Approximately 3,000 Americans are arrested abroad each year. Offenses range from arguing in public in Singapore to more serious drug-related charges. When you are in a foreign country, you are subject to its laws. Many countries have stiff penalties for drug violations and strictly enforce drug laws. If convicted on a serious drug charge, you face a possible sentence of two to 10 years in many countries, and the death penalty in others.
Some countries are particularly sensitive about photographs.
For information on photography restrictions, check with the country's tourist office or its embassy or consulate in the United States. Ignoring the rules may result in the confiscation of your camera and films. You may even be detained, or in some cases, heavily fined. In the event that you do get arrested or encounter legal difficulties abroad, insist that the authorities notify a consular officer at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. Under international agreements and practice, you have the right to talk to the U.S. consul.