Travelling safely Below are a few hints and tips for making your trip that bit safer. Before you go… Record all documentation for emergencies, whether you obtain a secure online vault such as that on www.ekit.com or write it down and give to someone you trust who can be contacted 24 hrs. This should contain details such as passport number, credit cards details and emergency phone number, ticket reference number, insurance policy number /contact details and travellers’ cheques details. If you know where you are staying, also add the hotel address you are heading for and the company you booked it through. Theft… Muggers are not interested in your bra! Sew pockets into it where you can keep some money or a folded copy of your passport so if you do get mugged, you're not left helpless. Instead of a handbag, wear a money belt. It’s harder to snatch off you and run! Most experts say not to resist - let your bag go and then shout for help rather than risk assault. Opening your wallet and handing over your money may be enough for the thief and you can keep your bag; if not, you'll still have most of your money in your money belt or your secret bra compartments Dress… In some countries, typical western young women's attire like a shirt that shows your midriff may be an offensive slap in the face to local women and an invitation for a come-on from the men. Learn the local dress code as soon as you arrive; buy appropriate clothing locally if necessary. For instance, in the Pacific Islands, a woman's thighs are considered an erotic part of her body and should not be exposed in public. In India, a female's upper arms are considered sensual areas of the body and therefore must never be exposed in public. Harassment… If travelling alone, consider buying a cheap ring to wear on your wedding finger. Especially in developing countries, a married woman is viewed as the property of another man and is therefore off limits. It will also make any potential harassers aware that there may be a male companion just around the corner! If possible, arrange your travel so that you arrive in an unfamiliar city during daylight rather than in the dark. You already know that in any country, prolonged eye contact with a man is an invitation to flirt. In some countries, any eye contact at all is considered carte blanche to approach you. Some women solve this problem by wearing sunglasses. If you're being groped or touched inappropriately in a crowd, know how to say, "Leave me alone!" loudly in the local language. If you think you're going to be raped, a surprisingly effective tip is to pretend you're going to vomit in the man's face - although a knee to the family jewels is sure to work, be aware it may be grounds for arresting YOU for assault in some countries. As we all know, the more noise you can make the better. If you are raped, head for your (or the nearest big hotel) or a hospital to ask for help - the police station may not always be the safest place to go, depending on your location. Are you the only woman in a crowded bar? You may be challenging accepted standards and putting yourself at risk. Keep a careful eye on your drink - spiking is common in all countries. Take your cue from the local women. As a general rule, if they don't sit in cafés alone, you shouldn't either. If they aren't wearing sleeveless dresses, neither should you Hotels… Choose a hotel which is well lit and central, where security is good and transportation is readily available nearby. Check that all the doors and windows in your room have locks and that they work. If you feel uncomfortable, ask hotel security or reception to escort you. Try to avoid ground floor rooms. If you are given one and it bothers you, ask reception if you can change. They will understand. Always use your peephole and common sense about letting strangers into your room. Couch surfing /meeting travel companions… This website serves as an introduction and information service only. Speak to any potential companions/hostesses by phone and leave their contact details with a trusted friend or relative. Always meet in a public place and don’t feel uncomfortable about backing out of an arrangement if it doesn’t feel safe. We reserve the right to ask local contacts to make random checks on accommodation offers or seekers without notice at any time for mutual security purposes, but in common with most introduction services we cannot accept any liabilities and members are expected to take responsibility for their own safety. Finally… Look and act confident; be assertive. Be alert. Always stride along like you know where you're going. Don’t loiter in dark/deserted places to read your map. Find a local café or even a toilet to read it! Adhere to local customs. If you show them respect, they will do the same. Don't let this scare you away from international travel – with just a few precautions, you will doubtless be perfectly safe.