When you travel to unknown destinations it's easier to be a prey of robbers, but if you are careful and pay attention to these tips you can go around safely.
- Move around with confidence. Don't show you're lost. If you need to look at a map do it discreetly in the street, or do it in a bathroom.
- Hold on to your bag and keep it in front of you. Never leave your bag on the floor, unless you hold the handle or put a foot on it.
- Keep your important papers with you and have copies of them.
- Wear money belts, carry traveler’s cheques and little cash on you.
- Don't display your name and address on luggage tags in public places.
- Don't wear expensive jewelry or carry expensive technological devices that call robbers' attention.
- Avoid talking in a foreign language when you can be overheard.
- Go around in well-lit and well-travelled streets and avoid areas that are too quiet.
- Robbers generally act in groups so be aware of people who can distract you in different ways.
- Don't stay downtown after the shops and offices are closed.
- Don’t go around listening to music. Be always aware of sounds that can warn you.
- Ignore rude people and avoid quarrelling and fighting. Apologise if necessary to calm down the situation.
- Don’t go around carrying a language school bag, giving evidence that you’re a foreigner.
- If travelling by train or bus, avoid empty carriages, stay in the lower deck of buses and sit close to exits.
- Be very careful in London underground, specially around Piccadilly Circus, Victoria Station, and Oxford and Baker street.
- Use registered cabs, and when possible, book them at an office.
- Avoid drinking alcohol and always watch your drink in pubs and discos as somebody can add drugs to abuse you easily.
- If you carry a camera phone and you feel somebody is suspicious, take picture of people and car plates and send them to a friend. If something wrong happened to you, these pictures can be shown to the police.
- Consider carrying a personal portable alarm. They are legal, small and can be of great help in a difficult moment.
If you are careful and aware of what’s going on around you, you can go anywhere and enjoy your stay.
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