BUFFALO, N.Y. — Spring break is fast approaching, and many Americans are planning on traveling this year. According to AAA, there is a significant increase in people planning on traveling internationally.
With the recent news of American tourists being abducted and killed in Mexico, AAA is issuing more advice on how to stay safe while traveling internationally.
AAA is advising travelers to enroll in STEP, the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, which is a free service for U.S. citizens to enroll their vacation at the nearest U.S. Embassy. This will provide the traveler with emergency messages as well as make it easier for the Embassy to locate them in case of an emergency.
Other advice is to book trip excursions through a travel agent or directly with the cruise line if on a cruise. AAA advises travelers to not use excursion or transportation services offered from independent business outside of resorts.
As always, vacationers should be on alert, no matter where they are traveling.
“Families are making up for lost time,” said Paula Twidale, AAA Senior Vice President of Travel. “We’ve seen a spike in international Spring Break bookings. Americans are taking advantage of the strong U.S. dollar and the exchange rate in Europe. Travelers looking for warm weather are flocking to the Caribbean and Mexico or sailing to tropical destinations while enjoying the amenities of a cruise vacation.”
AAA reports that international travel is up 30% this year from 2022. Beaches are a popular destination and cruises are a big way people are reaching them.
Still haven't planned you spring break trip? AAA advises last minute travelers to think outside the box and maybe head to a city in a colder climate where hotels are cheaper this time of year. Look for locations with indoor pools and research free museums or outdoor attractions.