Safety for tourists

You have worked so hard and it is time you took a break and relax. You have saved enough and you think it is time for a holiday break. Unfortunately, tourists are targets for criminals. This is a tendency that is developing worldwide.

Take the following few basic precautions and ensure that your visit is as pleasant and as safe as possible-

At the Airport

· Stay especially alert and watch your bags and laptop at all times. Do not let anyone but uniformed airline personnel handle or watch your bags.

· Watch out for staged mishaps, like someone bumping into you or spilling a drink, as it is often a ploy to divert your attention and steal your bag or passport.

· Carry your purse close to your body, or your wallet in an inside front pocket.

· Better yet, wear a money pouch under your clothes.

· Keep a separate record of the content of checked luggage. And keep anything of value in a bag that stays with you at all times.

· Avoid displaying expensive cameras, jewellery and luggage that might draw attention. Your aim should be to blend in with the crowd.

At the hotel (Accommodation)

· Do not leave your luggage unattended unless it is locked way in your room.

· Store valuables in the safe deposit box.

· Keep your room locked at all times.

· Hand the key in at the desk when you leave the hotel.

· If someone knocks, check who it is before opening the door.

· Make sure that luggage is only given to the hotel=s bell staff and a receipt is issued for stored luggage.