Whether it’s vacation or business travel that takes you outside of US borders, one of your priorities should be security planning. It’s easy to overlook if you’re not in the habit of doing. But Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation (LAEDC) spokesperson and Counterterrorism Expert Elsa Lee warns to keep alert, even while you’re on vacation or traveling during the holidays.

“For those who are making last minute travel plans, security is even more critical, because probably just focused on getting there” said Lee. “As for vacation planning, it should include security. Families traveling overseas should have a three phase action plan – one for pre travel, a second plan while traveling, and a post travel action plan.”

Elsa Lee is one of the few Americans who comprise the United States true-to-form counterterrorism experts. Lee is CEO, President, and founder of Advantage SCI, LLC, based in Redondo Beach, CA – serving government and private industry clients globally. She has 23 years of public and private sector experience in anti-terrorism operations, counterespionage investigations, threat and vulnerability assessments, and information systems security in the United States, Asia, Central America, and Europe.

Lee offers tourists and travelers these international safety and security tips:

During pre-travel, a family member or companion should conduct a quick scan of news for the region, identify where hospitals are located, make a note of the address and phone number to the nearest US Embassy, and if possible, have an idea of where police stations are located.

Plan to take only the bare essentials. Leave valuables and non-prescription medications at home.

Take clothing that allows you to blend with the local environment and which does not immediately identify you as an American. You don’t know where terrorist sympathizers and kidnappers are these days and you don’t want to become a target or victim of terrorist or criminal activity by showing your patriotism in uncharted territory.

Give a copy of your itinerary to a friend or family member and make arrangements to check back in with them when you return from your trip. Let them know when to worry and at what point they should consider taking some form of action.

Visit the Department of State website for a travel advisory about the region you’re visiting.

Last fall Lee contributed to a new Homeland Security Study with terrorism experts from the RAND Corporation and LAEDC. The Study revealed what America has learned since 9-11, and what Homeland Security should address in the near future. The study findings were reviewed by Congress after the Spain train bombing.