Whether you are traveling solo or spending time away from your group, it helps if you consider a few safety precautions for yourself.
Here are a few suggestions to keep in mind.
If you are exploring on your own, tell someone (from home or in your group) where you are going. If you are on a guided tour, carry your tour director’s cell phone number with you.
Don’t leave the hotel/ apartment/b&b without writing down the address and phone number of your accommodations.
Do not leave money & valuables in your hotel room while you are out, unless you have a hotel safe.
Avoid scam artists by being wary of strangers who approach you and offer to sell you something at bargain prices.
Beware of pickpockets. They often have an accomplice who will:
Jostle you
Ask you for directions or the time
Point to something spilled on your clothing
Distract you by creating a disturbance
Wear your bag across your chest and walk with the bag away from the road to avoid drive-by bag snatchers. This includes putting your bag on the table or chair when dining outdoors. I always keep mine in my lap.
Try to be as inconspicuous as possible – wear appropriate clothing that does not make you stand out.
Look purposeful when you move about. Even if you are lost, act as though you know where you are and try to only ask for directions from individuals in authority or in a shop/restaurant/hotel desk.
Don’t attract unwanted attention by flashing large amounts of money when paying bills or shopping.
Leave your valuable jewelry at home. Pack only a couple of basic jewelry pieces that go with everything.