Government Advisories in Los Cabos

As different countries have different worldviews, look at travel advisories from a range of governments to get more of a sense of what's going on out there. And be sure to parse the language carefully. For example, a warning to "avoid all travel" carries more weight than one urging you to "avoid nonessential travel," and both are much stronger than a plea to "exercise caution." A U.S. government travel warning is more permanent (though not necessarily more serious) than a so-called public announcement, which carries an expiration date.

Consider registering online with the State Department (travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs), so the government will know to look for you should a crisis occur in the country you're visiting.

The U.S. Department of State's Web site has more than just travel warnings and advisories. The consular information sheets issued for every country have general safety tips, entry requirements (though be sure to verify these with the country's embassy), and other useful details.

General Information & Warnings

Australian Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade (www.smartraveller.gov.au). Consular Affairs Bureau of Canada (www.voyage.gc.ca). U.K. Foreign & Commonwealth Office (www.fco.gov.uk/travel). U.S. Department of State (www.travel.state.gov).