The U.S. State Department recently released a Smart Traveler application for the iPhone, iPad, and the iPod Touch. Released on June 14, 2011, the Smart Traveler application is at version 1 and requires iOS 4.0 or later. The app is free, but roaming charges may apply depending on your phone service provider.
The Smart Traveler app gives travelers easy access to updated official travel information, travel alerts, health warnings, maps to U.S. embassy locations, and more.
Early reviews are positive about the application’s ability to help travelers, but one commenter also remarked: “… not only for travelers but for people that are interested in learning about different countries. Packed filled with a lot of useful information! Great job!” – Rudy Suarez.
Given the limits of the State Department’s role in a crisis, the app delivers useful information on political upheaval and natural disasters as well. The app also allows travelers to enroll in the U.S. government’s free Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, which ensures they will receive consular help and updates in the case of an emergency in the country the traveler has indicated they will be in on certain dates.
