The same safety measures apply in all cities.

Be aware of your belongings

Do not bring what you do not need, especially if you are going to a bar. Most people lose things from being absentminded or drunk.

Never walk alone at night

Whether you are a male or female

Share your plans

Let your study abroad staff and family know where you are going. And when you are supposed to be back

Passport copy

Bring an extra copy of your passport with you, and keep it in a separate location.

Avoid underage and excessive alcohol consumption

“Overdoing it,” leads to the majority of arrests, accidents, violent crimes, rapes, and deaths suffered by American students when traveling to international destinations. As in the U.S., disturbing the peace, lewd behavior, littering, driving under the influence, drinking on the street or on public transportation may all be considered criminal activities by local authorities.

Don’t import, purchase, use, or have drugs in your possession

It just makes good sense. Drug charges can carry severe penalties, including imprisonment without bail for up to a year before a case is even tried. A conviction carries several more years of imprisonment in a foreign jail. In some countries it doesn’t matter if you’re underage either; you can still be charged as an adult.

Obey the local laws

An arrest or accident during your study abroad experience can result in a difficult legal situation. Your U.S. citizenship does not make you exempt from full prosecution under another country’s criminal justice system. Many countries impose harsh penalties for violations that would be considered minor in the United States. If you find yourself in a legal jam, contact the closest U.S. consulate, U.S. consular agency, or the U.S. embassy for assistance. Keep in mind, U.S. consular employees cannot arrange for local officials to release detained American citizens.

Only use licensed and regulated taxis

Some illegitimate taxi drivers are sometimes, in fact, criminals in search of victims. Some passengers of unlicensed taxis have been robbed, kidnapped, and/or raped. When in doubt, ask the Global site staff, club or restaurant staff to summon a legitimate taxi for you.

Do not carry weapons

A pocketknife can result in a serious weapons charge while on foreign soil – even if the knife is found while being arrested for a separate offense

Avoid participating in demonstrations and other political activities

Here in the U.S. we enjoy many liberties. However, political activities in other countries can result in detention and/or deportation by officials. Even demonstrations that are intended to be peaceful can sometimes turn violent, and you don’t want to be caught in the middle.

Be conscientious

Keep wallets, cell phones, laptops and other valuables with you. These are the type of property that are commonly reported stolen. Crimes of Opportunity can be minimized by safeguarding your property and not leaving them unattended.

Safe and secure in your residence

In your residence, always close and lock your door even if leave for just a minute. Insist your roommate(s) do the same. Establish rules with your roommate(s) regarding visitors.

ATM security

The best time to use ATMs is during the daylight hours. Use bank affiliated ATMs whenever possible. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash; avoid counting or displaying money on the street.

Pickpockets

Be aware of pickpocket situations — crowded areas e.g. subways. Men – carry wallets in front pants pocket. Women – use bags, pocketbooks etc. that zipper well; keep pocketbooks on your lap when in restaurants etc. Avoid the backs of chairs or under the table, carry your bag close to your body, tucked in the bend of your elbow. Avoid bags that clasp or snap shut, zippered bags are preferable.