U. S. State Department Urges Caution for Travelers to Mexico and Europe

The Bureau of Consular Affairs for the U.S. State Department has issued a travel warning for Mexico because of drug-related violence, particularly in the northern border regions, and a travel alert for Europe because of heightened concerns about potential terrorist attacks.

If you are planning to travel to Mexico, or are currently in Mexico, please consult the travel warning and the U.S. Embassy’s Mexico Security Update.

If you are planning to travel to Europe, or are currently in Europe, please consult the travel alert, the regularly updated Worldwide Caution (link) and the country-specific information found through the Department’s homepage.

State Department Tips for Those Traveling in Mexico include:

• If you believe you are being targeted for kidnapping or other crimes, notify Mexican law enforcement officials and the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City or the nearest U.S. consulate as soon as possible.
      
• Make every attempt to travel on main roads during daylight hours, particularly the toll ("cuota") roads, which generally are more secure.
      
• Stay in the well-known tourist areas. Leave your itinerary with a friend or family member not traveling with you and avoid traveling alone.
      
• Check with your cellular provider prior to departure to confirm that your cell phone is capable of roaming on GSM or 3G international networks.
      
• Do not display expensive-looking jewelry or large amounts of money.
      
• Be alert to pickpockets and general street crime throughout Mexico, but especially in large cities.
      
• Monitor local media for information about fast-breaking situations that could affect their security.

State Department Tips for Those Traveling Abroad include:

• Register so the State Department can better assist you in an emergency.
      
• Sign passport, and fill in the emergency information.
      
• Leave copies of your itinerary, passport data page and visas with family or friends, so you can be contacted in case of an emergency.
      
• Ask your medical insurance company if your policy applies overseas, and if it covers emergency expenses such as medical evacuation.
      
• Familiarize yourself with local conditions and laws.
      
• To avoid being a target of crime, do not wear conspicuous clothing or jewelry and do not carry excessive amounts of money.
       
• In case of emergency, contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

If members of the SMU community have additional questions, call 214-768-4475.

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