Indeed, our world is massive and offers plenty to see. Travelling alone and seeing it with your own eyes can be a therapeutic and life changing experience. Do you want to make travel plans but you wonder if you will be safe on your own? Do you want to go on an exotic beach holiday or an exciting African Safari in Tanzania but have nobody to go with? Do not fret! This should be a thought of the past. In today’s time, we read and hear so much about women empowerment and gender equality. Women have become more independent and can travel anywhere they want without any problems. Needless to say, it is important that you stay cautious at all times.
Travelling to developing countries, or even places where you cannot speak the same language can be a breeze if you just follow some of these useful tips.
Learn the local language
Before travelling to your destination, read on a few things about the country and its people. It is also good to learn a few key words in their local language, to help you get around and communicate.
Keep your important and valuable items with you at all times
When travelling, five things are most valuable – Your passport, your debit/credit cards, money, medication and electronics. Have these with you all the time. Use a sling bag or backpack that can accommodate all these items. This minimizes the chance of you losing any of these. Medication is important incase of emergencies. You don’t want to check your medication in with your main luggage when you are going to need it on the plane/on transit.
Take only what you need
Once you reach your destination, you may want to go out exploring with minimum in your handbag. Items like your passport and credit cards can be kept in your hotel locker. If you are on a game drive in the wilderness in the Serengeti National Park, for example, you really will not need any cash either.
Don’t Trust People Too Quickly
It does not matter whether you are in Africa or Europe, con artists can be anywhere. Be careful of overfriendly strangers or street vendors who try to sell you something that is usually overpriced.
Watch Your Drinking
Do not drink so much that you lose awareness. Not to say that you cannot drink at all. But make sure you do not go overboard. Drink responsibly and make sure it is on a full stomach.
Blend in as Much as You Can
Travelling to more conservative countries would mean you need to dress modestly. Wearing a pair of hot pants will draw unnecessary attention. In other developing countries like Kenya, you may not want to wear you best Gold or show off your flashy new watch. This will also create unwanted attention from pickpockets.
Spend Extra Money on Staying Safe
Spend a few extra bucks on key elements like transport especially in the late hours. Instead of walking back to your hotel when it gets dark, use a taxi. It is always better to be safe than sorry.