International Travel Safety Tips

March 08, 2010 :: Posted by - Getaway Guru :: Category - Good to Know

Traveling in a foreign country can be a scary. We have all heard horror stories of a friend that was pick-pocketed in France or lost their passport in Moscow. Traveling should be an enjoyable experience, not a battle with a foreign police department to find your stolen wallet.

Here are a few tips on how to make your international vacation safe and stress-free:

1. Never wear anything that projects affluence. Consider leaving jewelry,watches, nice luggage and other expensive items at home.

2. Be aware when exiting trains, buses, escalators or walking through highly trafficked areas. This is the time when most pick-pocketers strike.

3. Never travel alone at night. Avoid small alleys, short-cuts and poorly lit areas.

4. Even when you are lost, walk like you know where you are going. Try to study maps and travel guides before you leave your hotel room to avoid clear identification as a tourist. Always walk with a purpose.

5. Utilize the hotel safe. Do not bring or show large amounts of cash in public for your daily travels.

6. Pack an extra photocopy of your passport for your trip.

7. Invest in a money-pouch to wear around your waist or  neck to store your cash, credit cards and passport.

8. Try to choose hotels with double-locked doors. A door stop can add extra protection for your closed door.

9. If traveling with small children, give them a contact card in case they are separated from the group. Include your hotel information, contact information and an extra emergency contact at home.

Tips for Taxi Travel:

  • Avoid unmarked taxis.
  • When traveling alone in a taxi, sit directly behind the  driver. You will have a good view of the driver in the rear-view mirror but he can’t see you.
  • Always pay before leaving the taxi car to ensure you receive the correct amount of change before the driver pulls away.

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Don’t make careless safety mistakes and let your trip turn sour. Traveling should be an enjoyable experience!

The bottom line to safe travels: Be aware of your surroundings.

One Response to “International Travel Safety Tips”

  1. HOT SPOT to dine in Colombia | Local Travel Tip Says:
    March 8th, 2010 at 7:16 pm

    [...] in order to enjoy your trip to Colombia, I invite you to take into consideration all of the International Travel Safety Tips mentioned in this [...]

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