An overseas trip, no matter where, can be an illuminating and exciting experience to last a lifetime. The ability to step outside one’s own cultural bubble and see another part of the world can not only be a fun vacation but can be an eye-opening experience that expands perspectives and encourages new ways of thinking. Visiting a different country can expose you to new foods, different fashions, and new locales that you never experienced before. However, it doesn’t just highlight the differences between countries but also the universal similarities that we all have in common. An international travel experience can really demonstrate just how interconnected our small world really is.

However, it is important to plan ahead before embarking into a trip to a faraway country, lest you risk disaster. In addition to things like making sure your travel documents are in order and renters insurance policy is up to date, researching your destination is an important step. Every country has their laws and customs they hold dear and, while one cannot truly grasp their totality without experiencing it first hand, it would behoove you to do some research before you go.

While some people might forgive a cultural faux pas from a foreigner that doesn’t know any better, that’s no guarantee and you would certainly want to minimize that risk as much as possible. The worst case scenario of not taking their culture seriously could be breaking a law you didn’t even understand and winding up in a foreign country’s jail. A little research can go a long way towards being a cautious traveler. Being a foreign country can be fun and exciting but it can be also scary and catastrophic if you don’t know how to be a considerate traveler.

Along with cultural research, it is important to at least begin learning the basics of a foreign language before you go a country that speaks that language. English might be the most prominent language in the world and it’s very common to find English speakers in nearly every country on the planet but there’s no guarantee that you will find one in every situation you’ll be in. Nobody can be expected to become fully fluent in another language in a short manner of time but having a grip on basic phrases necessary for a trip can mean the difference between finding a proper restroom in time and trying not to soil yourself.

It is also important to recognize that not every corner in every country is safe. Before you go on your trip, take time to research the dangerous areas of the country you are visiting and take pains to avoid unnecessary time in those areas. Always keep your stuff safe either by locking it up securely in the hotel or be constantly conscious of its presence. There’s nothing than to have your passport stolen because you were careless. Be aware that there are people in every country looking to make a profit on vulnerable people and, if you are not careful, you could end up getting ripped off or worse. This is where a travel guide that you can trust would come in handy.

An overseas trip can be both wonderful and worrisome. Jumping into an overseas trip without a careful and thoughtful strategy can lead to disaster. Take the time to educate yourself on the cultures, languages, and dangers you might face in the country of your choice. It takes planning, resources, and common sense but devoting yourself to staying safe can mean the difference between the time of your life or an international nightmare.