Tuesday, October 1, 2013

How to Be Safe in a Foreign Country

  • Research the country you are going to before you go. The best and fastest way of researching is to search on the Internet for legal information, and things you should know well in advance of traveling to that country. Learn how the locals dress. If the locals are dressed in a moderate way, you should dress the same. You don't want to draw unwanted attention to yourself, especially at sites of religious importance.
  •  Make three copies of everything before you leave. Make copies of your passport, travel itinerary and tickets, credit cards, driver's license, and any other important documents. Copy the back of everything, as well. This can make it easier for you to recover if any of your documents are stolen.
  •  Get the addresses and phone numbers of your country's embassy and any military bases (if applicable) before your arrival to the foreign country. For some countries, such as the USA and Australia, it is possible to register with a consulate online, ahead of travel. Once you have done this, if there arises any kind of natural disaster or military conflict, the consulate will know that you are in the country, which is the first step in being able to offer assistance.
  • Be polite and non demanding. If you are quiet and respectful, you are less likely to draw attention to yourself through your behavior. Depending on the local customs, however, do not assume that being extra friendly is beneficial -- it may be interpreted as an invitation that you never meant to offer, especially if you are female.

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