International Travel & Health News – Avoiding the Safety Risks of Travel Abroad and Managing Cultural and Medical Displays of Severe Symptoms
Travel is the transport of individuals between distant geographic locations. Travel can take place by foot, car, plane, train, truck, bicycle, boat or any other mode, with or without additional luggage, and may be one way travel or round trip travel. Most travelers are on transit to a more permanent destination, either for business or pleasure. There are many forms of travel. There are land tours, such as hiking, riding horseback, mountain climbing, rafting, secluded river cruises, air tours, boat tours, and even driving tours where the vehicle is the mode of travel.
One form of travel is called traffic light system which refers to the system of signals that informs the motorist of the end of the free flow of traffic. When approaching an intersection, or if turning left or right, the signal helps the driver to know what actions to take in order to allow the free flow of traffic. In terms of tourism, travel abroad is a unique way to witness the culture and history of a country.
A British citizen once commented to me on the subject of travelling abroad on the NHS Coviduction site, “You’re not really seeing much of the country, except for the traffic light system.” I would agree that the traffic light system is a very big part of the experience of travel abroad. I have been back home to the UK four times now since last summer and each time has offered a new perspective on the country and its people. I believe that all journeys offer a new chance to see things in a new way. As the young wife and husband, who has been to Pakistan twice, and now to Egypt, recently said to me on our Skype connection: “it was like we were seeing people for the first time. It’s like they’re always there, but you don’t actually see them.”
This is true of most traditional holidays where social distancing is a major factor, however, online travel experiences offer far greater opportunities for cultural and historical exploration. The most interesting aspect of social distancing in a traditional holiday is the time you spend with the other family members who are often hundreds of miles away. I have never met my own family members online, however, through the work I do as a consultant for the internet and social networking I have met a few. The opportunity to meet new people offers a more profound understanding of a country than any amount of local study could provide. One of the benefits of travel abroad is the ability to learn about a country in the local language of the traveller rather than using English. Although English is widely spoken throughout most of Europe, the ability to interact with people who speak your mother tongue can enrich your overall travel experience, as well as providing valuable insights into local life and culture.
International travel can also offer an excellent opportunity to administer vaccines when you visit any destination, rather than just in-country. Even though there are no guarantees, travellers can ensure they receive the highest level of security and care when travelling abroad by becoming up-to-date with routine immunizations. One particular travel vaccines most recommended for young children and adults alike is the HPV vaccine, which is administered either during travel or immediately afterwards.
For many vaccines, it is best to consult with your doctor or travel clinic in advance of departure. In the case of the HPV vaccine, it is strongly recommended you receive the vaccine when you travel abroad if you reside in countries that are known to have low vaccination rates. When applying for travel updates ensure you are getting the latest updates on travel restrictions and vaccination schedules.