Guest Author - Shelley Shearer
Most of these may seem like common sense, but it never hurts to go over the basics in travel safety!
Read guidebooks on your destination before you travel. Get a feel for the customs, attitudes and local laws. Some of the things to check for are etiquette. For instance in Bermuda they frown on topless sunbathing and expect people to dress for dinner. If you go there expecting a Cancun type attitude then youre presence won't be appreciated.
Talk to people who have travelled there before.
Don't be afraid to ask for directions.
Don't dress like a tourist.
Learn ahead of times what areas should be avoided.
Remove all non-vital items from your purse/wallet. Carry only what you need for the day and keep the rest in the hotel safe.
Never count your money in public.
At hotels, keep your doors locked at all times. If you're travelling alone, avoid the elevator if the only other person appears suspicious. Better to look a little silly for passing up an elevator than to take unneeded risk.
When taking taxis make sure they are legitimate. In the US they would have a meter. Outside the US be sure and agree to a price beforehand. Also good to ask around and find out what that price *should* be.
Be sure to have the phone numbers for your credit cards, etc in case they are stolen. Toll free numbers won't work overseas so be sure you have a direct line number.
Also have copies of your passport, airline tickets, and seriel numbers on your travellers checks. All of this will make replacing items a much easier event.
Most importantly - Always be flexible!
