The stories like the one continually developing in India this Thanksgiving always give me -and I'm sure most – pause about international travel. We are passionate about it and don't want incidents like this to deter us.
But realistically, almost everyday now there seems to be international incidents of political unrest or religious-based attacks that pose threats to Americans abroad. What can we do about it?
Well, first, although terrorist attacks are unpredictable, know the country to which you travel. India has a history of attacks by extremists, and according to recent govt reports was fourth on the danger list after places like Iraq and Afghanistan…so that can give one slight comfort that this was not out of the blue. Don't visit countries that have a persistent record of attacks. Read local newspapers, or at least review current local news in the language you speak to familiarize yourself with what is going on in the region you want to visit so you know about all potential hot spots. Visit www.travel.state.govfor government safety warnings and procedures to take before you leave to keep you safer.
Since this recent attack included popular soft targets like the wonderful Oberoi and Taj Mahal Palace hotels where American travelers might stay, look into smaller boutique hotels not in any financial district or highly populated areas. Some I recommend in popular travel spots are: Jermain Hotel in London (great for families) and the Trocadero Dukhans in Paris.
Be aware of your surroundings – one security expert says "Vigilant attention to details will keep you safer." Don't linger in lobbies of buildings. Don't stand near large glass windows – many people are killed by the breaking glass rather than bullets. Travel light so you don't have to spend more time in airports than you need to waiting for your luggage. And speaking of luggage, don't write your home address (especially if it is America) on the luggage tag – write it on the back with an arrow or something on the front that way if your luggage is really lost, the handler will look onthe reverse side.
It's funny because I always tell people to not stand out, don't wear anything that says you're an American…but after spending the summer in France, I realized that all the French were wearing 'Abercrombie and Fitch" or "UCLA" t-shits, so WE were the ones standing out by avoiding them!! The rule for flashy jewelry still stands, however.
I also was reminded how the European train stations in summer are crazy busy – avoid peak rush hours and do not stand with all the crowds while waiting for your train.
Be safe -and still travel. It is a great time to travel in America if you want to calm your fears – and don't think that there's not much to see. Add places like Alaska,… Moab, Utah…Bryce National Park…Acadia National Park…Seattle, WA…Austin, TX…to your list!
And most importantly, give thanks today all your travel opportunities.
