Tourists, especially those who are not cautious enough with their behaviour while out and about, are said to be easy targets for thieves. They stand out in a crowd, look obviously unfamiliar with their surroundings, and are often carrying huge amounts of money, credit cards and valuables like cameras or expensive smartphones.
You can reduce the risk of being criminal targets by taking a few simple precautions. It is a good idea to research the safety situation of the destination first before you visit a place.
A good source of information are government-mandated tourist information sites. The national and local tourism websites offer information about travel destinations, as well as practical tips and information for tourists. Other sources of tourist safety information include your travel agent, or your friends, family and associates who have already been to the place you plan to visit.
Here are some tips that will keep you safe during your overseas trip:
Safe travelling
Keep all the important documents to yourself and carry with you at all times the contact details of your country’s embassy. Always duplicate all important documents and keep them in a safe place.
Avoid hitchhiking and always try to travel during the day. Ask your hotel manager for information about safe local areas. Use your surrounding as a cue for safety; city streets with children and women suggest the area is safe for families.
Use ATMs during the day and try to use cash as little as you can. Use credit cards instead. If you are confronted by criminals, don't fight back. It is better to lose some money or valuables than risking your life. Avoid incidents such as fights, riots or civil disturbances at all times.
Safe transport
While waiting for your suitcase in the airport, stay close and watch the conveyor belt. Avoid the eyes of those with criminal intent by changing money outside the airport or before your travelling day.
Find information about the public transport system in your area. You need to gather information about what kind of public transport you can use safely. And when you take a taxi, never share it with strangers. Also, when you decided to drive in the city, keep all doors locked and windows up.
Hotel safety
Try to find accommodation that use cards to access the room, instead of conventional keys with numbers. If you lose the card, it’s still quite safe and you can ask for a new one, since the thief won’t know which room you are in. Find out the emergency exits, stairwells, fire escapes and emergency plans for your own safety.
Always lock your hotel door while sleeping at night, or double-lock if possible. If you plan to meet a guest, try to arrange the meeting in the lobby or somewhere else.
Avoid calling attention to yourself
Never look confused while walking on the streets, since you can be an easy target for criminals. Try to blend in with the locals. Don’t walk around announcing that you’re a tourist so you won’t be the centre of attention while out and about.
Always be wary of people who look suspicious or might be watching you for a while during your journey. Don’t hesitate to ask the police for help if you think you are in danger.
Keep valuables items on a belt worn around your waist or somewhere safer. You can also spare a small amount of cash in a dummy wallet.