SAFETY TIPS WHEN TRAVELLING ABROAD

Millions of people travel abroad every year without any problems whatsoever, if we are well prepared for every eventuality our travelling experiences become wonderful memories.  Before you go, here are a few very wise tips to make note of.

• Don't reveal your travel plans on social networking sites, most of us have added friends we don't know.
• Scan all your important documents eg. Passport, Birth Certificate, Flight Details, Itinerary and Emergency credit card phone numbers and e-mail to yourself and a trusted family member.
• Find out the emergency telephone numbers of the country you are visiting.  We are compling a list on this blog.
• Do you have overseas medical insurance? Check your policy.
• Travelling in the EU? Get a free European Health Insurance Card for free or reduced emergency care.
• All first time adult passport applicants must now attend an interview to prove their identity, it can take up to 6 weeks to process.
• Remember you are subject to the laws and customs of the country you are visiting, so do some research.
• Some countries require a visa when entering as well as a passport, for example India. When in doubt, check it out.
• You may need a course of anti-malaria tablets or vaccination against certain illnesses in specific countries, these may need to be taken well in advance of leaving, so make this a high priority.
• Be aware of restrictions on items that may be taken overseas.
• If you have a pre-existing medical condition, you may need a doctor's letter as proof, including the generic names of the precribed medication.

Now that you have taken all of these tips into consideration, the next list of tips are how to stay safe whilst you are at your chosen destination. 

• Do not wear conspicuous clothing or jewellery.
• Tourists are common targets for pick-pockets, so don't flash your cash or credit cards.
• Do not leave unattended baggage in public places.
• Only carry small amounts of cash with you, most countries have ATM machines. 
• Only use ATM machines in the daytime where there is a large volume of pedestrian traffic.
• Do not accept packages from strangers.
• Try not to be out alone at night (this can happen, especially after an argument), stay in well lit areas and walk close to groups of people (use your common sense) until you get back to your accommodation.
• Avoid binge drinking, this applies to both men and women.
• Drink only bottled water and only eat in cafes and restaurants that are busy, they are busy for good reason. Always use your eyes and nose, if the food doesn't look or smell good it is not worth the risk.
• Avoid high risk activities. If you do decide to participate please ensure you have adequate insurance to cover this and experienced support.
• Drug use abroad can result in severe consequences.
• Drink spiking is on the increase, there are lots of gadgets out there that you can use to protect your drinks.  Don't accept drinks of any kind from strangers.