SAFETY PRECAUTIONS WHILE TRAVELING
HOTEL ROOM SECURITY:
Leave the radio or television on in your hotel room when you leave for the evening. Put the “do not disturb” sign on your door when leaving. None of this works during the day as the maid will come in to service the room and turn it off, but it does work well in the evenings.
Do not use the "Please make up the room" sign as this is an indication you are not there. Keep possession of the room key with you at all times. Most keys are cards these days, but do not hand a key in unless it is too big to carry then it cannot be handed out to someone else.
Use caution when using the elevators and hallways at night. If you are uncomfortable with anyone in the elevator pretend you have forgotten something and go back to a public floor like the lobby or restaurant. Do not go to your own floor where they can follow you to your room or scout out your room number for later.
Use the room safe for any valuables including your passport, house and car keys and your laptop if it will fit.
PUBLIC AREAS:
Be careful in crowded tourist areas, airports, bus-stations, train stations, subways, markets, festivals, etc. These places are very popular with pick-pockets. Be aware of loud arguments, bumps and other activity that may be staged to distract you while someone else steals your wallet or hand-bag.
Check out where you are going and stay away from questionable areas, all cities have them. Remember! There are probably areas in your own hometown you would avoid or visit with caution
Take an organized day or night city tour. This can introduce you to the main tourist areas but also enable you to decide which areas you may want to re-visit or avoid.
If using public transportation sit near the driver or conductor and with companions.
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When traveling it is important to prepare in advance and to be travel savvy so you can make the most of your trip. Here are a couple of suggestions that will help with your safety and so it is not so obvious that you are tourist.
TAXIS:
When using a taxi, check to see if there is a meter, if not ensure you negotiate a reasonable fare before leaving in the taxi. This is important so there are no surprises or round trips to up the fare. Hotel staff can generally call a cab and advise of a reasonable rate to your destination.
CAR RENTALS:
When renting a car before you leave the rental booth, check where you are going and how to get there. Either print off a map from your computer before you leave home, get a map and directions from the rental staff, or use your cell phone as a GPS if it has the service. Even better if the rental car has a GPS system in the car.
This is of particular importance as many a traveler has landed in trouble as a result of getting lost or by driving into unsavory areas by mistake. Know where you are going and how to get there.
Most rental car do not now advertize they are rental cars on the plates as they did previously.
Make sure any luggage is hidden from view when stopping at a restaurant etc. In other words don’t advertize that you are a tourist in a strange city.
DRESS CODE & CULTURE:
Before leaving on your trip research your destination. Learn a little about the culture so you can dress and conduct yourself accordingly and maybe avoid undue attention. Show respect for the culture of the country in which you are traveling and they will show your respect and hospitality in return.
CAMERAS:
Take time to check out your camera before travelling, its always good to have a camera on hand and ready to use. Ensure you have the following:
* Sufficient batteries for your trip or a battery charger
* Sufficient Memory Cards
* The camera downloading cord if required
* Sufficient CD's or DVD's to transfer your photos to if you don't have your computer with you as you can still download your photos to Discs at an Internet Cafe.
Don’t give your camera to a stranger to take a picture, particularly in a crowded area. They could take off with your camera, or in the case of some sites ask for a tip for taking your picture. Don’t leave your camera bag unattended while taking photos.
Mailing
Address - 203 11951 Hammersmith Way,
Richmond, BC, V7A 5H9
BC License 1896
