Traveling abroad can be a very enthralling and inspiring experience. It is an excellent opportunity to explore captivating cultures and places, meet new exciting people, and, most of all, feel a rush of adrenaline and excitement. However, if you want to have a great time, but also manage to avoid stressful or dangerous situations, it is good to consider the following simple safety tips.
1. It is always advisable to travel to destinations that are generally considered safe and tourist-friendly. You can check for valuable information on the internet or ask your local tourist bureau for essential tips regarding places and activities you should avoid.
2. Carry your cash and valuables in a safe place. There is no need to show potential thieves that you have money or the area you are keeping it. It is also advisable to distribute your cash within different pockets or compartments of your clothes/bags and keep your change in an easily accessible place.
3. If you carry a wallet with your credit/debit cards, passport, or other personal documents, do not put it in your back pocket, but in the front one, or consider buying a belt with a special compartment for valuables.
4. Potential thieves will be tempted not only by your money but also by any electronic gadgets that you carry with you – iPods, mobile phones, cameras, MP3 players, etc. Try to keep them in a safe place and do not flash them around more than necessary to draw unwanted attention.
5. Leave your expensive jewelry and watch it at home. Sometimes it is better to sacrifice the excellent look for your safety’s sake. If you insist on carrying any eye-catching necklaces, rings, or bracelets, you can always go for the cheap fancy ones that will keep you out of trouble.
6. It is good to ask reliable local people (for example your holiday villa owner) for advice concerning places that are good to avoid at night or about the most tourist-friendly locations. This is often a great way to receive helpful information that is not included in the popular guidebooks.
7. Remember that one of the safest ways to travel is in groups or pairs. Avoid wandering around unknown places or streets alone, especially late in the evening, as you may quickly become a victim of a crime. Stay away from dark street corners and narrow alleys.
8. While on holiday, people tend to have a few more drinks than usual, especially if they are partying or are in an enjoyable company. However, it is good to know your limits, because large amounts of alcohol will make you inadequate, slow down your reactions and response time to various situations, and cloud your clear judgment.
9. You should always keep in mind that you are in a place where the cultural peculiarities could be different from those at home. Treat the local people and customs with respect and avoid getting into conflicts due to misunderstandings or lack of communication.
10. Be alert for taxi scams. Use only labeled taxis from trustworthy companies and do not get in unmarked cars, even if the drivers tempt you with bargain prices.
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