 8
Travel Tips - For a Safe Journey
By Debra Smith
If you are new to travelling on your own you may not have
considered the safety factors. You might think that travelling in any North American city
is the same as getting around in your own hometown, which could result in a false sense of
security. Here are some travel tips that are especially useful for female travelers on the
go.
1. Be prepared just like a Girl Guide. Research your destination first
and on a copy of a map use a highlighter to pinpoint the locations of your hotel, work
destinations, restaurants, attractions, etc. You can
supplement your reading with websites and if you’d like to connect
with other women travelers who have
recently visited your destination, on-line bulletin boards are a good way to get up to
date information.
2. Photocopy your credit and debit cards, driver’s license, travel
insurance, itinerary and important phone numbers, and keep them separate from the
originals. Most hotels have a safety deposit box where you can store them. You can also
send the information to yourself in an e-mail so that if you need them you can log on at
an internet café and print them off.
3. Travel light. You will be far less vulnerable than someone who is
weighted down with multiple bags. A good way to see if you have too much luggage is to
pack as usual and then take a “test walk” around your neighborhood. If you
can’t make it home, you may have to unpack a few things. If you like to carry a
purse, make it one with a long, sturdy strap that you can wear across your chest to deter
purse snatchers. Also, never put anything in your purse that you can’t afford to
lose.
4. Arrive early during the day. We use visual clues to orient ourselves
so daytime is best for getting a good idea of the lay of the land. If you are travelling
by subway or bus avoid situations where you are the only passenger. Taxis are the safest
way to get around if you are on your own. When walking on the street always walk
confidently and be aware of your surroundings. Personal alarms are a useful addition to
your travel gear, but be aware that you may have to remove the battery before boarding
your flight.
5. For accommodations, consider small hotels or B&B’s. The
proprietors are usually friendly types who can offer a lot of good information about the
neighborhood. Always ask to see the room before checking in. Does the door lock properly?
Do you feel secure? Trust your instincts. When choosing a hotel, avoid ground floor rooms.
A room on the second or third floor is the safest in case of fire. Check to see where the
exits are, but don’t use them except in an emergency. Stairwells provide strangers
with places to hide and escape.
6. Be wary of opening your door. If someone claiming to be with the
hotel arrives unexpectedly, call the front desk to confirm. You may want to pack a rubber
doorstop in your suitcase for added peace of mind.
7. Stay in touch with at least one person back home. A telephone call
or an e-mail of your plans for the day will be helpful to them if you run into trouble and
anyway - it’s always nice to hear a familiar voice when you’re on the road.
8. Even if you don’t plan to do a great deal of travelling, a
self-defense class designed for women is a worthwhile
investment and more fun than you might think. You’ll learn how to protect yourself in
many different situations
through role playing exercises. Your
confidence will soar as you realize how much power you really have.
Travel safely and have a great trip!
Debra Smith is a freelance editor
& writer who loves to travel. Call 403.205.6984 or email dsmithink@hotmail.com
for information. |
