What To Learn About Before You Go Overseas

Security
The Department of State's Country Specific Information are available for every country of the world.  They describe entry requirements, currency regulations, unusual health conditions, the crime and security situation, political disturbances, areas of instability, and special information about driving and road conditions.  They also provide addresses and emergency telephone numbers for U.S.  embassies and consulates.  In general, Country Specific Information do not give advice.  Instead, they describe conditions so travelers can make informed decisions about their trips.

For some countries, however, the Department of State issues a Travel Warning in addition to a Country Specific Information.  The Travel Warning may recommend that Americans defer travel to that country because of a dangerous situation there.  

Travel Alerts are a means to disseminate information about relatively short-term conditions posing significant risk to the security of American travelers.  They are issued when there is a perceived threat, even if it does not involve Americans as a particular target group.  In the past, Travel Alerts have been issued to deal with coups, pre-election disturbances, and violence by terrorists and anniversary dates of specific terrorist events.

You can access Country Specific Information, Travel Warnings and Travel Alerts 24-hours a day in several ways.

Internet
The most convenient source of information about travel and consular services is the Consular Affairs home page. 

Telephone
Overseas Citizens Services at 1-888-407-4747 can answer general inquiries on safety and security overseas.  This number is available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S.  Federal holidays).  Callers who are unable to use toll-free numbers, such as those calling from overseas, can obtain information and assistance from OCS during these hours by calling 1-202-501-4444.

In Person
Country Specific Information, Travel Warnings and Travel Alerts are available at any of the regional passport agencies and U.S. embassies and consulates abroad.

Local Laws and Customs
When you leave the United States, you are subject to the laws of the country you are visiting.  Therefore, before you go, learn as much as you can about the local laws and customs of the places you plan to visit.  Good resources are your library, your travel agent, and the embassies, consulates or tourist bureaus of the countries you will visit.  In addition, keep track of what is being reported in the media about recent developments in those countries.

With all of the information available online there is no excuse for not knowing what is going on in the country you will be visiting.  Keep current and keep safe.

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10 Must-Dos When In Amsterdam

An enticing fusion of ancient and avant-garde, Amsterdam is a beautiful city of creative legacy. Take a walk along the cobbled streets and serene canals and you can seem a million miles from the vibrant nightlife on every corner.

1. Dam Square
Dam Square is the hub of the city and located on the site of the original Amstel dam. The focal point of the Square is the Royal Palace. Originally the town hall, it became regal following Louis Napoleon’s crowning in 1808.

2. Anne Frank’s House
In close proximity to the Square, Anne Frank’s house provides a constant reminder of Nazi occupation during the Second World War. Her infamous diary is kept here; be prepared to queue as it gets very busy during the tourist season.

3. Rijksmuseum
The fabulous Rijksmuseum is home to some of the most important historic art in the world. Perhaps the most famous pieces here are that by Rembrandt; the works of Frans Hals and Vermeer also feature prominently. Beautiful examples of porcelain dolls and dolls’ houses can also be seen.

4. Van Gogh Museum
Another unmissable illustration of fine art is exhibited at the purpose built Van Gogh Museum. Including many of his finest pieces, the Van Gogh Museum is home to the largest collection of his work in the world.

5. Albert Cuypmarkt
If you feel the need to shop, the Albert Cuypmarkt offers just about everything you could wish to buy. This cosmopolitan shopping region will provide your credit card fix.

6. Queen’s Day
A sight to behold, Queen’s Day is the celebration of all that is gay and lesbian. Music is pumped from every corner, as what seems to be the entire world’s gay population descends on Amsterdam.

7. Vondelpark Summer
This summer festival is held between June and August and features all forms of entertainment including open air concerts, theatre and cabaret. The fun is enjoyed by men, women and children of all ages.

8. Holland Festival
The Dutch certainly enjoy their festivals; this is the biggest annual arts event in the country and continues for three weeks during the month of June.

9. Dutch Clogs
You cannot visit Holland without at least trying on a pair of their famous wooden clogs. Other iconic souvenirs include Dutch dolls and Delft pottery. Cheese and the famous windmills are also very popular.

10. Grand Cafes
Amsterdam’s notorious cafes are spread densely throughout the city. Take a well earned break and try the local erwtensoep as you wet your whistle.

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Visitors Guide to Rome, Lazio, Italy

One of the world's most historic and fascinating cities, Rome is famous for its rich heritage and important buildings.  Many magnificent monuments and truly ancient ruins reside in Rome, together with numerous vibrant shopping areas, restaurants and sightseeing opportunities.  The city has much to offer tourists and also offers a selection of nearby beaches.

Standing alongside the scenic River Tiber, Rome has a population of almost 3 million and experiences hot summer weather and particularly mild, pleasant winters.  With year-round attractions, many people choose to visit Rome between November to February, when the city is at its quietest.

Rome Hotels:
Being one of Italy's most popular tourist destinations, it is hardly surprising that Rome is full of hotels, catering for all tastes and budgets.  Ranging from impressive hotels in the Centro Storico (historic centre), to more modern accommodation around the Campo dei Fiori, hotels in Rome quickly become fully booked, and so be sure to reserve your room in advance.  Bed and breakfasts in Rome are known as 'pensioni' and often provide particularly good value for money, with a number being located close to the 'Stazione Termini' railway station and Trastevere area.

Rome Tourism:
Rome has long been a major tourist destination and its historical attractions and important ruins are known throughout the world.  However, the city is also an exciting and vibrant place to visit, with many impressive shops, restaurants, entertainment venues and seasonal festivals.  Some of the most popular places to visit in Rome include the Circus Maximus, the Coliseum, the Forum, the Pantheon, Janiculum Hill, the Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps, and the vast Vatican City, the official residence of the Pope, head of the Roman Catholic faith.  The Sistine Chapel at the Vatican City is particularly awe-inspiring, together with the city's numerous art galleries and museums.

Popular events in the city include many operas, ballets and concerts at Rome's numerous theatres.  Other seasonal highlights include regular football matches at the Stadio Olimpico, the Rome Marathon each March, religious events throughout Easter, concerts at the Teatro Olimpico, June's Pesaro Film Festival, and also the Festa della Madonna della Neve, held every August.

Rome Transport:
With good rail connections to a number of major cities, including Florence and Venice, Rome is well-connected by highways, which provide easy access to nearby towns.  Rome's Metro subway network, public buses and trams all provide inexpensive ways to travel throughout the city.  Car rental is one of the most popular ways to travel out of the city and is perfect for day trips and excursions.

Located around 18 miles / 29 km from the city centre, Leonardo da Vinci Airport, also known as Fiumicino, is an important air transport hub.  Dealing with large numbers of domestic and international flights each day, ground transportation at the airport includes buses, trains and car hire.

Rome Shopping:
Known for its chic fashion boutiques and expensive department stores, shopping in Rome is a major attraction. With many bustling shops clustered around the Piazza Di Spagna, other popular stores can be found around the city's Via Del Governo Vecchio area, close to the Spanish Steps, along the Via Sistina, and on Via Borgognona.  Also, the pedestrianized Via Frattina is the perfect place for some serious window shopping.

Rome Restaurants:
Home to one of the greatest cuisines in the world, Italian restaurants are known for their superb local specialities, which include freshly made pizzas, pasta dishes, paninis, salads, a selection of cheeses and many other types of food.  Al fresco dining is particularly popular in Rome, with an array of cafes, bars and superb ice cream shops clustered around the piazzas.

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