Women of today are venturing out to travel on holidays and vacations more globally than at any time in their history. Female travelers, whether traveling alone, with a companion, or as a group, are discovering different cultures, societies, and religions. With this freedom comes significant risks that men may never encounter. It is therefore makes sense for women who plan to travel to learn how to handle themselves when on holiday or vacation, studying abroad, or traveling on business.
What are some things you can do that may help you have a safer and more enjoyable travel experience.
When traveling, or on vacation, your best protection is to understand the local culture and customs of that country. What you observe when watching how the local women behave and dress will give you valuable clues on how to avoid sexual harassment.
When the local women cover their hair and their arms and legs then you should do that also. Don’t wear bikinis, swimsuits, or short shorts in towns where the local women are all covered up. It’s prudent to dress conservatively.
Avoid direct eye contact with men as they might construe this as flirtatious. Do not talk, smile, or wave to strange men who smile or say hello to you. If a man follows you, cross the street. If this doesn’t work, find a policeman, or enter a store and ask for help.
If you have to ask for directions, always ask a woman. Also, when you are traveling by bus or train, make sure that you always sit with other women.
It is a good idea to carry a versatile head scarf in your handbag just in case you need to cover your head and arms.
You should think about wearing a fake wedding ring to help discourage and ward off any unwanted male advances if you’re not married.
You should wear a referee’s whistle around your neck under your blouse. It could come in handy.
Consider consulting guide books on the countries and areas that you are traveling to or through to give you an idea of what to expect. Also, take along a foreign language phrase book with you to help you communicate with the local people when you get there.
Do not wear expensive looking jewelry, watches, camera carrying cases, or even designer handbags. You don’t want to tempt any would be robbers or muggers. Take a conservative outfit along with you in case you need to wear one on certain occasions.
If you are going to travel alone, it’s better to travel light. For one thing you will be more mobile if you aren’t loaded down with luggage. If it’s not too small for your belongings, a wheeled, carry-on bag, or a backpack may be you best bet. It is important to try and have one hand free at all times. Having two hands free is even better. You should take a shoulder bag that has a strong, wide strap that can fit over your head. Wearing the shoulder bag in this way can help prevent a thief from grabbing the bag and running away with it. Also, the bag should have secure, zippered pockets.
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