Respect the
Local Laws and Customs. While abroad, you are subject to
the laws and regulations of your host country and are not protected by
the U.S. Constitution. If you should be detained by local authorities,
ask them to notify a U.S. consular officer. Under international
agreements and practice, you have a right to contact an American consul.
Although U.S. consuls cannot act as your attorney or get you out of
jail, they can provide you with a list of local attorneys and inform you
of your rights under local laws. They will also monitor the status of
detained Americans and make sure they are treated fairly under local
laws.
Guard Your Passport. Your
passport is the most valuable document you carry abroad. It confirms
that you are an American citizen. Do not carry your passport in the same
place as your money or pack it in your luggage. Remember to keep your
passport number in a separate location in case it is lost or stolen. In
some countries, you may be required to leave your passport overnight or
for several days with the hotel management. This may be local
practice--do not be concerned unless the passport is not returned as
promised. If your passport is lost or stolen abroad, immediately report
it to the local police, obtain a copy of the report, and contact the
nearest U.S. embassy or consulate to apply for a new passport.
Be Alert. Move
purposefully and confidently. If you should find yourself in a crowded
area, such as in an elevator, subway, marketplace, or in busy tourist
areas, exercise special caution to avoid theft.
Robbery. Help prevent
theft by carrying your belongings securely. Carry purses tucked under an
arm and not dangling by a strap. Carry valuables hidden in an inside
front pocket or in a money belt, not in a hip pocket. You may wish to
wrap your wallet with rubber bands to make it more difficult for someone
to slip it from your pocket unnoticed. Money belts or pouches that fit
around your shoulder, waist or under clothing are available through some
luggage shops and department stores.
DEPARTMENT OF STATE PUBLICATION 10337
Bureau of Consular Affairs
Revised August 1996
