Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Avoiding “Economy Class Syndrome”
Deep vein thrombosis,
or as it's known
in the world of flying, “economy-class
syndrome,” is a blood clot that devel-
ops in a deep vein. It's a potentially
deadly condition that can be caused by
sitting in cramped conditions—such as
an airplane cabin—for too long. During
a flight (especially a long-haul flight),
get up, walk around, and stretch your
legs every 60 to 90 minutes to keep
your blood flowing. Other preventative
measures include frequent flexing of
the legs while sitting, drinking lots of
water, and avoiding alcohol and sleep-
ing pills. If you have a history of deep
vein thrombosis, heart disease, or
another condition that puts you at high
risk, some experts recommend wearing
compression stockings or taking anti-
coagulants when you fly; always ask
your physician about the best course
for you. Symptoms of deep vein throm-
bosis include leg pain or swelling, or
even shortness of breath.
3
original containers, with pharmacy labels—otherwise they might not make it
through airport security. Carry the generic name of prescription medicines, in case
a local pharmacist is unfamiliar with the brand name.
I list
additional emergency numbers
in the “Fast Facts” appendix, p. 264.
SAFETY
STAYING SAFE
Like most big cities, Edinburgh and Glasgow have their share
of crime. Handguns are banned by law, however, and shootings are exceedingly rare.
Knives present a problem but one largely confined to youth gangs. Fights can flare
up unexpectedly in either city, but in Glasgow, particularly, during heated soccer
matches; exercise caution if any are being played during your stay. Marches of the
Orange Order in June and July can also be scenes of random aggression.
In general, however, compared to most large cities of Europe, Edinburgh and
Glasgow are equally safe, and violent crime against visitors is extremely rare. The
same precautions prevail in these larger cities as they do elsewhere in the world.
Tourists are typically prey to incidents of pickpocketing; mugging; “snatch and grab”
theft of cell phones, watches, and jewelry; and theft of unattended bags, especially
late at night, in poorly lit areas of the city. Also avoid visiting ATMs if it is late and
there aren't many people around.
Visitors should take steps to ensure the safety of their passports. In Scotland, you
are not expected to produce photo identity to police authorities, and passports may
be more secure in locked hotel rooms or safes.
Dealing with Discrimination
Both Edinburgh and Glasgow are progressive cities and, in Scotland, discrimination
is punishable by law. Racial flare-ups have occurred in housing projects on the cities'
outskirts where asylum seekers have been sent. Travelers are unlikely to experience
any discrimination, although gay and lesbian tourists do occasionally report cool
receptions at smaller hotels and B&Bs.
