The TRAVELER'S JOURNAL: August seventeenth, with ten health tips for tropical travel.

Last time we discussed desirable destinations with dangerous reputations. Many are in the tropics, where health risks are always a concern. Medical experts agree that when visiting the tropics, there are no health guarantees. Travelers can do everything right and get sick, or everything wrong and stay well. Health depends on common sense, luck and the ability to resist infection. Still, to help people cope, medical experts cite these Ten Commandments for Tropical Travel.

First, always check with your doctor well before you go to get advice about your present health conditions, as well as any preventive immunizations or special vaccines required for places you'll visit.

Two: acclimatize yourself. That means things like getting lots of fluids and rest en route. Take steps to combat jet lag. Use sunscreen.

Next, protect yourself from insects. Rainy weather has doubled the risk of malaria. Use mosquito nets and bug repellents with DEET.

Four: drink only boiled or purified water, including ice cubes. Five: eat only well-cooked food and freshly-peeled fruit and vegetables. Six: bring self-treatments for traveler's diarrhea and constipation.

Seven: since HIV is prevalent everywhere, sexually active travelers should take and use prophylactics. Eight: avoid walking bare foot or swimming in fresh water. Nine: think about personal security. Keep a low profile, don't flash money and use alcohol in moderation. And finally, be cautious about your conveyance. Health concerns not withstanding, motor vehicle accidents are still the leading cause of death to travelers.

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