Our insight is what makes a place seem dangerous and this is assisted by many factors, which includes, the super-dramatic media more concerned in cooking a quick and juicy story than finding the facts and figures, government is driving upon its own political and economic strategies and not to forget, the baseless rumors. All of these are uncertain sources of valuable information for the voyager getting ready to head off for a place that’s supposed to have a high danger factor.
At the same time, common sense (which is not common to all) should be the traveler’s golden rule. There are a few other (free) tips that you can take down when planning to travel to ‘dangerous’ places.
Before the Trip
Check the Facts and Fears of Yours
Make a list that what do you know about the country you’ll be visiting? From where did you get this information? How correct and trustworthy the source is? What is the definition of danger to you? Everything must be checked in advance in order to avoid spoilage of trip.
Read Advisories and Travel Warnings
Read and re-read your research from Google, Blogs, Travel Magazines and stick them into your mind. Visit the State Tourism Department’s website and go thoroughly the warnings. After that, read everything else about the country . . . the history and present that don’t flashes in warnings or the news.
During Your Trip
Observe the Locals
‘When in Rome, Do as the Romans Do’ this old saying is very relevant in the present scenario as well. If you don’t see people on the street wearing flashy jewelry, then don’t do the same, it may be harmful.
Let People Know Your Plans
This may sound a bit defeatist to some folks, but telling trusted people what your plans are shall help you get tracked if something horrible does happen to you. For example, when taking a cab from mobile app, add the numbers of your trusted contacts so that they can track where you are heading to. Or a simple email about your current location, landmark cannot waste your time.
Always Keep an Emergency Contact Card
The passport or driver’s license is of no use for helping people know who to contact in case of an emergency. Write your name, emergency contact’s name and number and your blood group in a card and always keep it in your pocket or wallet. Don’t forget to put the country’s code of in the phone number. Get the card written in English and also in the language of the country where you are traveling.
Drink in Limit
This tip should never be taken for granted. Even if you have a high forbearance for alcohol, be in limits or drink in groups. People, who drink insanely, become easy targets for anti-social elements anywhere in the world. Also, when you drink terribly, your abilities to make decisions are severely diminishes. Be sensible in your use of liquor.
After Your Trip
Spread the Word
Yayyyy . . . So finally you came back alive! Take a loud speaker and let people know about your journey. You’ll be asked, “Was it dangerous?” be fiercely independent and honest to answer according to your own experiences. Speak out against stereotypes of people and places that ought to have a closer look.
Keep Learning More
You just had an encounter with a country or culture that majority of the world considers risky, but it’s likely that you’ve just smashed that imaginary layer and discovered that there are perceptions about that place that needs to get changed. Stay connected to the country by means of blogs and newspapers, the same way you did before the trip.
Keep Traveling
The world is a large and stunning place. Get out, have a long breath and explore the infinity. There are thousands of people who need your sympathy, a gesture of kindness and a word of mouth to be spread.
