As a college student, at some point you'll be looking to get out of town fast for spring break. Most will seek warmth in the hot Florida or Mexico sun, while others will feed their hunger for adventure in foreign lands. But one thing is certain -- all student travelers will be arriving in an unfamiliar place, not knowing most of the people around town.

Where do you go if you've been robbed? How do you find help in an emergency? Once you've crossed over into a foreign country, these are difficult questions to answer.

But don't unpack just yet! Take along these tips from Vivek Wagle's book, Europe on a Shoestring (Lonely Planet, 2003) and www.alltraveltips.com, to provide all of you first-time spring break travelers with some must-read advice.

1. Make photocopies of your passport, travelers checks, etc. Keep a copy in each of your bags as well as back home with mom and dad for extra safety measures.

2. Carry important cards. Always carry your International Student Identity Card (ISIC) and use it when purchasing anything, since you may be entitled to student discounts. Also a prepaid phonecard is a must - international rates are not wallet-friendly.

3. Keep your money undercover. Don't draw too much attention to yourself by wearing flashy jewelry and displaying large amounts of cash. Only carry enough money for the day, and leave the rest in the hotel's safe.

4. Dress conservatively. Wear clothing that helps you fit in, not stand out like a tourist.

5. Pay attention to transportation. Only use officially marked taxis, tour buses, and other transportation services from designated pickup points.

6. Know the laws about exchanging money. Only use official exchange facilities, since getting scammed can quickly turn your trip upside down.

7. Know and abide by the local laws. It doesn't hurt to do a little homework on the country you're visiting beforehand, as well as become familiar with some of the language.

8. Stick to the main roads. For added protection, avoid taking shortcuts down poorly-lighted streets and alleys.

9. Always travel in pairs. Revert back to the elementary school buddy system, and at all costs abstain from traveling alone.

10. Be mindful of strangers. Do not trust anyone you don't know, and be careful about sharing your travel plans with them.

Once you set off to explore a new place, it's always wise to do some research in advance so you'll know what to expect. Paying attention and using your head as your own tour guide will ensure an A+ scrapbook of vacation memories.

A Few More Student Travel Safety To-Knows

Be informed. Knowledge is the key to being a safe traveler. School yourself on the hazards and hassles you may run into, and how to deal with them.

Be aware. Visit the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings site for information on possible threats in the country you're planning to visit.

Be street smart. This way, you'll be less of a target to thieves.

Be attentive to your surroundings. Ask the bellman, concierge, or front desk worker about safe areas around the city to jog, dine, or sightsee.

Be careful of your body language; it says a lot about you. You could easily become a target if you're unaware of what's going on around you. Always walk as if you know what you're doing, and avoid pointing and talking loudly.

Source: www.travel-safety-and-health.com

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