These days, especially after attacks in Paris and elsewhere, people are weighing whether or not to travel internationally. We support either choice, reminding ourselves that our own local region has a myriad of attractions and natural wonders. If you go abroad, put things into perspective. “You have a higher probability of being hit by lightning than being a victim of terrorism,” says Peter Tarlow, president of Tourism & More, a travel security consulting company.
But always be aware of what’s going on around you.
In New Mexico, lightning is certainly something to be considered. In a weather emergency the safe place to be is indoors or in your vehicle. Weather radio is available, as are some phone apps where there is cell coverage. Our tour guides are best familiar with the area and will notify tourist guests of any warnings that have been issued by the National Weather Service.
We are in the high desert. You will need time to adjust to our altitude and hydration is important. You will be reminded to drink lots of water.
This is a wilderness area with certain inherent dangers; rock falls, dry river beds, and mud roads. Dry river beds can become raging rivers in a matter of moments and mud roads can turn into quagmires.
Yes, there are poisonous snakes and your tour guide will have venom kits with them. If you are on a special permission individual hike, you will be required to take your own venom kit with you. Our tour guides are trained in first aid and CPR. There are emergency helicopter flights to hospitals in Albuquerque and Farmington or other regional cities for life threatening emergencies.
Here are other things to consider
- Be prepared for increased security at airports, on cruise ships, and other places.
- Visit the State Department website and keep aware of its Travel Alerts, which address short-term dangers, and Travel Warnings, which deal with longer-term security challenges.
- Sign up for STEP, the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program. You will get security notices, and officials can locate you in an emergency.
- Consider trip cancellation/interruption insurance, which can reimburse you for prepaid travel expenses. It costs 7 to 10 percent of your trip cost, and you can buy it through your travel agent (but you cannot buy it after an incident has occurred).
- Keep contact information—in both print and digital formats—for hotels, airlines, and friends you might want to reach in an emergency. Allergies and any other life threatening conditions that Navajo tours USA will need. This information will be required as part of your official application.
For more information on travel safety we recommend National Geographic Traveler Magazine Item# 7210-MA. Published 6 issues per year and rated 4 ½ stars. “National Geographic Traveler is a travel magazine that is the explorer’s guide to planning the perfect trip. With breathtaking photography of must-see destinations and practical tips for every traveler, it will inspire readers to book that next vacation.”
In today’s hectic world, we believe that travel is more important than ever. Learning about other cultures and being an ambassador for good can build bridges and promote peace.
Studies show that when you take a vacation, your brain gets restored; that makes us more productive. So what are you waiting for? Schedule your appointment with Navajo Tours USA today.
