Are you a US Citizen who is a long-term resident of Baja California? Or a casual tourist, just visiting for a few days?
Either way, there’s a great free resource for you available from the US State Department! Smart Traveler is the official State Department app for U.S. travelers. It provides access to frequently-updated official country information, travel alerts, travel warnings, maps, U.S. embassy locations, and more. With Smart Traveler, you can create personal itineraries, add notes, and organize your trips.
Smart Traveler also provides access to the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). STEP enrollment enables the State Department to better assist you in emergencies such as natural disasters, unrest in foreign countries, or lost/stolen passports overseas. During your travels, STEP can help your family and friends reach you in an emergency. Smart Traveler also provides quick access to the Department’s Consular Affairs Facebook and Twitter pages.
To get started, go to your app store and search for “Smart Traveler”. Download the app to your mobile device, and follow the on-screen directions to register for STEP. Part of the process includes identifying where you are (or will be), and for how long, as well as providing identification and address details. This allows email alerts specific to your geographical location to be sent in the event of natural disasters or other issues
Wherever you’re going, stay safer and use the SmartTraveler app and STEP. You’ll be glad you did!
