5 Things You Should Never Do When Traveling Abroad
However, traveling abroad is not just about taking pictures, having fun, and owning bragging rights. It’s also about being respectful of other people’s way of life, as well as protecting yourself and others as well.
“There are definitely risks to traveling abroad, but I realized that these risks are completely preventable when you take the necessary steps to make things right,” according to Douglas Knight New Canaan, a travel expert.
If you are curious about 5 things you should never do when traveling abroad, read further to prevent complications from happening to you.
5 Things You Should Never Do When Traveling Abroad
1. Entrusting your Passport and other IDs to suspicious people
In some countries, people with bad intentions often target foreigners because of their trust. Some travelers would assume that a friendly person can be trusted, just for the reason that they look pleasing at the surface. “Remember, you are a foreigner in a different land. This means that some people may see you differently, and others would potentially look up to you as a target for their crimes,” Douglas Knight New Canaan adds. Stealing your information could result in your money accounts being compromised, using your identity for doing crimes, or even holding you captive to atrocities they may commit. Everybody is a potential suspect. So be vigilant on who your entrust your private information to.
2. Showing disrespect to other people’s culture
Cultural differences are very real even when you don’t feel like it matters. Some cultures are sensitive to mockery or slander before others, so it’s better to be safe by being sensitive. Show respect by doing the right actions and rituals when going to a cultural sight. Avoid making fun of statues, establishments, people, and any other thing that represents the country your visiting. Some forms of disrespect are translated into a criminal offense, so be careful about what you’re doing. If you have a travel guide and are unsure about anything you might want to do, don’t hesitate to ask. It is better to be safe and respectful than to be rowdy and face the consequence.
3. Forget having a health checkup
Some countries and local communities would require you to have a health checkup before leaving. This is to ensure that even when you are exposed to certain viruses, parasites, bacteria and all other harmful factors, you’ll still be able to come home safe. In some places, you might be needed to be vaccinated for diseases like Malaria, Hepatitis, and other similar diseases specific to that location. Even if you are traveling for leisure, it is important to be safe by looking up what health precautions you can do to keep you and your loved ones safe before, during and after your trip.
4. Commit vandalous acts or damaging property
In most instances, tourists would be visiting National heritage sites and cultural establishments which could contain artifacts and statues that date centuries ago. Be careful not to do what is prohibited during your visits, such as committing vandalism, stealing, or damaging property. These items would probably cost a lot of money, and if someone catches you doing these things, it may also be considered a criminal offense. Follow signs, and if you are not sure about something, make sure to ask authorities within the site. Limit your souvenir picking to souvenir shops and avoid picking plants, flowers and other artifacts.
5. Go somewhere without informing a concerned individual
A lot of travel troubles happen when a tourist is missing upon going somewhere and forgetting to inform a guide or other trip participants. If you are thinking of doing a hike, a walk on the beach, or a stroll on the street, make sure to inform somebody you can correspond to. Also, if you are planning to do something adventurous, always ask the locals, or your guide if it is safe to do so given the weather or other situational conditions. Do not be too stubborn or daring, as these acts may even cost you your life. If you really have to, with other people’s permission, at least let someone know what you’re doing and where you’re going. This way, people can find you in case trouble comes up.
These safety tips are meant to protect you and your loved ones when traveling abroad. Although an exciting time, you still need to protect your health and safety by exercising caution in the places that you go to. Be wary of people, situations, and even your traveling itinerary that may seem suspicious, and you are sure to enjoy a safe trip ahead.
