Carefreetrip.com Travel Blog

This Travel Alert updates American citizens on safety conditions within Burma. American citizens residing in or traveling to Burma should continue to defer nonessential travel to the Irrawaddy Delta region of the country. The Burmese government has restricted access to this area for all but authorized relief workers. The U.S. Embassy in Rangoon has ended the authorized departure of non-essential personnel and family members of mission staff. This Travel Alert replaces the Travel Warning issued on May 5, 2008, and expires on September 30, 2008.

The environment in Rangoon, Burma’s most populous city, and other areas outside of the Irrawaddy Delta has gradually improved. Electrical power and water supply have been restored in most areas and markets are now operating normally.

The harder-hit Irrawaddy Delta region is still without many basic necessities, and the risk of outbreaks of disease remains high. The United Nations, ASEAN, and others in the international community, including the United States, are providing international relief assistance to meet both immediate and long-term needs. The Burmese Government has restricted access to this area for people other than relief workers it has authorized. American citizens should defer nonessential travel to the Irrawaddy Delta region.

The Department of State and the Embassy in Rangoon are following developments closely. For the latest security information, U.S. citizens living and traveling abroad should regularly monitor the State Department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs website at http://travel.state.gov, where the current Worldwide Cautions, Travel Alerts, and Travel Warnings can be found. Security information can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the U.S. and Canada or, from other areas, by calling a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).

U.S. citizens in Burma are encouraged to register with the Department of State or the U.S. Embassy. Registration can be done on-line through the State Department’s travel registration website, https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs, or via the Embassy’s website, http://burma.usembassy.gov. Americans in Burma who do not have internet are welcome to register in person or by telephone. The Embassy can provide limited email service for American citizens seeking to inform family members of their safety and welfare; please ask the Consular Section for more information.

The Embassy is located at 110 University Ave, Kamayut Township, Rangoon. The Embassy’s phone numbers are (95-1) 536-509, 536-756, and 538-038. The Consular Section’s extension is 4240, and email address is ConsularRangoo@state.gov. The Embassy’s after-hours emergency numbers are the same as above, all followed by extension 4014. The after-hours mobile phone number is 09-512-4330 (calling inside Burma) or 95-9-512-4330 (calling from outside Burma). The Embassy’s hours are 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday thru Friday (except U.S. federal and Burmese holidays).

Whether you’re an airport renter or a home-city renter, we’ve got a list of tips designed to help make your car-rental experience as pain-free as possible for your bank account.

1. Surf the Net. As is the case with many purchases, you’ll usually find the best rates on the Internet. Shop around. Buying online will afford you the Luxury of seeing what rates look like on any vehicle your heart desires, without the inconvenience of having a salesperson breathing down your neck. Also, many companies offer special discounts to people who rent online. Rates will obviously vary from company to company, depending on vehicle availability, location and other factors. But rates aren’t the only variable to consider. Consider hours of operation, for example; some companies may close earlier on weekends. Depending on your schedule, this might be a crucial issue for you.
2. Go weekend. Rates are typically cheaper on weekends. At one company we surveyed, you could rent a subcompact on a weekday for $64.99. When we opted for a weekend rental, the figure plummeted to a far more reasonable $22.99. If you’ve got some flexibility with your rental arrangements, opt for weekend rental. Your pocketbook will be eternally grateful.
3. Weekly does it. Weekend rates are great, but weekly rates are usually the best of all. At one company we surveyed, a subcompact went for a weekday rate of $56.99. That same car could be rented on a weekly basis for just $252.99, a savings of more than 30 percent if you used the vehicle for all seven days, and more than 10 percent if you returned it after five days. If you plan on using the vehicle for five days or more, choose the weekly rate.
4. Think twice about insurance. When renting a car, you’ll be offered a collision damage waiver (CDW) and a loss damage waiver (LDW). The first covers you in the event of a collision, while the second covers any loss to the rental company. Both kinds of coverage are a good idea, but not if they duplicate coverage already included in your own insurance policy. Most insurance policies offer liability coverage to protect you if you injure someone in an accident; some also cover rental-car damage via comprehensive and collision coverage. Check your policy or call your insurance agent to verify coverage before signing up for a vehicle. If you’re renting the car with a credit card, your card provider may pay for vehicle damages associated with an accident. Check with your card company ahead of time to make sure.There’s one caveat. The collision damage waiver covers “loss of use,” the charge levied by the rental car company to cover its lost income when the vehicle is out of service. In most states, auto insurance policies don’t cover this loss, so if you have an accident, you may wind up having to pay this charge out of your own pocket. The states in which loss of use is covered in car insurance policies are: Alaska, Connecticut, Louisiana, Minnesota, New York, North Dakota, Rhode Island and Texas. Unless you live in one of these states, the waiver may be a good idea.
5. Book early. It’s not just a cliché; the early bird really does get the worm, and he usually gets it much cheaper than everyone else. Rates depend on how many vehicles the company has on the lot at the time the rental is made, so sooner is better. Reserve your car at least a week in advance.
6. Think twice about prepaid gas. Typically, renters have two choices when it comes to fuel: You can pay for a full tank of gas in advance and bring the vehicle back empty (or less than full), or you can opt to refuel it yourself just before returning it. Rental car companies suggest that paying in advance will add convenience and that the low rates offered will save you money. Well, they’re right on the first part but wrong on the second. Paying in advance is an added convenience; if you want to save yourself the hassle of a trip to the gas station or avoid a last-minute rush when you’re trying to make a plane, pay away. But unless you plan on using the entire tank of gas, prepaying will cause you to pay for more fuel than you’ve actually consumed. From a financial standpoint, prepaying is a bad idea unless you’re absolutely certain that you’ll use the full tank.
7. Be careful of upgrades to larger vehicles. Sometimes, rental car companies will offer free upgrades to larger vehicles. They do this mainly because compacts tend to be in high demand. This sort of upgrade may seem like a great deal for you, the renter. If having a larger vehicle will genuinely enhance your rental experience, then take the upgrade. But if you have no real need for the extra space, it’s cheaper to decline. Larger vehicles burn more gas, so that “free” upgrade isn’t really free — you’ll wind up paying for it at the pump.
8. Steer clear of airport pickups. Picking up a rental car at the airport can be more expensive due to taxes and fees. Try looking at nearby neighborhood locations to save money. A recent Travelocity study showed that renting at an airport costs more than 11.5 percent more on average than renting at a neighborhood location. Texas airports were the chief offenders, but airports in states like Arizona, Ohio, Maryland, Missouri and New Mexico also cost renters more in taxes and fees.
9. Got kids? Seat ‘em yourself. If you’re traveling with a little one, you can save yourself some coin by bringing your own child safety seat. One rental company we surveyed charged almost $10 per day for child safety seat rental. Obviously, this can tack a significant amount onto your car rental expenses, so if you’re able to, bring your own child safety seat. If you’re renting a minivan, though, know that some rental minivans include integrated child safety seats at no extra cost.
10. Join the club. Many of the larger companies offer club membership in which members pay a yearly fee in exchange for certain perks and privileges. These clubs can save you money with benefits like free rental days and airline miles, but you’ll likely only see savings if you’re a frequent renter. If you fall into this category and use rental vehicles more than occasionally, go clubbing.

This Travel Alert updates U.S. citizens about security issues in China and advises American citizens traveling or residing there to be alert to their surroundings and exercise caution at all times. This Travel Alert expires on October 31, 2008.

Any large-scale public event such as the upcoming Olympic Games may present an attractive target for terrorists. There is a heightened risk that extremist groups will conduct terrorist acts within China in the near future. In light of these security concerns, U.S. citizens traveling in China are advised to use caution and to be alert to their surroundings at all times, including at hotels, in restaurants, on public transportation and where there are demonstrations and other large-scale public gatherings. Consistent with our standard advice, American citizens are urged to avoid the areas of demonstrations.

In accordance with these security concerns, Chinese authorities have increased security in China’s airports during recent months. For example, Chinese airport authorities recently implemented tighter restrictions on taking liquids, aerosols, or gels aboard flights in carry-on baggage. Such restrictions may apply to food, cosmetics, toiletries and medicine. Travelers should contact their air carrier before their flight to determine the precise regulation in place.

American citizens are strongly encouraged to maintain a high level of vigilance, be aware of local events, and take the appropriate steps to bolster their personal security. For additional information, please refer to “A Safe Trip Abroad” found at travel.state.gov.

U.S. citizens planning travel to China should regularly check the Department’s Country Specific Information for China at travel.state.gov for the latest safety and security information, including the updated Olympics Fact Sheet, as well as the U.S. Embassy Beijing website at Beijing.usembassy-china.org. Americans planning travel to China are advised to register their presence with the U.S. Embassy at travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/ui/.

As the Department continues to develop information on any potential security threats to U.S. citizens overseas, it shares credible threat information through its consular information program documents, available on the Internet at http://travel.state.gov. In addition to information on the Internet, travelers may obtain up-to-date information on security conditions by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the U.S. and Canada or from other countries on a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444.

This Travel Alert is being issued to update U.S. citizens to safety and security concerns.

This Travel Alert is being issued to alert U.S. citizens to the Hurricane Season in the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, the Caribbean, and the Gulf of Mexico.The official Atlantic Hurricane Season runs from June through November.This Travel Alert expires November 30, 2008.

National Weather Service officials at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predict a 65 percent chance that activity during the 2008 Atlantic Hurricane Season will be above normal this year, forecasting 12 to 16 named storms, with 6 to 9 becoming hurricanes.NOAA recommends that those in hurricane-prone regions begin preparations at this time for the upcoming season.

After some storms, U.S. citizens have encountered often uncomfortable, and sometimes dangerous, conditions that have lasted for several days while they awaited transportation back to the United States.Many U.S. citizens traveling abroad in affected regions have been forced to delay their return to the United States due to infrastructure damage to airports and limited flight availability.Damage to roads can limit access to airports and land routes out of affected areas.Flights can be suspended and passengers face long delays before normal airport operations and flight schedules resume. There have also been instances of looting and sporadic violence after natural disasters.Security personnel may not be readily available to assist at all times.

Should a situation require an evacuation from an overseas location, the State Department will work with commercial airlines to ensure the safest and most efficient repatriation of U.S. citizens possible.Commercial airlines are the Department’s primary source of transportation in an evacuation.Other means of transport are used only as a last resort.

The Department of State will not provide no-cost transportation, but does have the authority to provide repatriation loans to those in financial need.U.S. citizens should always obtain travel insurance to cover unexpected expenses during an emergency.

U.S. citizens living in or traveling to storm-prone regions overseas should prepare for hurricanes and tropical storms by organizing a kit containing a supply of bottled water, non-perishable food items, a battery-powered or hand crank radio, and vital documents (especially passport and identification) in a waterproof container.Emergency shelters often have access only to basic resources and limited medical and food supplies.

U.S. citizens should monitor local radio, the National Weather Service at http://www.nhc.noaa.gov, and local media to stay aware of any weather developments in their area.Minor tropical storms can develop into hurricanes very quickly, limiting the time available for a safe evacuation.Travelers should apprise family and friends in the U.S. of their whereabouts, and keep in close contact with their tour operator, hotel staff, and local officials for evacuation instructions in the event of a weather emergency. Travelers should also protect their travel and identity documents against loss or damage, as the need to replace lost documentation could hamper or delay return to the United States.

U.S. citizens are strongly encouraged to register with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate through the Department of State’s travel registration website at https://travelregistration.state.gov.By registering, American citizens can receive the Embassy’s most recent security and safety updates during their trip.Registration also ensures that U.S. citizens can be reached should an emergency arise either abroad or at home.While Consular Officers will do their utmost to assist Americans in a crisis, travelers should always be aware that local authorities bear primary responsibility for the welfare of people living or traveling in their jurisdictions.

Additional information on hurricanes and storm preparedness may be found on the Hurricane Season 2008 page of the Bureau of Consular Affairs’ website at: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/hurricane_season/hurricane_season_3795.html or in the “Hurricane Season-Know Before You Go” pamphlet at: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/hurricane_season/hurricane_season_2915.html.Updated information on travel in hurricane-prone regions may be obtained from the Department of State by calling 1-888-407-4747 within the United States and Canada, or from overseas, 1-202-501-4444. Travelers to the region are encouraged to check the Internet site of the U.S. Embassy or Consulate with consular responsibilities for the territory they will be visiting (accessible via http://usembassy.state.gov/).For further information please consult the Country Specific Information Sheet for the country or territory in question, available via the Internet at http://travel.state.gov.

This Travel Warning updates information on security threats and ongoing political violence in Lebanon and informs U.S. citizens of current safety and security concerns. The Department of State continues to urge that Americans avoid all travel to Lebanon. Americans who live and work in Lebanon presently should understand that they are accepting risks in remaining and should carefully consider those risks. This supersedes the Travel Warning for Lebanon issued on May 19, 2008.

On May 7, 2008, Hizballah militants blocked the road to Rafiq Hariri International Airport. The action rendered the airport inaccessible and travelers were unable to enter or leave the country via commercial air carriers. Armed Hizballah and other opposition members proceeded to enter areas of Lebanon not traditionally under their control resulting in heavy fighting and a number of casualties. While there is now full access to the airport and widespread hostilities have subsided, the United States is concerned about Hizballah’s willingness to use violence to achieve political ends with little or no warning.

The threat of anti-Western terrorist activity exists in
Lebanon; groups such as Al-Qaeda and Jund al-Sham are present in the country and have issued statements calling for attacks against Western interests in the past.

U.S. citizens traveling to Lebanon or resident in Lebanon should be aware that the U.S. Embassy has limited ability to reach all areas of Lebanon. The Embassy cannot guarantee that Embassy employees can render assistance to U.S. citizens in all areas of the country. Furthermore, in the event that the security climate in the country worsens, American citizens should be aware that they will bear the responsibility of arranging their own travel out of Lebanon. American citizens with special medical or other needs should be aware of the risks of remaining given their condition and be prepared to be treated in Lebanon if they cannot arrange for travel out of the country.

U.S. Government-facilitated evacuations such as took place in 2006 occur only when no safe commercial alternatives exist. Evacuation would be provided on a cost-recovery basis, which means the traveler must reimburse the U.S. government for the cost of the travel. The lack of valid travel documents (U.S. passport or U.S. visa, as appropriate) will slow the U.S. Embassy’s ability to provide assistance. Further information on the department’s role during emergencies is provided at http://www.travel.state.gov/travel/tips/emergencies/emergencies_1212.html

Landmines and unexploded ordnance continually pose significant dangers throughout southern Lebanon, particularly south of the Litani River, as well as in areas of the country where civil war fighting was intense. More than a dozen civilians have been killed and over 100 injured by unexploded ordnance following the armed conflict in July-August 2006. Travelers should watch for posted landmine warnings and strictly avoid all areas where landmines and unexploded ordnance may be present.

The Department of State considers the threat to U.S. government personnel in Beirut sufficiently serious to require them to live and work under strict security restrictions. These practices limit, and may occasionally prevent, access by U.S. Embassy officials to certain areas of the country. Unofficial travel to Lebanon by U.S. government employees and their family members requires prior approval by the Department of State.

The Embassy is located in Awkar, near Antelias, Beirut, Lebanon. Public access hours for American citizens are Monday through Thursday, 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.; however, American citizens who require emergency services outside of these hours may contact the embassy by telephone at any time. The telephone numbers are (961-4) 542-600, 543-600, and fax 544-209.

American citizens may register with the embassy online by visiting https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs. Americans are strongly encouraged to update their registration information if it is no longer current. Information on consular services and registration can also be found at http://lebanon.usembassy.gov or by phone at the above telephone numbers between 2:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday local time.

Updated information on travel and security in Lebanon may be obtained from the Department of State by calling 1-888-407-4747 within the United States and Canada or, from overseas, 1-202-501-4444. Additional details can be found in the Department of State’s Country Specific Information for Lebanon, and the Worldwide Caution, which are available on the Department’s Internet website at http://travel.state.gov.

Sometimes when I get ready for a trip, I aways feel like I am forgetting something. Usually I miss something that I end up buying and it costs me an arm an a leg. Here is a “getting started” packing list to help you not forget - and not get taken on your next trip.

Packing List

Money, documents

• credit and debit cards
• picture id
• passport or other id if needed. (If kids are leaving the country with only one birth parent, a document authorizing their travel might be needed.
• health insurance documents
• travel insurance documents
• vaccination documents, if needed
• membership cards: AAA; Disney Club; etc.
• airplane Tickets or confirmation number
• car reservation number
• Coupons for hotels, car rental, etc.
• directions to hotel(s)
• itinerary
• address book

For planes and cars

• stuff to amuse the kids
• snacks and drinks
• any medication that might be needed
• tweezers
• ear plugs
• foot powder
• lip balm
• ear plugs
• sleep aids
• bandaids
• moleskin for blisters, elastic tape, scissors
• children’s medicine for fever, colds, etc.
• allergy kit, if needed
• feminine hygiene products
• prescription medicines
• birth control
• vitamins

Beachgear

• swimsuits (two per person)
• sandals
• aqua shoes
• goggles, face masks, snorkels
• waterproof disposable camera
• hats
• sunglasses
• lip balm with sunscreen

Outdoors gear

• insect repellant
• afterbite, for insect bites
• good shoes for hiking
• layers of clothes, especially fleece
• socks that will “wick” (draw moisture away from the skin)
• blister kit: i.e. moleskin, elastic tape, scissors, bandaids
• wool hat and gloves if the weather is chilly
• rain gear

Theme park gear

• blister kit
• good footwear. Some people recommend socks and sneakers, but in hot Orlando we wear sandals, period.
• hats, sunscreens, lip balm
• bandana, to soak with water for a cool-down
• frozen juice packs, if you have a fridge
• water bottle
• water spritzer/fan gadgets– usually available at Orlando Walmarts for $5; or buy the expensive theme park versions.
• umbrella or poncho, if thunderstorms are expected
• camera, film, camcorder, etc.
• lots of snacks

Baby Gear

• diapers, including lots for the plane trip in case you miss a connection
• diaper rash cream
• changing pad
• ziploc bag for soiled clothes
• baby wipes
• receiving blankets (lightweight and soft)
• waterproof sheet
• car seat
• stroller
• backpack
• front-style baby carriers
• lots of clothes, even for the plane ride, and a change of clothes for yourself on the plane, just in case.
• formula, juice
• bottles, nipples, bottle caps
• sippy cup
• snacks
• pacifiers if needed
• bibs
• baby food, spoons, bowl with lid
• lots of amusements

technology

• cell phone (could work as a travel alarm too)
• cell phone charger
• digital camera - extra media
• camera and lots of film
• batteries for camera(s)
• digital recorder/camcorder, and batteries
• “personal radios”: two-way walkie-talkies

miscellaneous

• notebook/journal
• guidebooks– buy the best! It’s a small investment.
• maps
• binoculars
• flashlight
• batteries
• needle, thread
• nightlight
• travel alarm clock
• calculator for foreign currency
• ziploc bags that actually zip: for toiletries, crayons, wet swimsuits…
• plastic food containers: pack with snacks to eat on the plane; later, bring to restaurants for those occasions when your kids won’t eat their food (but will be hungry 15 minutes later…)
• cereal! Save money and, more important, TIME, by having breakfast in your room. Powdered milk can be used in a pinch. Bring plastic spoons.
• wet wipes
• special wet-wipes for removing stains from clothes.

As for clothes: “traveling light” is great advice; I just don’t find it applies to travel with kids. You’re already carrying so much stuff, why scrimp on clothes? I prefer to bring enough that I never have to waste time doing laundry. But the choice is yours!

Tips: very useful for boys are pants that become shorts when the bottom parts zips off

• bring lots of t-shirts including a few oldies that can be thrown away
• even in a hot climate, bring a jacket or sweater: air-conditioned restaurants can get cold.

Now you are ready for your next great adventure - relax!

Experience the natural beauty of the Florida woodlands that makes this majestic course one of America’s premier resort destinations. Both a pleasure to play and one of Disney’s toughest courses, this Joe Lee masterpiece features sparkling lakes and tropical sand, all in a gorgeous golf landscape populated with strategically placed palms. Played each year as part of the Children’s Miracle Network Classic presented by Wal-Mart, Disney’s Palm offers plenty of challenges for the novice and seasoned pro alike.

On this beautiful course, be prepared to see deer and other wildlife as you play in the early mornings. Also be sure to check the sand traps for alligators, our party saw two, who enjoy sunning themselves on the course. The 18th hole is rated the fourth-toughest hole on the PGA Tour. This course is rated one of “America’s Top 75 Resort Courses”.

Enhance your on-course experience with the latest GPS Technology. This state-of-the-art service offers realistic images of course fairways, greens and hazards that add a new dimension to the golf experience. Other GPS Technology features include detailed 3D views of each hole, precise yardage to different fairway and green locations, professional tips that aid course strategy, and the ability to monitor pace of play and communicate to course management.

We found the course to be in great shape! The greens were cut thin and the fairways were very well manicured. One suggestion, do not go after your golf ball if it goes into the “woods.” They’re not kidding when they say there is wildlife and some of it not so friendly. We enjoyed the water hazards as well as the fluffy white sand traps. I must say that I wanted to see a little more “Disney” in the course. The Mickey heads for the tees were nice, but I just wanted a little more fun. As a Disney World Guest, we were able to reserve a tee time 60 days in advance - great for us A-personality types. Day Guests can reserve tee times 30 days in advance. They also offer free taxi vouchers for all Walt Disney World Resort Guests.

Carefreetrip.com gives Walt Disney World’s Palm Course out of 5 suitcases.

Top 10 Airline Safety Tips from airsafe.com

Fly on Nonstop Routings
Most accidents occur during the takeoff, climb, descent, and landing phase of flight so flying nonstop would reduce exposure to these most accident prone phases of flight.

Choose Larger Aircraft
Currently, aircraft with more than 30 passenger seats were all designed and certified under the strictest regulations. Also, in the unlikely event of a serious accident, larger aircraft provide a better opportunity for passenger survival.

Pay Attention to the Preflight Briefing
Although the information seems repetitious, the locations of the closest emergency exits may be different depending on the aircraft that you fly on and seat you are in.

Keep the Overhead Storage Bin Free of Heavy Articles
Overhead storage bins may not be able to hold very heavy objects during turbulence, so if you or another passenger have trouble lifting an article into the bin, have it stored elsewhere.

Keep Your Seat Belt Fastened While You are Seated
Keeping the belt on when you are seated provides that extra protection you might need if the plane hits unexpected turbulence.

Listen to the Flight Attendants
The primary reason flight attendants are on an aircraft is for safety, so if one of them asks you to do something like fasten your seat belts, do it first and ask questions later.

Don’t Bring Any Hazardous Material
There are rather long lists of hazardous materials that are not allowed, but common sense should tell you that you shouldn’t bring gasoline, corrosives, poisonous gases, and other such items on the aircraft unless they were allowed by the airline and shipped in a proper container.
Details on dangerous baggage

Let the Flight Attendant Pour Your Hot Drinks
Flight attendants are trained to handle hot drinks like coffee or tea in a crowded aisle on a moving aircraft, so allow them to pour the drink and hand it too you.

Don’t Drink Too Much
The atmosphere in an airliner cabin is pressurized to about the same altitude as Denver, so any alcohol you consume will affect you more strongly than at sea level. Moderation is a good policy at any altitude.

Keep Your Wits About You
In the unlikely event that you are involved in an emergency situation such as a precautionary emergency evacuation, follow the directions of the flight attendants and flight crew and exit the aircraft as quickly as possible.

Travel smart, travel safe, travel informed!

This Travel Alert advises American citizens of an increase in violent attacks on foreigners, particularly refugees or immigrants from other African nations.American citizens in South Africa are urged to monitor media reports and to avoid areas where attacks may be likely to occur.This Travel Alert expires on July 1, 2008.

In recent weeks, South Africa has seen an increase in the frequency, size, and duration of “xenophobic” attacks directed at foreigners – particularly refugees or immigrants from other African nations.The most recent attacks started in the Johannesburg township of Alexandra but spread to other low income neighborhoods and informal settlements.Several recent incidents of mob violence have taken place in other areas of Johannesburg including the Central Business District (CBD), Hillbrow, and Soweto.An undetermined number of persons have been killed in these incidents and many more, including both targeted victims and bystanders, have been injured.So far, most violent incidents have taken place at night.

While there have been no reports of Americans or other non-African visitors being targeted, these incidents of mob violence have developed quickly and proven difficult for local authorities to control.American residents and visitors are advised to listen to local media for reports of such incidents and to avoid areas (including but not limited to townships) where they may be likely to occur.American citizens are reminded that while the most recent outbreak has been concentrated in the Johannesburg area, there have been attacks on foreigners in other areas and the potential exists for them to spread to other regions with little or no warning.

All Americans in South Africa are urged to register either online at https://travelregistration.state.gov or by phone or in person directly with the U.S. Embassy in Pretoria or the Consulates General in Johannesburg, Cape Town, or Durban.Registering gives U.S. citizens access to updated information on travel and security within South Africa and makes it easier for the Embassy to contact them in case of emergency.

The U.S. Embassy is located at 877 Pretorius Street, Arcadia in Pretoria, telephone (27-12) 431-4000 (from South Africa 012-431-4000), fax (27-12) 431-5504 (from South Africa 012-431-5504).The U.S. Embassy web site is http://usembassy.state.gov/pretoria/.

The U.S. Consulates General are at the following locations:

The Consulate General in Johannesburg, which provides consular services for Americans in both Johannesburg and Pretoria, is located at No. 1 River Street (corner of River and Riviera Roads), Killarney, Johannesburg telephone (27-11) 644-8000 (from South Africa 011-644-8000), fax (27-11)646-6916 (from South Africa (011-646-6916).Its consular jurisdiction includes Gauteng, Mpumalanga, Limpopo, North West, and Free State provinces.

The Consulate General in Cape Town is located at 2 Reddam Avenue, Westlake, Cape Town, telephone (27-21) 702-7300 (from South Africa 021-702-7300), fax (27-21) 702-7493 (from South Africa 021-702-7493).Its consular jurisdiction includes Western Cape, Eastern Cape, and Northern Cape provinces.

The Consulate General in Durban is located at the Old Mutual Building, 31st floor, 303 West Street, telephone (27-31) 305-7600 (from South Africa 031-305-7600), fax (27- 31) 305-7691 (from South Africa 031-305-7691).Its consular jurisdiction is the province of KwaZulu-Natal.

As the Department continues to develop information on any potential security threats to U.S. citizens overseas, it shares credible threat information through its consular information program documents, available on the Internet at http://travel.state.gov. In addition to information on the Internet, travelers may obtain up-to-date information on security conditions by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the U.S. and Canada, or outside the U.S. and Canada on a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444.

With people planning their summer vacations, and trying to save money, here are some cheap tricks for your next road trip.

1. With the high cost of gas, this is the summer to explore the small towns, state parks and lesser-known Attractions that lie close to home. Most people can think of 10 places within a three hour drive where they have always wanted to go, but have never been. Stay close and save.
2. Maximize your fuel economy by heeding the speed limit. It takes 20 percent more gas to travel at 65 mph than at 55 mph and 75 percent more when driving 75 mph than 65 mph. Slow down and save.
3. Don’t forget to use discounts that you might already have, such as AAA. If you are going to multiple national parks, you could save significantly by purchasing an annual pass. Buy bulk and save.
4. If you are renting a car - Shop AROUND! Rental prices so much it will be well work your time. Shop around and save.
5. Skip eating out and picnic. The kids can run, stretch their legs and you save money. Picnic and save.
6. Leave early in the morning or late at night to avoid traffic jams and conserve gas. By the way, the kids will sleep making the ride a little easier on you. Leave early/late and save.