Travel Safety

1) Plan transportation wisely:

   Local transportation (Train/Bus) may be safe in some countries, but it may not be in others. If you are arriving late, arrange the transportation from your hotel. Though pricier, the added security is worth it.

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2) Accomodation tip:

•  If you are arriving late, do read the check-in details. The reception of every hotel/hostel is not open around the clock.

• Think of a central spot with quick access to public transit. 

• Check Google Maps to determine the distance from your hotel to important locations. This guarantees that you are in a busy area surrounded by many people, limiting transit time.

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3) Download offline maps:

• Live Google Maps can be unreliable. In some areas, even offline Google Maps may not work as expected.

• Maps.me: This app helps with planning and direction. One can group "points of interest" for reference.

• If you are lost, always ask a shopkeeper or a group of women for assistance. This trick helped me in Morocco to avoid scammers.

 

​4) Keep important documents close:

•     I carry a tiny neck bag with my passport and cash. This is to ensure that my important documents are safe.

•     Have a digital copy of passport in case of emergency

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5) Mobile signal issues:

• Keep crucial booking details (hotel address, flights, trips) conveniently as a snapshot.

• Local sims are more reliable than international roaming plan. "Airalo" is an app where one can buy e-sim.​

 

6) Solo night out

    Ask local hotel staff. I always seek advice on the location especially if I want to go out at night.

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7) Share location with friends and family: In case of emergency, family and friends can know the known location.

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​8) Better safe than sorry:

•    I generally carry talcum powder and pepper spray as a safety precaution. Though I never used them, having these things gave me peace of mind.

• ​  Keep police or emergency services number on speed dial.

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9) Be cautious when using public Wi-Fi networks and public USB ports, as they can be unsafe. When using public Wi-Fi, avoid attempting to access sensitive accounts, such as banking. Consider utilizing a VPN to increase security.

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10) Carry a bitch face: A serious or no-nonsense demeanor will help deflect unwanted attention. People generally view me as someone who will not accept nonsense, allowing me to avoid unwanted interactions.

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11) Respect local traditions and customs: 

    Some countries are more traditional than others. Do research about the local culture when heading to conservative countries.

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12) Tourist Scams

Scammers exist in every country. Google common tourist scams. Also, book accommodations only through

trusted partners such as Airbnb or Booking.com.