Travelers are particularly vulnerable to becoming victims of crime while out and about. It is very difficult for a foreigner to blend in with the local populace. Many things can give you away as a tourist, including your physical appearance, habits, clothing, manner of walk or speech, even your smell. In most countries worldwide, tourists are assumed to be wealthier than the average local citizen and not savvy to local threats. This makes them attractive to thieves and other criminals.
Have hotel management call for a taxi rather than trying to hail one yourself.
Be knowledgeable of restricted areas requiring entry permits and obtain these documents before traveling to such locations.
Do not photograph police stations, military installations, government buildings, airports, ports or train stations without first determining whether photography is permitted. If in doubt, ask permission from someone in authority before taking any photographs. Buy a good map. Mark key points on the map, such as embassies, police stations and your hotel. Study the map and make a mental note of alternative routes to your hotel or other local lodging.
Learn how to use the local telephone system and keep the proper change, token or telephone card on hand. Carry with you emergency telephone numbers such as local police, fire, your hotel, a local contact and the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Learn a few key expressions in the local language so that you can signal your need for help and be clearly understood. Alternatively, carry such phrases with you, as written by a local person.
Every morning, before departing, check the local situation with televised international and local networks, the hotel’s concierge and local newspapers.
Do not discuss travel plans or other personal matters with strangers. If planning a tour, hire a reputable guide recommended to you by the hotel.
Try not to go out alone. Let someone at your home base know where you are going and when you plan to return.
Dress conservatively and comfortably. Leave expensive jewelry at home or in the hotel safe; avoid wearing faux expensive jewelry (a thief may assume it is real); do not wear logo apparel marking you as an American such as college T-shirts or ball caps; avoid using identifiable luggage such as a backpack with an embroidered U.S. flag.
Place all necessary loose items, such as a purse, camera, map and snacks in a sturdy and non-descript bag.
Bring along a personal alarm or whistle, but avoid protective devices such as weapons, mace or pepper spray. These devices, if not used properly, may further antagonize a criminal and increase your risk of harm.
Leave the fanny/tummy packs behind; those only advertise that you have something of value to protect. Disperse your cash and documents among various pockets.
Know where you are going before you leave the hotel.
Intelligence Officers at iJET are currently monitoring local conditions around the world to provide a level of information that surpasses any available from other public sources, including the U.S. State Department. Free from political constraints or concerns, our data provides unfiltered information vital for every traveler.
Those considering travel or researching a country for business or school are advised to purchase an Intelligence Brief for the most timely and concise information available.
For only $7.50 you will receive the most complete intelligence available to the general public. Each Intelligence Brief contains data on 12 areas of concern for travelers (including Local weather, Security and Health advisories, Local Travel Alerts, Entry/exit requirements, Cultural and Business information, Transportation updates, Communications/Technology, the Legal and Financial situation, Environmental concerns and Language) plus an overview map and real-time updates from the world's leading private intelligence gathering organization.
To purchase and immediately download the latest Intelligence Brief-- Click Here
Those traveling are also advised to sign-up for a Destination Tracker to have their travels monitored and any relevant updates immediately forwarded to them, wherever they are in the world!
To sign-up for a Destination Tracker, which includes Intelligence Briefs for the countries you will visit --Click Here