More Americans travel internationally than any other country, and even with a recession economy, this fact is not likely to change any time soon.  We love to travel!

But travel, like any other endeavor, has its risks, and perhaps the risks are now a little higher on our minds now that a recession economy is a world-wide phenomena.  Should I be worried more now about traveling safely?  What should I be doing differently?

The simple truth about traveling safely can be boiled down to one statement to remember and hold close to you, not as a scare tactic, but purely for awareness purposes.  This statement is:

Someone wants to steal your stuff!

Stealing can also involve bodily injury, but the usual and customary goal of crime against travelers is to steal your stuff.  Not very sophisticated but true nonetheless.

Luckily, we have abundant resources on the Internet to advise about the details of safe travel.  The best website I’ve found detailing the ins and outs of safe travel is the Department of State’s A Safe Trip Abroad website at http://www.travel.state.gov/travel/tips/safety/safety_1747.html.  The exercise of common sense cannot be overemphasized when traveling alone or in a group, and this website provides the best checklist for the right preparations.  (NOTE: The FTI website is pleased to provide a link to insure that you know how and where to find these State Department guidelines.)

Here’s some key pointers lifted directly from their website (notice how common sense and awareness permeate the list!):

• Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home.  Be especially cautious in (or avoid) areas where you may be more easily victimized.  These include crowded subways, train stations, elevators, tourist sites, market places, festivals and crime-ridden neighborhoods.   
• Do not travel alone at night.
• Keep a low profile and avoid loud conversations or arguments. 
• Do not discuss travel plans or other personal matters with strangers.
• Beware of groups of vagrant children who create a distraction while picking your pocket.
• Wear the shoulder strap of your bag across your chest and walk with the bag away from the curb to avoid drive-by purse-snatchers.
• Try to seem purposeful when you move about.  Even if you are lost, act as if you know where you are going.  Try to ask for directions only from individuals in authority.
•  Know how to use a pay telephone and have the proper change or token on hand.
• Learn a few phrases in the local language or have them handy in written form so that you can signal your need for police or medical help. 
• Make a note of emergency telephone numbers you may need: police, fire, your hotel, and the nearest U.S.  embassy or consulate.
• If you are confronted, don't fight back -- give up your valuables. 
• Keep your hotel door locked at all times.  Meet visitors in the lobby.
• Do not leave money and other valuables in your hotel room while you are out.  Use the hotel safe.
• If you are out late at night, let someone know when you expect to return.
• If you are alone, do not get on an elevator if there is a suspicious-looking person inside.
• Read the fire safety instructions in your hotel room.  Know how to report a fire, and be sure you know where the nearest fire exits and alternate exits are located.  (Count the doors between your room and the nearest exit; this could be a lifesaver if you have to crawl through a smoke-filled corridor.)

Another pointer worth mentioning would be to have money for a pay phone or to have a cell phone with you.  If you are staying in a country for awhile, have emergency contacts loaded on your phone such as 911 / 001 etc.  Safe travel involves much more than the above pointers, but common sense and awareness still prevail.  Learn to visit the State Department website each time you engage in your travel plans, use common sense, seek awareness and enjoy safe travel!

Kip Robinson

Mission Travel Specialist

Fellowship Travel International, Inc.