Tips for Abroad.

I received my abroad handbook today and it has many useful tips about surviving in another country. Allow me to share some highlights.

These are direct quotes from this publication. Here is a picture so you get an idea of what kind of book this is:



Keep in mind these are actual quotes:

On avoiding con artists:
"Be wary of smooth operators."

On arrival:
"Upon your arrival, you may experience an immediate sense of euphoria--everything that is new seems intriguing and exciting. Inevitably, the novelty wears off and shifts to a new and sometimes unsettling awareness"

On return:
"You may be concerned about how your family and friends will react to the 'new' you."

On Substance Abuse:
"If you experiencing any substance abuse problems, consider deferring your participation in an overseas program."

More on Substance Abuse:
"Leaving the country will not make your problems go away--if anything, they will worsen."

On travel:
"Be careful to observe traffic lights."

On protection:
"Be aware that it is common in some cities for thieves on motorcycles to pull gold chains off the necks of pedestrians."

On relationships abroad: (!!!!!!)
"Some countries do not admit that they have an AIDS epidemic. Assume AIDS is everywhere."

Now that I have learned these tips. I feel ready to travel anywhere.