The U.S. State Department regulary issues travel advisories to warn international travelers to delay or be caustious when traveling to certain countries.
There are several options for obtaining this information.
- Internet: The most convenient source of information about travel and consular services is the Consular Affairs home page. The web site address is http://travel.state.gov.%20check/ http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/tw/tw_1764.html
- Telephone: Overseas Citizens Services at 1-888-407-4747 can answer general inquiries on safety and security overseas. This number is available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). Callers who are unable to use toll-free numbers, such as those calling from overseas, can obtain information and assistance from OCS during these hours by calling 1-202-501-4444.
- In Person: Consular Information Sheets, Travel Warnings and Public Announcements are available at any of the regional passport agencies and U.S. embassies and consulates abroad.
- Local Laws and Customs: When you leave the United States, you are subject to the laws of the country you are visiting. Therefore, before you go, learn as much as you can about the local laws and customs of the places you plan to visit. Good resources are your library, your travel agent, and the embassies, consulates or tourist bureaus of the countries you will visit. In addition, keep track of what is being reported in the media about recent developments in those countries.
