Travel Security
Blog post cover image: The view from Krak des chevaliers, Al Husn, Syria (DA Donnelly, 2002)
Me with some Navy buddies (1990)
I cut my teeth travelling abroad when I served in the Navy. The benefit of being a young woman (at the time) in many of those foreign ports, was that there were another 300 Canadian sailors in the same port as me. I never felt alone, even if I was. This perhaps added to my confidence and sense of security as I explored many different countries this way. Unfortunately, most of the sailors I served with weren’t interested in archaeological sites, art galleries or museums, or often even trying local food. The typical questions from many Canadian sailors upon arriving in foreign territory (at least back in the 90s) were, “Where is the closest bar” and “Is there a McDonald’s here”? (sigh)
The Navy often provided us with security briefs prior to arrival, and so I learned to think about how to address my personal safety in foreign lands and things to look out for. I have also travelled extensively since then, but many of the practical guidelines I was given when I served, are still useful today. Of course, technology has changed a lot and there are always new and invasive types of security issues.
I always do my due diligence prior to going somewhere new. What is the current security situation in the destination country? A good start is the Government of Canada Travel Advisory website. I also read the country’s local and international news for concerns and issues that may be surfacing in the weeks leading up to my visit. You can also register your travel plans on the Registration of Canadians Abroad website. If you aren’t from Canada - check your own government pages for similar topics.
I then usually check the embassy sites of the destination countries in Canada (1) for useful information, like visa requirements. I will also look for the Canadian embassy in the destination countries (2), and note the address, phone number and email, in the event I might actually need it. It is better to be prepared than to find yourself completely at a loss to get help. You never know if there will be a disaster that may knock out power and/or the internet - and then it is too late to find out that information.
Be aware that the privacies and freedoms you may have the luxury of at home aren’t necessarily available in other countries. Researching what items are restricted (pen knives, medications, etc.) in the countries you plan to visit will also help in getting you through customs in a timely fashion and not ending up being held, questioned and having items confiscated, or worse yet, being thrown in jail. Not knowing is not a defense. Also, know the limits of foreign and domestic currencies each country allows you to bring in. You could be accused of laundering funds, or have your money confiscated. Some countries also require you to have clear evidence (cash) that you have sufficient money to pay for your stay.
Being respectful of their cultural norms in dress, drinking of alcohol, and general behaviour will also help keep you out of trouble. Honestly, in my opinion there is no need to wear cut-off shorts that show your ass hanging out anywhere on this planet. Many countries also do not allow you to photograph military or government installations, police or military personnel, etc.(3) There are also many restrictions on the use of drones. Knowledge is power. Be prepared!
Know the address, phone number and email of your hotel(s), or wherever you are staying. Thank goodness for the internet and google maps - you can now preview the way to your hotel and what is around you. You can also order a taxi online in advance to pick you up in many places. In the olden days you would have to ask someone (how barbaric), and trust that the driver is going to get you there. Personally, I like to talk to locals, because you never know what you might learn by being friendly.
Learn some basic words/phrases in the local language. This shows respect but will also be useful if you ever need help. Some suggestions are ‘Please’, ‘Thank You’, ‘Help’, ‘Fire’, and ‘Police’.
Take photocopies of important documents with you. These will include the information page of your passport, any travel visas, a copy of your itinerary, hotel bookings, driver’s license, etc. I never trust that the information on my phone will be always accessible (batteries could die, lack of cell coverage, or you could lose it, break it, or have it stolen).
There are many sites which have general advice for women travellers (4), so I don’t wish to repeat those items here. My best advice is to pay attention to what is going on around you, and if you feel uneasy walking in a certain area, there is probably a reason for it, and you should leave immediately. Trust your instincts.
Feel free to leave (polite) comments, advice or questions below! Happy (and safe) travelling!
(1) Thailand Embassy in Canada - https://ottawa.thaiembassy.org/en/index ; Vietnam Embassy in Canada - https://vietnamembassy.ca/
(2) Canada in Thailand - https://www.international.gc.ca/country-pays/thailand-thailande/bangkok.aspx?lang=eng ; Canada in Vietnam - https://www.international.gc.ca/country-pays/vietnam/hanoi.aspx?lang=eng
(3) I recommend this excellent article on photography in Vietnam, ‘Travel Photography in Vietnam: 17 Things to Know Before Taking Photos in Vietnam.’ https://www.alajode.com/travel-photography-vietnam/
(4) Government of Canada - Advice for women travellers - https://travel.gc.ca/travelling/health-safety/advice-for-women-travellers ; US Dept. of State - Information for Women Travelers - https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/before-you-go/travelers-with-special-considerations/women-travelers.html ; World Nomads article ‘Is Thailand Safe for Solo Women Travelers? 5 Safety Tips’
