Talking Points: Fiji (February 24, 2016)

Talking Points – Fiji

Copyright © 2016 – Travel Leaders Group LLC. All rights reserved.

The following Talking Points can be used in conversations with the media and clients who have questions about travel to Fiji. (February 24, 2016)

1. We are notifying clients whose travels to or from Fiji may be impacted because of Cyclone Winston, which made landfall on February 20 as a Category 5 storm and was among the biggest ever recorded in the southern hemisphere.

2. We are here to assist our clients; their safety and well-being is our top priority.

3. We provide the facts so our clients can make an informed decision about their travel plans.

Below you will find additional information, supporting material and statistics to help further illustrate each talking point.

1. We are notifying clients whose travels to or from Fiji may be impacted because of Cyclone Winston, which made landfall on February 20 as a Category 5 storm and was among the biggest ever recorded in the southern hemisphere.

Cyclone Winston – a Category 5 storm – made landfall in Fiji on February 20 with winds of up to 200 mph, torrential rain, and waves of up to 40 feet.

o The center of the storm hit just north of Fiji’s main island, Viti Levu. “It changed direction at the last minute, sparing the capital Suva the full force of its winds,” reported the BBC.

o Strong winds and flooding from Winston have caused severe damage across the island nation. The Weather Channel reports that a month-long state of disaster has been declared.

According to the The Fiji Times Online, 42 people were killed and more than 34,000 are in evacuation centers.

The Sydney Morning Herald reports that the Prime Minister of Fiji warns his country “faces a long and difficult recovery.”

o “’Almost no part of our nation has been left unscarred,’ Mr Bainimarama said in a national address on [February 23].”

o “He said Winston, believed to be the most powerful storm ever to hit Fiji, had left ‘a terrible trail of destruction in its wake’ and created a need that is great and urgent.”

o “’Right now the priority is on restoring essential services and supplying our people with sufficient food, water and shelter,’ he said.”

Travel Agent reports that “Most of the hotels in Fiji sustained little to no damage following Tropical Cyclone Winston and most continue to remain operational…

However, there are a number of properties that require time to assess and repair damage. Travel Agent’s full list is here; several on the list include:

o At the Hilton Fiji Beach Resort & Spa, emergency response teams are working on restoring services and removing safety hazards. Due to debris and pollution, the pool will remained closed until further notice.

 

o Raffles Gateway Hotel is recommending that guests scheduled to arrive within the next few days should delay their travel until after Feb. 24. For those guests who would prefer to cancel, the hotel will provide an official letter outlining the cyclone details to assist with claiming travel insurance.

o The Sheraton Denarau Villas, The Westin Island Resort & Spa and the Sheraton Fiji Resort have all sustained some damage but remain open with limited services available. As of Tuesday, the three properties reported that they were experiencing power failure and certain services such as air-conditioning, hot water supply, and TV and guest room lighting will be affected until power is fully resorted. Date changes and cancellations can be made without penalty up until February 25.

o The Sheraton Resort & Spa will remained closed until May 31 due to extensive damage. All guest stays at the resort can be canceled until this date. No new bookings will be accepted for travel before June 1.

o The Sheraton Tokoriki will remained closed until further notice. All guest stays at the resort can be canceled for the next two weeks without penalty.

Updates on the situation in Fiji can also be found on Fiji Tourism’s Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/Fiji) and its Twitter page (https://twitter.com/TourismFiji).

2. We are here to assist our clients; their safety and well-being is our top priority.

We are advocates for our clients; and they know that by working with a true travel professional, we are there for them before, during and after their trip should they need us – which gives them peace of mind.

 Travel agents are trained to monitor situations, such tropical storms and hurricanes, which may impact their clients’ travel plans. As such, they also are in a position to work on alternative travel plans and have those in place the moment the need arises.

 If changes in travel plans are necessary due to weather, many times, travel agents are able to rebook clients for no additional charge or are able to obtain travel vouchers and/or refunds that clients may not know are due or available to them.

 With limited airline seats available, travel agents have the resources needed to quickly rebook clients and reserve the next available seat.

o Travelers who book on their own either have to “roll the dice” by calling an 800-number or standing in a lengthy customer service line to try get rebooked. Using a travel agent can essentially move you to the “front of the line.”

 We strongly encourage all of our clients, whether they are traveling domestically or internationally, to purchase travel insurance, particularly right at the same time as travel has been booked. Travel insurance offers an additional layer of protection for travelers and can potentially help save a traveler hundreds or thousands of dollars if a medical or travel emergency occurs.

We highly recommend that U.S. citizens follow the advice of the State Department and register their international travel plans at https://step.state.gov/step. By entering information into the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), the Department of State can better assist travelers in an emergency.

3. We provide the facts so our clients can make an informed decision about their travel plans.

We closely monitor the U.S. Department of State website for travel alerts as well as the more severe travel warnings for all destinations, including those that are most popular with our clients.

o There are currently no Travel Warnings or Travel Alerts in place for Fiji.

 Should we become aware of an issue for a specific destination, we alert clients who may be planning to travel there so they can determine for themselves if they still wish to travel.

 Also, should we become aware of an issue for a specific destination where a client is currently located; we try to immediately contact the client to check on their well-being and work to assist them if they require alternate travel arrangements.

 

Talking Points: TSA Precheck and Security Body Scans (January 14, 2016)

Talking Points – TSA Precheck and Security Body Scans

Copyright © 2016 – Travel Leaders Group LLC. All rights reserved.

The following Talking Points may be used in conversations with the media and clients to discuss the use of body scan technology at airports and why we recommend TSA Precheck. (January 14, 2016)

1. The Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) usage of mandatory body scans will occur in a very limited number of circumstances where enhanced screening is required.

2. We recommend that frequent travelers apply for TSA Precheck status, which enables identified low-risk travelers to enjoy a smart and efficient screening experience.

3. We provide the facts so our clients can make an informed decision about their travel plans.

Below you will find additional information, supporting material, and statistics supporting each talking point.

1. The Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) usage of mandatory body scans will occur in a very limited number of circumstances where enhanced screening is required.

On December 18, 2015, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security issued a “Privacy Impact Assessment Update” (pdf) announcing a change in policy related to body scanners (also known as Advanced Imaging Technologies or AIT).

o The assessment says, “While passengers may generally decline AIT screening in favor of physical screening, TSA may direct mandatory AIT screening for some passengers as warranted by security considerations in order to safeguard transportation security.”

o Previously, anyone who did not wish to be analyzed by the body scanners could opt for a procedure that involved a pat-down from a TSA agent.

 The vast majority of passengers will not be affected by a mandatory body scan.

o According to USA Today, “Generally passengers undergoing screening will still have the option to decline a (full-body) screening in favor of physical screening,” said Bruce Anderson, a TSA spokesman. “However, some passengers will be required to undergo (full) body screening if warranted by security considerations in order to safeguard transportation security.”

“This will occur in a very limited number of circumstances where enhanced screening is required,” Anderson added. “The vast majority of passengers will not be affected.”

 The scanning technology is used merely to detect threat objects carried on persons entering airport sterile areas.

o The scanners can detect non-metallic weapons hidden beneath clothing, such as plastic explosives and liquids secreted on the body, according to the TSA.

o TSA documents state it does not store any personally identifiable information from the body scanner.

It “does not generate an individual image but rather overlays the location of objects on a generic image.”

 

“The generated image is accurate, timely, and complete and is directly relevant to the identification of threat objects.”

o The document says, “Because the [Automatic Target Recognition or ATR)] software replaces the individual’s image with that of a generic figure, the monitor will be co-located with the individual being screened. The screening officer will view both the individual and the ATR image. If there is an alarm, the physical screening will target the location indicated by the ATR software. If there are multiple alarms, the individual may receive a full screening.”

 According to CNN: “The change comes at a time of heightened concern about aviation security and terror plots against commercial aviation.”

 The TSA was created after the September 11, 2001 attacks and “is responsible for security in all modes of transportation, and must assess threats to transportation, enforce security-related regulations and requirements, and ensure the adequacy of security measures at airports and other transportation facilities.”

2. We recommend that frequent travelers apply for TSA Precheck status, which enables identified low-risk travelers to enjoy a smart and efficient screening experience.

We highly recommend that our clients apply for TSA Precheck status – which TSA describes as an “expedited security screening program connecting travelers departing from the United States with smarter security and a better air travel experience.”

o To apply for TSA Precheck, a traveler must bring two forms of identification, such as driver’s license, passport or birth certificate. Then the traveler must provide their name, address, previous address, date of birth, Social Security number and fingerprints for the FBI to check against criminal and terrorist databases.

o TSA Precheck is available for U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents of the U.S. In addition:

TSA Precheck is available for passengers traveling domestically within the United States and when departing from a U.S. airport to a location outside the country. Passengers may also be eligible for TSA Precheck when connecting to a domestic flight after arrival in the United States. TSA Precheck is available full-time or during peak times at participating airports.

Once approved, travelers will receive a “Known Traveler Number” and will have the opportunity to utilize TSA Precheck lanes at select security checkpoints when flying on the 13 carriers that currently participate in TSA Precheck.

 Air Canada, Alaska Airlines, Allegiant, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Hawaiian Airlines, JetBlue Airways, OneJet, Southwest Airlines, Sun Country Airlines, United Airlines, Virgin America and WestJet.urity checkpoints when flying on the 13 carriers that currently participate in TSA Precheck.

o The TSA Precheck application cost is currently $85 for five years

 The benefits of using TSA Precheck include:

o Using the expedited security lines

o You can leave on your shoes, belt and light jackets

o You will not have to remove laptops or tablets

o You are 3-1-1 compliant and will not have to remove plastic bags of small liquids

 

o Precheck lines often move faster than standard lines regardless of length

o Even if there are more people in line, Precheck is more convenient overall since you won’t have to unpack your valuables or remove clothing items

o Passengers 12 years old and younger who are accompanied by eligible travelers may also access the TSA Precheck lanes.

 We also encourage our clients who travel internationally to instead consider applying for the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Global Entry program, which enables travelers to pass through U.S. Customs/Immigration much more quickly and also allows them to use TSA’s Precheck airport security lines.

o You apply online for conditional approval and then need to participate in an in-person interview.

o Global entry costs $100 for five years, and includes TSA Precheck.

 On January 13, 2016, TSA announced that the TSA Precheck application program has reached a new milestone with more than two million travelers enrolled. TSA Precheck, which opened its first application center in December 2013, now has more than 350 application centers nationwide, including locations at 38 airports. According to the TSA:

o In 2015, TSA Precheck operations began at 48 new airports. Today, TSA Precheck has more than 450 lanes at 167 U.S. airports.

o TSA Precheck, an expedited screening program that began in October 2011, enables identified low-risk travelers departing the United States to enjoy a smart and efficient air travel screening experience.

 On January 13, 2016, USA Today referred to TSA Precheck as “a contentious airport Precheck program.” It wrote:

o “Among the concerns are whether travelers surrender too much privacy to participate and whether the screening is effective.”

o “Some travelers also find checkpoint lines have grown with more participants.”

o “But the Transportation Security Administration program remains popular despite the drawbacks, doubling its membership in less than a year.”

“The advantage is that Precheck members leave laptops and small bottles of liquids in carry-on bags, and keep on shoes and light jackets at checkpoints.”

 The TSA, which is part of DHS, requires adult passengers 18 and over to show valid identification at the airport checkpoint in order to travel. (TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when traveling with a companion within the United States.) These forms of identification include:

o Driver’s license or other state photo identity cards issued by Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent)

o U.S. passport

o U.S. passport card

o DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)

o U.S. military ID (active duty or retired military and their dependents, and DoD civilians)

o Permanent resident card

o Border crossing card

 

o DHS-designated enhanced driver’s license

o Airline or airport-issued ID (if issued under a TSA-approved security plan)

o Federally recognized, tribal-issued photo ID

o HSPD-12 PIV card

o Foreign government-issued passport

o Canadian provincial driver’s license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card

o Transportation worker identification credential.

3. We provide the facts so our clients can make an informed decision about their travel plans.

We believe in providing the facts as we know them to our clients so they may make informed decisions regarding every aspect of their travel plans.

 Our business is founded on repeat customers. Therefore, we want to be sure everything goes off without a hitch.

 As professional travel agents, we are trained to monitor situations that may impact clients’ travel plans and how they travel. As such, we are also in a position to recommend steps they can take to ease their travels.

 We closely monitor the U.S. Department of State website, as well as other governmental and industry sources, for travel alerts and information that would be of importance to our clients.

 Should we become aware of an issue that may impact our clients’ travel plans, we try to immediately contact the client so they can determine for themselves how they may want to adjust their plans.

 

Talking Points: Indonesia (January 14, 2016)

Talking Points Indonesia Terror Attacks

Copyright © 2016 Travel Leaders Group LLC. All rights reserved.

The following Talking Points can be used in conversations with the media and clients who have

questions about travel to Indonesia. (January 14, 2016)

1. Despite a coordinated terror attack in Indonesias capital city of Jakarta, the U.S. State

Department has not issued any Travel Warning or Travel Alert for the nation. However,

the U.S. Embassy in Jakarta has issued two Emergency Messages along with a Security

Message for U.S. citizens traveling there.

2. Safety is our top priority for our clients.

3. We provide the facts so our clients can make an informed decision about their travel

plans.

Below you will find additional information, supporting material and statistics to help further

illustrate each talking point.

1. Despite a coordinated terror attack in Indonesia’s capital city of Jakarta, the U.S. State

Department has not issued any Travel Warning or Travel Alert for the nation. However,

the U.S. Embassy in Jakarta has issued two Emergency Messages along with a Security

Message for U.S. citizens traveling there.

On January 14, 2016, at least two people were killed and 19 more wounded after “wellarmed

militants detonated explosives and opened fire” in central Jakarta, Indonesia. Five

attackers were also killed in the assaults.

o It started with an explosion as an attacker blew himself up at a Starbucks. The

assault began late Thursday morning on Thamrin Street, an entertainment and

shopping district with various Western chain restaurants and stores,CNN

reported.

o Police spokesman Anton Charliyan said it’s believed the attackers in Jakarta

were targeting foreigners and the police, and are likely affiliated with ISIS. Among

the dead was at least one foreign national, authorities said. Nineteen people,

including another foreigner, were injured,according to CNN.

BBC reports that A Canadian and an Indonesian national also died.

o It took security forces about three hours to end the attack near a Starbucks cafe

and Sarinah’s, Jakarta’s oldest department store, after a team of at least seven

militants traded gunfire with police and blew themselves up,Reuters reports.

o The attacks were described as an attempt to mimic the deadly Paris attacks,

BBC reported.

o Two of the attackers were killed in a suicide bombing, police said, with the other

three killed in gun battles with police,according to BBC. Reuters reports that two

of the militants were taken alive.

The U.S. Embassy in Jakarta issued two “Emergency Messages for U.S. Citizens:

o The first emergency message advises: This emergency message is being

issued to advise all U.S. citizens to avoid the area around Sari Pan Pacific Hotel

and Sarinah Plaza on Jalan Sudirman Thamrin, in downtown Jakarta. Preliminary

reports indicate an explosion and gunfire has occurred in the general vicinity and

situation continues to unfold.

o The second emergency message advises: This emergency message is being

issued to advise all U.S. citizens in Jakarta to shelter in place and monitor local

and international media until the situation becomes clearer. Media report that

there may be explosions in other parts of city and that the original gunmen may

have escaped.

Additionally, the U.S. Embassy in Jakarta has issued a Security Message for U.S.

Citizens:

o On the morning of January 14, there were a number of explosions and gunfire at

the intersection near the Sarinah Plaza on Jalan Thamrin, Central Jakarta. A

number of deaths and injuries have been reported, including four suspected

perpetrators of the attack. Indonesian authorities are pursuing the remaining

suspects. Further incidents are possible. As the security situation remains fluid,

U.S. citizens are advised to avoid Sari Pan Pacific Hotel and Sarinah Plaza on

Jalan Thamrin and defer all non-essential travel in the city. Areas to be

particularly avoided are malls, restaurants, cinemas and large gatherings as

these could be potential targets. No U.S. citizens are among the victims. The

Indonesian government has described the incident as a terrorist attack.

o The U.S. Embassy strongly urges U.S. citizens to maintain a high level of

vigilance, be aware of local events, and take the appropriate steps to bolster their

personal security. U.S. citizens are encouraged to monitor local and international

media and factor updated information into personal travel plans and activities.

o As a precaution, the U.S. Embassy will be closed on Friday, January 15, for

regular visa appointments and normal American citizen services. The U.S.

Embassy remains open for emergency services to American citizens.

o Airports remain open; however, travelers may expect delays because of

heightened security measures. We encourage travelers to contact transport

companies for the latest information and to arrive at airports early.

o Public transportation is operational; however, some streets around the affected

area may be closed. Please monitor local media for information on possible road

closures.

o The U.S. Embassy suggests U.S. citizens directly contact concerned family

members in the United States to advise them of your whereabouts and safety.

The United Kingdoms Foreign & Commonwealth Office advises:

o During the morning of 14 January 2016 there were explosions and gunfire

reported in the vicinity of the Sari Pan Pacific Hotel and Sarinah Plaza on Jalan

M.H. Thamrin in central Jakarta. You should avoid the affected area, limit your

movements and follow the advice of local authorities.

o There is a high threat from terrorism. Terrorist groups continue to plan attacks

and have the capacity and intent to carry out these attacks at anytime and

anywhere in the country. You should be particularly vigilant during holiday

periods such as Easter, Christmas, New Year, Nyepi (Balinese New Year, 9

March 2016) and Independence Day (17 August).

o Around 220,000 British nationals visit Indonesia every year. Most visits are

trouble free.

The Government of Canada advises that, There is no nationwide advisory in effect for

Indonesia. However, you should exercise a high degree of caution due to a continuing

threat of terrorist attacks throughout the country.

The January 14 terror attacks are the first major ones in Indonesia since 2009 when

there were simultaneous attacks on the J.W. Marriott and Ritz Carlton Hotels. Seven

people were killed in those attacks.

2. Safety is our top priority for our clients.

We highly recommend that U.S. citizens follow the advice of the State Department and

register their international travel plans at https://step.state.gov/step. By entering

information into the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), the Department of

State can better assist travelers in an emergency.

While no one can say with certainty that any destination is 100% safe, we strongly

encourage our clients to use care and common sense – no matter where they travel – to

maximize their safety and security. For example:

o Leave your itinerary, and passport data page, with a friend or family member

back home so you can be contacted in case of an emergency.

o Know and respect the laws in the country you are visiting.

o Follow your instincts and avoid any areas or situations that seem as though they

could become dangerous.

o Remain alert to their surroundings at all times.

o Avoid all demonstrations, as even peaceful ones can quickly become unruly and

a foreigner could become a target of harassment. If caught unexpectedly near a

demonstration, obey instructions from police and leave the area as quickly as

possible.

o Ask tour guides and hotel officials about any planned demonstrations in the

locations they plan to visit.

o Do not display expensive looking jewelry, large amounts of money or other

valuable items. Also, do not leave luggage unattended in public areas and do not

accept packages from strangers.

o Check with your cell phone provider prior to departure to see if your phone is

capable of roaming on GSM or 3G/4G international networks.

o Check your medical insurance coverage to make sure it applies overseas. If it

doesn’t, consider buying travel insurance that covers overseas medical attention

and medical evacuation.

The U.S. State Department also offers a helpful guide called “A Safe Trip Abroad” which

provides additional travel tips.

Up-to-date information on security can also be obtained by calling 888-407-4747 toll-free

in the United States and Canada or 202-501-4444 from other countries. These numbers

are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, Eastern Time (except

U.S. federal holidays).

3. We provide the facts so our clients can make an informed decision about their travel

plans.

We closely monitor the U.S. Department of State website for travel alerts as well as the

more severe travel warnings for all destinations, including those that are most popular

with our clients.

Should we become aware of an issue for a specific destination, we alert clients who may

be planning to travel there so they can determine for themselves if they still wish to

travel.

o The most popular destination within Indonesia is Bali, which is approximately 600

miles/950 kilometers from Jakarta.

Also, should we become aware of an issue for a specific destination where a client is

currently located; we try to immediately contact the client to check on their well-being

and work to assist them if they require alternate travel arrangements.

 

Talking Points: Melioidosis (January 12, 2016)

Talking Points – Melioidosis (Whitmore’s disease)

Copyright © 2016 – Travel Leaders Group LLC. All rights reserved.

The following talking points can be used in conversations with the media and clients when discussing melioidosis (Whitmore’s disease). The bacteria causing melioidosis are found in contaminated water and soil, and is widespread in Southeast Asia and northern Australia. (January 12, 2016)

1. While no travel health advisories have been issued, travelers to parts of Asia, Southeast Asia and northern Australia should be aware of melioidosis (or Whitmore’s disease). The bacteria causing melioidosis are found in contaminated water and soil.

2. The risk to the average traveler is small and precautions can be taken to minimize one’s exposure.

3. We are here to assist our clients; the safety and well-being of our clients is our top priority.

Below you will find additional information, supporting material and statistics to help further illustrate each talking point.

1. While no travel health advisories have been issued, travelers to parts of Asia, Southeast Asia and northern Australia should be aware of melioidosis (or Whitmore’s disease). The bacteria causing melioidosis are found in contaminated water and soil.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “melioidosis, also called Whitmore’s disease, is an infectious disease that can infect humans or animals.”

o It is predominately a disease of tropical climates, especially in Southeast Asia and northern Australia where it is widespread.

o The bacteria causing melioidosis are found in contaminated water and soil. It is spread to humans and animals through direct contact with the contaminated source.

o Humans and animals are believed to acquire the infection by inhalation of contaminated dust or water droplets, ingestion of contaminated water, and contact with contaminated soil, especially through skin abrasions.

 The CDC also reports that melioidosis is “endemic in Southeast Asia, Papua New Guinea, much of the Indian subcontinent, southern China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan and is considered highly endemic in northeast Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, and northern Australia.”

o “Sporadic cases have been reported among residents of or travelers to Aruba, Colombia, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Guadeloupe, Honduras, Martinique, Mexico, Panama, Venezuela, and many other countries in the Americas, as well as Puerto Rico. In northern Brazil, clusters of melioidosis have been reported and are associated with periods of heavy rainfall.”

 According to Reuters, “Researchers in the journal Nature Microbiology called for a bacterial infection called meliodosis, which is resistant to a wide range of antibiotics, to be given a higher priority by international health organizations and policy makers.

o “Melioidosis is a great mimicker of other diseases and you need a good microbiology laboratory for bacterial culture and identification to make an

 

accurate diagnosis,” said Direk Limmathurotsakul, a microbiologist and assistant professor at Thailand’s Mahidol University, who co-led the study.

o The researchers estimate there are 165,000 melioidosis cases a year in people, of which 89,000 will be fatal. These tolls are similar to those caused by measles – a viral infection that can be prevented with a vaccine – and far greater than dengue fever.

o The study found that the highest melioidosis risk zones are in South Asia, East Asia and the Pacific, including all countries in Southeast Asia and tropical Australia, sub-Saharan Africa and South America. There are also risk zones of varying sizes in Central America, southern Africa and the Middle East.

2. The risk to the average traveler is small and precautions can be taken to minimize one’s exposure.

According to the CDC, “the risk is highest for adventure travelers, ecotourists, military personnel, construction and resource extraction workers, and other people whose contact with contaminated soil or water may expose them to the bacteria.”

 In the areas where the disease is widespread, people with open skin wounds and should avoid contact with soil and standing water.

 Travelers should use items such as waterproof boots and gloves to protect against contact with contaminated soil and water and thoroughly clean skin lacerations, abrasions, or burns that have been contaminated with soil or surface water.

 When a melioidosis infection is diagnosed, the disease can be treated with the use of appropriate medication:

o Ceftazidime, imipenem, or meropenem is used for initial treatment of 10–14 days, followed by 20–24 weeks of trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole.

3. As travel agents, our clients can take heart that they booked through us. We are an unbiased advocate and can offer them both assistance and peace-of-mind.

We would not send our clients to a particular destination if we believe it to be unsafe. Should we become aware of an issue for a specific destination, we alert clients who may be planning to travel there and provide detailed information on the situation so they can make informed decisions for themselves if they still wish to travel.

 We strongly encourage all of our clients, whether they are traveling domestically or internationally, to purchase travel insurance, particularly right at the same time as travel has been booked. Travel insurance offers an additional layer of protection for travelers and can potentially help save a traveler hundreds or thousands of dollars if a medical or travel emergency occurs.

 We are advocates for our clients; and they know that by working with a true travel professional, we are there for them before, during, and after their trip should they need us – which gives them peace of mind.

 By working with a trusted travel professional, we can provide providing alternative travel arrangements should the need arise.

 Our business is founded on repeat customers. Therefore, we want to be sure everything goes off without a hitch.

 

Kenya Travel Alert (April 6, 2017)

Kenya Travel Alert

Last Updated: April 6, 2017

The State Department alerts U.S. citizens residing in or traveling to Kenya that general elections are scheduled for August 8, 2017. Candidate selection for national and county offices will take place throughout the country in April, followed by nationwide campaigning. This Travel Alert expires on August 31, 2017.

Rallies, demonstrations, and protests may occur with little notice and even those intended to be peaceful can escalate into violence. As with all large events, there is also the opportunity for criminal elements or terrorists to target participants and visitors. You should avoid areas of gatherings, protests, and demonstrations, and exercise caution if unexpectedly in the vicinity of any such events.

  • U.S. citizens are urged to exercise caution and remain abreast of the security situation.
  • Monitor media and local information sources and factor updated information into personal travel plans and activities.
  • Avoid crowds and remain alert when using public transportation.
  • Report specific safety concerns to local law enforcement authorities.
  • Stay in touch with your family members and ensure they know how to reach you in the event of an emergency.
  • Restrictions on traffic circulation, either imposed by the authorities or caused by political rallies, could occur during the elections period.  Please refer to our Security Message dated March 13, 2017 for tips on personal preparedness.

For further information:

Nigeria Travel Warning (April 5, 2017)

Nigeria Travel Warning

Last Updated: April 5, 2017

The Department of State warns U.S. citizens of the risks of travel to Nigeria and recommends that U.S. citizens avoid all but essential travel to Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Kano, and Yobe states because the security situation in northeast Nigeria remains fluid and unpredictable.  Very poor transportation infrastructure also makes it difficult for the U.S. Mission to provide consular services in these states. All U.S. citizens should have evacuation plans that do not solely rely on U.S. government assistance. Due to the risk of kidnappings, robberies, and other armed attacks, U.S. citizens should also avoid all but essential travel to: Bayelsa, Delta, Jigawa, Kaduna, Katsina, Plateau, Rivers, Sokoto, and Zamfara states. This replaces the Travel Warning dated February 8, 2017.

Boko Haram, an extremist group based in the northeast, has targeted churches, schools, mosques, government installations, educational institutions, and entertainment venues in Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Kaduna, Kano, Plateau, Taraba, the Federal Capital Territory, and Yobe states. Hundreds of thousands of Nigerians have been displaced as a result of violence in the north. Islamic State West Africa, which is now a distinct group from Boko Haram, is present in Nigeria, and may seek to attack locations frequented by westerners including major population centers.

U.S. citizens should be vigilant at public gatherings and locations frequented by foreigners. Markets, hotels, restaurants, bars, and places of worship may become targets for terrorist attacks. Exercise extreme caution throughout the country due to the threat of indiscriminate violence.

Travel to the Gulf of Guinea should also be avoided because of the threat of piracy.

U.S. Mission personnel are subject to restrictions when traveling in Nigeria, with the exception of local areas of Abuja and Lagos, and may be subject to other constraints as security conditions warrant.

For further information:

  • See the State Department’s travel website for the Worldwide Caution,Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and Nigeria Country-Specific Information.
  • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
  • Contact the U.S. Embassy in Abuja, located at Plot 1075 Diplomatic Drive, Central District Area, open Monday-Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The U.S. Consulate General in Lagos, located at 2 Walter Carrington Crescent, Victoria Island, is open Monday-Thursday from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The U.S. Embassy in Abuja can be reached by telephone, including after-hours emergencies, at +234 (9) 461-4176 or +234 (9) 461-4000, or by email at AbujaACS@state.gov. The U.S. Consulate General in Lagos can be reached by telephone, including after-hours emergencies, at +234 (1) 460-3600 or +234 (1) 460-3400, or by email at LagosACS@state.gov. For more information, please visit the U.S. Mission in Nigeria website.
  • Call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
  • Follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

Sudan Travel Warning (March 30, 2017)

Sudan Travel Warning

Last Updated: March 30, 2017

The U.S. Department of State warns U.S. citizens not to travel to Sudan. U.S. citizens should avoid all travel to the Darfur region, Blue Nile, and Southern Kordofan states and consider carefully before planning travel to other areas of Sudan due to the risks of terrorism, armed conflict and violent crime. The U.S. Embassy’s ability to provide services outside of Khartoum is extremely limited. This replaces the Travel Warning issued on January 21, 2016.

Terrorist groups are active in Sudan and have stated their intent to harm Westerners and Western interests through suicide operations, bombings, shootings, and kidnappings. Violent crimes targeting Westerners, including kidnappings, armed robberies, home invasions, and carjacking occur everywhere in Sudan but are particularly prevalent in the Darfur region.

U.S. citizens who choose to travel to Sudan despite this warning should be vigilant and aware of their surroundings at all times, especially when at public gatherings and any location frequented by foreigners. Exercise extreme caution, monitor reliable news sources for information on the local security situation, and follow the instructions of local authorities. All U.S. citizens in Sudan should periodically assess their personal security and have evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance.

Despite numerous cease fires declared by the Government of Sudan and opposition forces, tensions in the Darfur region, along the border between Chad and Sudan, and in areas that border South Sudan, including the disputed area of Abyei‎ remain high and violence continues. In addition to risking injury or death, U.S. citizens who go to these areas without the permission of the Sudanese government may be detained by security forces.

The U.S. Embassy requires U.S. government personnel in Sudan to use armored vehicles for all travel, and prohibits travel outside of Khartoum without advance permission and extra security precautions.  Family members of U.S. government employees assigned to Sudan must be at least 21 years old in order to live there.

For further information:

  • See the State Department’s travel website for the Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and Country Specific Information for Sudan.
  • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
  • Contact the U.S. Embassy in Sudan located at P.O. Box 699, Kilo 10, Soba, at +(249) 1-870-22000), from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Sunday through Thursday. After-hours emergency number for U.S. citizens is +249-187-022000 (International), or 0187-022000 (Local). Press “0” or remain on the line
  • Call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
  • Follow us on Twitter and Facebook

Saudi Arabia Travel Warning (March 29, 2017)

Saudi Arabia Travel Warning

Last Updated: March 29, 2017

The State Department warns U.S. citizens to carefully consider the risks of travel to Saudi Arabia due to continuing threats from terrorist groups. Furthermore, violence in Yemen has spilled over into Saudi Arabia on a number of occasions. This warning supersedes the Travel Warning issued July 27, 2016.

Threat of Terrorism – Terrorist groups, including ISIS and its affiliates, have targeted both Saudi and Western government interests, mosques and significant religious sites (both Sunni and Shia), and places frequented by U.S. citizens and other Westerners.

Saudi authorities have announced that 34 terrorist attacks, some resulting in significant loss of life, occurred in Saudi Arabia in 2016. These included three coordinated bombings on July 4, 2016, in Medina, Qatif, and near the American Consulate General in Jeddah.

The Saudi authorities continue to vigorously counter terrorist activities and have announced that they thwarted over a dozen terrorist attacks over the past year. On February 16, 2017, Saudi security forces arrested 18 men in four cities on charges of supporting terrorist activities. On January 21, 2017, during a police raid in Jeddah, two men linked to ISIS died when their suicide vests exploded prematurely, and 16 other suspects were arrested. On January 7, 2017, two men linked to ISIS died in a shootout with Saudi security forces in Riyadh. On October 11, 2016, the Saudi Ministry of Interior announced that it successfully prevented a terrorist attack targeting a soccer match at the King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah.

Conflict in Yemen – On a number of occasions, violence from the ongoing conflict in Yemen has spilled over into Saudi Arabia. Saudi media outlets have reported that since March 2015, more than 40,000 projectiles have been launched into Saudi territory from Yemen, including at least 30 missiles.

U.S. government personnel and their families are restricted from travel in the following areas:

  • Within 50 miles of the Saudi-Yemen border, including the cities of Jizan and Najran;
  • Qatif in the Eastern province and its suburbs, including Awamiyah; and
  • Hofuf and its suburbs in the al Hasa governorate.

Read the Department of State Travel Warning for Yemen before considering travel near the Yemen frontier.

For further information:

  • See the State Department’s travel website for the Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and Saudi Arabia Country Specific Information.
  • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
  • Contact the U.S. Embassy in Saudi Arabia located at Abdullah Ibn Huthafah Al-Sahmi Street, Diplomatic Quarter, at +966 11 488 3800, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sunday through Thursday. After-hours emergency number for U.S. citizens is +966 11 488 3800.
  • Call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
  • Follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

Democratic Republic of the Congo Travel Warning (March 29, 2017)

Democratic Republic of the Congo Travel Warning

Last Updated: March 29, 2017

The Department of State warns U.S. citizens to avoid unnecessary travel to the DRC. Very poor transportation infrastructure throughout the country and poor security conditions in eastern DRC make it difficult for the U.S. Embassy to provide consular services anywhere outside of Kinshasa.  All U.S. citizens should have evacuation plans that do not rely solely on U.S. government assistance.  This replaces the Travel Warning dated December 23, 2016.

Armed groups, bandits, and some elements of the Congolese armed forces operate in the provinces of North and South Kivu, Bas-Uele, Haut-Uele, Ituri, Tanganyika, Haut-Lomami, and the Kasai region. These groups have been known to kill, rape, kidnap, pillage, and carry out military or paramilitary operations in which civilians may be indiscriminately targeted.

Congolese military and United Nations forces continue to operate throughout North and South Kivu and near the DRC’s borders with the Central African Republic and the Republic of South Sudan, particularly in and around Garamba National Park. Travelers in the region may encounter troop movements, armored vehicles and attack helicopters. Kidnapping for ransom is also common, particularly in areas north and west of Goma, North Kivu.

For further information:

Turkey Travel Warning (March 28, 2017)

Turkey Travel Warning

Last Updated: March 28, 2017

U.S. citizens are warned of increased threats from terrorist groups in Turkey. Carefully consider the need to travel to Turkey at this time, and avoid travel to southeast Turkey due to the persistent threat of terrorism.  On March 27, the Department of State terminated its October 29, 2016, decision to direct family members of employees posted to the U.S. Consulate General in Istanbul to depart Turkey temporarily.  However, there are restrictions on personal and official travel by U.S. government personnel and their family members traveling to and residing in Istanbul.  Restrictions on travel by U.S. government personnel to certain areas in southeast Turkey, including Adana, remain.  This replaces the travel warning dated January 25, 2017.

In 2016, numerous terrorist attacks involving shootings, suicide bombings, and vehicle-borne bombings in tourist areas, public spaces, private celebrations, sporting events, and government, police, and military facilities throughout Turkey resulted in hundreds of deaths.  The most recent attacks include a mass shooting at the Istanbul Reina nightclub on January 1, 2017, and simultaneous suicide bombings near Istanbul’s Besiktas/Vodafone Soccer Stadium on December 10, 2016.  In addition, an increase in anti-American rhetoric has the potential to inspire independent actors to carry out acts of violence against U.S. citizens.

Additional attacks in Turkey could occur at major events, tourist sites, restaurants, nightclubs, commercial centers, places of worship, and transportation hubs, including aviation services, metros, buses, bridges, bus terminals, and sea transport.  Foreign and U.S. tourists and expatriates have been explicitly targeted by terrorist organizations in Turkey for kidnapping and assassination.  We remind U.S. citizens to review their personal security plans including communications preparedness/connectivity, monitor local news for breaking events, remain vigilant at all times, and check in with loved ones after an attack or security incident.

On January 4, the Turkish government extended the state of emergency through April 18, 2017.  The Turkish government will decide in April whether to extend the state of emergency for another 90 days.  Under the state of emergency, security forces have expanded powers and the government has, at times, restricted internet access and media content.  U.S. citizens have been deported and/or detained and held without access to lawyers or family members under the state of emergency.  Delays or denial of consular access to U.S. citizens detained or arrested by security forces, some of whom also possess Turkish citizenship, have become more common.  U.S. citizen employees of some non-governmental organizations in Turkey have also recently experienced increased scrutiny and denials related to residence permit applications.  The Department continues to monitor the security environment for potential impact on the safety and well-being of U.S. citizens in Turkey and urges U.S. citizens to register in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) on www.travel.state.gov to stay informed.

U.S. government personnel and their family members residing in or visiting Istanbul are restricted from congregating or traveling in large groups and are not permitted to visit these Istanbul locations without prior approval from the Consulate:

  • Large, crowded areas such as shopping malls and houses of worship frequented by expatriates, entertainment complexes, nightclubs, public sporting/cultural performance venues, and crowded pedestrian thoroughfares
  • Tourist destinations throughout Istanbul, to include historical sites, monuments, large bazaar markets, and museums.

U.S. government personnel living in or visiting Turkey continue to require approval from the U.S. Embassy  to visit the  southeastern provinces of Hatay, Kilis, Gaziantep, Sanliurfa, Sirnak, Diyarbakir, Van, Siirt, Mus, Mardin, Batman, Bingol, Tunceli, Hakkari, Bitlis, and Elazig.  Travel within Adana by U.S. government personnel may also be subject to restriction.  Furthermore, the U.S. Embassy may prohibit movements by its personnel and those of its subordinate Consulates to these areas on short notice for security reasons.  Due to recent acts of violence and the potential for reprisal attacks by terrorist groups due to continued Turkish military activity in Syria, we urge U.S. citizens to defer travel to large urban centers near the Turkish/Syrian border.  U.S. citizens should also be aware that the Government of Turkey has closed its border with Syria.  The Government of Turkey prohibits border crossings from Syria into Turkey, even if the traveler entered Syria from Turkey.  Turkish authorities will consider permitting the passage of individuals seeking emergency medical treatment or safety from immediate danger on a case by case basis.

On March 21, the Department of Homeland Security’s Transportation and Security Administration (TSA) announced enhanced security measures associated with passengers at certain last-point-of-departure airports to the United States in several countries, including Istanbul’s Ataturk International Airport.  The security enhancements require all personal electronic devices larger than a smart phone be placed in checked baggage.  Approved medical devices may be brought into the cabin after additional screening.  For questions about these regulations, please contact your air carrier and the Department of Homeland Security.

Numerous large gatherings and rallies, many of a political nature, are expected to be held throughout Turkey in late March and April 2017.  U.S. Mission Turkey recommends that U.S. citizens avoid all gatherings, protests, or demonstrations in Turkey, regardless of their purpose, due to the potential for violence or personal injury.  Under the current state of emergency, participation in illegal gatherings, protests, and/or demonstrations can result in detention or arrest.

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