The State Department on Thursday warned Americans traveling or living abroad to "exercise much greater caution than usual" in light of the U.S. bombings in Afghanistan and Sudan. 

     "Large crowds and other situations in which anti-American sentiments may be expressed should be avoided," the advisory warned. It also cautioned U.S. citizens abroad "to review their security practices (and) remain alert to the changing situation."

     Americans were advised to take "additional and enhanced precautions" in Afghanistan, Iraq, Iran, Libya and North Korea where there are no U.S. diplomatic posts, the State Department said in a public announcement. 

     It was the third worldwide warning issued by the State Department in the last month. Tuesday, American citizens were hastily evacuated from Pakistan. 

     Foreign travel "is more risky now that it was yesterday," said Fred Rustmann, a former senior CIA officer who is now chairman of West Palm Beach-based CTC International, which provides international business intelligence. "It depends on where you are going. Europe is probably safer than Africa or the Middle East." He recommends considering non-American air carriers. 

     The American Society of Travel Agents suggests travelers check with the State Department for warnings and recommendations for specific destinations. When traveling to high-risk or third-world areas, travelers should register with the local U.S. embassy, which attempts to contact U.S. citizens when security emergencies arise. 

     Most travel insurance policies will not provide reimbursement because of terrorism threats unless the State Department prohibits travel to a specific country, said James Ashurst, ASTA spokesman. 

     "The world unfortunately is a dangerous place," said Ashurst. "Terrorist activity can pop up any time, anywhere. Unless you stay home and never leave the house, you're never in a situation where you're completely not a risk."

     Experts recommend the following common-sense safety practices: 

• Don't place American flags on luggage or wear clothing that obviously identifies you as an American.
• Be aware of your surroundings. 
• Don't display cash, maps or cameras unnecessarily. Place a local newspaper in your rental car and take any other steps to avoid looking like a tourist. 
• Don't hang around gathering places with large groups of Americans. 
• Don't go out at night alone. 
• As advice from your hotel about places you should avoid. 
• Try to check out your path on a map before leaving your hotel, so you aren't wandering aimlessly in an unfamiliar place.