Travel to foreign countries, whether the travel is for business purposes or pleasure, takes you out of your comfort zone and away from the familiar. Thus, you become a particularly vulnerable target for scam artists and crooks.
Foreign travel is exciting! Visiting different countries, experiencing different cultures, and tasting different cuisines are all thrilling prospects. And while you have your attention focused on the sights and sounds, a pickpocket is helping himself to your wallet. Or a local scam artist sells you a bill of goods!
To travel safely in foreign countries you have two primary self-defense weapons: planning and awareness. And you need both.
Before you leave home, make sure that you have done your homework. Know what to expect when you arrive in a foreign country. You need to understand the customs. Knowledge is a powerful self-protection weapon. Nobody can sell you the foreign equivalent of the Brooklyn Bridge.
The other self-protection weapon is awareness: awareness of your surroundings, and awareness of where your possessions are at all times. Follow these suggestions:
1. Men should carry their wallets in their front pockets, and money should be divided between the pockets. Even better, a wallet that attaches to your belt and tucks inside your pants.
2. Women should carry a purse with a shoulder strap across the body and keep purse in front.
3. A better solution for both men and women is to use an under-the-clothing style money pouch. Non-security-style waist packs and handbags are prime targets for cut and run thieves (who cut the strap, grab the bag, and disappear into the crowd).
4. Belongings should never be placed in an empty chair at a restaurant. Keep your purse, camera, binoculars, etc. in your lap.
5. Do NOT wear expensive jewelry or flash wads of cash. You are sending a signal to local thieves that you are a prime target.
Foreign Travel Safety
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