American Couple Medically Evacuated from Centeral America

Unfortunately tourists are prime targets. Petty theft and street crimes are higher in tourist destinations than rural areas. Here is a video from MSNBC of an American couple who ended being medically evacuated back to the US. The victim was physically attacked and also had to financial burden of paying for the $50,000 medical evacuation.

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

Here are some safety tips from the US Department of State

http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/safety/safety_1747.html

• Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home.
• Be especially cautious in (or avoid) areas where you may be more easily
  victimized. These include crowded subways, train stations, elevators,
  tourist sites, market places, festivals and crime-ridden neighborhoods.
• Don't use short cuts, narrow alleys or poorly lit streets.
• Try not to travel alone at night.Avoid public demonstrations and other civil disturbances.
• Keep a low profile and avoid loud conversations or arguments. Do not discuss travel plans or other personal matters with strangers.
• Avoid scam artists by being wary of strangers who approach you and offer t be your guide or sell you something at bargain prices.
• Beware of pickpockets. They often have an accomplice who will jostle you, ask you
  for directions or the time, point to something spilled on your clothing, or distract you by creating a disturbance.
• Beware of groups of vagrant children who create a distraction while picking your pocket.
• Wear the shoulder strap of your bag across your chest and walk with the bag away from the curb to avoid drive-by purse-snatchers.
• Try to seem purposeful when you move about. Even if you are lost, act as if you know where you are going. Try to ask for directions only from individuals in authority.
• Know how to use a pay telephone and have the proper change or token on hand.
• Learn a few phrases in the local language or have them handy in written form so that you can signal your need for police or medical help. Make a note of emergency telephone numbers you may need: police, fire, your hotel, and the nearest U.S.
  embassy or consulate.
• If you are confronted, don't fight back -- give up your valuables.

Happy and SAFE Travels,

Adam Bates