Don’t go out into the world without knowing what to do and what to avoid doing, lest you offend the people and the locals you are visiting. Some of the things that tell you that you shouldn’t be doing are there to either help keep you safe or so you don’t disrespect the locals. Mostly, we need to be safe while we are out there in an unfamiliar territory.
Never forget that you could be in deep trouble when you aren’t careful with yourself and your stuff. Always be aware of what the Do’s and the Don’ts are.
The Do’s
- Be aware of your surroundings, like the vehicles and the people around you.
- Only carry as much money as you need but also use cash substitutes.
- Lock up the important valuables in your hotel room or something similar if you aren’t needing them right away.
- Take note of your passport number. It will be easier to replace if it gets lost.
- Remember to memorise your phone numbers and credit card numbers in case they get lost and you might need to call for a replacement.
- Dress like a local. It makes you look less like a tourist so you won’t garner any unwanted attention during your trip.
- To avoid some thieves rummaging through your luggage and bags, put a band on them. A professional thief can get through suitcase locks.
- Travel with a lot of friends when you’re out sightseeing. It makes you less of a target for suspicious people.
- Vehicle doors should be closed and locked while windows are rolled up when you are out driving.
- Look out for some distractions that could be staged, like someone spilling a drink on you or bumping into you in any area. Thieves sometimes have accomplices that get what they want.
The Don’ts
- Don’t flash around your large sums of money, nor have them exchange at shady-looking places.
- Don’t make it obvious that you’re a tourist. Don’t dress like one and try to look less confused when lost.
- Don’t carry your bag loosely with one arm. Don’t make it obvious that you’re trying to protect it either or else thieves will get interested.
- Your backpack shouldn’t be big like a luggage. Don’t carry that around.
- Never go to unfamiliar and shady place, especially at night.
- Don’t show up your expensive items in public. Keep your iPhone or something even more expensive discreet.
- You shouldn’t be driving the obvious rental cars. Keep it discreet.
- Never park in anywhere that isn’t well-lit and keep your valuables safe in there.
- Don’t pick up hitchhikers.
- Never keep the keys to your car and your hotel room on one single key ring.
- Never leave your stuff alone. For that matter, never store your valuables in there.
