Staying safe on the go 

Travel AlertsChances are you read the news, Google your destinations and keep an eye out for any updates. But are there other ways to stay abreast of current events around the world?

The US government has a freshly renovated International Travel page, which broadcasts warnings from around the world.

Travel guru, Chris Elliott says, "Pages are easier to navigate through fly-out menus, and there are helpful icons for printing documents or e-mailing a particular page."

But Elliot goes on to warn about "watered down" travel warnings his readers say are alarmist. Case in point, "Several American visitors have reported experiencing excessive drowsiness, confusion, dizziness, and nausea after drinking alcohol in public areas such as hotel bars and night clubs in several cities throughout the Netherlands."  

I have those symptoms most Saturdays.

For breaking news like last week's upheaval in Kenya, the alerts and warnings will give you a good overview. Trust your instincts and consult other guides before cancelling your plans though. Our favorite guides range from high-class to hippy so look for something that speaks your language and operates within your comfort zone.

• The Lonely Planet
• Fodors
• Road Junky

Where do you go for safety travel advice?

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