Where Can Army Personnel Vacation Internationally?

Military personnel are allowed to travel to other countries on vacation, but they must follow foreign travel procedures. These procedures include pre-travel training and registering with the Embassy in the country they are visiting. Some countries are off-limits to military personnel, such as North Korea, Iran, Russia, and China. However, it is important to note that the list of restricted countries can change over time. Military bases worldwide also offer vacation spots, camping areas, and affordable lodging for military personnel and their families.

Army personnel must follow foreign travel procedures

Various countries in Europe require Americans to register with the Embassy before leave or TDY travel. This can be done using STEP on the U.S. State Department website. For more information, the Foreign Clearance Guide can be consulted (log-in required).

If you are unsure about whether you are allowed to travel to a certain country, check the state department's travel advisories. If a place you want to go is deemed risky, you will need a compelling reason to get it approved. There are also unit and job-specific restrictions on travel. For example, some units do not allow travel to certain countries by car, but do allow travel by plane.

There are also practical considerations to take into account when travelling to other countries, such as whether you need to get any vaccinations.

Vaccinations may be required for travel

Military personnel, civilians, command-sponsored dependents, and contractors must follow foreign travel procedures. These vary depending on the country and the individual's role. For example, U.S. military personnel must refer to the United States Army Garrison Italy operation order (op-ord) 16-045, Foreign Travel Procedures for U.S. Personnel. Pre-travel training must be done before outside travel. This training consists of one or more of a series of modules located in Army Knowledge Online (AKO). Various countries in Europe require Americans to register with the Embassy before leave or TDY travel. This can be accomplished using STEP on the U.S. State Department website.

Some countries may require specific vaccinations for entry. It is important to check the requirements for your destination and ensure you have the necessary vaccinations before travelling. Vaccinations may be required to protect against diseases such as yellow fever, measles, mumps, rubella, and polio. Some countries may also require proof of vaccination against COVID-19. It is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional to determine which vaccinations are needed and to allow enough time for them to take effect.

In addition to vaccination requirements, there may be other health considerations when travelling to certain countries. It is important to be aware of any disease outbreaks or other health risks specific to your destination. The Armed Forces Vacation Club offers affordable condominium rentals at resorts around the world on a space-available basis. Military personnel and their families can also access a variety of tax preparation and filing services for free.

It is worth noting that there may be restrictions on travel to certain countries or areas within countries. These restrictions can change over time, so it is important to stay informed and check the latest guidance. Some countries, such as North Korea, Iran, Russia, and China, may be off-limits or require special approval. Driving to certain destinations may also be prohibited due to safety concerns, as in the case of Mexico, where flying was permitted but driving was not.

Some countries are off-limits

Members of the military are allowed to travel to other countries on vacation, but there are some restrictions. Military personnel, civilians, command-sponsored dependents, and contractors must follow foreign travel procedures. Pre-travel training must be completed before outside travel, and various countries in Europe require Americans to register with the Embassy before leave or TDY travel. Vaccinations may also be required or recommended for the countries you plan to visit.

Travel advisories may affect travel plans

Some countries may be off-limits to military personnel. For example, North Korea, Iran, Russia, and China are mentioned as countries that require a compelling reason to visit. However, it is also noted that travel advisories change all the time, and some countries that were previously off-limits may now be accessible.

It is important to check the state department's travel advisories before planning any travel. If a destination is deemed risky, military personnel may need a compelling reason to get their travel approved. In some cases, travel to certain areas may be prohibited altogether.

Additionally, vaccinations required or recommended for the countries you plan to visit may affect your travel plans. It is important to be aware of any outbreaks of diseases that could impact your trip.

Army personnel can access affordable lodging worldwide

U.S. military personnel, civilians, command-sponsored dependents, and contractors must follow foreign travel procedures. Pre-travel training must be done before outside travel. Training consists of one or more of a series of modules located in Army Knowledge Online (AKO). Various countries in Europe require Americans to register with the Embassy before leave or TDY travel. Accomplish this using STEP on the U.S. State Department website. For more information, contact your unit antiterrorism officer or security personnel.

There are some countries that are off-limits to military personnel. These include North Korea, Iran, Russia, and China. However, this list changes all the time and there are some countries that are off-limits to certain units or jobs. For example, one unit was not allowed to drive to Mexico, but they were allowed to fly there.

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