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When traveling abroad, be smart by Sarah Lawhon Public Relations Looking forward to an overseas trip? Don’t forget to pack some common sense and knowledge of local mores and laws. The opportunity for traveling and studying abroad is an unforgettable experience, but that experience may be ruined, due to reckless behavior and poor decisions.   Each year, more than 2,500 American citizens are arrested abroad-about half on drug related charges, including possession of miniscule amounts of certain substances according to the U.S. Bureau of Consular Affairs. A drug that is legal in one country may be illegal in a neighboring nation. It is one’s responsibility to know what the laws, customs, or standards are before visiting a foreign country.   Besides drugs, alcohol can also play a role in reckless behavior and poor decisions. Many U.S. citizens have been arrested for public intoxication and driving under the influence.   Unfortunately, some young Americans travel abroad with the idea that local authorities will overlook such conduct or think, “It could never happen to me.” The truth is Americans are expected to obey all laws of the countries they visit, and those who break these foreign laws may face severe penalties, including prison sentences and exorbitant fines.   Being arrested can taint your memorable experience, but heavy drinking and drug use will impair judgment and increase the chance of being severely injured or even dying in accidents such as automobile accidents, drowning, or falling from a balcony. To ensure a safe and pleasant trip, avoid risky behavior and become familiar with the basic laws and customs of the country before visiting.   To obtain more information about traveling abroad, check the U.S. Department of State’s Internet Web site for the latest information on your destination at http://travel.state.gov. Or contact the Bureau of Consular Affairs, Office of Public Affairs Press inquires at (202) 647-1488.     Friday, April 21, 2006 Catalyst Online is published weekly, updated as needed and improved from time to time by the MUSC Office of Public Relations for the faculty, employees and students of the Medical University of South Carolina. Catalyst Online editor, Kim Draughn, can be reached at 792-4107 or by email, catalyst@musc.edu. Editorial copy can be submitted to Catalyst Online and to The Catalyst in print by fax, 792-6723, or by email to catalyst@musc.edu. To place an ad in The Catalyst hardcopy, call Island papers at 849-1778, ext. 201.