Following reports of authorities seizing 10,000 gallons of tainted alcohol in Mexico, it’s important to take a minute to review safe travel practices, especially if you plan to consume alcohol in other countries. In the Mexico case, authorities opened an investigation into an illicit manufacturer who had been supplying numerous resorts, nightclubs and restaurants.
Allianz Global Assistance has teamed up with a former trauma nurse to offer some tips for staying safe while consuming alcohol overseas. The following ten tips were compiled by Kimberly Seay, RN, director of assistance at Allianz Global Assistance USA, and a former ER/Trauma nurse:
- Drink in moderation/limit alcohol usage
- Insist on watching your drink being made
- If you are suspicious of the color, then trust your instincts and—do not drink it
- Bottled or can beer does appear to be a safer option
- Insist that the beer is opened in your presence
- Buy your own alcohol at Duty Free and only drink what you brought, even if you are required to pay a “cork fee”
- Never, ever leave your drink unattended
- Be observant and aware of your surroundings
- If you do feel ill seek attention, don’t delay
- Call your travel insurance provider if you need help finding medical care, or if you are admitted to a hospital
While we can’t ever guarantee 100% safety wherever we travel, booking travel insurance for unforeseen situations is a good step to take before a trip begins. Companies like Allianz can cover you, like they cover me.
“Having travel insurance with sufficient medical coverage guarantees travelers won’t have to pay out-of-pocket for international care if they need medical treatment,” said Daniel Durazo, director of communications at Allianz Global Assistance USA. “The right travel insurance provider will also be there 24/7 to answer questions and help with problems. Our Allianz TravelSmart app provides helpful tools, including a database of approved healthcare facilities overseas, local emergency numbers, one touch dialing to reach your provider in an emergency, and more.”
Here’s to safe drinking and travel!
Disclaimer: Johnny Jet works as an ambassador for Allianz Global Assistance (AGA Service Company) and receives financial compensation.
For more information about Allianz Global, visit AllianzTravelInsurance.com.
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There are also several products that are small enough to put in pocket or purse that will detect some drugs (ie:date rape drugs,)here is a link to only one of them. https://www.forbes.com/sites/brucelee/2017/05/27/whats-in-your-drink-the-straw-that-can-detect-date-rape-drugs/#7bbde2c56ccb. My never fail safety is, if I am traveling alone, I only have a drink near my hotel and I let the desk know where I am going and approximate time I will be back. When I travel with someone we take turns one drinks one stays sober. We both have fun and stay safe.