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1.Have
the right bags
How to have a safe trip abroad
Going Abroad is a
long cherished dream for most of us and believe me, the actual event is no
less. But to have a trip which will always give you a smile, you need to follow
some safety rules. After taking into accounts of many travellers,
Most of the places in the world have pick pockets and petty thieves. For female travellers
its always advisable to have a cross-shoulder bag, which can’t be snatched.
Male travellers should keep a money belt to protect credit cards, cash and passports.
These bags are tucked safely into the waistband ,making it very hard for anyone
to go for it.
2.Keep
your valuables in a day bag
When
in a city, keep the valuables you don’t need, in the hotel locker. But things
like DSLR, mobiles(which can be expensive), have to be carried. For such items,
carry a day bag. Try to avoid displaying it all the time. The day bag must have
compartments for everything. This will not only keep them safe from thieves
,but also from things accidentally dropping and falling.
3.Always
be alert and aware
Keep
an eye on your luggage at all times. Things get stolen in hostels and hotels
too. Carry your own locks and use them whenever you need to. When you are out
for sightseeing, be aware of your surroundings. Stay away from sudden crowding
or commotion. These are often distractions caused by pickpockets.
4.Be
wary of over-friendly people
Although people in most
of the places are friendly but they tend to be aloof till approached. If
somebody is extra nosy or friendly, be alert. It might not end on a happy note.
Don’t trust people too easily. Never accept offers from people on road for stay
or transit, always make these arrangements beforehand and from reliable
sources. Similarly, don’t exchange money without proper authorization.
5.Careful
use of ATMs
Avoid using ATM machines in tourist areas and
off-hours. Try and use an ATM inside a bank. ATM scams are not as rare as we
like to imagine.
6.Blend in
Instead of screaming
to be a tourist, you should try to blend in as a local. Wear what the locals
wear. Even your luggage should be neutral colours, like black, grey, navy. Don’t
talk too loudly and attract attention. Other than annoying locals, it also ends
in profiling you. Try to learn a few magic words like thank you ,excuse me
,sorry etc in the local language.
7.Take
help of a knowledgeable guide
Although ,with the
advent of internet, it’s possible to plan your trip yourself ,a little help
from somebody who has the expertise and experience ,does not hurt. While planning
your trip ,take help of a reliable travel expert .They can not only guide you
to have a safe trip but also make the process easier.
8.Be
ready to spend for safety
Although budgeting is
good but always keep a margin for spending extra when the other options is
feeling unsafe. If you are uncomfortable in an area ,instead of walking spend
money on taxi. If your hostel or apartment feels unsafe ,be ready to spend more
and move to a hotel.
The idea behind
writing this blog is not to make you paranoid or deter you from going for a
trip but just to make you aware and prevent anything untoward from happening.
So, go ahead and
enjoy your trip!
--Mamta Kumar
An Educationist and an avid traveller
--Mamta Kumar
An Educationist and an avid traveller
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