Your safety
When you travel with Berkeley Study Abroad or Global Internship, safety is a shared responsibility that requires you to be a well-informed and active participant in your own well-being overseas. We provide you with all the information, resources, and support you need to make smart decisions about studying and traveling abroad and know how to handle an emergency if one occurs.
What we do
- We provide you with pre-departure and on-site orientations and comprehensive pre-departure materials to help you prepare for your experience abroad.
- We closely monitor international security situations so you and your family can make informed decisions about your travel.
- We have comprehensive protocols in place to take action and provide you with assistance during an emergency, day or night.
- We know no one plans an emergency: We offer a 24-hour emergency line so that help is there whenever you need it.
Your responsibilities
- Familiarize yourself with the host country emergency contact numbers (911 for example).
- Familiarize yourself with the host country's currency, culture, and customs.
- Familiarize yourself with your programs Emergency Action Plan which will include your emergency contact numbers, your 1 clear method of communication, and emergency assembly points. (sample template)
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). STEP is a free service to allow U.S. citizens and nationals traveling and living abroad to enroll their trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
Travel safety tips
- Speak the language: learn some phrases in the host country language (please, thank you etc).
- Public transportation: research official public transportation means such as buses, trains and taxis names and pricing.
- Know the laws of the host country: Is political speech protected? Can I take photos of government buildings? Is there any clothing or attire that is prohibited or frowned upon?
- Watch your wallet: Pickpockets who may be well dressed and speak English target tourist areas.
- Food and water safety: Familiarize yourself with the local food and water best practices and advisories. Food that is cooked and served hot is generally safe, avoid raw fruits and vegetables unless you wash and peel yourself, and consider the quality of the local tap water.
- Steer clear of demonstrations and protests
- Share your itinerary: share your non-program related itinerary for day trips, weekend travel etc.. with members of the community for example a roommate or program coordinator.
Governmental resources
U.S. Department of State Traveler Services
U.S. Department of State Travel Alerts and Warnings
U.S. Embassy and Consulate services
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) traveler resources
World Health Organization (WHO) International Travel and Health