Final answer:
Effective strategies for ensuring competent intercultural communication prior to visiting another country include visiting the U.S. State Department website for research and adapting to the norms of the host culture.
Step-by-step explanation:
Of the given options, strategies A and C would be effective for ensuring competent intercultural communication prior to visiting another country.
Strategy A: Visiting the U.S. State Department website to conduct research would provide valuable information about the target country's culture, customs, and etiquette. This knowledge can help the traveler understand and respect the host culture, leading to more successful communication.
Strategy C: Looking for cues about appropriate behavior and adapting to the norms of the host culture is essential for effective intercultural communication. By observing and emulating the behaviors of locals, the traveler can build rapport and avoid misunderstandings.