# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Author(s): Virginia Lehner

US citizens traveling abroad face a wide range of risks not generally prevalent in the United States. These risks include sanitation issues (e.g., non-potable water), increased risk for traffic accidents due to poor road conditions and unfamiliarity with local norms, local insectborne illness or disease vectors, injury from adventure tourism or overexposure to unfamiliar climates, and violence ranging from petty theft to terrorism.

Travelers going overseas, particularly tourists, can also face additional challenges in seeking help when they find themselves in distress. Language, culture, and local laws can be barriers, and travelers might not have an immediately accessible network of friends or family to assist them in an emergency. Local government responses to accidents or crime might not be what travelers expect; in some instances, an effective local government might not even exist to respond. Travelers should research conditions at their destination before departure to learn what risks they could likely face and make plans to mitigate those risks abroad.

Informed Travel

As indicated above, travelers should make informed decisions prior to departure, based on clear, timely, and reliable safety and security information. The Bureau of Consular Affairs (CA) within the US Department of State (the organization charged with protecting US citizens abroad) provides would-be travelers with a broad range of information for every country in the world through its webpages, Travel.State.Gov and US Embassy and Consulate.

Travel Advisories & Travel to High-Risk Areas

At the broadest level, CA assigns every country a metrics-based travel advisory level ranging from 1: Exercise normal precautions to 4: Do not travel. Travelers can see travel advisories at Travel.State.Gov; accompanying country information pages describe the risks and conditions and the actions travelers should take to mitigate risks in each country. Country information pages provide extensive travel information, including details about entry and exit requirements, local laws and customs, health conditions, accessibility for travelers with disabilities and for other key groups, typical scams and other crimes, transportation safety, and other relevant topics. The Department of State also warns people not to visit certain high-risk countries or areas because of local conditions and limited ability to provide consular services in those places.

US embassies and consulates abroad also issue event-based alerts to inform US citizens of specific safety, security, or health concerns that put travelers at immediate risk (e.g., civil aviation risks, crime threats, demonstrations, health events, weather events).

Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)

Advise US citizen travelers to enroll with the Department of State's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). A free service, STEP allows enrollees to receive information and alerts from local US embassies or consulates about safety, security, or health conditions at their destination. STEP can also help the local embassy or consulate locate missing US citizens or contact them in an emergency (e.g., civil unrest, a family emergency, natural disasters).

Preparing Friends & Family

The Department of State advises travelers to share their itinerary with friends and family, including the names and contact information for travel agencies, planned tours, and lodging. Travelers should establish reasonable expectations for "check-in" communications with family and friends. In addition to having their own copies, travelers also should provide trusted friends and family with copies of important documents like passports, visas, health insurance cards, and credit cards in case any of these items are lost or stolen.

Medical Insurance

The US government does not provide medical insurance for US travelers overseas and will not pay costs for travelers receiving international medical care. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover these costs, nor do many private domestic health insurance plans. Thus, travelers should purchase supplemental insurance prior to travel (see Sec. 6, Ch. 1, Travel Insurance, Travel Health Insurance & Medical Evacuation Insurance). Because travel insurance policy coverages vary, travelers should carefully read the terms to make sure the policy fits their needs. Travelers might need additional insurance coverage to cover the costs of emergency medical care, medical transport back to the United States, travel and accommodation costs in the event of interrupted or delayed travel, 24-hour contact services, and treatment received overseas for any preexisting conditions, including pregnancy.

Local Laws

US citizens are subject to local laws during travel abroad. Travelers who violate those laws-even unknowingly-can face arrest, imprisonment, or deportation. In addition, some crimes are prosecutable both in the United States and in the country where the crime was committed. US citizens arrested or detained abroad should ask local law enforcement or prison officials to notify the US embassy or consulate immediately.

Faith-Based Travelers

Faith-based travel encompasses a wide range of activities (e.g., attending pilgrimages, participating in service projects, conducting missionary work, taking part in faith-based tours). Millions of faith-based travelers participate safely in some type of religious travel every year. In addition to being aware of basic country conditions that impact all travelers, US faith-based travelers should know that in some countries, conducting religious activities without proper registration, or at all, is a crime.

LGBTQ+ Travelers

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and intersex (LGBTQ+) travelers face unique challenges when traveling abroad (see Sec. 2, Ch. 13, LGBTQ+ Travelers). Laws and attitudes in some countries might negatively affect safety and ease of travel for LGBTQ+ persons, and legal protections vary between countries. Many countries do not legally recognize same-sex marriage and >70 countries criminalize consensual same-sex sexual relations, sometimes with severe punishment. Travelers should review the Human Rights Report for further details before travel.

Travelers with Disabilities

Each country has its own laws regarding accessibility for, or discrimination against, people with physical, sensory, intellectual, or mental disabilities. Enforcement of accessibility and other laws relating to people with disabilities is inconsistent (see Sec. 3, Ch. 2, Travelers with Disabilities).

Travelers with Dual Nationality

Countries have different regulations for dual nationals; some do not permit dual nationality, while others infer dual nationality based on the birthplace of a traveler's parent. US citizens should check with the embassy of any country for relevant nationality laws before travel.

Crime, Crises & Terrorism

Crime

Crime is one of the most common threats to the safety of US citizens abroad. Travelers should research crime trends and patterns at their destination using the Overseas Security Advisory Council Country Security Reports, which provide baseline security information for every country around the world. Although strategies to avoid becoming a crime victim are, for the most part, the same everywhere, travel health providers should stress the following points with international travelers:

Avoid accommodations on the ground floor or immediately next to the stairs, and lock all windows and doors.

Do not wear expensive clothing or accessories.

If confronted in a robbery, give up all valuables and do not resist attackers. Resistance can escalate to violence and result in injury or death.

Limit travel at night; travel with a companion, and vary routine travel habits.

Take only recommended, safe modes of local transportation.

Crime victims should contact the local authorities and the nearest US embassy, consulate, or consular agency for assistance. The Department of State can help replace stolen passports, contact family and friends, identify health care providers, explain the local criminal justice process, and connect victims of crime with available resources, including a list of local attorneys and medical providers. The Department of State does not have the legal authority to conduct a criminal investigation, prosecute crimes, or provide legal advice or counsel.

Crises

Whether traveling or living outside the United States, US citizens should prepare for potential crises. The Department of State is committed to assisting US citizens who become victims of crime, who need assistance during a crisis or a natural disaster, or who need consular services (e.g., replacing a lost or stolen passport, providing a loan to return to the United States). The Department of State also can attempt to locate missing US citizens abroad. Nevertheless, US citizens should proactively research resources available for the country or countries where they are traveling or residing, stay connected with the nearest US embassy or consulate, and create personal safety plans.

Terrorism

Despite being a worldwide threat and cause for concern, terrorist attacks have involved relatively few international travelers. Past attacks have included assassinations, bombings, hijackings, kidnappings, and suicide operations. Bombings are typically conducted with the use of improvised explosive devices (IEDs), but biological and chemical attacks remain a concern in some high-threat countries. Potential targets include business offices, clubs, hotels, houses of worship, public transportation systems, residential areas, restaurants, schools, shopping malls, high-profile sporting events, and other tourist destinations where people gather in large numbers. To reduce their chances of becoming victims of terrorism, travelers should be cautious of unexpected packages; avoid wearing clothing that identifies them as a tourist (e.g., a T-shirt bearing the US flag or the logo of a favorite US-based sports team); look out for unattended bags or packages in public places and other crowded areas; and try to blend in with the locals. These strategies incorporate the same defensive alertness and good judgment that people should use to prevent becoming victims of crime. Awareness is key, and travelers should be knowledgeable of their surroundings and adopt protective measures.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Information about how to order the U.S. government publication about traveling titled &quot;Health Information for International Travel&quot; (also called the &quot;Yellow Book&quot;). Provided by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
What’s stopping you from going abroad? 5 common problems and solutions ‹ GO Blog | EF United States

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Traveling the world, experiencing a new culture and speaking several languages and are high up on many people’s bucket lists – but not everyone’s. Many people feel limited by their fears of visiting an unknown country and feel more comfortable staying at home. As a student and Global Intern for EF, I had the amazing opportunity to travel the world and see incredible places. So, I asked myself: what’s stopping people from going abroad?

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
10 Common Travel Problems (and How to Solve Them)

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
As a traveler, you'll encounter annoying travel problems like lost or heavy luggage, missing trains or buses, and language barriers. Don't let them stop you!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Wondering how to move out of the US? You're not alone. Between the recent Supreme Court decision on abortion rights, gun violence and other safety concerns, racial tensions, politics, inflation and more, many Americans have had enough and are thinking about moving abroad to places like Canada, Portugal and Italy. Following the US Supreme Court's controversial decision to overturn Roe v. Wade on Friday, the site International Living-a leading authority for anyone looking for global retirement or relocation opportunities-witnessed a surge in traffic with people searching for a number of "move to" terms. This included terms like "moving out of the US," "I want to move out of the US," "moving out of America," "how to leave America" and "leaving America"-with the top search volume coming under the phrase " how to move out of the United States," which spiked by a staggering 4,000%.

"Americans who perhaps had the idea in the back of their minds to look for a foothold overseas-if not a new home entirely-are taking this Supreme Court ruling on Roe v. Wade as impetus to actually do something about it, and they're looking for guidance," says Jennifer Stevens, executive editor of International Living. "As one visitor to our website put it, 'My husband and I were just talking about this idea with our kids. They're frustrated-we're frustrated-it's too much."

And it's not just abortion rights motivating people, says Stevens. "There's a greater sense of urgency to put an escape plan in place now in part because people are worried about what this court ruling may mean not only for women's rights, but for the rights of others as well, given that same-sex marriage, for instance, may also be at risk of being overturned," she says. International Living alsosaw traffic swell this past weekend by more than 600% on its " Best LGBTQ+ Friendly Countries to Retire to " website page.

We're outta here. With the recent Supreme Court decision about Roe v. Wade, Americans are wondering ... [+]
getty

In addition, a number of attorneys and companies who help Americans obtain second citizenship have seen a huge spike in inquiries and applicants. Marco Permunian is the founder of Italian Citizenship Assistance, an Italy-based agency with offices in New York and Los Angeles that specializes in Italian citizenship law and immigration matters, as well as helping with the purchase of property in Italy. Permunian says that a desire to escape what's perceived as growing domestic political instability, coupled with a broader acceptance of remote working arrangements, is driving this surge in interest. "The political instability, the social unrest and other political events have acted as accelerators in this process and sparked the desire in people pertaining to both sides of the political spectrum to have a plan B," says Permunian.

The pandemic has also had an impact. "The health emergency brought about some sort of awakening in people who began to reflect on their life, their work-life balance more specifically perhaps and that feeling opened the doors to exploring potential avenues for reconnecting with their roots, which happen to be in one of the most beautiful countries in Europe," says Permunian. "In this context, the idea of the American dream gradually started to fade and made room for an "Italian dream" instead-for the pursuit of the so-called ' dolce vita.'"

Even celebrities are getting itchy feet. At a concert this week in the U.K., Green Day frontman Billie Joe Armstrong told the audience that he is planning to renounce his citizenship following the US Supreme Court's reversal of Roe v. Wade. And in a recent interview with , the actress Taraji P. Henson said she's thinking about moving out of the United States. "I'm really considering getting up out of here, leaving and living in another country," she told People. "You get tired of fighting. I'm tired." Like many Americans, the Oscar-nominated actress says she imagines life in a foreign country to be much simpler. "I want to go where there's neutral ground," says Henson. "I want to just be. And be happy. I want to be called 'Bella' every day, drink wine and swat flies on the porch. Stress-free."

Moving abroad also has a financial appeal. "People may be seeking information on moving abroad right now because they feel pushed to do so, but once they see how far their dollars can stretch, I predict they'll feel encouraged and excited by the prospects they have," says Stevens. "Americans will find great bang for their buck overseas in many places, not only because the cost of living is much lower than it is in the States, but because the US dollar is strong today."

So where are Americans interested in moving? According to International Living, the biggest spike in interest for "move to" specific countries include Portugal, Spain, Mexico, Costa Rica, Belize and Italy. If any of those places are on your bucket list, here's what you need to know.
Portugal
This tiny European country has it all: cities with Old World charm, golden beaches, rolling hills, some of the best healthcare in the world, a low cost of living and high levels of safety. Plus, English is taught in schools starting at the sixth-grade level, so many people in Portugal speak some English. Where to move? Just an hour north of Lisbon, Caldas da Rainha is a mid-sized city with a cobbled downtown and a big expat population. Want something more rural? Check out the Alentejo region, which includes the cities of Beja and Évora. Don't want to have a car? "Then city life in either Lisbon or Porto might be for you," says Terry Coles, International Living's Portugal correspondent.
Spain
Spain seduces 3,000 miles of coastline, a low cost of living, excellent healthcare, first-world infrastructure, superb personal safety and amazing weather. "Spain's sun-drenched Mediterranean coast assures retirees that they will never need to shovel snow again," says Marsha Scarbrough, International Living's Spain correspondent. Sunny urban options include Madrid and Barcelona (home to world-class museums, opera and theater) or Valencia (which blends medieval and post-modern architecture). Then there's "Green Spain," along the northern coast, which offers a climate similar to Oregon or Seattle. The Costa del Sol and the Costa Blanca promise more than 300 sunny days a year.
Mexico
Mexico has been a popular expat spot for at least 50 years, thanks to low-cost, top-notch healthcare, great weather, good highways, reliable electric and water and good cellphone service and internet access. Another bonus: It's easy to become a resident, thanks to reasonable income requirements. To get temporary residence in Mexico, you must have an income of around $2,100 a month or $36,000 in the bank. Permanent residence requires around $2,700 a month or $149,000 in the bank.
Costa Rica
In Costa Rica, the national motto is "Pura Vida" (pure life). The appeal: a tropical climate, lower cost of living, friendly locals, affordable medical care, vast real estate options and, of course, its natural beauty. Costa Rica is safe and stable, with a progressive government. "LGBTQ same-sex marriage is legal and women's rights are mandated," says Kathleen Evans, International Living's Costa Rica correspondent. There's also a new digital nomad visa and an updated law to attract retirees that includes perks like a lower threshold for investors and the ability to import two cars and a shipping container of home goods tax-free.
Belize
With more than 200 pristine islands scattered along Belize's coastline, it's no wonder Belize is an expat pick. They're attracted to the nature, the water-related outdoor activities, as well as the abundant inspiration that attracts a lot of artists, photographers and writers. One of the top place to move is Caye Caulker, a five-mile-long island off the coast of mainland that International Living calls "a charming Caribbean island where 'go slow' is the motto." Here, a couple can live comfortably starting at $1,500 a month.
Italy
Italy has so much to offer. Expats are drawn to the art, culture, architecture, world-renowned food and a slower pace of life, plus everything from romantic cities to timeless hill towns. According to Permunian of Italian Citizenship Assistance, many people are pursuing Italian citizenship to give their children the possibility to study anywhere in the European Union-since university fees are much lower than in the US-and access high-quality universal healthcare, mostly free of charge. Plus, with Italian citizenship, you can reside anywhere in the EU without any time restrictions or limitations. "Many also look to invest in a property as the Italian real estate market is much more affordable compared to the one in the US," he says.

According to International Living, outside the major cities, homes in Italy start at just $50,000-or less. Here's something else drawing people to relocate: Many places in Italy are offering people money to move there. In fact, in 2020, one deep-pocketed village in Italy was offering people up to $52,500 in grants to move there and work. La dolce vita, indeed.

READ MORE:
* Leave The US: Best Places For Expats To Live
* Crime In America: Study Reveals The 10 Most Unsafe Cities (It's Not Where You Think)

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
How To Move Out Of The US (And The Best Places To Escape)

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Between abortion rights, crime, racial tensions, politics and inflation, many Americans are wondering how to move out of the United States. Here's what you need to know.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Citation Machine®: Format & Generate - APA, MLA, & Chicago

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Citation Machine® helps students and professionals properly credit the information that they use. Cite sources in APA, MLA, Chicago, Turabian, and Harvard for free.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
What You Should Know Before Moving Out of the US

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Moving out of the US: If you have lived your entire life in the United States and are planning to move abroad, now is undoubtedly a very exciting.…