It is nearly mid-May and some of us are already busy planning for graduations (whether middle-school promotions or College) celebrations and summer traveling. We begin to make plans while the DOW continues to rise and fall; as gas prices continue to go up; as jobless rates rise; and as news reporters tout pandemics and epidemics; all media jargon which continues to try and scare us into some type of media-made captivity. Nonetheless, in the words of veteran female traveler Zahara Heckscher, "Stay safe but don't stay home!"As we venture out, female concerns may include sexual-verbal harassment, come-on’s, inappropriate comments, crude propositions, unwanted touching, groping, physical assault, rape. Women are also more likely to be the victims of theft. A crucial reason we need to use our common sense and basic street smarts as we would at home (or learn them).
Basic travel tips for Women’s Safety Solutions:
Conceal your valuables: You can wear a slim money belt (not to be confused with a bulky fanny pack), neck wallet/pouch, or a hidden pocket. Your essential documents are secure and hidden on you. It’s a good idea to conceal some extra cash on your body whether in your shoe, sock, or bra, in case you become separated from your bag.
Carry a light or the Electronic Keychain/Pocket Whistle connected to a small plain key chain. Carry a small flashlight and always be careful on dark streets even if you have a companion.
Express confident body language. Keep your head up and walk with purpose.
Watch the crowd and be aware of your belongings in crowded places like airports and train stations, flea markets, or during street festivals. In crowds you're more likely to be jostled and thieves can take advantage of grabbing your possessions. This would include minimizing your own distractions such as using an ipod or cell phone.
Opt for modest attire. In a nutshell, match your dress style to that of the locals and avoid clothing that will attract unwanted attention.
Don't bring the bling. Avoid wearing flashy jewelry. It could be stolen, yanked off you by force, or send a message that you have more worth robbing. Save it for your parties at home – and avert that kind of attention while traveling. However, you might consider wearing an inexpensive wedding ring. This can help deter unwanted advances if you are unattached or traveling alone.
Let the bag go. If a thief tries to take your purse, shout for help, but it’s best to let go than risk assault. It is suggested not to reach for the opening in your purse to hand over your wallet as this may be enough to confuse or alarm the thief into thinking you're reaching for a weapon.
Stay safe in your hotel room with the Home Protection - Door Brace that will work anywhere. With these devices, no stranger will enter your hotel room and keep you safe while traveling.
Remember - Pepper spray can be an effective self defense weapon. Learn how to use pepper spray safely by studying the Defense Spray Facts - Booklet. You can find a wide variety of pepper sprays - purse sized and key chain sprays at http://www.istunyou.com/.
*If you choose to carry a defense device, be sure to check on the standards or local laws of the country you are visiting.
*Outside of the USA – you can note the US embassies and locate other government travel emergency assistance.
http://travel.state.gov/
Source for some of the travel tips: Kathleen Crislip @ About.com article: http://studenttravel.about.com/od/womenstudenttravelers/a/womentips.htm
With these tips in mind and following the same precautions you do in your own hometown, you equip yourself the best you can. Keep safe and hit the roads, skies, canals, oceans or trails. Travel and open your world!
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