Also read: Page One -- Women's Travel Tips: Avoiding Theft and more
Avoid Unwanted Guy Attention
You're young, you're on an adventure, and you may want some attention from that guy you've just met. Just don't invite him back to your hotel room until you know he's a safe guy -- and remember that what you think is not okay may not be clear if you don't speak the language.Follow these tips to avoid unwanted attention.
- The oldest trick
Consider buying a cheap wedding ring, even if you're a teenager. Especially in developing countries, a married woman is viewed as the property of another man and therefore off limits. Sounds silly, but it works.
- The eyes have it
You already know that in any country, prolonged eye contact with a man is an invitation to flirt. In some developing countries or some societies, any eye contact at all may be considered carte blanche to approach you. Eye contact also may be considered disrespectful in some countries and may invite aggressive behavior from strangers. Almost as annoying is that eye contact ensures street buskers will pester you. Talk with local women to learn the rules.
What to Do If Touched or Groped
- Say no
If you're being groped or touched inappropriately in a crowd, know how to say, "Leave me alone!" loudly in the local language. In Spanish, for instance, learn these useful phrases:
- De'jeme sola! ( Leave me alone! )
- Vayase! (Go away!)
- Socorro! ( Help! )
- Llama a la policia! [ Call the police! )
- De'jeme sola! ( Leave me alone! )
- Blast 'em if you must
Carry pepper spray in case of assault. Consider reporting this -- after all, you've just assaulted someone in the literal sense. Check in with the local embassy as soon as possible and let someone know what happened -- it's not always in your best interests to go to the police in some countries.
- Remember to run
Always be ready to run like the wind (no high heels on deserted streets at night!).
What to Do If You're Being Assaulted
If you think you're going to be raped, a surprisingly effective tip from women travelers is to pretend you're going to vomit in the man's face - although a knee to the family jewels is sure to work, it may be grounds for arresting YOU for assault in some developing countries.
- If you've been raped
It's not your fault. It's a crime, but it can be treated weirdly by some.
- If you are raped, head for your hotel or a hospital to ask for help -- the police station may not be the best place to go, depending on your location. If you're raped by a member of your traveling group, grab a cab and head straight to the hospital.
Don't shower or douche before you get to the hospital. You may destroy evidence.
Women Traveler's Safety: Bottom Line
Look and act confident. Be alert. Use common sense. Always stride along like you know where you're going. Don't slink, glancing furtively around you.Don't let all this scare you away from international travel - you'll doubtless be perfectly safe. Being young and female is great - enjoy it!
Please go to page one for tips on travel theft and avoiding being stolen from while traveling.
Return to Women Travelers category - Return to Student Travel
"I haven't been everywhere, but it's on my list."
--Susan Sontag
