How Can Women Avert Sexual Harassment On Holidays Or Vacation?
The women of today are venturing out to travel on vacations and holidays more globally than at any other time in history. Female travelers, whether they are traveling alone, with a companion, or as a group, are encountering many different cultures, religions, and societies. With this freedom comes some significant risks that men may never encounter. It is therefore prudent for women who plan to travel to learn how to handle themselves when on vacation or holiday, studying abroad, or traveling on business.
There are some things that you can do that may help you have a safer and more enjoyable travel experience.
If you are traveling, or on vacation, your best protection is to understand the local culture and customs of the country you are visiting. What you observe when you watch how the local women behave and dress will give you valuable clues on how to avoid sexual harassment.
If the local women cover their hair and their arms and legs then you should do that also. Do not wear bikinis, swimsuits, or short shorts in towns where local women are all covered up. Dress conservatively.
Be sure to avoid direct eye contact with men as they might think you're flirtatious. Do not speak, smile, or wave at strange men who may smile or say hello to you. If a man begins to follow you, cross to the other side of street. If this tactic doesn't work, find a policeman, or go into a store and ask for help.
If you need to ask for directions, always ask a woman. And, if you are traveling by bus or train, always sit with other women.
A great idea is to always carry a versatile head scarf in your handbag just in case you need to cover your head and arms.
You may want to wear a fake wedding ring to help ward off and discourage any unwanted male advances if you are not married.
You should wear a referee's whistle around your neck under your blouse. It could come in handy.
Consider consulting guide books on the countries and areas that you are traveling to or through to give you an idea of what to expect. Also, take along a foreign language phrase book with you to help you communicate with the local people when you get there.
Do not wear expensive looking jewelry, watches, camera carrying cases, or even designer handbags. You don't want to tempt any would be robbers or muggers. Take a conservative outfit along with you in case you need to wear one on certain occasions.
If you are planning to travel alone, it is best to travel light. One advantage is that you will be more mobile because you aren't loaded down with luggage. If it's not too small for your belongings, a wheeled, carry-on bag, or a backpack may be you best bet. It's important to have one hand free at all times. If you can have two hands free, it's is even better. You should get a shoulder bag that has a strong, wide strap that fits over your head. Wearing a shoulder bag this way may help prevent a robber from grabbing the bag and running away with it. The shoulder bag should have secure, zippered pockets.
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