Spring Break Travel - Know Before You Go!
Will you be traveling during spring break? Here is some important information to help you and your friends plan ahead, be smart travelers, and return to campus recharged and ready for the rest of the semester.
For those of you planning a trip to Mexico, you should review the U.S. Department of State's recent alert for U.S. citizens traveling to or living in Mexico. While millions of U.S. citizens safely visit Mexico each year, the alert was issued due to a recent increase in violence in Mexico. The greatest increase in violence has occurred near the U.S. border and along roads at night. If you are driving to Mexico, DO NOT stop or stay near the U.S./Mexico border. All U.S. citizens traveling throughout Mexico should:
- exercise caution in unfamiliar areas;
- be aware of their surroundings at all times;
- use common-sense precautions such as visiting only legitimate business and tourist areas during daylight hours;
- avoid areas where prostitution and drug dealing might occur;
- not attempt to buy drugs. Drugs are no more legal in Mexico than in the U.S.
The full alert provides you with important information about staying safe: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/pa/pa_3028.html
The State Department also has a special page about spring break in Mexico: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/spring_break_mexico/spring_break_mexico_2812.html
If you have questions about overseas travel and study abroad, be sure to contact the Office of International Affairs: 656-2457; abroad-L@clemson.edu.
No matter where you are going, be a smart traveler, and we'll see you back on campus for March Madness!
SPRING BREAK SAFETY TIPS:
This year Clemson's spring break runs from March 16-20. Although many of you may go home, work or stay on campus, others of you may be traveling to destinations such as Cancun, South Padre Island, or Panama City. Such trips frequently involve the combination of large crowds and alcohol, it is particularly important for you to be aware of your own safety and the safety of your friends.
Here are some safety tips to consider:
- Travel with a reputable travel agency. Know what kind of transportation, housing, and food and beverages are included in your travel package. Check it out with your friends or call the Better Business Bureau.
- If you plan on drinking as part of your spring break experience, consider the following:
- Know the alcohol laws at your destination. Ask your travel agent for information on age of consumption and local laws regarding alcohol use. Some areas will ticket for open intoxicants, while others may have stiff penalties for public inebriation.
- Plan ahead on how much you plan to drink. Talk with a friend about when the friend should intervene and make a plan for how you will return to your hotel. Stay with someone who knows you when you are drinking -- don't wander off alone. Make sure that someone in your group is not drinking or is drinking responsibly so that they can get everyone home.
- Don't assume that someone you've just met will look out for your best interests. Keep in mind that more people are sexually assaulted by acquaintances than by strangers.
- Only accept drinks from a licensed bartender or drinks that you pour yourself. You put yourself at risk for receiving an altered beverage if you don't know the source of the drink.
- If a friend feels sick, don't leave them alone. If you feel sick, ask someone to look out for you.
- If a member of your group passes out, turn them on their side to prevent choking and call 911 (or other appropriate emergency number) immediately.
- Don't horseplay or climb on balconies. Never sit on railings and always keep both feet on the floor at all times. Falls from balconies, even those on lower floors, can be fatal.
- Don't carry all of your credit or bank cards in your wallet or purse. Carry the minimum amount of cash that you will need, including a little backup. Traveler's checks can be a good option when on vacation. If you have extra cash, leave it in your hotel room, hidden from sight.
- Make sure your friends and relatives know where you will be vacationing, when you will depart, and when you expect to return. Call friends or family members to let them know that you have arrived and returned safely.
- If you are robbed, don't resist -- give up any money, jewelry, or other valuables. You can always replace material things. Call 911 (or other appropriate emergency number) as soon as you can.