Travel agents who know about problems, however, must disclose them or face liability. You can learn about health and safety issues from the U.S. State Dept. Website, which reports on virtually all countries. Their job is to assure that foreign cops treat you no worse than jailed locals. That treatment may be very bad.
Officials also have lists of lawyers who speak English.
Remember Buckaroo Banzai. Check everything three or four times. Travel as light as you can, but take at least two of everything you need. Memorize the backs of all your tickets. Keep copies of all travel documents in a safe place, if you can find one, and, of course, have a wonderful time.