There is a topic that often comes up when people hear I travel the “third world”, safety. Safety is a concern for travel regardless of what country you’re traveling it, but it tends to be more dangerous when you are a foreigner.
Many of my friends from other countries have encounter safety hazards in Europe and the United States. My friends who have traveled to Colombia and other Latin American countries also have their fair share of stories to tell about being mugged or robbed.
I will share some of my tips and techniques with you when it comes to safety.
Tips For Safety While Traveling
Tip Number 1: Always have hiding places for your cash if you are going someone… questionable. Wear gear like the products I have listed below; it can make a difference.
Tip Number 2: Have decoy cash. Buy some fake money and an extra wallet or two so you have something to throw down for criminals if someone tries to rob you. You can buy decoy credit cards too. The point is to make the wallet legitimate-looking-enough so you can escape to safety before the criminal realizes they have been tricked.
Tip Number 3: Speak the local language. Speaking the local language will help you tremendously! I cannot stress this enough, if you are traveling to a foreign country, especially in Latin America, learn some of the basics at the very least. I firmly believe one of the main reasons my travels usually go well is because I speak somewhat fluent Spanish.
Tip Number 4: Be respectful. Don’t go to a country for sex tourism or with an attitude that you are better than people in that country just because you are from a “first world” nation. I have found people from other countries to be the kindest and most generous people I have known. This is why I choose to live abroad. Respect the people and they will respect you as well. Nobody with class likes a sex tourist.
Tip Number 5: Be alert. I know a lot of people enjoy doing drugs while they travel, but most of the guys who have run into problems do so due to getting involved with drugs or bad women. If you go somewhere in search of sex and drugs without a respect for the local culture and people, you’re more likely to attract bad attention.
Conclusion
In all honesty, chances are you are going to be fine as long as you use common sense and are aware of your surroundings. You are not going to be gunned down or kidnapped right after you step outside of the airport. Avoid violence if you can. If someone tries to rob you, just give them something so they will go away as quickly as possible. Stay safe everyone!
