What Can Women Do to Avoid Sexual Harassment When Traveling?


by Dorothy Yamich - Date: 2008-10-26 - Word Count: 533 Share This!

The women of today are venturing out and traveling more globally then at any time in history. Female travelers, whether traveling alone or as a group, are encountering different cultures, religions, and societies.  With this freedom comes some risks that men may never encounter. It is therefore a good idea for women to learn how to handle themselves when vacationing, studying abroad, or traveling on business.



Here are some things you can do that may help you have a safer as well as a 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.



When the local women cover their hair and their arms and legs then you should do that also.  Don't  wear  bikinis, swimsuits, or short shorts in towns where the local women are all covered up.  It's prudent to 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. 



When you need to ask directions, always ask a woman.  And, if you are traveling by bus or train, you should 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.



Don't forget to wear a referee's whistle around your neck under your blouse.  It might come in handy.



Consult guide books on the countries and areas that you are traveling to or through to give you a heads up on what to expect.  Also, carry a foreign language phrase book with you to help you communicate with people when you get there.



It's not a good idea to wear expensive looking jewelry, watches, carrying cases digital cameras, or even designer handbags.  You don't want to attract any muggers or robbers.  Pack a conservative outfit to wear in case you need one for certain occasions.



If you are going to travel alone, it's better to travel light.  For one thing you will be more mobile if 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 is important to try and have one hand free at all times.  Having two hands free is even better.  You should take a shoulder bag that has a strong, wide strap that can fit over your head.  Wearing the shoulder bag in this way can help prevent a thief from grabbing the bag and running away with it.   Also, the bag should have secure, zippered pockets.



Related Tags: women, travel, vacations, holidays, woman, culture, travelers, tourists, traveling, travel tips, customs, womens issues, vacationers, sexual harassment, international travel, customs and cultures, foreign customs and cultures


Dorothy Yamich has a passion for travel. She has lived and traveled extensively throughout Europe as well as traveled in North America, Central America, and the Caribbean. She is a travel consultant and specializes in luxury cruises as well as vacation packages. To quickly find and grab cheap travel deals, for the lowest price possible, whenever you feel like traveling, visit Travel Tips Guide, for more info.

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