Scholarship Recipient Safety Tips 
(Scroll down for suggestions from various scholarship recipients by continent and country.)

Creating a Culture of Safety in Your Traveling Community

By Rachel Meeker - Based on her time working and traveling with the community of the Child Leader Project

When traveling with a group, the most effective safety practices are those that are habitual. Rather than relying solely on a set of safety rules as reference material, it is important that we also create a culture of safety within our traveling community. By creating cultures of safety, we ensure that all members of the group feel ownership of safety policies and a responsibility to the group to employ those policies for the good of everyone. A culture of safety should also enable member feedback on safety policies and procedures so that concerns can be shared, successes celebrated, and that ultimately the traveling community can improve and strengthen its safety guidelines. In other words, safety needs to be a cultural value in a traveling community and, as such, is an important element in daily activities, planning and decision-making processes.

Creating a Culture of Safety

How do we create a culture of safety within a traveling community, such as an education abroad cohort, a collective of international volunteers, or a group of friends or family traveling together?

One way is to create safe spaces for community dialogue, creation, and reflection. A safe space is when every member is allowed a voice in the discussion and no one is censured or judged for their contributions. Through these safe spaces, we can establish consensus on safe practices so that all community members feel ownership. This also ensures that you have the most comprehensive safety practices, expressing the concerns and wisdom of all group members. This is also an opportunity to discuss why certain practices are useful, why members may be more comfortable or uncomfortable adhering to community guidelines, and so forth. Let all voices be heard, be patient, and consensus will be reached.

Practice Safe Community Every Day

Maintaining a culture of safety is a daily endeavor. In your traveling community, there a many ways to cultivate the value of safety on a day to day basis. How you decide to make safety a daily practice is an important part of building consensus early in your journey, so remember to open the discussion before you board the plane, train, boat or bus!

Consider making the following part of your daily routine prior to and while traveling…

            -In preparation for your trip and while you are traveling, hold daily “check-ins” to discuss how we have each practiced our values, including safety as a value in relationship to other community values. This is a great forum for community members to continue the safe space created prior to your trip! 

            -Staying in shared housing? Create a “Safety Net” poster in your home, connecting safe practices to your traveling goals, experiences, and memories. A Safety Net poster is an ongoing collage project contributed to by the group that allows all members to chart their travel experiences in light of safe community practices. You can use a web structure, a bubble graph, a timeline, or any other visual structure that is meaningful to your group—pick one together!

            -Think about safety in positive terms rather than negative terms (Ex: Don’t do this, don’t do that); Celebrate a positive practice every day. What do your safe community practices allow you to do in your travels? Do you have greater mobility, are you more comfortable trying new things, and so forth? Make time to celebrate the ways that safe practices liberate your journey by recognizing and exercising the freedoms that safe community ensures!

            - Maintain connection to loved ones at home. Use phone calls, emails, blogs, webcasts, or good old fashioned letters and postcards. Remember that how we define our traveling communities is not necessarily limited to those you are physically with while you travel. Involve family, friends and partners. They are our primary advocates and allies in our daily lives and this does not change when we are abroad. Their contributions and their care are an integral part of creating your safety culture. Consider this as you plan your trip and reflect on how your travel community will actively involve them in your journey.

Safe Communities Confronting the Unexpected

What happens when your travel community is confronted with a safety issue that they did not expect?

One of the benefits of creating a culture of safety in your traveling community is that when you confront a safety issue that your community could not predict in your travels, you already have the mechanisms in place within your community to deal with it. Safe space for discussion allows all voices to be heard, all wisdom and insight to be shared. We all know the adage “two heads are better than one” but how much better is it to have the heads and hearts of your whole community directed towards the group good? Daily activities highlighting safety as a value ensures that all members have practice thinking about safety or using a ‘safety lens’ to reflect on their experiences. With these mechanisms in place, your community will be better equipped to handle the unfamiliar or unexpected. Use these mechanisms to allow the group to make decisions about safe practices together and trust your community. Come together in caring and enjoy your journey!

Africa

Travel Tips for Travel throughout Africa (Kelly Dahl)

Being cautious about your surroundings is important.  Common sense is essential.  Make sure you only travel in groups when going out.  Hide all valuables such as watches or jewelry, or better yet, leave them at home.  You never know when someone could see that ring on your finger as an opportunity for their own advancement.  Talk with the local embassies and find out what areas of town are safe and unsafe for travel.  Avoid those not recommended.  Avoid traveling at night if at all possible, and do  not use unsafe modes of transportation, such as a motorcycle without a helmet, or a car without a seatbelt.  Don't put  yourself in situations that could lead to potential danger.  As a female, don't wear overly revealing clothes, as this could be an invitation to disaster.  Know the culture in which you are traveling and what is expected of you.  Most importantly, though, have common sense.  If something doesn't feel right or seems unsafe, it probably is. 

Cameroon (Southwest Province)  (Sarah Sawyer)

Cameroon is a challenging country to visit, but also exciting, beautiful, and very rewarding.  It helps to speak both English and French, but you can generally get by with only English.  Before leaving for Cameroon, make sure to register with the embassy to get travel updates and advisories.  Also, be sure to get travel insurance, which includes evacuation insurance, before traveling.  Malaria is prevalent in Cameroon, so begin taking prophylaxis before you start your trip.  Be sure to leave a tentative itinerary with contact people at home, but make sure they recognize that travel in Africa is unpredictable and unstructured so your plans will frequently change.  Before you leave, throw away all notions of timeliness, stress, and efficiency, and try to relax into a mental state of “whatever happens happens”.  Everything takes longer than expected in Cameroon, but if you embrace and enjoy this waiting time, you’ll discover things you would have otherwise missed.

When visiting the Southwest province, it is best to fly into Douala International Airport.  Air France is perhaps the best carrier into Douala, although Royal Air Maroc would suffice in a bind.  Ethiopian Air is also a great airline, depending on where you’re coming from.  Upon arrival into the airport, getting baggage can be a bit chaotic, so I recommend immediately finding one porter or security guard to be your aid.  Finding one person to support you in getting your baggage will help ensure that (1) you do not get harassed by other porters asking for more money upon exit, (2) you pass through customs smoothly, and (3) you find a reliable taxi upon exit.  Give your porter a nice tip at the end.  Customs officers will ask for bribes, but do not give in to them if you know that you have not done anything illegal.  As soon as you can, I recommend purchasing a SIM card for your cell phone.  They are cheap, and you can fill them as you go.  Make sure that your cell phone is a quad-band, and has been “unlocked” for use in other countries before you leave the states, and then put in a Cameroonian SIM card upon arrival.  Program emergency contacts, reliable taxi driver phone numbers, and numbers of any other people you come across who are friendly and helpful.  You never know when you’ll want to be back in touch with these people.  From Douala, you can get to any number of cities by bus.  The buses leave from bus stations, and are usually reliably late but trustworthy.  I do not recommend the small bush-taxi buses, which often cram too many people, too much cargo, and drive too fast in unsafe conditions.  Go for the larger buses, for which you can reserve a seat, and which tend to follow the regulations of the road more closely.

Limbe is a beautiful but quiet city on the coast, which I recommend to anyone visiting the country.  Accommodations can be found relatively inexpensively, as long as you go to one of the hotels not directly on the beach.  Hotels like the Victoria Guest House, set back off the beach, are clean and well run, and can have rooms for half the price of those on the beach.  Average hotel room costs run between about $10 and $40 per night, depending on if you want air conditioning or not.  You will rarely find a hotel that has hot water, but you likely won’t want it.  The area is very hot, and very humid, but I find that a room with only a fan is manageable.  Make sure to bring cool clothes, lots of sun protection, and stay hydrated.  Limbe is a relatively safe city, but make sure that if you are travelling after dark you travel in groups and keep the carrying of valuables to a minimum.  When you arrive in the country, you can get the police to certify a copy of your passport front page and visa for about 5 dollars, so that you can avoid carrying around your passport.  I recommend always carrying a certified copy of your passport, and leaving the original in a safe location.  It is always useful to send a local friend or colleague to the police station for you, as foreign faces always inspire artificially high prices.  From Limbe, you can visit Mount Cameroon, Buea, and many of the beautiful forested landscapes of Cameroon.

If you plan to travel into the bush, be sure to take appropriate precautions before you leave.  First, buy treatment for amoebic dysentery, giardia, muscle pain, fever, and malaria.  Medicine is inexpensive in the area, and it’s good to keep a supply of these on hand, to begin treating ailments before you can get back to a hospital.  Any local pharmacy will be able to give you good instructions.  Try to travel in the dry season (November through April), as bacterial and water-borne diseases tend to be worse in the rainy season (May through October).  If you can afford to hire a private vehicle and driver, that is the best option, as you can get the help and expertise of a local driver.  If not, go with larger bus companies, and travel with companions.  When you reach destinations, try to employ local assistants with a good mastery of English (most people speak Pidgin English, but it can be very challenging to try to communicate with others without help of a good translator), to help introduce you to local people, food, and practices.  Palm wine and Kola nuts are always a good way to show people that you have an open heart and are looking to learn and grow from local encounters.  Be sure to wear shoes at all times, wash your hands regularly, and boil or treat all water.  Diseases are rampant in this area, and it’s much more fun if you can avoid them all-together.

The people in the Southwest province sometimes have a gruff exterior, but keep your mind, eyes, and ears open, and you’ll find that many of them are kind, helpful, and excited to exchange ideas and knowledge with visitors.  Notions of truth are not the same in Cameroon, so be careful of being overly trusting, but don’t be afraid to open up and engage with others.  Try not to be on the roads after dark, travel with friends instead of alone, and always be aware of your surroundings, but don’t let fear keep you from getting the full experience.  Cameroon is relatively safe and welcoming.  Always bring some extra money, in case of emergency.  Enjoy your time and experiences.  Good luck, and safe travels.

Ghana (Rachael Bonawitz)  

- Try and arrive in daylight- the airport is not necessarily near downtown Accra and trying to charter a taxi/get transportation might be difficult unless you've made arrangements prior to your arrival

- If you will be in the country for a while, try and purchase a cell phone/buy a card for your own cell phone.  Most systems (such as Areeba) are pay-as-you-go, so it's not a huge financial commitment and it may be useful to have a means of communication.

- When traveling by taxi, set the fare before getting into the taxi.

- When eating out, clearly specify that you want drinks without ice, as ice is often not made with bottled/boiled water.

- Prior to leaving, make sure you have a travel health consultation- bring malaria prophylaxis, bring some antibiotics as prophylaxis if your physician will fill a script, and bring some over the counter medications (ibuprofen, immodium).  In large cities you can find pharmacies where most medications can be dispensed (and it's unclear to me what meds require a prescription in Ghana), but always better to come with some.

- Bring a mosquito net, even if you think where you will be staying will have one.  Also bring some mosquito/insect repellent, and be conscious of what you're wearing- long sleeves and long pants help keep bugs off.  

Ghana (Maria Crossman)  

• Do research on the community you are traveling too and pay attention to cultural norms that are important to follow in an effort to not draw attention to yourself
• Try not to travel after dark
• Always keep your money in many different locations and bring more than one means to get extra money out of your account if necessary
• Take time to understand your intuition and gut feelings.  I recommend reading the Gift of Fear to get a better grasp of this.
• Take the contact information of family and friends while abroad and provide them with a way to get in touch with you if need be

Kenya (Jodi Sebso)  Traveling in Kenya is definitely not for the faint-hearted or those with back problems!   Before you go, register with the US Embassy, which you can do quite easily by filling out an online form.  Kenya is listed on the State Department's list of locations with travel warnings, so keep this in mind when planning a trip there.  Places in Kenya such as Nairobi and the coast (Mombasa and Lamu), are typically considered slightly higher risk because they are more tourist-oriented.  In addition, be sure to get your travel immunizations—typhoid, a polio booster, yellow fever, and meningitis vaccine, the only one that is optional.  Overall, if you do your research and use common sense, you will find Kenya to be quite safe.

            When flying to Kenya, there are a number of airlines which you can choose from.  British Airways, KLM, and Kenya Airways all service Nairobi.  You will fly into the Jomo Kenyatta airport.  You must have a visa to enter the country, and you can either get this before you depart by sending your passport and other required items to the Kenyan embassy in Washington, D.C., or by waiting in line at the airport once you arrive.  All information can be found at www.kenyaembassy.com.  I had my visa before I left home, which made customs take only about ten minutes.  Be sure to leave plenty of time before your flight when you depart Nairobi, as the security is very tight (3 separate X-ray machines and several bag checks), and takes anywhere from 1-2 hours just to get to your gate.  Once in Nairobi, you can either be met at the airport or take a taxi into town.  While in town, there are a number of buses and matatus (small Nissan vans) that shuttle people around the city.  Do not travel in one of these vehicles at night if you can avoid it.  The streets become pretty unsafe at night, and there is a reason that the city's nickname is "Nairobbery!"  Always keep money and other important items in a money belt.  There have been incidences lately of buses on the way to the coast being held up by robbers who are savvy to money belts that hang around your neck or wrap around your waist, so the best kind to use would be one that you can attach around your leg.

            I spent the majority of my time in western Kenya near Lake Victoria and in southern Kenya near the Maasai Mara reserve.  In order to get from Nairobi to Kisumu, the largest city in the west, there are several buses and matatus.  I would recommend the Easy Coach bus company.  While it is not the fastest way to travel, it is safe.  It costs 700 Sh ($10) for a one-way ticket on a fairly comfortable bus that may have air-conditioning, if you are very lucky!  The roads are in extremely bad condition, and the majority of your 7-hour trip will be spent bumping around due to huge potholes.  But you will spy zebras, baboons, gazelles, and other animals as you drive through the Great Rift Valley.

            Once in Kisumu, you can catch a matatu or boda boda (a bicycle taxi) to get around the city.  Boda bodas should cost you between 10-20 Sh per ride.  Always take a taxi if you are traveling anywhere at night, or to get back to your hotel if you are at dinner or the like.  A good safe hotel is the Sooper Guest House.  (No, that's not a misspelling!)  If you are traveling to any location along the lake, you will need to take a matatu.  These vehicles are supposed to only hold 14 passengers and drive 80 km/hour, but this is rarely what occurs.  I found that the best seats were in the very back by the windows.  In this manner you get fresh air and are the least crowded when people are getting in and out during your trip.  There are also sometimes small buses that travel to larger villages, and these afford more room but a much rougher ride once you hit dirt roads.  There were several instances when I was literally flying out of my seat!  A matatu ride of up to 2 hours should cost 150-180 Sh, max.  Matatu drivers will charge based upon what they think you can pay, so be firm on your price.  All matatus leave from the matatu stage in Kisumu, which anyone can easily point out to you.  Nearly everyone that you meet is very friendly and wants to help however they can.  Your smile will always be the best tool you have to approach situations.  Have a great trip!

Kenya (Jeannie Schumpert Dias)

1. Never travel at night!  The roads in most 3^rd world countries are treacherous!

 

2. If you are traveling to another country alone, request to be placed with another student through the organization so that you are not traveling alone throughout the area.

 

3. Definitely try to learn the language before traveling to an area that doesn’t speak English.  I ran into situations where I was in danger and couldn’t speak the language.  I felt that the people who I was talking to understood me, but they acted like they didn’t to gain money from the situation.

 

4. Have a working phone!  It doesn’t matter the cost, it is worth it and could save your life.

 

5. Place your valuables and your passport in your pockets at all times.  Do not carry these things in your hands or they may be grabbed and stolen.

 

6. Speaking from a female’s standpoint, it is wise to always travel in pairs, NEVER alone.  Also, do not get too comfortable in situations even when they seem routine.  Keep your guard up and maintain an edge, it could save your life.

 

7. DO not take ‘NO’ for an answer when working with an organization and being placed with another student.  This will change the whole experience.  It is too scary and dangerous to travel alone when you are a target in an area.  There is absolutely safety in numbers.

 

8. ALWAYS take your country’s embassy phone number, address, and emergency phone numbers with you when you travel internationally.  You never know when you may need it!  If you are in trouble, call your embassy first.  If they cannot help you, they can at least guide you where to go for help.

 

Kenya and Uganda (Katie Fiorella)

1.     Medical – Visit a local pharmacy and doctor prior to leaving the island to obtain deworming medicines, treatment advice, and anti-malarials. These clinics will be infinitely more experienced with tropical diseases than even the best travel medicine specialists in the US and the medicines available in-country are generally the correct ones to fight local strains of parasites. Thus, the antimalarial drugs specific to your site will work best for you. You can develop malaria for several weeks after returning to the US, so it’s always a good idea to come home with anti-malarials, which can be tricky to get in the US.

2. Consider what activities you’ll be engaged in and what safety provisions will be available. For example, would you expect a life jacket to be provided on a 3 hour boat ride? Yes. It’s always possible to bring these things along, and/or to ask for them – sometimes they’re just sitting in the office. The power that talking about the need for safety precautions has can be very influential.

3. Emergency First Responder – consider taking a course that helps you be prepared for first aid in remote locations. I plan to take this course before I head to a rural site in the future.

4. Emergency phone numbers – As soon as you land, enter key phone numbers in your cell phone, these include the embassy, someone with a car/boat depending on your location, the nearest clinic/doctor, and your medical insurance. Probably a good idea to carry around a list of these numbers as well.

5. First Aid Kit – pack one sufficient for where you’ll be. This needs to consider both the stomach illnesses you may encounter and, critically, first aid.

Namibia (Emily Dodds) Make safe travel a priority. For example, set aside money to take a luxury bus or train when traveling long distances, and never travel at night. · If you are on the roads, be aware of the driver. Don't be afraid to get out if you don't feel safe. Hitchhiking is a reality in many developing nations (especially those with no public transportation systems). The best choice is to arrange a ride with someone you know. If that's not possible, however, and you decide to hitchhike, here are some rules to follow: § Never travel at night.  Look for safe, reliable cars, always speak to the driver, and make sure there is at least one other woman in the car. § Never ride in an open truck.

Nigeria (Stephanie Boarden)  While in Nigeria, many of the people I met described their country as "rugged."  After 3 moths of living and working there, I came to understand what they meant.  I spent the majority of my time in Lagos and Benin City.  Based on these two cities I found Nigeria to be fast-paced.  There are few (hardly any in Benin City) stop signs or stop signs and traffic is congested much of the time during the day.  

 The safest way to travel is by taxi.  They are relatively inexpensive and will take you exactly where you need to go.  Another option is the bus.  They are generally full, especially if you are traveling in the morning or late afternoon.  However, unlike other places I have been, everyone has a seat so you will not be forced to stand up.  Although it is very likely that you will find yourself sandwiched with four others in a seat made for three.  Be sure you know the final destination of the bus before you board and try to find out the correct price ahead of time.  There are also commercial motorbikes, but these can be quite dangerous depending on the driver.  I will pass on the advice given to me:  "Do not ride the motorbikes."  However, I had to take one once because nothing else was available.  If you find yourself in a similar situation be sure to communicate with your driver.  They are extremely receptive.  If you ask them to slow down they will respect your wishes.  When traveling between cities, avoid traveling at night.  I was told repeatedly that this is not a good idea and most locals prefer daytime travel.  If you have the option of taking the "Edegbe Line," take it.  These buses are well maintained, regarded as safe, and for a little extra you can get air-conditioning.

   As long as you use good judgment you will be fine traveling in Nigeria.  Do not do anything you feel uncomfortable with and be aware of your surroundings...SAFE TRAVELS!

South Africa (Michelle Pent) Be aware of local customs, legal restrictions and politics when you travel abroad. · Obtain current information about a country's political situation and general information about health conditions, medical care, crime, and the embassy location before traveling abroad. The State Department provides travel advisories. · Whenever possible, take a cab that is associated with a hotel. If you must choose a cab at random, leave the cab registration number with someone in a very obvious manner before leaving. · If you must remain immobile during a lengthy flight, do frequent isometric exercises with your legs to help keep blood moving and prevent clots. · The rear section and the section by the wings are the strongest areas of a plane. Choose a seat in one of these areas whenever possible. Always note the nearest exit on the plane.

Tanzania (Jesse McKenna)

1.  Never travel on the roads at night. Many drivers do not use their headlights at night, so it is impossible to see what is coming at you. Plan ahead so you are not in a situation where you need to travel at night.

2.  Take the safe option regardless of price! One seat in a speed taxi (from Karatu to Arusha) is approximately $4 while getting the whole car is $28. It may be enticing to take the cheaper option, but you are putting your life at risk. When you purchase the whole car, you can ask the driver to go the speed you wish. When you just buy one seat, you are the whim of all the other passengers who may be in a rush.

3.  Do not take motorcycles if you do not absolutely need to. They are incredibly dangerous, and there is often not a helmet for the passenger.

4.  Do you research on health clinics and hospitals before you arrive in Tanzania. Good healthcare in Tanzania is hard to find but not impossible. Before you go, research facilities that you could go to in case of an emergency. (FAME Clinic in Karatu offers excellent care, and is opening a hospital for in-patient care in Summer 2011)

5.  Be careful walking in the cities. Keep your valuables close to you and do not flash around your phone, camera, ipod, or other objects of “wealth”. Also, be mindful of the traffic. There are cars, trucks, motorbikes, and pedestrians all over the place so be careful when crossing the street. There are no crosswalks!

6.  Always have your phone with sufficient call credit on it. You never know where your car could get stuck or when your plans could change. Your family back home will really appreciate it.

7.  HAVE FUN! Tanzania is one of the most beautiful places in the world with amazing people.

Uganda (Kelly Grafing)

1. Make two copies of your passport prior to leaving. Leave one behind in your home country after telling a trusted person where it is located. Take the other copy with you storing it in a different location than your passport. This is to have documentation of your passport should it become lost or stolen.

2. Carry your passport and money in a travel safety pass to prevent getting your pocket picked.

3. Registering with your local embassy either prior to leaving or upon arrival is a good idea.

4. Malaria prevention is key. Take your anti-malarial medications as prescribed daily. Also prevent bug bites with bed nets and bug repellant. A recommended bug repellant would be Ultrathon Bug Repellent lotion or Sawyer Extended Release Bug Repellant. The key is the extended release of the DEET component. These products are available at camping stores.

5. Protection from the sun is also important. Have a sunscreen with you always for frequent reapplications. Drink plenty of safe water. Bring a hat and long sleeved clothing to block the sun effect.

6. Ugandan currency is the Ugandan shilling. As of spring of 2006, 1800 Ugandan Shillings are equal to 1 US dollar. To ensure the best exchange rate, bring $100 or $50 US dollar bills that are new, crisp, and dated after 2000. Many places will not accept bills printed before 1999. ATMs are available but having your own US currency is recommended.

7. If working in the hospital, open toe shoes are acceptable but otherwise dress is very formal. You will be expected to wear a white coat daily. Men are to wear a shirt and tie.

8. Shower shoes are a must.

9. Transportation around Uganda comes in many fashions. Private cabs are safe, often provide seatbelts, but are more expensive at about 5000 shillings. Matu Matus are minivans that function as taxis for the general public. These are safe and cost considerably less at about 300 shillings. Boda Bodas are motorized scooters that you can ride on the back of. I would not recommend this mode of travel, as it is unsafe and known for many traffic accidents.

10. Walking is safe in Uganda , but should be done in pairs and during day light hours for maximum safety.

11. Women are safe to travel in Eastern Africa , but should not travel alone. I would recommend that everyone travel in pairs regardless of sex.

12. It is important to keep up to date on the news occurring in the country you are traveling to or in. Many countries in Eastern Africa are currently not safe to travel in due to political situations. This information should be checked prior to travel as well as while there.

13. Water from the tap is not safe to drink unless boiled thoroughly. This means it is not to be used for brushing teeth, cooking, or accidentally swallowed in the shower unless treated first. Tap water can be made safe to drink either by boiling it, filtering it, or adding iodine tablets which are available at camping stores. 

14. A flashlight is a must as the power is very unreliable. I would recommend having one that can be carried on you at all times.

15. You can keep in touch with your friends and families via email that is readily available at many Internet cafes taking into mind the power is working while you are there. Cells phones are cheap to purchase in Uganda , and your family can call you on your cell phone after purchasing an international phone card in the US for about 8 cents per minute. You will need a SIM card if you purchase a cell phone so that it can receive calls. You can call internationally from payphones in Uganda but will have to purchase a local phone card at a rate of about $1 per 30 seconds to 1 minute.

Uganda (Jocelyn Cook) 

Hire a private driver opposed to public transit – this may add to your cost considerably but when you consider your overall safety and wellbeing – the cost really is nominal.

Travel with a friend on errands – I went to pick my husband up at the airport and it was 4 hours away so I recruited a local whom I had become friendly with and treated her to a nice lunch in exchange for riding with me to and from the airport.  Not only did she know the drivers language, but she ensured I wouldn’t be alone for the four hour trip to pick up my husband.

Do not carry all your money on you in one place so that when you go to pay for something you have only a limited amount of cash in your pocket.  This also helps when negotiating taxi fares etc., because you are pulling a set amount out of your pocket so one could assume that is all you have available.

Zambia (Nisha Thampi) Travel with members of your host family whenever possible.  Plan bus trips so that you depart for and arrive at your destination during the daylight hours.

Zimbabwe (Ashley Currier), Check in with the U.S. embassy when you arrive just to be safe, and leave a copy of your itinerary, including the relevant contact information, with them.  There are Internet cafes in all of the major cities so you can (and should) email your parents and friends regularly. · I suggest leaving your bankcard at home. You can get by fine with traveler's checks and cash.  Always secure your belongings due to the high incidence of pickpocketing. Keep your wits about you at all times when traveling. · Remember that being polite at all times can diffuse potentially awkward situations. · If possible, fly direct from New York or Miami to Johannesburg and then on to Harare. The trip will be far less grueling. · Do secure letters of introduction, especially if you intend to do work at the University. Letters of introduction help immensely. · Taxi drivers are quite helpful and are good sources of information in general. They can tell you what suburbs to avoid, what routes are the safest for walking, and if there are strikes or protests planned. They also offer a unique perspective on the economic and political situation. · Commuter omnibuses (or "combis") are quite affordable but do pose some safety risks. The conductors squeeze as many as 20 people into a minivan and there are no governmental agencies that regulate their operations. · A bicycle can be purchased for a reasonable price if you don't want to use public transportation. You must be careful of erratic drivers of combis and emergency taxis (whose drivers can be scam artists). · Be sure to set aside money for your exit fee. In 2000, the exit fee was US$20, payable in US currency.  Change only small amounts of money at a time, and be aware of where you're changing money. Thieves loiter around banks and bureaux de change waiting to take your cash. Don't ever change money on the street. You can get scammed and even arrested. Most people are quite happy to take US currency anyway. · Leave your passport in a safe place and carry a copy of it with you. · Try not to carry a large bag or purse with you as it will make you a prime target for muggers. · Be aware that there are a lot of street children in Harare-good kids who've ended up in rotten situations. Don't let them dupe you, though, and NEVER pull out money on the streets to give to someone. Keep some change in your pocket if you want to be able to give people money on the street.  Victoria Falls can be seen as a day trip. You can fly round-trip on Air Zimbabwe and have plenty of time to see the National Park in a leisurely manner and still make it home before dinner. · The postal system is slow but adequate for sending postcards and letters. It's expensive, however, to ship items back to the US. You may want to consider air freighting bulky items. · If you travel to Zimbabwe in the winter, it gets chilly at night. Pack clothing items that can be layered because day temperatures can fluctuate dramatically. Also, be careful to apply sunscreen often, even if you're only outside for a few minutes. · Be sure to pack an adequate supply of any prescription medications you take and carry a copy of the prescription with you. Other types of personal care products can be purchased in Zimbabwe.  There are national celebrations commemorating the national liberation movement on August 11 and 12. Plan on things being closed on those dates.  One of the most helpful tools in planning my trip was the Lonely Planet guide for Zimbabwe. Their online site "Thorn Tree" was also helpful.

 

Asia

Cambodia (Tanya Gonzalez)  I found the Cambodian people to be very warm and welcoming towards tourists – always very eager to practice English and share with foreigners the beauty of their country.

With that said, there are of course safety precautions that should be taken regardless.  As with any other place, traveling solo during the day tends to not be a problem but traveling in groups at night is strongly encouraged, especially for female travelers.  If you plan to cross the border by bus or car, do so only during the day.

 The streets of Siem Reap, much like other Asian cities, are chaotic compared to those in the US.  Pedestrians must proceed with caution when crossing the streets as cars/motorcyles/tuk-tuks usually do not give them the right of way.  Common modes of transportation, such as tuk-tuks and motorcyles, are not equipped with basic safety gear such as seat belts or helmets, increasing the likelihood of injury should an accident occur.  Additionally, most modes of transportation are gross polluters so taking a motorcycle or tuk-tuk on a daily basis can greatly increase one’s exposure to atmospheric pollutants – a face mask is highly advised when traveling by such modes of transportation.

Since Siem Reap is largely based around the tourism from Angkor Wat, pick-pockets are abound.  Travelers are warned to be aware of this fact and to only bring small amounts of cash and no flashy jewelry or other electronic items (including cameras and iphones/ipods) when traveling about for the day.  Should you choose to wear a purse, I recommend a purse that has some sort of twist and lock mechanism versus a simple snap or zipper for closure – this makes access more difficult for pick pockets. 

The number of street children in Cambodia is truly unfortunate.  It is difficult to not lend one’s heart to these children when they approach you selling items or for money.  Sadly, these children are often part of larger units (I hesitate to call them gangs) run by an adult exploiting them.  Often times, these children work all day long and must turn in their money to the adults, who in turn provide them with meager meals.  Instead of purchasing items from them or giving cash, I recommend donating to or volunteering with a local organization dedicated to removing children from a life on the streets.  To provide them immediate assistance, I would suggest offering to buy a meal for them.  Often times, I saw tourists purchase one item from a child and the other children would become enraged if the same tourist didn’t purchase from the other children as well.

Lastly, drugs are widely available in Cambodia, despite being illicit.  Many locals will bombard tourists with offers to buy drugs.  Please be aware that drug laws are often much more strict in Asian countries and the person offering to sell you drugs could potentially be an undercover officer.  Do not attempt to purchase or use illicit drugs while in another country – remaining drug-free is always the best choice.

China (Kristin Johnson) Travel in China is both extremely rewarding and challenging.  The people are extremely hospitable, the food selection is vast and delicious, and every corner offers a new adventure.  Chinese people tend to be very curious about America , so be prepared to discuss American culture, politics, and economics.  Don’t be surprise if you are asked for personal opinions about topics that you might not typically discuss with a new acquaintance.  Also, make sure to use these conversations to ask about China , as people will be eager to tell you about their local traditions and culture as well. 

 Perhaps the most immediate challenge is language. Outside of the major cities most people do not speak English therefore you may want to consider studying Chinese as part of your pre-departure preparations.  For me, the population density and the constant attention of being foreigner in rural China was sometimes exhausting.  It is not uncommon for strangers to ask to take a photo with/of you, however this is merely an expression of their curiosity; you may be the first American that they have ever met.  Also, Chinese cities are very large, generally much larger than most major American cities, so take care to find a map and perhaps plot out your destinations in advance, particularly if your don’t speak Chinese.  Pollution in China is also immediately evident by the air quality and the thick layer of smog that covers most cities.  While it might not be possible to tackle this problem alone, it is of course best to dispose of trash in proper waste receptacles.

 In terms of security, China is generally a very safe country, however that said please take all the standard travel precautions, including making copies of your passport, securing your belongings, carrying some money and leaving some behind, and informing someone of your itinerary.  Also, it is always advisable to check in with the US Embassy and to check for updates for the Department of State.  Access to certain parts of China may be limited to foreigners so be respectful of these rules.  Infectious disease risks vary by region therefore it is best to visit your local travel medicine clinic, but as a general rule always drink bottled water and food that is well cooked.  The greatest threat to travelers is automobile accidents; therefore it is best to use China ’s very efficient train system for long distance travel.  When purchasing train tickets ask for a “soft sleeper,” which is compartment with a mattress, this will be far more comfortable than the seating.  Additionally, take extra care when crossing the street as traffic in China in not likely to stop for pedestrians. 

 Given all of this, soak up as much local culture as possible.    If it is a culinary adventure you seek China will not disappoint you- from insects to a mind boggling assortment of meats, vegetables and tofu the options are endless.   China has vastly different culture from region to region therefore your experiences with be most rewarding if you meet and travel with local people.  Be safe and enjoy your travels in China . 

India (Ericka Schnitzer) Travel by train rather than bus whenever possible. · Use mineral water for drinking, brushing your teeth, etc.

India (Elizabeth Parsons) When traveling in the mountains, hire drivers who live in the mountain region. They know the roads and can drive them more safely than a driver from the city.

India/Himalayas (Nancy Zimmerman) 

-                     Do not be hesitant in whatever form of transportation that you choose (car, rickshaw, carriage) to tell the driver to slow down if you feel uneasy. 

-                          Do your research on the driving company that has been hired.  Ask questions such as: how long have these drivers been with the company, what are the company’s driving policies, and are these policies enforced.  

-                          If driving long distances with a hired driver, inquire as to whether or not there will be night driving.  Try to avoid driving at night if possible, since many cars on the roads do not utilize headlights. 

-                          Roads can be precarious in northern India, so know the kind of rocky terrain that you will be traveling and make sure the car is suitable for such conditions.  Make sure that your car has working seatbelts installed, as many cars do not have this safety feature.

-                          When in Delhi, wear a money-belt and keep it close to you at all times.  Try not to have your passport on you, and instead keep it stowed away safely in your luggage or hotel.

-                          Try to pay before getting in a taxi outside of the Delhi airport.  You will avoid money scams and unauthorized taxis by doing so. 

Nepal (Karen Mera) Do not ride motorcycles in Nepal because appropriate medical care is not available for head injuries.  Do not ride buses at night. Bus drivers in Nepal tend to take drugs to stay awake when driving at night, and the buses' headlights are bad.

Philippines (Lena Fairless) Carry your money in a money belt worn under your clothing.  Vary your arrival and departure times from your residence as much as possible while traveling abroad. This prevents thieves from learning your routine.

Philippines (Jeanette Heinrichs) Kidnapping happens to tourists in the Philippines. In order to avoid it, never travel alone or ride a taxi or FX alone. · Carry a cell phone with you when you travel abroad, even if you don't normally use one at home.

Thailand  (Jaime Moo-Young)  

1. Transportation Safety

·         In Bangkok, the easiest and most convenient modes of transportation are the Sky Train (BTS), the subway (MRT), and taxis. These are all very safe.

·         For taxis, make sure to choose cabs that say “Taxi-Meter” on the top. Although crimes involving taxi drivers and passengers are uncommon, females should be wary of taking taxis home alone late at night. Since some cab drivers do not speak any English, it’s a good idea to have the address/phone number of your destination available, written out in both Thai and English, in order to avoid getting lost in an unfamiliar area.

·         Tuk-tuks are like mini, open-sided taxis that can take you shorter distances and bypass some of the heavier traffic. They’re reasonably safe if taken on a side road for a short distance, but I’d advise against taking them on the highway or picking one up in a very congested area, as the exhaust fumes from heavy traffic are very unpleasant and unhealthy.

·         In all parts of Thailand, motorcycle taxis are a very common way to travel, especially for short distances and during heavy traffic. Try to avoid these whenever possible, as motorcycle accidents are still the leading cause of injury-induced morbidity and mortality in Thailand. If you are in a rural area where motorcycle is the only legitimate means of transportation, make sure to wear a helmet, agree on a price beforehand, and don’t be afraid to tell the driver to stop if you feel unsafe and want to get off. Travelers may also rent motorcycles themselves in certain areas, especially the more touristy ones. Use your discretion when doing this, as motorcycle injuries among Thais and foreigners alike remain very common.

·         As a pedestrian, be very careful when crossing the street, especially in very busy areas such as Bangkok. Whenever possible, use the elevated crossing bridges (“flyovers”) that are available along most busy roads. Crossing at a designated crosswalk is not a guarantee of safety; look both ways thoroughly before venturing across, even if you supposedly have the right of way. When looking out for oncoming traffic, remember that Thais drive on the left side of the road.

·         Unlike in the US , traffic lights and traffic signals are not taken as an absolute in Thailand. It’s not uncommon for vehicles to run red lights or switch lanes erratically, especially when traffic is the most congested. Keep this in mind, especially when crossing intersections.

·         In Bangkok, public buses are the cheapest and most common form of commuter transportation among Thais. They are quite safe, and foreigners may use them as well if they can become acquainted with the various routes and can speak some basic Thai in order to clarify directions/destination.

·         For travel between provinces, there are several private and government coach bus companies that provide safe, reliable transportation. If you purchase your ticket at one of the recognized provincial bus stations, you can feel safe knowing that you’re using a legitimate company. In the past, there were reports of drivers of nighttime buses taking drugs in order to stay awake overnight. Nowadays, this practice is less common, and most companies require 2 drivers per overnight shift who can take turns, thus eliminating the need for drivers to pull all-nighters. If you feel uneasy about this, it never hurts to double-check that there are 2 drivers on your particular tour bus. Or, you can opt to take a daytime bus instead of an overnight one. Be careful of overcrowding and overbooking during the most travel-heavy times of year, such as New Year’s and the Songkran Festival (in mid-April); it’s not a bad idea to avoid road travel altogether during these holidays anyway.

 

2. Personal Safety

·         Overall, Thailand is a very safe country, but you should always exercise the same precautions that you would in any large city. Especially in large cities such as Bangkok and Chiang Mai, keep your money and passport on your body or in a securely-closed bag that you can keep your eye on, and watch out for pickpockets.

·         Especially in touristy areas (like the Grand  Palace  in Bangkok), be wary of “tuk-tuk/taxi scams,” where a driver offers to take you to a tourist site for a certain price. They often will stop off at a jewelry store, even if you insist you are not interested, and pressure you to buy something there. This is because they have received a commission from the store for taking you there. While personal safety is not typically at risk in these scams, you may get ripped off or feel harassed. In general, always have a specific destination in mind when hailing a tuk-tuk or cab, and feel free to get out if you feel the driver is giving you the runaround.

·         Especially if you are female, don’t walk around alone at night, avoid dark/deserted areas, and try to tell a friend where you are going and when to expect you back home.

·         Lock your doors and windows, especially at night and when leaving your apartment or guesthouse, as robberies are not uncommon. If staying in a reputable guesthouse or hotel, inquire whether there is a safety box at the front desk for valuables. If you feel uncertain about the legitimacy of the guesthouse, it’s better to keep your valuables on your person or locked up and within your sight at all times.

·         Since the government coup in September 2006, violence has been kept to a minimum, but there have been occasional bombings around Bangkok and other provinces since January 2007. Try to stay clear of any political protests or crowded/touristy areas that may be at risk for bombing during festive occasions.

·         Deadly bombings by Muslim insurgents in the southernmost provinces (Yala, Songkla, Patani, and Narathiwat), have become almost a daily occurrence in the past couple of years. Avoid traveling to these areas whenever possible, and be aware of travel advisories.

 

Australia

Australia (Kristine Schad) If you ride with a driver from a school program that makes you uncomfortable, speak to someone in charge immediately. If you are uncomfortable broaching the subject on your own, talk with other participants in order to have a group consensus.

Central America

      Guatemala (Jen Bishop)

Guatemala is an unbelievably beautiful place with many volcanoes to climb, lakes to visit and some of the most incredible Mayan ruins in Central America.  Unfortunately, among all the natural beauty, there is a significant amount of poverty and need.  Although the other countries in Central and South America continue to make progress against stunting (poor growth and a marker of chronic malnutrition), Guatemala has not followed suit.  There are a multitude of NGOs working to combat this tragedy and many opportunities to volunteer and lend a hand.  As well, Antigua Guatemala is home to a myriad of Spanish language emersion programs and a wonderful place to learn the language.

Guatemala has a rich history and blend of Mayan and Spanish culture, and unfortunately a relatively recent history of political turmoil.  Its civil war ended in 1996, and although there are is not a present risk, the aftermath of the war still permeates the western highland region.  Many of the indigenous Mayans are skeptical of outsiders and also the military.  For that reason, it is important to know where you go, especially if it is a more rural region because there are many small communities that are closed to outsiders.  Finally, Guatemala City is the largest city in Central America (since Mexico technically is not part of Central America, but rather North America).  This title comes with the associated risks of urban high-volume living including significant danger/red zones (parts of the city that are not tourist appropriate).  Check the state department website before travel around the city (see link below).

Although there are certain dangers to travel in Guatemala, that is not unlike other developing nations.  It does not prohibit travel to this gorgeous place, but does make smart decision making a priority.  Here are a number of things to consider so your trip is fantastic and problem free.

 1)     Prepare before you leave, know the circumstances of where you are going

Educate yourself about the location you will be staying.  Also, make sure you have a plan for when you arrive.  Since most arrive to Guatemala City, it is important to have safe and reliable transportation arranged ahead of time.  Try to speak with your local contacts if you are going to be working or staying for longer about safety concerns, so you can prepare accordingly.  Spanish is the national language of Guatemala, but many of the rural regions speak different dialects of Mayan languages.  Although English is understood by many people in the tourist locations, there are definitely areas where Spanish is needed to communicate.

 2)     Sign-up with the State Department so they know where you are. 

The US State Department website has good resources about their warning regarding travel to any region or country in the world.  Although this is a conservative perspective, it is good to educate yourself on their perceived risks. They also provide an online registry to put your contact information, duration of your stay and where you will be staying in case of emergency or natural disaster.  It is called the “STEP”- Smart Traveler Enrollment Program.

 3)     Have emergency contacts in the US who know where you are.

Although you are an adult, it is always good to have people in your life who keep tabs on you.  Have a number of emergency contacts in the US, or your home country, who have your itinerary and know where you are.  Make sure you provide them with a means of contacting you and vice versa.  They will be able to help in case of emergency.

4)     Get Your Vaccinations and medications

Vaccinations can be expensive, but they are one of the best investments you can make.  Many of the developing world, especially if tropical, have a number of different risks and diseases.  The Center For Disease Control (CDC) website has country specific recommendations for vaccinations and malaria prophylaxis.  Although Yellow Fever is not required for Guatemala, the customs agency will look for it if you have traveled to other countries in Central America with endemic risk.  Therefore, it is also a good idea.  Finally, Guatemala is home to many wild dogs, and if you are planning to be somewhere off the beaten path, the Rabies vaccinations are important.  Malaria is endemic in some parts of Guatemala, so check the CDC recommendations regarding prophylaxis.

 5)     Visas:

Currently, there is no visa required for travel to Guatemala from the United States if you stay is less than 3 months.  If you are planning to stay for longer than three months there are some options.  First, you can apply for a one-time extension for a second 3 month period.  This can be a little cumbersome and require trips into Guatemala City, and it is not always reliable.  A second option is to leave the country for 72 hours.  After this period, there are no restrictions on re-entry and the 3 months begin again.  The one caveat to this is that Guatemala participants in the Central American 4 (CA-4) in border control.  The CA-4 includes Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua and El Salvador.  Therefore, exit for 72 hours must be to a country outside of the CA-4.

 6)     Make smart decisions when you travel, this sounds simple, but is not always so.

The best way to make a smart decision is to educate yourself about risks and options.  Be aware of your surroundings and your belongings, you do not have to walk around in fear, just an added awareness.  The most dangerous part of the abroad experience is the travel between destinations.  So, when going places, look at multiple options for travel.  Sometimes the cheapest is not the safest or the best.  Look around at the people selling you deals, and use your common sense.  Travel on Guatemalan roads is dangerous by day, but night adds another level of danger for both accidents and crime.  So, do not travel at night.  Also, make sure the road conditions are passable because the rainy season can add another level of difficulty.  Finally, listen to your intuition.  If something does not feel right, make a change, your gut is your friend.

 7)     Get a Cell Phone

In Guatemala, like many developing countries, cell phones are EVERYWHERE.  You can buy a very cheap phone from any of the carriers, TIGO, CLARO or MOVIESTAR.  The minutes are prepaid, so just pay as you go.  This will allow a way for you to stay in contact with others, and how your emergency contacts can find you.  Also, these phones usually have a very cheap rate for international calling to the US.

 8)     Don’t assume that you understand the cultural context, or the risks, even if they seem irrational.

If you are staying in a small community, especially in the western highland region, it is important to orient yourself with the cultural context.  As mentioned in the introduction, many of the communities hold some fear of outsiders and their method of dealing with conflict may look different than what you are used to.  At times a misunderstanding can turn into something greater quickly, so make sure to be respectful of the cultural context and educate yourself about the community before assuming that something normal in your home, would be acceptable there.  For example, many families are very protective of their children and staring at, touching, pictures or excessive attention to a child can be perceived as a risk to the family.  Baby stealing, although it sounds irrational, is an actual fear for some of these families.

 9)     Don’t assume your travel book or guide is up to date on the safety circumstances. 

Especially in the western highlands, the season can take a road that is safe and turn it into a landslide waiting to happen.  The rainy season is from about May through September and the land just soaks up the water and then the water carries the land tumbling down the hills.  The roads toward the tourist destination Lake Atitlan are notorious for these dangers, so check the current condition before you leave on a trip to this region.

 10) Have a Safety Plan: 

It is always good to have a safety plan, health plan or an exit plan in case of emergency.  There are private travel and health insurance companies that can provide these services.  Sometimes they are combined, and others are separate.  Regardless, if something occurs, you will have something in place to help you manage your circumstances.  Also, know the emergency call number to the embassy and put it in your phone.

 11)Don’t ruin your trip with worry, HAVE FUN!  

Although there is risk associated with international travel, there is no need to ruin your trip with worry.  An international experience is a phenomenal adventure and unique way to build independence, character and open your eyes to a whole new way of living.  It is the best experience of my life, and worth every challenge in the journey.  So make wise decision, create a safety net for yourself and enjoy the adventure!

 Resources:

- Guatemalan/US Embassies

- US State Department Website

-Center for Disease Control Website

- INGUAT Centers (Centers for Tourism in cities throughout Guatemala)

- Ask Locals, usually they will tell you the truth about the circumstances.  The key is to ask more than one so you can gain multiple perspectives, and not the tour guide who is trying to sell you something and does not have your best interests in mind.

Nicaragua (Hilary Robbins)

The following bullet points are pieces of advice that I have about staying safe in Managua and around Nicaragua. Some of them may apply broadly to developing countries, and others may be specific to my experience.

§  First, know your site. While I do think it is useful to learn generic travel safety tips if it is your first traveling experience, be aware that most pieces of advice don’t apply everywhere. Make a point to talk extensively with someone who grew up in the area and has high standards of safety about the best way to stay safe.

§  Take the time to learn the language as much as possible. Do not go to a new place where you do not speak the language and expect others to take care of you, especially if you are going to be there for an extended period of time. I have found that the better your language skills and knowledge of the area, the less likely you are to become a victim of any sort of crime.

§  In Managua, it is usually best to use nicer-looking taxis as opposed to the more dilapidated ones. The number on the license plate should match the number on the side of the taxi, and the driver should have official taxi registration.

§  Get contact information for taxi drivers who are known to be safe and reliable, and use them whenever possible.

§  Though city buses in Managua don’t always feel safe, the reality is that the drivers know what they’re doing and accidents are quite rare. The real danger is at night, as the robberies sometimes occur on the buses at gunpoint or knifepoint. Riding buses is a fine idea during the day, but something I did not do as a rule at night.

          The great part about traveling in Nicaragua is that buses are cheap and run frequently all over the country. The troubling part is that the buses don’t always appear to be in great shape and some roads are much less safe than others. That said, I did not hear of any bus accidents while I was there and I am told they are extremely rare. While I did take public buses around the country quite often, I avoided traveling in or through the mountains as much as possible. During one trip I did this by mistake, and was frightened by the speed at which the bus traveled around corners lacking guardrails of any sort. I also avoided traveling at night, as any road is less safe in the dark.

 It almost goes without saying that in Managua, one should not walk with any bags or purses and especially not at night. Many of us are accustomed to talking or texting on our cell phones as we walk, but in Managua it is important to keep your cell phone completely hidden if you are carrying it with you. Whether it is safe to walk at night is very dependent upon the area, but as a rule it is not a good idea to walk alone in the dark anywhere.

  Perhaps the most important piece of advice I have for people in similar situations to mine – i.e. traveling as an individual volunteer to work with a new organization – is to have a frank discussion about safety before arriving in the country. Each organization has its own standards of safety, and it is important that your organization agree to uphold your standards before you arrive. For instance, in Managua it is extremely common to ride around in the back of a pickup truck – but Managua is a place where traffic laws are often ignored and accidents occur frequently. The members of my organization, including one American, made a habit of riding in the back of the pickup truck as that was the only vehicle they had to transport everyone. This created an awkward situation, as usually the most “important” people took the seats in the front and I did not want to act presumptuously. However, when I made it clear that I wasn’t comfortable riding in the back of the truck because of safety, the organization made every effort to accommodate this. However, I think it’s best that this sort of understanding occur before a volunteer commits to a long-term stay – not after.

Mexico (Sarah Isbey) 

·         Travel and work in groups whenever possible!

·         Get to know your area once you arrive

·         If at all possible, buy a cheap local cell phone to stay in touch with your host family or organization

·         Use your common sense – don’t stay out alone late at night, don’t eat food that you don’t see prepared, and don’t drink water/juice from unidentified sources

·         Learn some of the local customs before you go, such as apparel, attitudes, and any common religious beliefs. You will most likely still stick out, but try to assimilate yourself as much as possible!

·         Be friendly to those around you

·         Always wear your seatbelt, and avoid riding in the back of trucks if at all possible

Europe

Europe  (Tanyaporn Wansom)

• Although Europe is generally safe, if you’re traveling alone on a train, try to sit near other young women traveling alone – they’ll likely be happy that you sat down in their compartment/area rather than somebody else.  Talk to a conductor if someone is bothering you.

• Stay in well-lit areas while you’re waiting for a train (or other public mode of transportation).  If you have a long time to wait for a train, try reading a book at a cafeteria/public restaurant rather than waiting at the platform

• You often get asked for your passport if you are traveling in Europe since you’re crossing borders often.  Keep copies and important information somewhere safe in case you lose your passport.

• When staying in hostels, men often come and sleep in ‘all-women’s’ bunk rooms at night.  If you don’t feel comfortable with that, splurge on a more private room, as it may be hard to notify hostel staff late at night.

• Register with the US embassy wherever you are if you’re going to be abroad for some time (It’s easy to do on their website).  By doing this, you also get emails from the local consulate/embassy about State Dept warnings as well as local events (like 4^th of July celebrations) going on around town. 

• If you don’t have a cell phone, keep calling cards with you at all times.  It’s good to have a credit card in case you get into an emergency situation so that you can call who you need to from an international phone. 

• If you’re going to be abroad for any significant amount of time, get a cell phone.  It’s cheap to buy a SIM card and you can pay-as-you-go.  Although most cell phones from the US don’t work abroad, most cell phones from abroad work everywhere (I used a cheap phone I had previously from Thailand in Geneva ).

    South America

        Bolivia (Caitlin Daniel) 

• Avoid traveling at night.  Sometimes this is simply not possible because some bus routes only run at night, but wherever possible, travel by day.

• When traveling by bus, sit on the side opposite where the driver sits.  E specially on narrow roads, crashes can occur due to oncoming vehicles scraping against each other.  By sitting on the side opposite the driver's side, you will not be on the side of the bus that scrapes against the other vehicle.

• If possible, avoid road travel during rainy season.  Roads, especially dirt ones, become much slicker and harder to navigate in the rain.

• Because you will not necessarily be familiar with the conditions of particular roads in a foreign country, you need to research the safety of a route prior to traveling on it.  Look for this information in guidebooks.  If these texts do not include such information, ask people to tell you; the people who live in a place will often be familiar with the conditions of their roads.

• Unfortunately, it is sometimes almost impossible to guarantee safe travel conditions, despite one' efforts to be careful.  In Bolivia, bus drivers in the countryside almost always drive drunk because they think it helps them stay up.  Consequently, if one travels in rural Bolivia, she is basically forced to do so in unsafe conditions.  While a traveler cannot realistically avoid this situation, she can try to pressure local authorities to put greater controls on bus drivers and bus companies.  I recommend writing municipal governments, saying that unsafe travel conditions deter tourism.  I would also suggest writing the country's Bureau of Tourism to make the same point; this institution has a vested interest in promoting tourism and with enough feedback from travelers, might actually say something about abysmal travel conditions.

• It is crucial to not only avoid dangers related to vehicular accidents, but also to be extremely aware of other people while traveling.  Be aware of your belongings and avoid contact with anyone who offers anything or tells you that you have to go to another place with them.  These scammers might actually be what's putting you in danger.

          Brazil (Katy Miller) 

1.      Know the area.  Ask locals which neighborhoods and streets are safe, and avoid the places that seem to be questionable.  If you’re not sure if an area is safe,   to become familiar with the area before going anywhere alone – it’s especially helpful if you can travel with locals or get a “tour” from someone from the area.

2.      Get a cell phone and make sure to keep it stocked with minutes!  It can be helpful for calling  a cab or, if necessary, calling for help if you end up in a difficult situation.

3.      Be cautious with public transportation, especially at night or when travelling alone.  Try to travel with a companion if possible, and take a taxi after dark. 

4.      Only use certified taxis – it’s best if you can have a local friend recommend a couple taxi drivers, and keep their cell phone numbers in your phone to call when you need a ride.  It’s much safer than flagging a cab on the street, and you don’t have to wander around in the dark looking for a cab – they can come to you.

5.      Find the balance between saving money and being in a safe environment.  I stayed in hostels when I traveled, but I made sure they were in a good neighborhood and that they had good ratings for safety.  Hostelworld.com is a good website to use to find hostels, in part because it’s easy to see where the hostels are located, and it also has scores for safety, cleanliness, and helpfulness of staff.

        Ecuador (Stacy Sprando)

Ecuador is a beautiful country, with incredible biodiversity.  It is separated into four regions, distinguished not only by their geography but by their culture and rhythm of life.  The four regions are: la costa (the coast), la sierra (the sierra, which includes the Andes mountains), la Amazona (the amazon) and las Islas Galapagos (the Galapagos Islands).  Traveling throughout Ecuador, as in any developing country, can be a bit of a challenge and often involves long bus travel, but it is well worth it.  Most travelers fly into one of the two biggest cities: Quito or Guayaquil and then take a bus to see other parts of the country.  It is common for locals (and foreigners) to take overnight buses when traveling long distances (more than 6-8 hours).  However, if you are traveling alone it is best to take the bus during the day.  It is tempting to travel at night as it keeps you from losing a day to bus travel, but your safety is more important and taking the bus at night, especially alone, simply is not as safe.  Regardless of when you travel by bus, be sure to keep your belongings with you (preferably in your lap).  If you have any valuables do not put them in the compartment below the bus or in the overhead compartment as you will be at risk of having them stolen.  Also, do not travel around with your actual passport.  Leave your passport in a safe place and travel with a copy of it.   Try not to travel have too much cash on you at any time.  When you need to withdraw cash it is safer to find an ATM that is inside and try not to withdrawl money after nightfall.

 I spent the majority of my time in the capital city, as I was volunteering at El Centro de La Niña  Trabajadora, located in the south of Quito.  So here are some tips for staying safe specifically in Quito.  It is best not to walk alone in the city after nightfall. Even if you are only going a few blocks, it is safest to take a cab, get on a city bus or take the Trole (public transit that runs on tracks, from the North to the South of the city).  The Trole gets very busy and oftentimes you are completely pushed up against other people, especially during peak transit times.  When riding on the Trole, always be mindful of your belongings; hold your backpack in front of you and do not leave cash or valuables in your pockets.  In terms of traveling in cabs, most of the cabs in Quito are true licensed cabs, but before you get in make sure you see a “licensed cab” sticker on the windshield.  Quito has some very beautiful parks which are full of families, couples, travelers, etc. especially on the weekends.  Be sure to enjoy the parks during the day, but do not walk through them at night.  In general, it is important to never have your cell phone out in public.  If you need to make a call, go inside a store.  Cell phones are very sought after and you have a high chance of it getting stolen if you are talking on it out in the open.  I would also recommend not bringing or wearing expensive jewelry.  If you have a wedding band, I would suggest leaving it at home and finding an inexpensive band to wear while you are traveling.  

 These are just some of the tips I have after spending 10 wonderful months in Ecuador.  It is an incredible country, with generous people and a rich culture.  Enjoy your travels, but remember that your safety comes first!  

         Ecuador (Bina Valsangkar)

  Safety in Quito  Pickpockets and thieves are a problem in certain areas.  If you are aware and responsible, there shouldn’t be any problem.  Take the following precautions:

·         Never lose sight of luggage or personal belongs, especially in crowded areas like bus or trolley stops or city streets.

·         Never place your valuables in overhead compartments or below your seat in buses and trains – keep them with you on your lap.

·         Carry wallets or valuables in a zipped bag or clothing, not standard pant or shirt pockets.  Keep backpacks in the front of the body when walking in touristy area or crowded city streets.

·         Try to avoid carrying a lot of money all of the time (maximum should be about $20).

·         Be careful when small children ask for money.  Often there will be others with them that attempt to pickpocket while you are distracted.

·         Don’t carry your original passport around with you.  Carry one of two copies with you for business transactions.

·         Never walk to “La Virgin del Panicillo” (in Quito) on foot.  Talk a cab.

·         Never walk through any parks alone at night.

Ecuador (Tanya Gonzalez)  When traveling  around Ecuador, take caution when in the big cities as crime is large problem.  Avoid taking overnight buses – especially up and down the Andes!  These roads are supposed to accommodate two-way traffic but are barely wide enough for two buses.  Exacerbating this is the dreary weather usually found surrounding the roads of thick fogs and bus drivers that come careening around blind curves.  I would recommend flying if at all possible or taking a day bus, even if you spend the whole day traveling.  Also, be careful when traveling across borders – only do so during the day and take extreme caution if you are crossing the border into Colombia as only one or two border-crossings are currently deemed safe.

     

 Peru (Rachel Sandler)  

         Undoubtedly any traveler to Peru will come to Lima as virtually every international flight lands there.  Lima is a large city with lots of traffic and notably gloomy weather.  However, it is also full of interesting museums, Peruvian cuisine, and nightlife.  The largest city in Peru, Lima is home to many people who have come from the other areas of the country looking for work, but have been unable to find it.  Because of this, crime is prevalent.  When walking around Lima, one should always be aware of who is around her.  Try not to carry items of value, unless absolutely necessary.  If one must carry items of value, do so discretely with smaller items hidden close to the body.  Certainly not everyone in Lima is a thief, but even in wealthier neighborhoods, like Miraflores, have incidents of petty crime.  Especially as a foreigner, you become a target.

Getting around Lima involves either taxis or buses (locally known as combis).  According to most Limeños, combis are safer than taxis.  Yet understanding the combi system is often not worth the effort unless you will be in Lima for an extended stay.  Phone numbers for safe taxis are available in most guide books.  These taxis are a bit more costly, but are guaranteed to be safe, especially at night.  Another strategy is taking street taxis and when you find a taxi driver who you like, get their phone number to call them when you need a text.  This route is a bit less secure, but certainly cheaper. 

Red flags for alarm when one is in a taxi include: bartering with a taxi driver that seems too easy and too cheap, when the taxi driver makes a phone call the moment you get in the car, and when the taxi seems to be taken a route through dark streets that appear off the beaten path.  If these occur, get out immediately.

Travel in Iquitos is relatively safe.  The primary mode of transit is the mototaxi, which may or may not be in good working order.  Try to choose a mototaxi that appears newer as it will have less of a chance of breaking down along the way.

In Iquitos, the people are incredibly friendly, which is simply part of the jungle culture.  However, you must always be cautious when invited to do things alone.  Always go with a buddy if you can, especially at night.  Moreover, while the appeal of trying jungle hallucinogens when in the jungle attracts many to Iquitos, one should always go in a group of known friends and a regarded shaman.  Reports of assaults have been made from tourists who have entered this situation with locals.

Venezuela (Azita Jacobson)  

Maraciabo is blistering year round, so plan to take hot weather appropriate clothing.  Most of my long distance travel in Maraciabo was by car.  If you are the type to get out and see as much as you can, then I strongly suggest using registered taxis as opposed to unmarked taxi services.  There are phone numbers for registered taxis published everywhere.  Usually from public places, like a shopping district or tourist attractions, there are always registered taxis waiting.  From other areas like residential areas and areas less traveled, you can call up a taxi.  Registered taxis have clear published fares and radio their assignments to their headquarters. 

Local bus travel can be particularly dangerous.  This is not because of theft or violence, but instead due to the extreme over crowding.  In the mornings I had to ride the bus from my home to the clinic in which I worked.  People literally would hang on to the open windows panes from the outside of the bus (formally a school bus) because there were so many people squashed in the seats and aisle. 

Most of my case studies and house visits were during my study were reached by walking.

By caring a calling card you can ensure a way to make a phone call in emergencies at the payphone booths.  You can buy them online for a fraction of the cost that they are sold for on the streets.  You can also access international calling from any of the numerous convenient phone kiosks/news stands around the city.  These kiosks have multiple cell phones chained to a table, you can call anywhere locally for an extremely reasonable price.

During my time in Maraciabo, the metro train system was not up in running in my area.  So I have no experience with this mode of transportation.  However, I rode the Metro train in Caracas.  There are subway maps around each train station and the individuals at the information desk are very helpful.  In Caracas, most of the taxis in the city center are registered.  So I highly recommend taking a taxi, indefinitely, during late, dark hours.  I would strongly recommend investing in ground transportation, such as a shuttle or a taxi service to get to and from the airport as soon as you land in Caracas.  This will ensure a return trip to the airport.  I failed to do this and when the major bridge connecting Caracas to the airport (approximately a 30-45 minute drive) fell due to the rain waters, I had no way to return to the airport.  Unregistered taxis will solicit their services for ridiculous amounts of money.  What they fail to tell you is that their “alternate” route is though the extremely sketchy neighborhoods along the “Caretera Vieja” or the “Old Highway.”  This is an area that not even the military will go without being highly armed.  So try to confirm your way to and from the airport in advance if possible.

If you plan on traveling outside of Maraciabo via airplane, plan on paying with cash or with a credit card of a resident from Maraciabo.  Most travel has to be arranged by a travel agent and they usually do not accept US credit cards.  In my experience, travel agencies that were more lenient with accepting more forms of payment were more stringent in travel restrictions.   

Most importantly, make sure that even though you may think as a pedestrian that you have the right away…think again, pay close attention, and be ready to run when crossing streets by foot.

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