
Travelling
is one of the most exciting things to do. But when the world is seeing an
increase in the number of apparently random terrorist attacks, travelling has
its risks. So, whether it is a business trip or a holiday it is important to plan,
prepare and exercise caution in every part of the world simply because when you
are in unfamiliar surrounding is when you are at your most vulnerable.
April
2016 statistics in Ireland alone showed that more than 800 tourists were
victims of attacks or robbery. Allowing for the fact that this should be one of
the secure places in the world, these statistics are worrying. This raises the
question, “How then can one safeguard themselves when they are travelling?”
At
the other end of the scale in Europe during 2016 we have seen terror
attacks in Paris, Brussels Nice and Normandy; random attacks across Germany, Ukraine, Turkey and in London with tourists, often being caught up in the violence.
The
perception is that European countries are dangerous places to visit either on
business or for a holiday – but is this factual or is it the widespread
publicity that these dreadful incidents attract that is creating an exaggerated
perception?
The
United States, Africa, The Middle East and Asia all have their issues as well so
what are we to do when planning a business trip or holiday? These are our
thoughts
There
is a certain euphoric feeling about being away from home in a foreign country,
and this is a logical explanation as to why a lot of people forget to exercise
caution when it comes to ensuring that their safety is paramount. Regardless of
whether you are on a business or leisure trip it is important to protect
yourself because you are oblivious of what danger looms in your
surroundings.
There
are different measures that one can employ when it comes to keeping yourself
safe. |We examine a few:
Keep your itinerary private
One
of the most important safety measures when on a business trip in a known
problem area is ensuring that your movements are not monitored or predictable.
For this reason, your schedule should be confidential as it will minimise the
likelihood of being targeted.
Always have a contact person who
can be accessible at anytime
It
is important always to have someone who can come to your rescue if you get into
trouble when in the foreign land. It does not matter whether this person is
family or a friend but the fact remains that they should be readily available
on the phone.
Watch your suitcase at the airport
Most
people fall prey of robbery at the airport, railway, or bus station. Many
thieves will use distraction techniques to target bags, wallets and other
valuables. Be on your guard at all times when you are carrying all your
valuables.
Consult your hotel management
If
you want to take a tour of the new city, the best alternative is to ask your
hotel staff for safety tips. Needless to stay keeping your travel safe is a
collective effort and you might need the guidance of someone who knows the
place better than you do.
Blend with the locals
Easier
said than done but one of the reasons why people travel is to interact and meet
new people and learn a little of a different way of life. It is not only
exciting to meet new people but socialising, and mingling with others makes you
less vulnerable. Making friends is also a way to learn the areas to explore and
those not to explore.
Do not drink and drive
Even
though this is a universal rule everywhere, drinking and driving are even more
dangerous when in a new environment.
Insurance
Hopefully
you will have a trouble free trip abroad but if you are unlucky it is important
to have comprehensive travel insurance to fall back on. Check your policy
before you go and perhaps even make a phone call to the insurer to be certain
that you are covered for your destination.
In
summary, travelling can be great fun and please don't be put off by the publicity generated by admittedly terrible events across the World but if you can, minimise the risks to
maximise a positive experience of your foreign travel and remain vigilant at
all times.
Good luck, have fun and remember
– Mayfair Cares.
References
www.itb-berlin.de/...all/...all...all...all...all.../ITB_World_Travel_Trends_Report_2015...
http://www.thejournal.ie/tourists-attacked-and-robbed-in-dublin-2701644-Apr2016/