The answer to the headline question is yes.
Granted, geopolitical tensions and terrorism can indeed impact travel plans.
And yes, the overall effect on travel varies greatly depending on where you are trekking.
But, no matter where you’re going, either inside or outside the United States, you need to take some steps to ensure safe travel for yourself and your family and friends.
Let’s go over some of the things that we think you should be doing before you go and when you get there.
Before You Go
Stay Informed: Regularly check travel advisories from the U.S. Department of State. They provide up-to-date information on safety and security conditions in various countries.
Enroll in STEP: The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) allows U.S. citizens to receive alerts and make it easier for the embassy to locate them in an emergency.
Think About Travel Insurance: There are a number of travel insurance sites you can check. We use the American Express platinum card that comes with some Travel Insurance already built in. Checking with your credit card would be a good start.
Watch and Read the News: Whatever news you normally watch or read, make sure you are keeping an eye at least on the headlines each day leading up to your departure. From my years as a journalist, and the author of a book about media and media bias, my go-to for credible journalism are the Associated Press, which is free online, and the British publication The Economist that requires a subscription. If traveling overseas, also use The BBC World Service which has better worldwide coverage of international events than most American news organizations.
Research Your Destination: Understand the local customs, norms, and potential risks of your destination. This includes knowing areas to avoid and being aware of local laws.
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When You Are There
Be Vigilant: Stay alert in crowded places and tourist spots. Avoid public demonstrations and large gatherings, as they can sometimes turn violent.
Secure Your Belongings: Use hotel safes for valuables and be cautious with your personal belongings, especially in busy areas.
Emergency Contacts: Have a list of emergency contacts, including the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
By taking these precautions, you can minimize risks and enjoy your travels more safely. Stay safe out there!
If you are going to skip travel, then at least you have us here at Undercover Jetsetter where Susan and I have great food and booze recipes for you to enjoy. Cheers.
John Daly and Susan Anzalone are the Co-Creators and Co-Hosts of Undercover Jetsetter, a show on travel, food, wine, mixology and, of course, golf. They show you how to jet set the world and at home. They also co-authored the book, The TV Studio In Your Hand: How to Shoot, Edit & Deliver the Easy Way on Your iPhone. Join them for tips and hacks on the road, at home, or in the kitchen. Yes, as you will see, all on the iPhone. They cover travel, food, wine, mixology, and golf around the world. Susan is an expert in food and wine since her childhood days in Australia and then the United States, being the daughter of two lifelong employees of Pan Am Airlines. John is also a world traveler starting when he studied in Italy through his alma mater Providence College. John is also a Nevada Hall of Fame Broadcaster during his years as a Las Vegas news anchor at KTNV. He gained international fame as the host of the first all-video news magazine show, Real TV while also securing his bartending and mixology credentials from the Harvard Bartending School. You can follow them here on the free Wingding app on the Food and Travel Channels, on YouTube, Facebook, X, and Instagram.