THE FACTS ABOUT SAFETY FIRST

Thieves often perceive female travellers as easy targets. Here are a few suggestions for reducing the risks of travelling abroad. Do a bit of pre-travel research: make sure you're aware of potential danger spots or safety issues particular to the region. Research the culture and customs of the place you're visiting: it will help with safety and avoid embarrassment. Never let people know that youre travelling alone: give the impression that you're travelling with colleagues. Develop your observational skills: be aware of your surroundings and try to anticipate potential problems. Keep aware at all times and don't talk on your mobile in quiet streets. Travel with a small, powerful torch: keep it in your bag and put it on your bedside table at night. Carry a personal alarm: they are small enough to keep in your handbag or coat pocket. Wear your handbag in front of you, next to your stomach: it will be less accessible to pickpockets. Don't travel with ostentatious jewellery: avoid anything enticing for thieves. Try to pre-arrange transportation from the airport: this avoids potentially standing alone waiting for a taxi, bus or train. Plan your route before travelling in a rental car: you don't want to find yourself lost in a rough neighbourhood. When arriving at night: arrange for someone from the hotel or rental car company to accompany you to and from car parks. Before stepping out from your hotel: ask your hotel concierge for directions and find out if there are any areas you need to avoid. At the hotel: choose hotels with interior room entrances; check window and door locks; put the Do Not Disturb sign on your door even when you're not in; don't open your door to anyone unless you have an appointment or are expecting room service; use your peephole before opening your door; avoid meeting anyone in your room - treat it like your bedroom at home - and use a hotel restaurant or meeting room instead; if it's very late and you're alone, consider asking a member of staff to walk you to your room. Be aware of local attire and dress appropriately: you don't want to attract unwanted attention. Avoid accepting a drink from a stranger: drugging is a possibility.