It is always wise to go abroad being aware of any potential
hazards or situations you may come across on your travels.
Below is a small list of information that should
help bring you back in one piece.
• Before you go, put all your important addresses
into your email address book. Have a photocopy of important documents
like your passport, work permit etc. If you are unlucky enough to have
bag stolen, at least you will have all the details and addresses you need
to get you swiftly back on the trail.
• Where you can use traveller’s cheques
because if they are lost, stolen or damaged you can claim them back. There
are now traveller’s cheque cards that work on the same premise as
cheques and are easier to keep safe. See our Money
Advice page for more information. Wiring money is a good emergency
option, using companies like Western Union for example. For a small commission,
money can be 'faxed' over to you. You don't need identification - the
sender can provide a 'test' question to prove who you are.
• You may be travelling through countries where
poverty and deprivation mean Westerners are perceived as rich, so avoid
drawing unwanted attention to yourself. Don't flash cash around and never
wear expensive jewellery or watches, best to keep your expensive jewellery
at home and take with you an inexpensive watch.
• There are some common robber tricks that will
not fool you if you are aware of them. Like the ketchup trick - someone
pours sauce all over your rucksack then offers to help clean it, once
you have it on the ground they take off with it. Don't take off your pack
- a dirty rucksack is better than no rucksack. Robbers tend to watch out
for the nervous and innocent so get clued up and they'll keep clear of
you. Don't leave your bags lying about in bus or train terminals.
• Be aware and respectful of dress codes if you
are travelling in an Islamic country or where religious traditions strongly
guide daily life. Don't be seen to flaunt your body and certainly don’t
just waer a skimpy two piece bikini or for a man go topless in areas such
as Iran.
• In some countries, female travellers in particular
may encounter behaviour towards them which would be unacceptable to them
at home. Street whistles, being ignored in a shop or even unwanted physical
contact are all unfortunate hazards in some parts of the world. Don't
be intimidated, however, and if you feel really unsafe stay in a group.
• There are always places abroad that even the
locals stay clear of at night! Ask at your hostel, local cafes and tourist
information offices. Check out any hot spots of political tension by looking
on the internet and reading local papers. If you have done your research
you will be well aware of trouble areas and can plan around them.
• Stay aware of your surroundings at all times,
especially if you're out drinking. Whatever state you get yourself into,
know how to get back to your hostel and save enough money for a taxi home.
• An obvious note - don't carry drugs with you
and never agree to take any packages on planes or over borders - penalties
for possession can range from months in a rancid jail to the death penalty
in some countries. It just isn't worth it.
