STAY SAFE ON HOLIDAY
BY Pallavi Pinakin
Travelling to a new and unfamiliar destination can be super exciting but this comes with its share of risks. Here are some tips to stay safe while holidaying.
LOCATION GUIDE Before arriving, you should know how to get from the airport or station to your hotel, the cost of the journey and whether it’s safer to take a bus or taxi. And familiarise yourself with the licensed cab companies so you can travel safely.
Keep your map handy en route because even if you don’t have data coverage, your phone will tell you where you are. Knowing the route will prevent you from being driven through shady locales – and you won’t be taken for a (literal) ride for which you’ll end up paying more!
DOS AND DON’TS Read extensively about your destination – safety dos and don’ts; common scams; and other forms of criminal activity in the area, particularly those aimed at unwary tourists. Find out which areas are considered safe and neighbourhoods that are best avoided.
It’s also wise to learn about the local culture and customs. Antagonising the locals – even accidentally – can be risky, depending on your holiday destination.
CASH PROTECTION Carry only enough cash to cover your costs for the day so that even if the worst happens, you wouldn’t lose your entire holiday budget overnight. Use credit or debit cards whenever possible – many banks offer special international multi-currency cards for vacations. And if you have to use cash, be discreet.
The same goes for other valuables too. Avoid wearing expensive jewellery or watches, and keep your wallet and keys in a zipped pocket or bumbag as there are pickpockets everywhere. Passports, valuables and extra cash must remain in your hotel safe or a locked suitcase. A copy of your passport will usually serve as a valid form of identification.
SAFE LOCATIONS On your first day, take a walk around your hotel. Get to know the area and save offline maps of routes from various landmarks in the city to your holiday residence. Always keep the address written on a piece of paper in case you lose your phone and need to find your way back.
Blending in so that you don’t stand out as a tourist, being aware of your surroundings and having backup plans in case you lose your way will help ensure safe travels.