The University of Colorado at Boulder is advising students to exercise caution this spring break, whether they are staying around the Boulder area or traveling to a destination within the United States or out of the country.
For students traveling abroad, be aware that the U. S. Department of State has issued travel warnings and alerts for a number of foreign countries, including Mexico where there has recently been a dramatic rise in violence, particularly along the Texas and New Mexico borders. However, the alert advises "U.S. citizens traveling throughout Mexico should exercise caution in unfamiliar areas and be aware of their surroundings at all times. Mexican and foreign bystanders have been injured or killed in violent attacks in cities across the country, demonstrating the heightened risk of violence in public places."
The warning also recommends that students do not drive across the border into Mexico due to the dangerous criminal and drug cartel related violence. If you do drive, the State Department recommends driving only during daytime hours on well-traveled roads.
Travel Safety Resources
For more information on the Mexico travel alert, visit the State Department's Web site at .
Tips for students traveling to Mexico:
"Know Before You Go"
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International travel safety information and tips for students, which includes a link to country specific information available for every country in the world: .
Note: U.S citizens returning to the United States from Mexico, Canada, Bermuda or the Caribbean must present a passport or other approved travel documents that denote both citizenship and identity to enter the United States at land and sea ports of entry. In addition to a passport, approved documents include a passport card and a trusted traveler card (NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST).
Other suggested personal safety tips:
• Do not withdraw large amounts of cash from ATMs.
• Travel in groups.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Avoid out of the way places.
For students planning a ski or snowboarding adventure in the Colorado Rockies for spring break:
• Make sure you vehicle is in good operating condition and has adequate snow or all condition tires.
• Check road conditions before you travel in the high country.
• Be prepared for winter driving and carry a winter driving survival kit. Have an ice scraper/snowbrush, tire chains, a tow strap, jumper cables, a shovel, road flares or warning light and a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, flashlight and spare batteries, extra clothing, footwear and blanket, non-perishable energy foods, bottled water, matches and candles.
• When skiing or boarding observe the Colorado Skier/Boarder Responsibility Code.
In general, students are reminded to make personal safety a top priority in all environments; to take personal responsibility for their sobriety, behavior and conduct; and be aware of the health and well being of their friends and fellow spring break participants.