Traveling is bound to be exciting and the liberating feeling it brings is invaluable, particularly if the destination that you choose is far away from your comfort zone. Then again, there are times you forget that there are sudden problems that might occur in the course of your holiday. It is a dismal thing that tourists who get captivated with the beauty of a foreign land draw in people who take advantage of their lack of knowledge in a country.
Vacationers, especially foreigners, are the frequent victims of pick-pocketing and big-time scams in the streets. Although they are widespread, these troubles can easily be prevented with proper education and preparedness in case such scenarios arise.
Let us try to look at some practical and sensible things you can do, or not do, to keep yourself from falling victim to these perpetuators.
DON'T TALK TO STRANGERS: When we were young, our parents and guardians taught us not to talk to strangers. Would you imagine it's still useful until we get old? Yes, giving personal information to strangers is not advisable when travelling, especially to a different country. Some scammers would get to know you in the streets, acting like really neighborhood-friendly folks, and in due course they will get all your personal information and steal your identity. To keep it safe, if you want to get to know local folk, you should only present your first name/ nickname and the state where you live in (For example. John from Florida); in this manner, you don't sound too chilly, but nor did you give too much information to the person.
Maintain A LOW PROFILE: Try to mix in with the crowd and don't show them that you're a first-time tourist in their land. Most criminals can spot fast a fat target in a large ocean so be careful. Try to research before you leave your place on the lifestyle of the location. It's wise not to bring expensive jewelry that will only get the lustful eyes of the perpetuators. Take only enough money when going around the town and be dressed in appropriate clothes okay by the locals.
Maintain A WATCHFUL EYE: The best sights and destinations might be seen in third world countries, yet these places also suffer numerous cases of theft and fraud due to the never-ending issue of poverty. Some scams would include kids begging in the streets, and while you're busy finding cash to give to poor-hearted beggars, others will immediately take your bag. To prevent this, keep a watchful eye while in town and engage only in limited talks with strangers.
Keep YOUR KIDS ON THE LOOP: If you plan to travel with kids, it's a good idea to educate them ahead of time on what to do in case they get lost. Instruct them on how to get back to your hotel or residence, and write in a card all your information necessary to get in touch with you right away. Mobile phones are also nifty in this type of situation. If you can manage to give your kids phones then it will be a lot of convenience to both sides. Note: Program your name and contact on the speed dial of your kid's phone to make it a lot easier for them to get in touch with you in case anything happens.
Keep under the radar and comply with the law- Some countries and areas have distinctive sets of laws that are only applicable in that specific region. Try to acquaint yourself with these 'special laws' before you go touring an area. Example, there are places in Palawan, Philippines where you can't go fishing because the marine life there are guarded by law. In Singapore, it is not allowed for anyone to chew gum while on the streets. Do not give police authorities a reason to detain (and perhaps abuse) you. If detained for whatever reason by an official, ask for identification. If in doubt, tell them that you want to see their superior. Keep your thoughts intact and never let them get to you. Always, be on the side of the law.
Enjoy public transport but be cautious- Using the public commute in an area you are unfamiliar with can be such an eye-opening and rewarding experience. You get to experience how the locals get from one place to another every day. While this can be a lot of fun, take note that these public transports are also avenues of crime. When riding trains and buses, make sure all your belongings are secured and complete. And whatever you do, never ride an unmarked cab or one that tries to discuss prices. Taxis have meters and therefore should be used for that purpose.
KNOW SELF-DEFENSE: It's not considered violence when you're defending yourself from someone who has intentions to hurt you, it's called SELF-DEFENSE. You don't need to be a black-belt Karate master to look after yourself from mischievous individuals who try to grab your bag. Just make sure you have the right protection tools, such as stun-gun or pepper spray, and the proper knowledge on how to use it. In case you don't have those defensive items, I suggest you bring a flashlight at night and an umbrella during day time. Apparently, a perpetrator sees these items as a sign that the person is aware of his or her surroundings and would rather pick out another prey to victimize.
KEEP EMERGENCY HOTLINE NUMBERS: Be informed of the emergency numbers in the area. Jot down the local police hotline numbers, hospitals, and clinics in your mobile phone or a piece of paper, and carry it when going around the area. If in case you find it hard to find, hotels and other accommodations provide directories or phone directory assistance to their guests. Take advantage of these services, you'll never know when you'll require them.
SEARCH FOR A LOYAL COMPANION: Despite the crucial truth that many people would only make friends with you to con you, there are still some trusted people that you shouldn't take for granted. Although it's not nice to talk to strangers, it's impossible not to befriend few warm-hearted local people from the place where you'll spend your relaxing vacation. It's okay to be friendly and encounter someone who knows the whereabouts of the place, in this way; you have a personal tourist guide and additional friend from a wonderful destination.
Secure your important items- Take time to have your travel documents and identifications photocopied before traveling. Keep these documents secure, just in case an untoward incident occurs, like robbery wherein eve the necessary travel files were taken. Arming yourselves with copies of these valuable records will save you from further inconveniences.
These might just be bits of precautionary steps to enjoy a safe vacation trip. The best part about this is that you and your family are secured from harm while taking pleasure in the paradise right at your doorstep.
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