All of us have at least one distant land that has made its way onto our bucket list.  Perhaps you want to see the Great Wall of China, the Eiffel Tower, or Angel Falls before you shuffle off this mortal coil.  And many of us travel outside our country of origin not for pleasure, but for business, globe-trotting for a company that operates on a multinational level.  Whatever reason you have for visiting and exploring foreign lands, you need to be aware of the fact that laws, customs, and cultures differ from place to place, and there are always those amongst the populace willing to take advantage of the unwary traveler abroad.  So if you want to protect your property (and yourself) while jet-setting, get your head out of the clouds and observe a few tips about staying safe when traveling.

1. Learn a few phrases.  You don’t necessarily have to be fully immersed in the language of the land you’re visiting (especially if your office predominantly speaks your language or you have a translator on hand).  But it behooves you to learn a few common phrases for a couple of reasons.  If you get lost or go out on your own, you may need help from someone who doesn’t speak your language.  Also, it shows that you’re interested in the place and people you’re visiting, unlike most obnoxious tourists.  And when you need a bathroom, directions, or a cab ride you’ll be glad you learned to say a few things.
2. Explore customs and laws.  When you travel it’s a toss-up whether cars go on the right or left side of the road.  Knowing this could save you from a lot of trouble.  In some countries certain people are expected to dress modestly, or refrain from acting affectionately (and there may be laws pertaining to this behavior).  And then there are social mores like phrases and hand gestures that are unacceptable or foods that should not be consumed.  While the natives may not expect you to adhere to all of these, foreign as you are, they will almost certainly appreciate an effort on your part not to flout their laws and traditions.
3. Get a guide.  There’s no better way to keep your nose clean and enjoy your trip than to hire a guide to shuttle you around, show you the hidden byways of a city, and give you a running diatribe on everything the culture and the country have to offer.  This person can give you tips on sightseeing, shopping, and food while passing along historical and cultural information that may interest you.  Although you might be keen to explore on your own, you could be a lot better off with someone who speaks the language, is familiar with the territory, and has an onus to keep you safe.
4. Keep money and I.D. hidden.  A money belt is something that every traveler should use.  Losing your money is not so bad.  Even credit cards can be cancelled (although you’re really better off carrying traveler’s checks, which are insured).  But when you lose your ID (a passport, for example), you’re going to have a pretty rough road ahead when it comes to returning to your country of origin.
5. Know where the embassy is.  If all else fails, getting yourself to your country’s embassy can be a valuable failsafe.  Not only can they protect you from harm (and sometimes prosecution), they also understand the laws of international travel, which they can use to your benefit.

There’s no need to play roulette with your safety.  By doing some homework, paying attention to your surroundings, and doing your best to stay out of trouble you’re going to ensure that you have a fabulous time traveling abroad, no matter what the reason for your visit to a foreign country.

Author: Carol Montrose