With the recent events throughout the world you can register with the State Dept online, regardless iof where you are going, even if it is not a violent country. If anything should happens your countries Embassies will be able to help you quickly

For Americans go to.........https://travelregistration.state.gov/IBRS/UI/

For Canadians go to.........Registration of Canadians Abroad - Consular Affairs Bureau Web site - Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade