When traveling overseas we have to bear in mind that other cultures do not quite see things the way we do.  So, if you are robbed and start fighting back it is likely that you might be imprisoned.  When you hit a citizen of another country, watch out.  You may end up in jail.  In order to be prepared if ever you do get robbed in a foreign country, remember to note where the nearest US embassy office or the consular is.

Your travel insurance may not be of much help in this case, however a US Embassy or consular may be able to assist you and may even help you contact you friends and family if ever money is necessary to bail you out. While there is a light at the end of the tunnel it would still make things very difficult for you when traveling out of the country.

With no money to eat, that can also bring down a persons spirit.  This is another instance in which if you were robbed or your money was stolen you can certainly go to the consulars office and they can help you contact the proper people to file the police report and they will tell you how you can get money from family and friends, while helping you make those phone calls.  It still doesn’t hurt to have some sort of cheap travel insurance, such as one way travel insurance.

While the consular cannot change that countries law, they can help you to understand why and help you take the appropriate steps to get help and get back home.  The U.S. Embassys main function is to offer you assistance when needed, and let you know what rights you do have while there but they simply just won’t come and bail you out.