Traveling in foreign countries is often considered the experience of a lifetime. Unfortunately, travelers and tourists too often become the targets of theft, cons, and even violence. Follow these simple guidelines to ensure that your next trek around the globe is safe and memorable.
Traveling in foreign countries is often considered the experience of a lifetime. Unfortunately, travelers and tourists too often become the targets of theft, cons, and even violence. While some of these problems result in inconvenience for the traveler, others result in serious loss or danger. Follow these simple guidelines to ensure that your next trek around the globe is safe and memorable.
When in Rome
One of the easiest ways to keep from becoming a target of thieves or violence in a foreign country is simply to blend in. Learn as much as you can about the culture of the area you’re going to visit before you leave. How do people dress there? What are some of the local customs you may want to participate in? When in doubt, dress conservatively. Skip the flashy jewelry and clothes. Many countries have different standards of modesty so ere on the side of good taste and leave that tube top or frayed pair of cutoffs at home. Anything that makes you stand out as a tourist also makes you a target so make your best effort to look like a local.
Another way to acclimatize to the culture and make your trip flow smoothly is to learn a few words of the native language. Although many people worldwide speak English these days it’s often considered rude to assume that people will. Learn key phrases like, “please,” “thank you,” “how much is this?” and “do you speak English?” in the native tongue. If nothing else, people will appreciate the effort you put in.
Because of differing sentiments towards the good ol’ Red, White and Blue worldwide, vacation in a foreign country is one time you don’t necessarily want the world to know you’re an American. That “I support our troops” lapel pin may be a hit at home, but may cause trouble elsewhere in the world. Likewise, remove any American flags or other identifying symbols from your self and your luggage.
Travel Light
Pack only what you absolutely need, even when it comes to clothing. Bulky luggage and bags will only slow you down and tie your hands up. Plus, the more items you have to keep track of, the more likely you are to lose or forget things. Before you leave, check to see if the place you’ll be staying offers laundry services. If so, pack a few mix and match all-purpose outfits that can be washed and worn again. Even undergarments can be rinsed out in hotel sinks and hung to dry. The less you bring, the better.
The Exception to the Rule
Pack extras of any necessities you can’t do without and keep them in your carry-on luggage. For example, if you wear glasses or contacts, bring an extra pair. Bring an extra written prescription and the generic names for any medications you’ll need to take. Also, you may want to toss a disposable camera in your luggage as a backup in case your fancy new digital version is lost or broken.
Conceal your Valuables
If possible, leave your passport, cash, and credit cards locked in a hotel safe before you venture out. If you must bring these with you, avoid purses and fanny packs or the predictable wallet-in-the-back-pocket as these make you an easy mark for pickpockets. Instead, invest in a flat money belt that can be worn against your body under your clothing. These can be purchased at many luggage and travel stores. Use travelers’ checks or a major credit card instead of cash whenever possible, but if you must carry cash bring only enough for what you plan to do that day.
There’s One Born every Minute
Don’t be the sucker who falls for a scam overseas. When shopping, keep in mind that many antiques and supposedly genuine or valuable items are fake. Ask the concierge at your hotel about legitimate shopping districts for buying antiques if you’re so inclined. Also, there are some less than scrupulous food vendors on the streets of foreign countries who are not licensed to be selling food and who have lower standards of food quality and sanitation than you might desire. If you want to spend your trip out on the streets instead of locked in your hotel bathroom, only patronize established eateries that look clean. A good rule of thumb: visit the places that the locals frequent for good, and often inexpensive, food. Remember, if a deal on anything sounds too good to be true it almost always is.
Learn your Surroundings
It’s a good idea to become familiar with the area surrounding your hotel or hostel. Identify important landmarks as soon as you arrive, such as the local hospital or pharmacy, the American embassy, and a safe place to exchange your money for the local currency. Keep a map of the area with you and mark important places you think you might use often like subway or train stations, public restrooms, restaurants you’d like to try and landmarks you’d like to visit.
Leave your Expectations on the Plane
For the most enjoyable trip possible overseas keep an open mind to the way things are done in other cultures and be flexible with your time. Many foreign countries operate at a much more relaxed pace than America so don’t set yourself on such a tight schedule that you can’t allow for delays. For example, in Paris eating is considered a fine art. Lunches regularly last for two or more hours as friends enjoy good food, good wine and good company. Don’t expect to rush into a bistro or restaurant and be out in an hour and on to your next adventure or the seemingly slow pace of the wait staff will leave your frustrated. In many foreign countries, restaurants and shops close for several hours every afternoon as families gather for a meal and a siesta before opening again in the evening. Leave your assumptions and your expectations at home and just enjoy the unique differences of another culture. Isn’t that why you wanted to leave home in the first place? For the most authentic and enjoyable experience overseas learn to relax and enjoy the local flavor even if it goes against what you’re accustomed to.
Traveling to a foreign country can be an exhilarating and memorable experience that you’ll treasure your whole life. Make the experience safer, easier, and more enjoyable by using some common sense and learning as much as you can about the culture you’re going to visit before you embark. For more safety information, contact the U.S. Department of State.