It is important to be safe and aware when traveling anywhere. We highly recommend that you visit the U.S. Department of State Travel.State.Gov website  http://travel.state.gov/  to check for travel warnings, travel alerts, travel tips, specific country information, and safety information. While we try to check up on the programs we post, we have not thoroughly researched every program on this website and insist that you do the research before you participate.  If something sounds too good to be true, it may very well be. Be sure to contact the organization and ask for references and the contact information of past participants. Get the details on the living situation, location, and local customs. Talk with a doctor about any vaccinations or health precautions you need to be aware of where you are traveling. Register with the State Department before leaving.  Have the contact information and location of your nearest embassy and consulate while traveling.

Some general safety tips:

-if possible, do not travel alone

-make copies of important documents, to leave at home and take with you

-avoid large crowds or public demonstrations

-try to bring as few valuables as possible and be sure to conceal any that you must bring

- keep a low profile, try to blend in and avoid looking like a tourist

-beware of pickpockets

Important Links:

Travel Tips: http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/tips_1232.html

Safety: http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/safety/safety_1747.html

Travel Warnings: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/tw/tw_1764.html

Travel Alerts: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/pa/pa_1766.html

Health Precautions: http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/

Finally, any programs in our favorites or top ten are programs that we have either participated in or thoroughly researched.  Please meticulously research any other programs you're considering taking part in.