Safety First

Travelling to an unknown destination can open you up to vulnerabilities you'd never even give a thought to in your hometown. In every pocket of the globe, there are unsavoury individuals waiting for the opportunity to take advantage of the kindness and naivety of tourists. Arm yourself with knowledge and you will not only find that you are more prepared for unexpected events, but you may be able to avoid them all together.

Your safety is in your hands even before you leave home. Always research a country or city before going there. If your dream destination is having a stormy and violent political clash, then maybe you'll want to plan your trip at a calmer time. By familiarizing yourself with the city, you can also plan your trip accordingly by avoiding neighborhoods that may not be recommended for tourists.

Throughout your entire trip, always pay attention to your surroundings. Take note of signs, exits, people who could be of assistance (i.e. police officers, civil workers, etc). Be discreet when paying for things, taking out the least amount of money that is necessary to pay. Avoid being flashy or calling attention to yourself as a tourist, as this may make you a target. Lastly, never keep all of your money in one compartment.

It's always better to be safe than sorry. Even if you know a secluded short-cut or you've heard of "some guy" who can get you a great deal on antiques, don't be hesitant to inconvenience yourself for the sake of your own safety.

Improving the travel experience one trip at a time!