Abilene, Tex.: We will be in St. Lucia October 25-30, 2007. Other than "don't drink the water", what are the 2-3 top concerns/safety tips for any destination outside the U.S.?

Thanks,
Lorne

Peter E. Tarlow: Often the water may be safe. Check with the local authorities regarding crime. Use common sense, travel as if you would in any new place and always remember if you cannot afford to loose it, do not take it. Travel with less and never leave unprotected articles in your room.

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Carson, Tex.: Theft on flights...Does this happen?

Peter E. Tarlow: Yes, often. Especially when people go to the bathroom. Place articles on the rack opposite to where you are seated rather than over your head.

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Lemon Grove, Calif.: Are there any countries now that Americans should be VERY cautious about traveling to that has not been publicized through our media?

Peter E. Tarlow: Haiti, the Caribbean, much of Central America and parts of Mexico and South America. Please be careful when traveling. That is why we hold a annual tourism security conference in Las Vegas.

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San Francisco, Calif.: Has London's tourism industry suffered as of late because of the attacks & attempts recently? Any advice or precautions that should be taken while visiting now since they seem to be targeting touristy areas?

Peter E. Tarlow: Not much. London suffers from crime and high prices, but has a very good and efficient police force.

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Hampton, Va.: What airlines do you all feel are rated highly on security checks and thoroughness of the safety of its passengers?

Peter E. Tarlow: El Al is the best. U.S. carriers are adquate and all follow the same regulations.

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Los Angeles, CA: I'm looking into volunteer abroad programs where you work with local NGOS on community development. I'm thinking about going to Morocco or India. Is it unsafe for an Americanized Asian female to live there for a period of 2-3 months?

Peter E. Tarlow: Be careful. It is a question of luck and how well you comport yourself while you are abroad. Higher probability of being robbed than kidnapped. Never let your guard down, especially in the developing world.

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Palestine, Tex.: When traveling to crime-infested big cities overseas, any recommendations on where to store or hide purchases, tickets, etc., in hotel rooms that do not provide safe deposit boxes?

Peter E. Tarlow: If the hotel does not provide a safe deposit box, it is probaly not safe. Pick another hotel. Saving a few dollars is not worth an assault or the hassle of losing your passport.

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Milwaukee, Wis.: I'll be traveling throughout the Hawaiian Islands in March with my young granddaughter. I'm 65 with totally white hair, born and raised in the U.S., but I keep being pulled out of line for additional security. My concern now is losing my granddaughter in the crowds through security if I'm again pulled out of line. I can't imagine what I'm doing wrong in going through security. I don't set off any alarms, I try to arrange my purse and carry on for easy x-ray and generally they never open them. Only once did they examine my DVD player with their special wipes--otherwise everything goes through without a problem. Please help keep my from losing my granddaughter.

Peter E. Tarlow: Ask security if your granddaughter can be with you should you be pulled out of line, then check to make sure that your name is not accidently on a terrorist list.

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Pomona, Calif.: I see a breakdown in security enforcement at the airports. What's going on?

Peter E. Tarlow: Some airports are excellent and some are not. You cannot control TSA so try to use airports with good security. Unfortunately, airport security is not standardized around the U.S. In the end there is always risk in travel.

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Arroyo Grande, Calif.: I paint in oils and need turpentine to clean brushes and palette. When planning a trip via air, can I pack turpentine, or turp substitute in my packed bag, or is that a fire hazard? Is there a proper container to use if I can bring this item? Thank you.

Peter E. Tarlow: Check with your local TSA airport representative and show him/her the container to get the best information.

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Los Gatos, CA: Going to Costa Rica in December. Are there any safety tips you have for traveling in that country that we should be aware of?

Peter E. Tarlow: Yes, be careful of sexual assaults, what is called, sequestro expres, or short term kidnappings, and general robberies. Costa Rica's crime rate has risen recently so be very careful.

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Peter E. Tarlow: Thank you for your wonderful questions. The Las Vegas tourism security and safety conference is going on right now to try to promote travel safety. Please remember to ask before you travel and always use good common sense. --Peter Tarlow