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Traveling can be a very fun and exciting experience that provides you with memories you can look back on for many years to come. It can also allow you to immerse yourself in other cultures and learn more about different places.

While traveling is typically a positive experience, there are many things you need to think about before planning your trip. One factor to consider is your safety. Occasionally, local people try to target vulnerable tourists, which can lead to muggings. Therefore, you will want to ensure that you take the proper steps to prevent these types of occurrences. The following information provides a closer look at preventative measures you should follow when traveling to an unfamiliar city:

Be Skeptical of Strangers

While traveling, it can be nice to get to know new people and make new friends. However, if you come across people who seem overly nice or as if they may have an agenda, it is better to be safe than sorry. You should strive to use your common sense and trust your instincts when it comes to meeting people. Of course, some people will be harmless and can help you to create memorable experiences on your trip. However, others may be targeting you as a tourist and trying to con you.

Try to Blend In with the Locals

As previously stated, some locals will be searching for vulnerable tourists to target. Therefore, you should do your best to blend in with the local people. For example, you might want to avoid carrying around a camera and taking a lot of photos in public. You might also want to avoid apparel that is common with tourists, such as sandals, fanny packs, and shirts purchased at local gift shops. Your main goal should be to look as inconspicuous as possible and appear familiar with your surroundings.

Avoid Traveling Alone

Traveling and sight-seeing alone can make you stick out like a sore thumb. You will want to try to always have someone with you, which will make you less of a target. If muggers or con artists see you wandering the streets alone, they will assume you are defenseless and there will be no one to protect you from their advances. If you have no choice but to go on a trip alone, you may want to consider hiring a reputable travel guide.

Avoid Sketchy Areas and Drinking

You should try to familiarize yourself with your destination before you leave. You can conduct research to learn about which areas are safe and which to avoid. You can also ask your hotel concierge or travel agent about places to steer clear of. You will want to avoid walking from destination to destination as well. Therefore, you might want to consider airport transportation once you arrive and finding other reputable transportation services throughout the duration of your stay. Lastly, you should always strive to be sober while traveling. If you are intoxicated, this will make you a very easy target.

Overall, traveling can be a very rewarding experience. You just need to be smart and stay safe. While there are never guarantees, there are many steps you can take to ensure that your trip is safe and that you don’t draw unnecessary attention to yourself. Doing the proper research, avoiding bad areas, staying sober, and blending in are all great ways to protect yourself on your trip.