How to Protect Yourself from Thieves While Traveling
Monday, May 4th, 2009
Experiencing new cultures, trekking across new territory and visiting sites and attractions can be an exciting experience, but traveling to an area you have never been to also makes you vulnerable to theft. Thieves are quick to spot foreigners or visitors to an area, so you could become an easy target if you don't take some precautions. Whether you're traveling abroad our exploring a new neighborhood in your state, make sure you don't become the victim of theft with these simple tips:1. Don't wear electronic devices. Sporting an iPod, talking on a cell phone or even fiddling with your BlackBerry keep your mind occupied and distracted from your environment. This puts your guard down and makes you very vulnerable to a robbery. Avoid showing off pricey gadgets and use them discreetly when necessary.
2. Wear sunglasses in public. Sunglasses will hide the fact that you may be observing a thief; wear them on the bus, train or even when walking around a city center so you are free to look wherever you need to.
3. Spot security guards nearby. Security guards are scattered throughout the grounds of resorts, hotels and major attractions so do a quick check to see where they are located. Whenever possible, walk near them or around them; thieves are much less likely to approach you if there is a security guard nearby.
4. Wear simple clothing. Avoid wearing excessive amounts of jewelry or expensive clothing, since these can make you a very good target for a robbery. Wear simple, casual clothing and don't carry a large wallet stuffed with bills or coins; traveler's checks and credit cards are still your safest bets.
5. Make an effort to look like a local. Avoid wearing touristy hats, carrying large souvenirs or wearing clothing outside the norm of the local culture if you can help it. In many cases, thieves are much more likely to target an innocent outsider than a local resident.
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