Photo by Marrakesch
By Madrasssa Ben Yusef
News Americas New YORk, NY, Fri. Nov. 1, 2013: International tourism grew by 5 percent from the period of January through August 2012, to that same time period in 2013, according to the United Nations World Tourism Organization. The 747 million world travelers so far in 2013 set an all-time record, and is 38 million more than in the same time period of 2012. Safety in foreign lands is the key to enjoying your vacation and creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Your country’s embassy will be a primary source for assistance in the unlikely event of a crime against you on foreign land. Your state’s diplomats can act as a liaison between you and your guest country, and help keep your loved ones in the loop while everything is being worked out. However, its best to take extra precautions to ensure your trip abroad is safe and enjoyable. Here are a few things to keep in mind once you are outside the borders of the U.S.
Know The Common Scams
The best advice for travelers is to always be alert. If someone spills a drink on you while dining or someone falls and appears to injure themselves, this could be an element of a set-up. While you’re distracted by the commotion, a second con could grab your purse, wallet or other valuables you take your eyes and hands off of. Some scammers even stoop to the level of using children as beggars. Its difficult to ignore a child, but if you feel compelled to help, offer the child food instead of money. Become familiar with what authentic police uniforms look like as well. Criminals posing as police will ask you for your passport and wallet, and take off. Try and avoid looking like a tourists by not wearing excessive jewelry, expensive sneakers or carrying high end cameras everywhere.
Never Travel Alone
This seems like common sense, but a few drinks or even the beautiful scenery of a new place can lower inhibitions. Choose a travel companion who has also sense of safety. Your travel buddy can be your worst enemy if they think that taking a trip to a remote town for a party is a good thing. You should always have a way to contact a trusted person no matter where you’re at. A satellite phone would be ideal since it will work anywhere, unlike your typical mobile phone. Otherwise, have a contact waiting for you to call every hour or two. They will know something is wrong if you’re not heard from.
Strategically Carry Belongings
Losing your wallet or purse does not have to mean losing everything and potentially being stuck in a foreign land without a passport. Keep your cash in one place and credit in another. This way, if your wallet is lost or stolen, you’ll only lose your cash and still have your credit cards. Some people even carry “mugger’s wallets” — a cheap wallet with a little bit of cash, a couple of pre-paid credit cards and fake I.D.’s. This can be given to a potential mugger and they’ll generally run off once they have it in their hands and see a few dollars in it. Always carry your wallet in front pockets to minimize the potential of being pick-pocketed.
The more common sense you use, the more memorable your trip will be.
