While on your educational program in El Salvador . . .

Do the Following . . .

• Listen carefully to all safety information during your in-country orientation.

• Keep your passport with you at all times, inside your clothing if possible (unless our staff directs you otherwise).

• Stay close together as a group when you are out in public.

• Always travel in groups of two or more.

• Always ask permission of a person before taping or photographing.

• Be cautious about what you say in public (including on airplanes and in airports, restaurants, and hotel lobbies). There will most likely be people around you who will understand English. Also, North Americans tend to speak in louder voices, so keep your voice at a low level--even when in your hotel room.

• Be respectful of resource people, even those with whom your views differ. This doesn’t mean that you have to avoid asking the “hard” questions, just ask them in a non-confrontational way.

• Be respectful of other group members. Before asking multiple questions of resource people, look around to see if others have questions. Remember that people have varied learning styles and may need more time before asking questions. Remember that you are part of a learning community and not simply an independent traveler.

• Drink a lot of water to maintain good health. When the weather is hot, you will dehydrate much more quickly! CGEE staff will assist you in finding sources of safe water.

Don't . . .

• Leave suitcases, bags, or purses unattended, even for a minute!

• Handle large amounts of money in public. Know how much you have and where it is.

• Wear flashy (or any) jewelry, watches, or expensive-looking sunglasses or display bulging pockets as this may increase the likelihood that you may be targeted for a robbery.

• Disclose the tentative schedule or names of resource persons and groups of which you may be aware. This information should not be given either to "friendly strangers," to other resource persons on the program, or to anyone outside of your group. If you want to ask someone about information provided by another resource person/organization, find a way to do this without mentioning the other person/organization (e.g. "I read before I came that. . .").

• Photograph military personnel or military installations. In many countries, airports and bridges are included in this prohibition. This is true for U.S. immigration and customs areas as well.

• Flush toilet paper down the toilet, it will stop up the septic system. Dispose in waste basket next to toilet.

Your group will have an orientation session upon arrival in El Salvador. You will receive additional information and have the opportunity to ask questions at that time. In the meantime, if you have any questions about the information contained in this website, call the CGEE Customized Programs staff at 612-330-1159.