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For women travelling alone

It is important to abide by local laws and customs for a safe trip alone

Travellers, especially women, have to carefully plan their trip to ensure their health and safety. Women have a few extra concerns. They need to journey with special care, especially internationally.

Each country and culture has its own views of what is appropriate behaviour for women. People will make assumptions about you based on what you are wearing. Although you may not agree with these views, it is wise to abide by the local laws and customs to avoid problems.

Keeping in mind the following information can help make your trip as safe and rewarding as possible.

Make an effort to learn about the locations you plan to visit, their culture, and any problems that might be occurring there.

Dress like a local

Not everyone will interpret how you dress the same way you would. What you consider casual clothing might be seen as provocative or inappropriate in other cultures. Thieves might choose you over another potential target based on your style of dress or the amount of make-up or jewellery you are wearing.

Others might single you out for harassment or even physical violence because they find your clothing offensive, based on their cultural norms.

Dress like a local. Learn the local dress code as soon as you arrive; buy appropriate clothing. By dressing conservatively, you could save yourself a great deal of trouble.

Become familiar with the laws and customs of the places where you wish to go. Be culturally sensitive to dress codes. In Islamic countries, flouting dressing regulation may get you arrested.

Many Buddhist temples in South East Asia require visitors to wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts as a sign of respect.

Some tourists at beachside cities feel wearing bathers around the streets is appropriate, even when the locals are wearing business suits. Take notice of the dress codes.

In other countries, men may consider a woman travelling alone as an easy sexual target.

You may experience unwelcome catcalls, obscenities and pinches. In such a situation, ignore the attention as best you can. Leave the situation if possible or go to the nearest police station if you are concerned.

Use common sense and be alert and aware of your surroundings.

Don't announce that you are travelling alone. Display confidence. By looking and acting as if you know where you're going, you may be able to ward off some potential danger.

Choose a hotel where security is good and transportation is readily available. Ensure that all the doors and windows in your room have locks and they work. If you feel uncomfortable, ask the hotel security to escort you to and from parking lots or your room at night.

If you are feeling particularly nervous in an unfamiliar city, notify your hotel manager about where you are going for the day, including details on when they should expect you back. If you don't return to the hotel on time, the manager can call the police.

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