TULSA, OK, May 21, 2016 /24-7PressRelease/ -- In the last ten years, 14 U.S. citizens have been detained while traveling through North Korea despite the best efforts of travelers and tour operators to follow safety precautions. North Korea is one of the most widely sanctioned countries in the world due to unannounced missile launches, nuclear tests and its violations of human rights.
Anyone traveling to North Korea should be aware that they will have no right to privacy. All electronic devices can be searched for what the North Koreans consider banned material. Cell phones, laptops and other devices can also be confiscated or monitored for illegal activities. Phones and devices with GPS capability are strictly prohibited. North Korea considers any disrespect for its leaders or government a crime that can be punishable by long sentences in hard labor camps and exorbitant fines. Other examples of punishable crimes are traveling without proper documentation, engaging in unauthorized religious activities, shopping at a store not approved for foreigners, taking photos without prior approval, participating in political events or interacting with the local population. Efforts by the U.S. Government to overturn sentences have proven unsuccessful and once detained; a person can be held indefinitely without charges being filed. There is no right to counsel and those held captive have even been coerced to make false statements on camera.
People traveling to North Korea should enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). Enrollment provides members with up-to-date travel information as well as making it easier to be located in an emergency, though in North Korea, that might prove difficult without access to the internet.
Voyager Vacation Club is a members-only travel club providing affordable vacation planning for members who receive benefits and discounts at hotels and condos, flights and rentals, cruises, activities and more.
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