Travel is said to be one of the inevitable activities in life. At one point or another, people are either required by circumstances to travel or they just go because they want to. But whether the purpose of travel is for business or pleasure, there is always one thing on the traveler’s mind. This is to return safely back home at the end of the journey.This is also quite important to family as well as loved ones because they care about the safety of their traveling relatives and friends. There are many steps one can take in order to have a safe, trouble-free travel and return home less-stressed and happier.
Research is probably the first step to take. Gathering adequate information about your destination is extremely vital. You need to know almost everything about where you are going. The origin and history of the people there, the food options available, accommodation options ,transport links and mediums available and if the destination is crime prone or renowned for crime. This information can largely be obtained via the internet as well as the various city handbooks, magazines and journals. If you don’t find anything elaborate, just make a few enquiries from people who have been to that destination or check out some travel portals and websites.
Also, once you arrive in a foreign land, ensure that you avoid walking alone and at night. Foreigners and people who are not indigenes are easily recognizable especially if you are a European or American in Africa. The skin colour usually sells you away faster than any other feature. Make sure you do all transactions during the day and in open places such as malls and parks. Also make sure you have a local representative who will guide you and take you to the places you would like to visit. Being with someone from the locality shields you from robbery, fraud and other attacks that travelers are usually vulnerable to.
Travelers and tourists are advised not carry too much cash on them when plying the streets of a foreign land. Important documents such as passports,credit cards,Visa cards,health insurance should be kept well at all times.However,foreign currency,jewelry and other valuables should largely be kept in a hotel safe, locked up in the hotel room or in a safety deposit box. At best,change a percentage of the foreign currency into local currencies while you also carry your ATM cards and Credit cards just in case you need a little extra cash. Keep a form of identification on you always. It may come in handy at some point.
Be careful who you trust. If you travel on business,make your you have adequate information about your host and the background of the business entity you are going to deal with. Fraud has become prevalent in Africa. Hence anyone traveling to Africa for business should be very careful and know who to trust and how to relate with partners. Immediately you notice something fishy about the business, involve the local police immediately and take necessary precautions. Never pay for any product or service unless you have seen it and you are sure that is exactly what you want.
Finally if you are on medication, visit your health advisor or doctor before making the trip. Make sure you carry along first aid and other medication that you need to stay fit and healthy throughout your stay. Insecticides and repellents are a must if any African country is your preferred destination. Several other vaccines are recommended for first time visitors to Africa. Consult a doctor in the country of visit immediately you feel any physical changes in your health.Never take local herbs or concoctions unless they are approved by a certified doctor or herbalist.
It is very important that you stay safe on your travel. Do not leave room for any inconveniences. Don’t take chances. Take every necessary precaution to make sure you return home as safe as you left. Taking all these into consideration only means you will have a very safe and memorable travel experience.
Credit : Jovago.com
