Question 1

Do I need a US Passport and/or Visa to travel to Hong Kong/Macau/Singapore/Japan?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you are required to have a US passport for international travel. Your passport must be valid for one month beyond the date of your intended stay.
 
US citizens are not required to have a Visa to visit Hong Kong for stays under 90 days.
 
US citizens are not required to have a Visa to visit Macau for stays under 30 days.

US citizens are not required to have a Visa to visit Singapore for stays under 90
 days.

US citizens are not required to have a Visa to visit Japan for stays under 90 days.

Question 2

Do I need to get Vaccination/Immunization for visiting Hong Kong/Macau/Singapore/Japan?

Accepted Answer

All travelers should be up to date on routine vaccinations while traveling to Hong Kong/Macau/Singapore/Japan. The CDC recommends travelers to get Hepatitis A & B and Typhoid, because you can get them through contaminated food or water. We recommend you speak to your health care provider about immunizations prior to traveling to Hong Kong/Macau/Singapore/Japan.

Question 3

Do I need Health Insurance?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we recommend inquiring to see if your insurance covers you while traveling out of the country and/or if your University offers international travel insurance for students. If not, here are some links to affordable travel insurance plans for you to look at.
 
https://www.travelinsurancereview.net/plans/travel-medical/
https://www.imglobal.com/img-insurance-plans

Question 4

Are all expenses paid for?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we will provide your airfare, hotel, and a daily allowance for food.

Question 5

What is the weather like in Hong Kong/Macau, China during June?"

Accepted Answer

Much like South Louisiana, it is Hot and Humid. Also be prepared for rain, as well as the humidity.

Question 6

What is the weather like in Fukuoka, Japan in July and August?

Accepted Answer

Fukuoka experiences a warm and comfortable temperature in July, accompanied by a soothing breeze. However, August, being the hottest month in the city, brings with it hot and humid conditions.

Question 7

Do I need to be fluent in another language to travel to Hong Kong/Macau?

Accepted Answer

No, you do not need to be fluent in Chinese (Mandarin or Cantonese). English is one of the official languages in Hong Kong, therefore official signs and announcements are in both Chinese and English.
 
Chinese and Portuguese are the official language of Macau, but English is another common language.

Question 8

Do I need to be fluent in another language to travel to Fukuoka, Japan?

Accepted Answer

In Fukuoka, many tourist areas have staff who are able to speak English and signage in both Japanese and English. Knowing a few key phrases in Japanese such as "hello," "thank you," and "excuse me" can be appreciated by the locals and make communication easier. Having a translation app or a phrasebook can also be useful for non-Japanese speakers.

Question 9

Students may want to check with their Universities international office for overseas travel:

Accepted Answer

Some Universities and Colleges may have different requirements for traveling abroad, please be sure to check with your respective University before traveling abroad. Below is a link to LSU’s polices; be sure to navigate this webpage too.
 
https://www.lsu.edu/riskmgt/travel/international-travel-insurance.php

Question 10

Information on export control related compliance:

Accepted Answer

Please consult with your faculty advisor about the policy of export control. Below is a link to
LSU’s policy:
 
https://www.lsu.edu/research/resources_for_faculty/research_compliance/export_control/
 
Some countries will not allow you to bring items into a port of entry and/or back to the United States. It is important to check what you are allowed to bring with you and what you can bring back.
 
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/before-you-go/customs-and-import.html

Question 11

Please be sure to always check the State Department Alert link when traveling abroad:

Accepted Answer

According to the state department, Japan travel advisory is at a Level 1: Exercise normal precautions. When traveling abroad be sure to check periodically for updates at the provided link.

https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/japan-travel-advisory.html?wcmmode=disabled

Since June of 2019, political demonstrations have taken place in Hong Kong and a travel advisory message has been issued for a Level 2: Exercise increased caution if traveling to Hong Kong. Please check for updates at the provided link.
 
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/HongKong.html
 
According to the state department, Macau travel advisory is at a Level 1: Exercise normal precautions. When traveling abroad be sure to check periodically for updates at the provided link.

The Center of Leadership Development in Built Environment Sustainability

FAQ's

Frequently Asked Questions