Traveling abroad can be very exciting, particularly when traveling to exotic locations. Ideally, these trips should also be safe and incident-free. However, crime and violence are hazards that can happen to anyone in all parts of the world. Although some problems may be resolved by reporting such incidents to the local police, embassy, or consulate, it is better to be prepared for such circumstances by following some tips to stay safe while traveling in a foreign country.
The first thing you should do is to research about the places included in your itinerary. You can go to your local library, travel bureau, or surf the internet for web sites that offer travel tips and advice like this one. When planning to visit a specific country, look for the visa or entry requirements, currency and health regulations, and the crime and political situation in the country. Doing research will also familiarize you with their customs and traditions, whether liquor is available or not (Muslim tradition prohibits liquor to be taken or sold anywhere in that country), the dress code (some museums and historical sites frown upon women wearing shorts), and the local police stations and hospitals.
It is also a good idea to bring along a travel guidebook and a foreign language translation book that has simple commonly used words and phrases. Before leaving, make a photocopy of your travel documents, inform family and friends of your itinerary, and make sure you have the telephone numbers and addresses of your embassies or consulates. Finally, it is a good idea to keep your cash and credit/ATM cards in a money belt.
When you arrive at your destination, stay alert and be aware of your surroundings when traveling in crowded areas. Never accept food or drink from strangers, and be cautious of strangers who approach you offering to be your guide. Always ask your hotel or a local tour operator for travel suggestions and make it a habit to watch television to keep up with local news developments.
Although traveling to a different country for the first time can be challenging or intimidating, keeping safe starts with arming yourself with knowledge and common sense. When you travel safely, you're undoubtedly going to have a more enjoyable your trip!