Section #5 – Safety Equal Safe Travels

7 Country Safe Travels Tips

     When arriving in a new place for the first time you can definitely feel out of your personal bubble. This feeling can be super terrifying. You are not alone in feeling this way. I’ve travel 100+ countries and I still get butterflies in my stomach each and every time I get off the airplane and walk into a new airport. Wanting safe travels is something that all travelers want to experience. It does not matter how many times you have done this exact same experience because it is all new. The prices, languages, airport set up, buses, taxies, they are all different. It is important to remember that you are not the first new guest in this uncharted land. There is definitely someone in that airport that can help you if and when you need it. Here are a few tips and tricks which can make you feel a bit safer in the new country.

Friends & Family

     Let your friends and family know where you are. Family and friends are going to be curious where you are anyways so allowing your Facebook and or Snapchat to act as your personal GPS is a great idea. I know that many travelers are traveling so they can “get lost” so to speak and I’m all for that but keeping your friends and family informed on your general whereabouts is smart and it will keep them off your back.

Traveler Be Aware

     Be aware of pickpocketing no matter what. While traveling you never think it will happen to you but it just may. It took nearly 50 countries before it happened to me, but it can happen to anyone. It does not matter how muscular you are or how many friends you have around you. If they want what you have, they will find a way. There is not much you can do rather than be observant and maintain your situational awareness. Wearing tighter jeans can help as well but this does not guarantee you will not be a target. Keeping your phone and wallet in your side pocket can also be a great idea.

     However, I was wearing tighter fit jeans and had my iPhone in my front pocket and it still got taken. I was lucky enough to see who did it and run him down to get back my phone but that is not always the case. The craziest part was that it was a kid that was probably 14 years old. He was absolutely terrified when I chased him down and took my phone back. Just remember to take necessary precautions or you may soon be saying, “What happens in Medellin Columbia really does stay in Medellin Columbia.”

Travel Recommendations First

     Do not book accommodation on price alone. Avoid booking your next accommodations just because it will save you a few bucks. This can lead to your valuables being stolen and also affect the amount of sleep you can get.  As I say this, I would like to think this is common sense, but I assure you that it is not. I have run into so many backpacking travelers that booked a place purely due to its price and its mediocre reviews. Make sure and read the reviews from booking.com and hostelworld.com and cross-compare before booking.

Travel Taxi Life

     Be smart while getting into a Taxi. In some countries, there is not a taxi service such as Uber and or Bolt. In these cases, you will need to locate the taxi sign up location at the airport. This can be located by asking the information desk employee. The reason for using these taxi sign-up stands is simple. Airports regulate the prices and you will not get ripped off. Even if a taxi driver quotes you a price do not be surprised when getting out of the cab if they try to charge you more.

     Also, a forewarning that NO TAXI ever has change and uses this to their advantage when and if you pay with the American dollar. Another scam I have seen time and time again is the taxi look-a-like scam. They are cars that look nearly identical to taxi vehicles but are freelance hustlers. They will charge anything they want so always look for a meter when you get in a taxi. Do not let the taxi driver say that the meter is broken and not to worry because once again this is a scam. Do not allow anyone to take advantage of you.

Safe Travels Includes Drink Safety

     When you are partying watch your drink. This piece of advice applies to everyone, but it is much likelier to happen to female travelers who are not in big groups. They will target you from the moment you walk in the doors. If someone buys you a drink and you did not see it made personally then do not accept. Bartenders can also be in on this scenario so always watch your drink being made. If you stick with beers and watch them opened it is much more difficult for your drink to be spiked.

Corruption Exist While Traveling

     Police corruption is real, and you can be played by the police. Police corruption exists in most countries. The police officers are underpaid and overused way too much. This is a direct cause for police officers trying to get a few extra bucks out of tourists when the situation allows. Do not try to bribe the police. I have seen this backfire on travelers way too many times before. You should be respectful to the police officers and if they allow you to pay your way out then go ahead if you would like to do so. One side note would be that if a police officer begins asking lots of questions and you think the questions are a bit abnormal be sure to ask to see his badge. Do this very respectfully and if they are real police officers they will show you their badges.

Safe Travels While Solo versus Group Safety

     Both forms of travel have their benefits and potential downfalls. If you are a solo traveler, then you must take extra precautions for your safety. You should do some research about different cities beforehand as well as understand the rules and basic guidelines of the city you are arriving in. On the other side, If you are a group traveler then you may feel less as a target due to your group size. This is not always the case. I have seen groups get overcharged plenty of times before.  Both solo and group traveling have their advantages but it’s up to you to decide what method fits your next adventure best.

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