College students have more to consider this year, with Miami Beach releasing a “dismissal” video asking people not to come for spring break and travel advisories issued for other popular spring break destinations.
Sophia DiPiro, a senior at Central Connecticut State University, had hoped to take a cruise to the Bahamas and Jamaica.
“My dad sent me an article, and at first I only looked at the Bahamas. I'm like, 'Oh, I can go to Jamaica.' And he said, “No, scroll down. There's also Jamaica.” So I thought, 'Oh, no,'” DiPiro said.
So DiPiro decided instead to go to Puerto Rico, where she had visited twice before for spring break. She also has family on the island.
I'm a little disappointed that I couldn't do what I originally wanted to do, but I know it's still going to be a blast in Puerto Rico,” DiPiro said.
Spring break is here and travel advisories are impacting college students' plans. Here's what travel experts recommend:
People still traveling to countries with travel advisories should do their best to stay at all-inclusive resorts, said Bobby McDonald, a lecturer at the University of New Haven and a former Secret Service supervisor. It is said that
“Take well-known or advertised tours within the resort and use resort transportation. If possible, tell someone at home where you are going and what time you will get there. Be sure to let us know,” McDonald said.
Although the resort is safe, it is not a bubble, so please be aware of your surroundings.
“Make sure you have someone with you at the bar. Be sure to watch the drinks being made,” McDonald said. “Take a walk around the resort and find out where to go if something happens at that resort during your stay.”
McDonald said people should also find out where the nearest hospital in the country is and how to get help.
The US Department of State also suggests:
- Text a photo of your GSP location and the license plate number of your vehicle.
- Be wary of water activities and boating where safety standards may not be high
- Do not physically resist robbery attempts.
McDonald's also recommends printing copies of your driver's license, passport, and insurance card before you depart on your trip. Keep a copy for the duration of your vacation and leave a copy for a friend or relative in the United States in case something goes wrong.
