What are the risks associated with Student Travelling?

Any sort of travelling carries its risks. Travelling at home and abroad both carry dangers – you could be mugged in on a street in England just as easily as being mugged on your way to a shop in Rome for example. In most cases it is how safe you make it which makes all the difference. A few things to remember are:

• You will find difficulties in getting help if you need it if you do not speak the native language, so be prepared for a few language barriers.
• Not all cultures share the same principles as your own and therefore not everyone will have your best interests at heart.
• You need to look out for scam artists, conmen and other fraudsters because you may be more of a target if you look like a foreigner. Also, if you at not familiar with the local scams you may be more likely to fall victim to their tricks so watch out.

Planning helps stay safe

Planning is obviously key to staying safe. Looking ahead into what problems  that you may face will help you stay out of trouble. You can also check the Foreign & Commonwealth Office (http://www.fco.gov.uk/en/travelling-and-living-overseas/travel-advice-by-country/europe/?action=essentialTravelParts#essentialTravelParts) for information on countries which the government advise against travelling to. This information is very useful because it is updated regularly and shows you which countries to avoid and which ones to take care in.
You may also want to invest in a phrase book relevant to your destination. This will help immensely if you find yourself in tricky situations and need help. Consider learning phrases such as help, call the police, fire, stop thief etc.
Ultimately, keep in mind what you would do within our own country to avoid being in danger, some places will need more thought and precautions but you will know this from our planning.

• Avoid illegal drugs and underage drinking to stay out of the way of local police.
• Make sure you know the basic laws of the countries you are visiting. For example in Mexico it is not uncommon for the police to accept bribes in order to allow you on your way instead of being carted off to jail. Make sure you don’t give over money for no reason but do keep in mind that parting with some money in some cases may just ensure your safe passage and let you carry on your way.
• Stay alert, don’t walk on your own, avoid unlit streets and make sure your money and important documents are stashed away safely.
• Take care in taxis and on trains. Sometimes people may be out to steal traveller’s bags and money and on rare occasions you as a traveller may be kidnapped and sometimes brought to harm. Be very vigilant and stay safe.
• In some countries women need to take extra care because they may be an even bigger target for some people.

Finally, just remember to have fun and stay safe. Take all the precautions and plan ahead and you will be fine. Enjoy the trip and don’t be afraid to get to know the locals, you may even be able to learn some more handy tips in order to stay safe.