once upon a time, I had access to Department of State/CIA area handbooks.... don't know if they are still available, but they gave concise and updated intelligence on the geo-political climate of the area...local customs to be honored.. areas of dispute, conflict, and relative safety for foreign travelers...

have your employer set up a "blood chit" system that rewards those providing you aid, payable only on your safe return

we carried a copy of birth certificate, set of orders with our security clearance, and a few $20s in a money belt to help get us through the gate of the US Embassy/Consulate/military installation