Winter Break Travel

UT Dallas will be closed for Winter Break from December 23, 2024 through January 02, 2025. If you are abroad on university travel during this time, learn more about mitigating risks, staying informed, and being prepared for an emergency abroad. 

Important guidelines for university travel abroad 

• Obtain Travel Authorization: Obtain authorization prior to departure. 
• Know Your Insurance: Review your coverage benefits. 
• Enroll in the U.S. Department of State’s STEP program to get alerts for your destination. 
• Register Your Trip: Register your trip prior to departure. 
• Save the On Call contact to your phone. Call 24/7 for travel and emergency assistance. 

Before Your Trip 

• Assess Destination Risks – Understand safety and security risks, health risks, and weather conditions at your destination.  
• Cold Weather Preparedness – Winter weather can vary significantly. Monitor weather forecasts closely leading up to your trip. Be especially aware of cold weather risks, such as frostbite or hypothermia. Proper clothing and gear are crucial.  
• Medical and Health Considerations – Schedule a check-up with your doctor, especially if you have pre-existing health concerns. Ensure all vaccinations are up to date, and talk about any medical concerns specific to your destination. Learn more about traveling with medications. Make sure you carry all necessary medications and health documentation with you. 
• Emergency Plan – Develop a plan to stay in touch with friends, family, and the university during an emergency. Share your itinerary, emergency contacts, and health information. 
• Travel Alerts – Use the U.S. Department of State’s Country Sheet to find local alerts and subscribe to them. 

During your trip 

Health and Weather 

• Emergency Services and Travel Assistance – Have a list of emergency contacts and local medical facilities for your destination. UT Dallas travelers can call On Call International at any time for assistance at +1 (978) 651-9722. 
• Dress Appropriately for Cold Weather – In extreme cold, it’s important to adjust your clothing layers accordingly. If you’re outside for long periods, remove layers to prevent sweating, which increases the risk of hypothermia. 
• Prevent slips and falls – Icy sidewalks and streets pose a significant hazard in winter. Wear shoes with good traction to prevent falls. Be particularly cautious on stairs, sidewalks, and other frequently used paths. 
• Health considerations – Masking in crowded spaces, especially when feeling sick or surrounded by others who may be ill, is advisable. Wash or disinfect your hands frequently to reduce the risk of illness. Keep an eye out for signs of cold weather injuries like hypothermia or frostbite. Seek medical care immediately if you experience any symptoms. Learn more about managing medical emergency 
• Stay hydrated and nourished – Dehydration can happen even in cold climates. Drink warm beverages like tea or broth to stay hydrated and maintain body temperature. Consume energy-rich snacks to maintain warmth, especially during extended outdoor activities. 
• Alcohol and Drugs – Avoid alcohol and drugs while traveling. They can impair judgment, decrease body temperature, and increase the risk of injury. 

Petty Crime 

• Stay Alert: Minimize distractions like mobile phones and headphones in public. 
• High-Risk Areas: Be extra cautious in crowded places like public transportation, shopping venues, and cultural attractions. 
• Carry Less: Limit the amount of cash and valuables you carry. 
• Secure Your Belongings: Use cross-body bags and avoid placing valuables in back pockets. 
• Be Wary of Strangers: Pickpockets often work in teams and use distractions. 

Protests 

• Avoid Protests: Steer clear of demonstrations and leave immediately if one starts. 
• No Engagement: Do not interact with or photograph protesters. 
• Seek Alternative Routes: Avoid areas with barriers or protests. 

Terrorist Attacks 

• While unlikely, it is important to be prepared. 
• Follow Directives: Adhere to official instructions during an attack. 
• Immediate Evacuation: Leave the area if safe to do so or shelter in place. Do not go to mass transportation points in the immediate aftermath due to potential secondary attacks. 
• No Photos/Videos: Avoid taking pictures or videos of the scene. 
• Rally Points: Establish two meeting points for your group in case of an incident. 
• Communication: Use non-internet-based communication methods if networks are down. 

Additional Tips 

• Police Presence: Expect a substantial presence in case of an incident. 
• Identification: Carry a copy of your passport and keep the original in a safe location. 
• Charged Devices: Keep your personal communication devices charged. 
• Avoid Scams: Only purchase tickets and secure accommodations through trusted sources. 
• Cybersecurity: Practice safe online habits and review international travel guidelines. 
• Travel Disruptions: Plan for travel delays and increased traffic. 
• Safe transportation: Do not hail taxis from the street, avoid public buses. If you will use rideshare apps, check the car and driver match before getting in it. 

After Your Trip 

• Medical Follow-up – After returning home, it is important to schedule a follow-up appointment with your doctor. This is particularly essential for those who experienced illness or injury while abroad. 
• Update Your Emergency Plan – Reflect on any health or safety issues you encountered during your trip and update your emergency plan accordingly. 

Source and Resources 

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – Stay informed about health advisories specific to your destination, including required vaccinations and disease outbreaks.  
• U.S. Department of State (DOS) – Check the latest safety levels, local laws, and health risks for your destination.  
• Relevant Special Reports
  • Pre-Departure Risk Review – A detailed checklist to assess risks prior to departure.  
  • Risk Authorization Request – Required for destinations classified as high-risk by UT Dallas. This form helps ensure proper risk assessment and mitigation measures.  
  • Traveling With Medications – Guidance on how to manage prescription medications while traveling.  
  • Cold Weather Travel – Guide providing recommendations for mitigating risks when traveling to cold climates 
• International Risk and Safety website  

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