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Whether travelling on business or for pleasure, safety should be the number one priority for women travellers. The more you know about travelling safe, the less vulnerable you are while travelling outside your familiar environment.

While you can never be "totally safe", you can protect yourself from being a victim by becoming less of a target. Here are a few hints for playing it safe.

• Leave valuable jewellery behind. If you can`t afford to lose it, don`t take it.

• Large amounts of cash are a strict `No-No`. Carry credit cards or traveller`s cheques instead. You can also avail of ATM facilities.

• Be sure to keep your luggage locked and in view at all times. It only takes one distracted moment for a thief to make off with your belongings.

• While part of the excitement of travel is making new friends and talking to fellow travellers, never ever divulge your plans or itinerary to anyone.

• Never let your attention wander. Remain focused and attentive. Bags placed casually at your feet or on a baggage cart while you are talking on the telephone, are a quick and easy target.

• While staying at hotels, always keep your door locked whenever you are in your room. For added safety, keep the safety chain on to prevent any forced entry.

• Before opening the door to anyone, use the peephole. If the person is not in a hotel uniform or looks suspicious, do not open the door. Be wary of revealing your identity on the telephone, especially if you are travelling alone.

• When out of the room, leave a light and the radio or television on to give the impression that the room is occupied.

• You are a tourist but you don`t need to let the whole world know that. Don`t look like a tourist. Looking at maps in your car or on the street is a dead give-away. A camera hanging around your neck all the time is also not a sound idea.

• Don`t flash money around. Just keep enough to meet your immediate needs. When travelling, your best protection is to be knowledgeable and alert. To travel with confidence and a positive attitude.