Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
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Whatever happens, however bad - remember people are generally good and you
will find people (other backpackers, locals, hostel owners etc) who will go out of
their way to help you and make sure that you are safe and okay.
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If you are in trouble, whatever the local police tell you, contact the local British
embassy or consulate - most of them are incredibly helpful and they will have dealt
with situations like yours before and will know what you should do, make sure that
you have several copies of their contact details to hand.
Remember, anyone can get lost. When you are on the road don't panic. Always agree meet-
ing places before you go somewhere and play safe by having a back-up plan. Then if you
don't turn up reasonably on time someone will be alerted to raise the alarm.
Before you do anything or go anywhere think about the consequences - this isn't about not
having a good time, or being boring - it's about getting through your gap without taking
foolish risks.
In many places, though, you'll find people are very hospitable and curious about you and
you might find their unabashed and quite frank questions intrusive. While you have to be
sensible about how much information you give, equally try not to be too suspicious about
their motives. What feels like an invasion of your personal space, or probing questioning,
doesn't automatically mean anything sinister - remember the British in particular can be
quite reserved so you'll notice the contrast. It's all a question of balance and courtesy.
Caroline's Rainbow Foundation is a charity set up to promote safety awareness for young
travellers. They gave us some additional pointers, all worth emphasising:
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Leave copies of all your travel documents, visas, insurance policies and bank card
details with someone back home. If you lose them or they are stolen it is easier to
report if you have all the details to hand. If you can store them on the computer
and email the images to yourself, you will always have the documents where ever
there is internet. Lock your passport and travel tickets in a safe if possible.
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If you plan to work abroad find out if you need a work visa and get it before you
leave. Some countries will not let you work while on holiday. Try not to be temp-
ted by the offer of cash in hand; if caught you could easily be deported or even
imprisoned.
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If you take regular medication ensure you have enough for your trip. Also keep
a note of what it is in case you lose it. You may be able get hold of it in another
country but this is not guaranteed. It may also be called a different name so try to
have a note of the generic name of the drug rather than a brand name. Pharmacists
can usually help with this. If taking a large amount of the prescription medication
