Street savvy tips for women traveling alone

Did you know that in the 21st century, about half of business travellers are women? This means that the 21st-Century travel industry is adapting to accommodate women travellers.

Unlike men travellers, women are more vulnerable, especially when travelling by themselves. If travelling solo, they need to take extra precautions for their safety and well-being. Here are some pointers to help women stay safe while travelling solo, whether on vacation or business.

First, ever let people especially strangers know that you are travelling alone. Travel like you in the company of someone or some group.

Plan your trip before leaving home. When you arrive at your destination, also remember to review your travel route before leaving the hotel. Avoid pulling out a map in public including in the taxi, unless away from the driver. Do not also leave a marked map in the glare of anyone, including the hotel staff. The best option is to use a GPS application and use a map as your last resort.

Stash your valuables in safety bags. Carry only personal credit and debit cards if you must. Leave the rest at home.

Keep the ones that you take safely in your personal things such as a hip pocket, shoe, or sock, but avoid stashing them in your purse. Experts recommend using a money belt.

However, the belt can be cumbersome, and if you are robbed of it, chances are, you will lose everything at once. It is advisable instead to stash your money, and cards in hard-to-reach spots in your clothing. Avoid carrying a lot of cash. Choose your accommodation carefully. You can choose from a known hotel chain with a safety record. Prefer a room above the ground floor, near the elevator, and away from emergency exits, and staircases. If you cannot get such, opt for a small guesthouse or an Airbnb. Some of these are managed and owned by women. Shop around and make reservations before you travel. Avoid looking for accommodation at the destination.

Have plans on how to get out of a destination, on arrival, and the places you visit in order not to appear lost as you seek help. Do not stop to answer calls, receive and send messages on the phone, or stop for a quick bite at lonely and suspect places.

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And Hide the traveller hint. You can do this by building up a confident look, even if you do not feel that way. Always keep your head up while walking around, noting your surroundings. Wear a friendly look, but do not extend it to strangers. The more you look like you know what you are doing and where you are, (even if you do not) the less you become a target.

Try and blend in. Keep off a look that shows you have money or one that gives you away as a tourist. Be careful the way you dress too - do not dress provocatively. Always pack light so that you can move swiftly.

Avoid expensive luggage, and keep your bags closed, and close to your body. Embrace the local customs and ways of life and try to blend in.