Adventures away from home often mean we have to grasp bravery with both hands and hold on tight, particularly landing in a strange city halfway around the world and not knowing what we are letting ourselves in for. How do you stay safe while having a bit of fun and enjoying new experiences during downtime? Here are a few simple tips:
Research
Which pretty much can cover anything. Apart from the landmarks and places to hang out and eat, take a few minutes to assess where your hotel is located and if it's on a busy route to aid easy transportation. Take a closer look at travellers' opinions on a city's best and dangerous places. One tip is to source or buy a map or a map app of the city, as you can learn more about where you are going.
Learn a few phrases
If you're going to a city or town where a different language is spoken, make the effort to learn a few useful phrases, or at least write them down to remember them. Not only will this endear you to locals, but may well come in handy if you are lost or need urgent help.
Stay in the public eye
Staying in public places or touristy areas will ensure you can be comfortable and safe. Stay on main streets and think twice before being tempted to go down lonely alleyways, deserted side streets, or remote areas, either alone or with someone you may consider trustworthy. Be curious, but stay cautious and always remain aware of your surroundings.
Dress Like A Local
Tourists are there to be taken advantage of so take steps not to look like one. One way is to do research and dress as locals would. Any attempt to not stand out and scream 'Tourist' can be subtle, such as not hauling a backpack around or showing off a map that shows you may be new to the city. Read up before you go to ensure anything you dress in won't cause offence.
Drugs And Drink
A bad combination at the best of times! But the point is that taking or possessing illegal substances in a foreign land is simply asking for trouble. And becoming inebriated means you losing control of your sense of safety and that could mean someone taking advantage. When you are in a bar, don't leave your drink unattended for the potential of someone slipping something in it. Be aware at all times and stay sober enough to keep your wits about you.
Hotel cards
Once you have found and settled in your hotel, pick up a business card and keep it on you so you can either tell a taxi driver the location to get back there or ask someone to guide you.
Tell Someone Where You Are
If you are embarking on a localized trip and are expected to be out all day, tell hotel reception of your plans and even leave them your number and tell them when you expect to return. Also, tell a friend or a relative where you are going and, if possible, to call you at a given time to check in that you are safe.
Public Transport
Before heading to any city or town, it is always highly advisable to check out the availability of public transport – bus, rails, etc – so you have an optional alternative to a taxi. Check out times and fees, and what other travellers' experiences are. In some cities, you'll be surprised at how seamless and consistent they can be compared to those in your own home areas.
Emergency Money – Emergency Numbers
Keeping a portion of your spending money for emergencies is ideal. Keep it in local currency and hidden away. Similarly, keep an active list of emergency numbers from families and friends to local organizations if you need to contact any of them.
Escape Plan
As with any new location, whether it's a bar or a new area, be alert to an escape plan. For bars know the emergency exits, for a crowded marketplace check out places that look safe, and even wandering around a new area, look out for local shops where the public are likely to be if you need to get away and be in numbers.
Andy Probert is an experienced freelance business travel journalist and PR specialist.
