HEALTH
Staying healthy - Eat nutritiously, get enough rest, drink lots of water and wash your hands often to help stay healthy while traveling. Know your body and how you react to consuming unfamiliar foods. When traveling to a location with questionable water supplies, always drink bottled water with tightly sealed caps and beware of things like: brushing your teeth, ice in beverages, salads washed in local water, etc.
Health Insurance and Emergencies
- Check to see if you are covered by your health insurance outside the U.S. If not, you will be required to purchase supplemental insurance. A quick Internet search will turn up many companies offering a travel medical insurance plan.
- Provide a front/back copy of your health insurance card to the International Programs office.
- Carry a copy of your insurance card while traveling.
- It is very common for health facilities in other countries to request payment up front for services. You will file for reimbursement upon return to U.S. Make sure to save all of your receipts.
- Prescription medicine and over-the-counter medicine must be in original containers. Bring written prescriptions for all medication in case you need to go to a local pharmacy.
- In case of emergency, you will be taken to local medical facilities if they need any kind of medical treatment. Parents will be contacted in emergencies.
SAFETY
Stay alert and stay safe. Your safety is our utmost concern. All travel groups include faculty sponsors. No one can guarantee against random acts of violence, you should be alert and aware while traveling. The Office of International Programs monitors safety recommendations from the US State Department on a continual basis. Groups will not be allowed to travel to areas that are considered unsafe.
You are never allowed to travel alone, and you must carry emergency numbers with you at all times. You will be informed of a plan by faculty sponsors in case of emergency, and information will be communicated state-side by phone and email as quickly as possible.
Pickpockets are common in every country. Take precautions wherever you travel and follow these tips:
- Keep valuables like your passport, money, credit cards, rail pass, and airline tickets in a wallet worn close to your body, not external pockets.
- Only carry a small amount of cash, a day’s worth, and access it discretely.
- Be aware of your surroundings. Watch for distractions and other pickpocket tricks.
- Move your backpack to the front of your body in crowded situations. Use a sling purse that can be tucked under your arm.
- Secure any high-priced items like iPods, cell phones, cameras, etc.
- Always keep a hand on your belongings and never lose sight of them.
