing the next day. While this is

to hike four miles to a church, but once you

fun for a while, the Obsessive Compulsive

get there you will always realize it was

Planner can be a great addition to your trip.

100%, totally worth it.

Booking boat escapades and reserving tickets for a crazy beach party, travelling with an OCP means you never have to worry about what you’ll be doing tomorrow – which is only a downfall if the OCP gets overexcited and books a swimming with Hanson Myers is a world traveler and freelance travel writer who calls Virginia home.

sharks trip.

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European River Cruises Get Away

by George AvitĂşa

As American adventures and travelers look forward to watching the beauty of glistening icicles drip slowly away from their roof tops after a long winter, and as the sun so brightly shines just over the horizon in the morning a desire begins to grow within the heart of the sightseer to see more of the world. Suddenly the desire for travel begins.

If your roots are anything like mine and you know what it is like to grow up near a river town or city such as the Cumberland River that runs through Music City USA in Nashville, TN, then you know that a river can bring to life all sorts of cultural delicacies and night life delights. So what if your appetite is yearning for more of an old century flavor and your eyes desire to see where much of our western world society was established before America was even a thought, so where does one begin.

Here are three exciting suggestions.

A great place to start is with the Dnieper River.

It travels approximately about 1400 miles, a major waterway, where Vikings, Greeks and Persian have all traveled it, and renamed it. Cruises can

range from 7 to 23 days. Its water source derives from the glaciers in central Russia know as Valdai Hills. Imagine experiencing the flow of the river to such places as Russia, Belarus, and the Ukraine to complete a delightful adventure at the mouth of the Black Sea. Or you could tour the Danube River. History starts from the city of Budapest where one can enjoy the sights and sounds of musicians playing songs in the street as you take in the view from one of the seven towers of the Fisherman’s Bastion, and just across the way is the beautiful architecture of St. Matthias Church, whose history dates back as far as 1015 and is presently still one of the largest of the seven churches in Budapest.

The Danube River can cover a stretch of 10 countries that covers 1800 miles, and yet a short 8 day cruise can whet your appetite for small town eateries landscaped against century old homes and castles with vineyards embedded into the hill sides.

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Stunning architecture and more‌ imagine stopping off in the city of Vienna, or walking through a 900 year old abbey in Melk Austria and finally where one can arrive in the second largest city, Nuremberg, of the state of Bavaria in Germany, where if walls could talk they would share an incredible amount of history with its castle towers and half way timber houses.

Which brings me to my final river, the Rhine River, the shortest river of the two, measuring at approximately 760 miles in length; although small, it comes packed with adventure tours and mini tours starting out from Amsterdam, Netherlands that will eventually land you in Basel Switzerland. As the Rhine travels through Germany it is overwhelming with castles built mainly in the 11th century when Germany was split into over 300 tiny states and a German princess grew rich from charging river passage to the trade route of its time. Many castles were eventually destroyed by the French for fear that Germany would grow too powerful.

However, as time went by those that remained either laid as ruins or have been restored over the centuries to some degree and have been transformed into museums, hotels, and even restaurants. Anyone can set a course to enjoy a romantic getaway or just enjoy and appreciate the surrounding culture in itself from ancient history to modern day society.

So if you’ve been itching to get out to Europe and see the world and what you have been missing, then make it a mission to see the world from a river boat cruise.

George Aviatua is a Transitional Education Counselor at Armed Forces Services Corporation and World Venture affiliate who enjoys writing and traveling

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The WHATS of Cruising What About This, What About That, What About What?

WHAT ARE THE ROOMS LIKE? For every preference and budget, there is a stateroom to match on each guest’s preferences.

Most offer balcony staterooms and we highly recommend booking one to get the most of your vacation experience. They also offer inside and ocean view staterooms so regardless of the room you choose, you will feel as comfortable and relaxed as if you were in your own home.

WHAT IS THERE TO DO ONBOARD? Cruising offers something for everyone from the very young to the young at heart. It’s great for groups, celebrations, and meeting new people.

The choices are endless, from invigorating activities to more relaxing pursuits. With cruise ships you'll discover an incredible array of options that make each day a delightful new adventure.

You might find culinary demonstrations, bingo, wine tasting and spa services as well as presentations where you learn about the culture, top sites of the ports you will be visiting, plus live entertainment and even gambling.

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The WHY of Cruising Stateroom Cabin, Fabulous Dining & Meals, Shipboard Activities, Entertainment and More!

Cruising is a Winner!

Easy, Convenient Unpack once and experience the best of the region you are visiting in one cruise vacation. There is nothing easier than simply waking up in the morning in the world's most exciting and interesting cities.

For example, on a 12-day Grand Mediterranean voyage you might visit exciting ports of call including Barcelona, Istanbul, Athens, Rome, Venice and more.

Simplicity Do not come back from your vacation needing a vacation. Planning a cruise is simple; an experienced travel agent can handle all of the details. Make sure your travel agent has taken several cruises. Once you are on board, nearly all expenses are pre-paid... talk about hassle-free.

Unbeatable Value Your cruise fare includes accommodations, dining, entertainment and an endless array of activities. Plus, you won’t have to pay for costly airfare, trains, or motor coaches to get you from one city to the next.

Fabulous Cuisine Tantalize your taste buds with gourmet fare and specialty dishes featuring exotic ingredients. Most ships even offer old standbys like pizza and ice cream or most ships offer spa cuisine for a healthy alternative. Depending on your mood, dine in a traditional luxurious dining ballroom setting, a small bistro or a casual eatery. There are many choices on cruise ships.

Activities Fill your days with sightseeing, sports activities, cultural lectures, educational tours led by naturalists and historians or simply lounge by the pool and relax. At night, enjoy live music, discos, dance extravaganzas, musical revues, gaming (gambling) or a quiet evening gazing at the stars.

Warm, Welcoming Service You'll be right at home without a care in the world. From sun-up to late into the night, cruise staffs are there to anticipate your every need. And by voyage's end, your crew will feel just like family.

Refreshing Sea Air Sea days can be as relaxing or active as you wish. There is nothing comparable to being out on the open sea with warm ocean breezes.

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The Galapagos Experience

by Jet Parker

Many travelers describe their time in the Galapagos Islands as a life-changing experience. The Galapagos archipelago has been described as one of the most unique, scientifically important, and biologically outstanding areas on earth (UNESCO 2001).

A volcanic chain of islands in the Pacific Ocean, the Galapagos, are a province of Ecuador, lying off its coast, and considered one of the world's foremost destinations for wildlife-viewing. Its isolated terrain shelters a diversity of plant and animal species, many found nowhere else. Charles Darwin visited in 1835, and his observation of GalĂĄpagos' species later inspired his theory of evolution.

itinerary, it is likely that you will sense more human presence and activity during the summer months.

97% of the land area of Galapagos is designated as National Park and visits can be made only to specific visitor sites with certified naturalist guides. The Galapagos National Park coordinates visits to these sites and carefully monitors ecological conditions. Different sites are known for specific scenery, vegetation, and wildlife.

Galapagos is a world-class destination for scuba divers because of the abundance of sharks, sea lions, fur seals, marine turtles, rays, mantas, marine iguanas, and reef fishes. Tourism has been the main economic activity in the Galapagos Islands since the mid-1970s. Their model of nature tourism is based on a system of guiding, visitor control, interpretation and management that has been adopted by other premier ecotourism sites throughout the world.

Home to some of the highest levels of endemism (species found nowhere else on earth), the Galapagos Island favorites include the giant Galapagos tortoise, marine iguana, flightless cormorant, and the Galapagos penguin—the only penguin species to be found in the Northern Hemisphere. About 80% of the land birds you might spot, 97% of the reptiles and land mammals, and more than 30% of the plants are endemic. More than 20% of the marine species in Galapagos are found nowhere else on earth.

In recognition of the fact that different islands, and even areas on the same island, have distinctive aesthetic attributes, flora and fauna, concentrating the impacts of tourism was a central theme in designing and managing tourism in Galapagos. For this reason, Galapagos tourism is designed to have minimum impact on the physical environment and is monitored carefully to ensure that there is no or little impact on wildlife behavior or health.

Galapagos is a terrific place to visit anytime of the year. During the peak season (midJune through early September and midDecember through mid-January) it is particularly important to make travel arrangements well in advance. While the national park limits the number of visitors to each island and coordinates each ship’s

Jet Parker is a freelance writer who lives with his family in Plano, Texas.

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Be Prepared!

(The Boy Scout-Inspired Way to Travel)

by Torrey Moseley Okay, so it’s obvious I was never a Boy Scout. I did, however, grow up around scouting. My dad was a scoutmaster for years. Besides learning how to build like six different types of fires, scouting also taught me the importance of being prepared—for everything. Now, couple that with the fact that I’m a nurse, and you get someone who is ALWAYS prepared when traveling.

When I travel, I am ready for almost ANY type of emergency, injury, illness or other unplanned or accidental event. I’m here to share with you some valuable hints and tips to ensure you, too, are PREPARED to deal with or PREVENT all sorts of potential traveling mishaps! Here is a list of things I keep in my carry-on (so it’s available at a moment’s notice). Most of these suggestions are natural too!



1. Tummy Calmers – Turbulent air, new foods and unfamiliar water sources can wreak havoc with your poor tummy causing nausea, indigestion, and the dreaded “traveler’s diarrhea” (aka Montezuma’s Revenge). But, there are things you can do to help!  Ginger - candied, chews, or capsules…ginger is one of the best natural cures for tummy ailments. It has anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and antiinflammatory qualities. It can calm a queasy stomach quickly.  Activated Charcoal – this is a must-have item if you’re concerned about coming down



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with food poisoning, food allergies, gas, diarrhea, or other stomach “bugs”. It works by absorbing toxins and transporting the offending stuff out of your GI tract. Yes, it looks nasty (black and inky) but it doesn’t really have a taste and it WORKS. Plug your nose and drink it down…and follow with bottled water (not tap water).

Acidophilus – also known as “Probiotics”. Buy it at a health food store in capsule form.

These “friendly” bacteria will help keep your gut happy. Start taking them, daily, before you leave and continue every day of your trip and for several days after your return. Your gut will thank you for it. (OR…you can eat yogurt. Just make certain your yogurt has “live” cultures).

Pepto Bismol tablets – In the family practice office I used to work in, we recommended people traveling to destinations with “questionable” water sources to start taking a Pepto Bismol tablet 3 times a day starting 2 days before you leave, and continuing every day and for 2 days after you return from your trip. Pepto Bismol can actually help prevent a case of traveler’s diarrhea as well as treat your symptoms if you



contract it. (Pepto Bismol contains aspirin, so be advised.

It will also turn your stool black—don’t be alarmed.)

1. Tension Tamers – Let’s face it, traveling can be…well…exasperating and extremely tense. There are some things you can do to smooth those frazzled nerves and help you enjoy your trip.  Herbal Remedies* – One in particular is called “Rescue Remedy”. Taken orally, these herbal drops can help keep you calm and relaxed even when everything around you is going crazy. Chamomile is another herb known for its calming properties. I always carry chamomile tea bags with me.

Valerian root is another herb known for its powerful sedative qualities. *NOTE: check with your doctor before taking ANY herbal supplement. Many can have bad side effects when mixed with medications.

2. Aches, Pains, and Ouchies – We all have overdone it while traveling. We feel compelled to do it all and see it all in a limited amount of time. This can lead to overworked joints, muscles, and tendons.  Arnica salve or Traumeel – available at health food stores, these soothing, topical salves are great for treating sore muscles or bruises.  Tiger Balm soothes overworked muscles and joints.

3. Everything Else – Other useful and beneficial items to have on hand:





Airborne – this is an herbal/vitamin supplement that helps boost your immune system thus preventing you from catching bugs while your traveling.

Coconut Oil - This is, perhaps, one of the most versatile things you can bring with you.

Coconut oil is not only a great moisturizer and skin/hair conditioner, it has many, MANY healing properties as well. It has anti-bacterial, anti-microbial, anti-fungal and even anti-viral properties. Used on skin, it helps soothe sunburns and minor scrapes and cuts.

Vitamin B1 (thiamine)tablets – these really do work as a “natural” mosquito repellent.

Start taking these tablets daily about a week before you leave, and every day you’re on your trip. You may notice a “yeasty” smell to your skin…so do the mosquitos, and they don’t like it at all! I don’t mind smelling like a bakery if it means I don’t get devoured by nasty skeeters.

I also pack a variety of bandages and other firstaid paraphernalia (I am a nurse, after all).

Oh…and I always pack chocolate because in my book, chocolate cures ALL sorts of things.

Happy Travels!

Torrey Moseley is the Editor-In-Chief of BoomerBuzz Magazines. She is an avid blogger, designer, photographer and writer. Visit her blog at www.left-fieldstudio.blogspot.com.

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Discover a Sailor’s Paradise

By Peggy Schilling

The vacation of a lifetime awaits you in the alluring cluster of islands known as the BVIs. You can discover this calm respite from everyday life approximately 60 miles east of Puerto Rico. Just a 35-minute flight away, you can escape aboard a charter yacht to spend a carefree holiday in the incredible British Virgin Islands.

wander along the white sandy beaches to find any number of hidden coves.

The BVIs are rich in history. Spanish settlers exiled the original Indian inhabitants into slavery and then succumbed to disease and strenuous labor.

Columbus named the islands for 11,000 beautiful virgins who perished at the hands of overzealous Huns while on an innocent pilgrimage. Originally under Spanish rule, the English, Dutch, French and Danish spent 200 years struggling for control of the area. Now the English-speaking BVIs are an overseas territory of the United Kingdom where upheaval has been replaced by relaxation.

This leisure wonderland possesses an understated yet upscale appeal.

Most of the green, unspoiled islands are favored by yachtsmen for their pristine beaches and appealing anchorages. With a 78-88 degree Fahrenheit yearround climate and balmy northeast trade winds, the BVIs are a modern-day sailor’s paradise.

About 60 tropical islands, cays, islets and rock formations are conveniently scattered over 59 square miles of the bluest seas imaginable. From endless beachfront privacy to unique public attractions, the BVIs have it all.

Known as “Natures Little Secrets”, all of the islands are volcanic formations except for the coral and limestone atoll of Anegada. Most of the BVIs have retained the natural beauty as only 16 are inhabited with a total population of less than 18,000. Despite the popularity of this area, you’ll never feel crowed or rushed—even in favorite public places. But if you’re in search for a true tranquil hideaway, just

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These islands are closely situated in a double line along the Sir Francis Drake Channel, named for the daring British adventurer who launched an island attack against the Spanish in 1595.

Today boats sail leisurely between the islands set

away from heavy seas. Some are less than a miles apart with the furthest one just a pleasant 15-mile sail away so you’re always in view of land. You’ll be captivated by the adventure of island hopping from one dream spot to another.

populated island is bordered by beautiful white sandy beaches fringed with palm trees as well as banana and mango groves.

Inland you can experience delightful villages, old sugar mills and

even a rum distillery. Spend half a day on foot or horseback at Sage Mountain National Park.

Next to sailing, the BVIs are famous for their spectacular scuba diving and snorkeling opportunities. With an abundance of marine life, sponges and soft coral, you can take home amazing memories or breathtaking underwater photographs.

Windsurfers, anglers and bird watchers flock to the BVIs to enjoy water sports and the many wonders of nature.

When you want a break from seclusion, venture onto one of the developed islands.

You’ll discover oldworld charm in village-like communities with quaint shops, enticing alfresco dining spots and beach bars alive with exotic island music. Indulge in the tremendous variety of cultural influences that make this group of islands such a unique vacation destination.

At the center of the BVIs is the capital of Tortola, the Spanish word for turtledove. The largest and most

Complete with its own rain forest, developed hiking trails guide you through huge elephant ears, hanging vines and white cedars, the BVIs national tree. The fragrant Botanic Gardens tantalize your senses.

Meander through an orchid house, miniature rain forest, birdhouse, lush ferns, cactus garden, palm grove or more.

A 15-minute stroll down Road Town’s nostalgic Main Street leads you past enchanting pastel-colored duty-free shops and restaurants noted for local specialties. A few miles southwest of town you can take a horseback ride uphill to extraordinary scenic th views and the ruins of an 18 century plantation.

According to native lore, the second largest island was dubbed Virgin Gorda, the Fat Virgin, because of its huge rock formations resemble a voluptuous woman reclining. It’s also the home to the Baths, one of Mother Nature’s most intriguing creations.

Enjoy the romantic serenity of a quite bay or wind

your way through countless caverns, passages and mazes made by the hap-hazard grouping of gigantic granite boulders. After a refreshing splash in the shimmering pools created wherever the seas rushes in, you’ll know how the Baths got its name.

Take a 15-minute hike through boulders and tropical vegetation to Devil’s Bay. This secluded coral beach offers impressive views of Savannah Bay where snorkelers can observe an array of tropical fish flaunting their finery.

You’ll be guided through some of the most beautiful sailing waters in the world to visit the BVIs quiet anchorages, secluded bays and inviting beaches. Visitors quickly discover that the splendor of this tropical paradise lies in its delicate natural beauty and astounding display of fantastic marine life. Island scenery becomes more spectacular everywhere you look.

For another snorkeling adventure, test the waters at the Caves on Treasure Point. Natural caves are the playground for fish and coral. If you look carefully, perhaps you’ll find a Barracuda or two lurking in the distance.

The same coves and bays that intrigued explorers and pirates in days of old are now beckoning contemporary sailors seeking a calm refuge from the workaday world. An abundance of seas, sun, sand and surf are waiting just for you. So start planning your incredible voyage in the wonderful British Virgin Islands today.

Peggy Emerton-Schilling’ s goal is to share her extensive knowledge of the charter industry to help you discover and experience the wonderful advantages of taking a charter yacht vacation.

When you dream of your idyllic getaway, choose the yacht charter capital of the Caribbean.

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Off the Beaten Path; A Photographic Journey

By Christina Castle

Raise a toast to the explorer in you! We live on a beautiful planet that offers many stunning landscapes, tropical paradises, mist shrouded volcanoes and unbelievable beaches. A picture says a thousand words and hopefully this scrapbook will send you off on an exotic adventure.

Panjin Red Beach, China Red Beach is located in the highest wetland and reed marsh in the world.

It is vividly red and not covered in sand at all. The color is from a type of sea weed called Sueda, which stays green during summer and turns red in autumn.

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Socotra,Yemen Isolated Socotra looks like a sci-fi movie set. It is home to 800 rare species of flora and fauna, about a third of which is not found anywhere else in the world.

Whitehaven Beach, Australia When you sink your feet into white silica sand that is amongst the purest in the world, you will know why people come here from all over the world.

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Bay of Kotor, Montenegro Simply known as Boka, this winding bay will engulf you with its emerald waters and picturesque mountains. The shoreline houses beautiful medieval towns like Perast, where you can stop for a meal and interact with the locals.

Amer Fort, India A majestic structure sprawling on a hilltop, Amer Fort’s architecture is a magnificent blend of Mughal and Hindu influences. Made out of red sandstone and white marble, it consists of a series

of

palaces, gardens.

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courtyards, halls,

and

Lake Baikal, Russia The

world’s

oldest

and

deepest lake is an ice-lovers paradise.

Adventuresome

tourists have driven and walked over the frozen lake, but you can kayak, skate or bike.

Pisco Elqui, Chile Those who love to star gaze, look no further than the clearest skies in Pisco Elqui. Surrounded by magnificent Andean mountains, this Chilean village enjoys perfect weather year round.

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Passport to Travel Safety

By Jet Parker

When you travel abroad, the odds are you will have a safe and incident-free trip. Travelers can, however, become victims of crime and violence, or experience unexpected difficulties. Every day of the year, U.S. embassies and consulates receive calls from American citizens in distress.

Personal safety is an important factor to consider while traveling. Whether you’re out of town on a business trip, visiting friends and family, or just exploring the beauty of the states or a country abroad, when you’re away from home, you’re out of your element. You don’t know the way around town or the high crime areas to avoid, so you’re more vulnerable than at home. But there are plenty of things you can do to protect yourself on the road.

1. Never list your home address on the luggage tag. If on business, put the company's address on the tag; if visiting friends you can list their address. Use covered luggage tags as well.

2. Stay with your luggage until it is checked. If you must put your bag down, keep one foot on the handle.

3. Carry important papers with you; NEVER check anything that you simply cannot afford to lose. Photocopy your passport, driver's license and credit cards.

4. If you will be in the area where crime is high, you may want to hire security escort.

5. If detained for whatever reason by an official, ask for identification. If in doubt, tell them that you want to see his superior. Keep your emotions in check.

6. Never wear anything that projects affluence. No gold chains, expensive watches and rings, luggage, or other paraphernalia should be in easy view. Better yet: leave your jewelry at home.

7. If possible travel with only one or two credit cards.

8. Never flash your money in public. Exchange funds with reputable and recognized exchangers only. Have tips ready in advance for service personnel.

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9. Only stay in a hotel that uses cards to open room doors and make sure your room has a peephole and a deadbolt lock. Secure the chain and secure the door by pushing a rubber stop under it.

10. Stay in a room near a stairwell. Never take the elevator if a fire or smoke is detected. Always stay in a hotel where the doors enter the hallway and not directly from the outside.

11. Do not use unmarked taxi cabs. Sit behind the driver so you can see him, but he cannot see you. Pay the driver upon arriving at your destination and while you are still sitting in the vehicle.

12. If you must rent a car, rent only from a reputable company. Any operating problems that occur could signal sabotage. Back into your parking spaces to facilitate a quick exit. Park only in well-lit and well-traveled areas.

13. If your cell phone does not work outside of the country, consider renting one that does for the duration of your trip.

14. Women particularly should never accept a drink from a stranger. Keep an eye on your drink at all times.

15. Bring a small flashlight. You never know when you'll suddenly be "in the dark" and find yourself in unfamiliar surroundings. At night, keep your flashlight by your bed.

16. If traveling with children, bring along an updated photograph of each child in the event that you become separated from them. Write your child's name and your hotel number on each card; include a close friend or relative's contact information on the card. Give a card to each child which they will carry with them as long as you are away. Destroy once home.

17. Make sure that your prescription medicines are filled properly and labeled accurately. In some countries certain prescription medicines are forbidden.

18. Bring along a basic first aid kit with bandages, iodine, mosquito repellant, sunscreen, alcohol packets, dramamine, pepto bismol, diarrhea medicine, etc.

19. Do not flash your passport in public. Discreetly show important documents to officials only.

20. Consider purchasing portable alarms that emit a loud sound.

The key to safe traveling in any area is situational awareness. Distractions because of luggage, children, hotel personnel, strangers, etc. can put you at risk. Know your surroundings and stay in control of every situation.

Jet Parker is a freelance writer who lives with his family in Plano, Texas

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TO GE T HE R WE’ R E

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