Page 12 - March ARB Beacon 11-20-15

12 November 20, 2015 www.aerotechnews.com/marcharb
facebook.com/TeamMarch

Riding camels in Egypt and how to be a safe

and prepared tourist

by Staff Sgt. Heather Cozad Staley about safety conditions and also make it Courtesy photo
452 AMW public affairs easier to be contacted in an emergency.
(from left) Me and two friends sit atop camels in Cairo, Egypt with the Giza Pyra-
“Would you like to come and visit me As a reservist, I was able to take ad- mids in the background during a sightseeing tour in July 2015.
in Cairo?” My friend had been teaching in vantage of the Force Protection ancil-
Egypt the past year when she invited me. A lary computer-based training, which Thanks to all the research and prepa- foods, and learn about different cul-
trip to Egypt?! I imagined myself dressed provides additional tips for staying safe ration, I had a wonderful adventure, tures. Spending time to prepare for your
in a flowy garment, riding a camel next to while traveling abroad. stayed safe, and waited until I had re- trip will ensure you also have a safe,
the date palm-lined banks of the Nile. The turned before posting photos online. fun, and hopefully, amazing time!
stuff of dreams! As a member of the Air The CBT encourages you to try to
Force Reserve, I have had opportunities to blend in with the local populace, con- Traveling abroad can be a wonder- To learn more about safe travels, visit
travel overseas in an official capacity, but ceal your military affiliation, avoid pub- ful experience with opportunities to see travel.state.gov and search for the U.S.
this would be my first international grand lic disturbances or political demonstra- historical sites, sample delicious new State Department Traveler’s Checklist.
vacation! I excitedly told my husband tions, and to be careful about posting
about our plans and he asked, “Is it safe?” travel plans on social media.

To set his mind at ease, I did some With my western European ancestry,
research. chances are I wouldn’t blend in very well in
Egypt, but I could take safety precautions
I started my trip planning at www. and be respectful of Egyptian culture.
travel.state.gov. Here I found current
travel alerts and warnings as well as My friend said I should bring con-
passport and visa requirements, local servative clothing to wear in Egypt, so
laws, transportation, recommended vac- I packed long skirts, flowy blouses, a
cinations, health tips, and a useful travel sun hat, and a scarf to cover my head for
checklist. I also visited the Smart Trav- visiting religious sites. Keeping in mind
eler Enrollment Program (STEP) at step. that the weather would be extremely hot,
state.gov/step, to register with the local I packed accordingly. She also gave me
U.S. Embassy to receive information contact numbers and told me about how
to get my visa upon arrival.

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