For most people, the opportunity to travel abroad is certainly welcomed. While going to a foreign country can be a great experience, it’s not without its dangers. Each year, a good number of tourists go “missing,†and never return home. No matter where you plan to go, here are some travel safety tips to help you stay safe while abroad.
Planning and Research: Before you go to any place, it’s also good to know as much as possible about the area, especially, a foreign country. Though it’s rather impossible to gauge when a natural disaster will strike next, it pays to be informed about past occurrences, to avoid the seasons which may be most dangerous. Find out if any vaccination or special medication is required for your destination. For instance, people who go to places of high altitude may need some medication to deal with spells of dizziness, and the like. It’s useful to make a list of contact information covering such places such as: the embassy, local hospital, local police station, local travel insurance representative, and others.
Protecting Yourself: If you are traveling alone, try not to go out late at night. If traveling in a group, it’s always good to stick together as much as possible. Keep shiny and flashy accessories at home. In other words, it’s best to keep a low profile. As for cash and credit cards, just carry what’s essential for the trip. It’s safer to use traveler’s check or its equivalent. To prevent identity theft, don’t give out any personal information to strangers. In fact, you are not advised to get too close with strangers, especially those who appear to be overwhelmingly “friendly.â€
Illegal Drugs and Alcohol: Never take illegal drugs. Many people have negative experiences when they purchase or use illegal drugs, especially in a foreign land. They can end up being robbed, cheated, imprisoned, or worse. On the occasion where you need to consume alcohol, always practice self-control. Other than ruining your vacation, you may also get yourself into further trouble. If you get injured while under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs, you will not be covered by your travel insurance policy.
Respecting Local Laws and Customs: You have probably heard of the common adage: “When in Rome, do as the Romans do.†Well, it’s actually applicable to every country. If you are fascinated enough to travel a great distance to go to a foreign land, it makes sense to respect the local laws and customs as well. Would you like it if some foreigners disrespect your country’s laws and customs? When you travel abroad, it’s always good to keep an open mind because the laws and customs of one country can be very differently from your own.
While traveling abroad opens up a whole gamut of possibilities, pay attention to the negative ones as much as you embrace the positive ones.
