How to Stay Safe in a Foreign Country

Because many times criminals will take advantage of foreigners, it is important to know how to stay safe while you are in a foreign country.

Don't trust strangers, even friendly ones - This means never go into isolated areas with strangers. Don't trust strangers with your private information. If you've seen the movie, Taken, then you know exactly what can happen if you are too trusting of strangers. If you are a woman, be very careful about going to foreign countries and going home after a night at the club with a man. You've just met this guy. You have no idea what he is capable of. You may end up raped or robbed.

Watch your drinks being made - Don't let bartenders go to different places to make your drink. If he slips something in there, you might wake up in the middle of nowhere with your passport and money stolen. I've heard stories of people getting charges of huge amounts on their credit cards for drinks they don't remember purchasing. Even worse he might have slipped you the date rape drug. Be very careful and don't drink anything that you didn't watch.

Always travel with a friend - Traveling alone is sometimes necessary, but try your best to travel with another person. This is good because emergency situations do happen, and having someone else to help you out is always a good thing. Try to avoid traveling by yourself.

Keep your money around your chest - Try to buy one of those bags that allows you to wrap a string around your neck and keep your money in a little pouch around your chest. This will keep your money and other valuable items (passport) from getting pickpocketed. Another alternative is to have very tight jeans that will prevent your valuables from getting stolen.

Avoid dressing in a weird way - You should dress just like the locals dress. Don't let people think you're a tourist and you'll be less likely to be targeted. In crowded areas, try to avoid talking with your friends in your native tongue. You'll be more likely to be taken advantage of. I know several languages so I always try to speak in the language of the country if I do need to speak. One time I was with my friend in China, but instead of speaking Chinese I spoke English. The taxi driver took the long way to my destination and charged me over double of what it should have costed.