Originally posted on April 23, 2016 @ 12:11 am
While many employees have begun to telecommute, others are still finding themselves traveling to distant corners of the globe for work. Work travel can be both a blessing and a curse. For some individuals, traveling to different areas for work allows them to keep their career interesting and involved. The idea of staying at home and working or going to an office everyday is repellant.
For other people, especially those with families, work-related travel can be a burden they simply have to bear. Other individuals, may despise travel for the unhealthy habits and temptations they are confronted with. For those suffering from an addiction that is not tolerated at home, traveling for work can sometimes offer the opportunity to indulge.
Alternatively, many people dislike traveling simply because they do not feel safe in other countries. Safety can be a primary concern, especially for women, when traveling abroad solo. If you are concerned about your personal safety when traveling, it may be time to arm yourself with a little knowledge before hopping on that plane.
Don’t Look Unfamiliar
While it can be impossible for everyone to blend in with the locals, there is a difference between looking “touristy” and looking capable. For instance, if you are pulling out a map, guidebook or asking for directions from random passers-by, you could, inadvertently, make yourself a target. It is far better to appear capable to those around you in order to protect yourself.
If you do get lost in a new city, keep your head on your shoulders. Utilize your phone’s GPS first and foremost, but if that doesn’t work, step into a business and ask them for directions. Getting yourself acquainted with the commute from your hotel to business meetings before you go can help save you a lot of headache and risk.
Protect Possessions
While everyone wants to believe they are strong, fierce and totally comfortable in a new country, the reality is you could just be making yourself a target. Yes, your designer bag is totally chic right now, but hauling around a large bag can make you an easy victim for a purse snatcher. Keep your belongings close and always be aware of your surroundings.
Exercise Caution
One of the easiest places to let down your guard while traveling can be when you have reached your hotel room. You believe you are safe from the outside world, and criminals, and can feel totally comfortable there. It is a huge risk to blindly answer the hotel room door, believing it is genuinely a hotel employee. Call the front desk if anyone knocks on your door claiming to be an employee.
Additionally, do not leave anything you don’t want stolen sitting out when you leave your room. While your chromebook may only be worth $200 in the states, it is valuable to you while you are on the road. Utilize the hotel safe and never throw caution to the wind.