Novices to international travel often ask, what special tips or knowledge should I know before I go traveling the world? While these individuals are correct in assuming that traversing the planet will indeed be different than a Sunday drive through the countryside or a weekend get-a-way to a neighboring state or province, they tend to overlook that the same common sense one employs in day to day life or casual domestic travel will serve them well abroad as well.
Most importantly, always remember to watch out for you and yours: in other words, "watch your back and the backs of your loved ones or travel companions." While pickpockets and street thugs are certainly present in all domestic cities and urban areas, they seem to be found in even higher proportions abroad and the fact that they target American and Canadian tourists heightens this problem further.
Another tactic involves mixing up your usual routine: carry your money tucked away in a sock or in your sleeve - don't have it hanging out like bait in a clunky wallet in your back pants pocket or jingling around your jeans in a money clip. Also, they sell specialized belts which contain zippered compartments to help avoid pickpockets. However, one should keep in mind that if these methods are available than most criminals know of them and can plan accordingly so, more important than specialized clothing or tactics is to simply stay alert and know your surroundings.
That being said, being familiar with your surroundings is perhaps the second most important tip to carry with you when traveling abroad. Try to stay in main tourist areas or on busy and well lit and open streets and throughways. If you need to travel into more "local" spots be sure you go during day time and always with people you trust and who can speak the local tongue if you yourself are not able to do so.
Moreover, it's helpful for you to be aware of the location of all local law enforcement buildings and offices and, if there is one in the country you find yourself in, the location of the embassy of your home nation. Countless world travelers have returned home with stories of both joy and horror that rested or fell on how well a traveler knew his surroundings. So in short, play it safe and stay close to others in your travel party or those your trust.
Traveling around the world is not hard. If you follow these tips and advice while you are away, you will find that you have a much easier time while traveling. Keeping an eye on your money, keeping a clear head, and knowing where things are will help go a long way in helping to make your long term trip much better.
Most importantly, always remember to watch out for you and yours: in other words, "watch your back and the backs of your loved ones or travel companions." While pickpockets and street thugs are certainly present in all domestic cities and urban areas, they seem to be found in even higher proportions abroad and the fact that they target American and Canadian tourists heightens this problem further.
Another tactic involves mixing up your usual routine: carry your money tucked away in a sock or in your sleeve - don't have it hanging out like bait in a clunky wallet in your back pants pocket or jingling around your jeans in a money clip. Also, they sell specialized belts which contain zippered compartments to help avoid pickpockets. However, one should keep in mind that if these methods are available than most criminals know of them and can plan accordingly so, more important than specialized clothing or tactics is to simply stay alert and know your surroundings.
That being said, being familiar with your surroundings is perhaps the second most important tip to carry with you when traveling abroad. Try to stay in main tourist areas or on busy and well lit and open streets and throughways. If you need to travel into more "local" spots be sure you go during day time and always with people you trust and who can speak the local tongue if you yourself are not able to do so.
Moreover, it's helpful for you to be aware of the location of all local law enforcement buildings and offices and, if there is one in the country you find yourself in, the location of the embassy of your home nation. Countless world travelers have returned home with stories of both joy and horror that rested or fell on how well a traveler knew his surroundings. So in short, play it safe and stay close to others in your travel party or those your trust.
Traveling around the world is not hard. If you follow these tips and advice while you are away, you will find that you have a much easier time while traveling. Keeping an eye on your money, keeping a clear head, and knowing where things are will help go a long way in helping to make your long term trip much better.
About the Author:
Gary Ardnt has been traveling the world for over two years. He has visited over 40 countries and has been published in many magazines. For more information about running a world traveler blog, check out his website and see all his great photos and read his tips.
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