The recent Scarlett Keeling murder case in Goa, has made many a woman sit up and think. How safe is it for a single woman to travel? Of course, the skeptics feel Scarlett was a victim to her lifestyle, but the bigger concern is that is travel safe for single women travellers? Today, more and more women are traveling alone, for leisure or for business. Can one devise strategies to stay safe outside one's own comfort zone? What do the Travel Pundits say?

There is no denying the fact that plain and simple common sense plays a big role in staying safe. But some guidelines can be quite useful as well..

Think Ahead

It's important to plan and think ahead, before you venture out.

• Book your accommodation, be it a hotel or a guest house
• Keep the address and telephone number handy.
• Check the location for safety
• When you arrive in a strange city, choose a pre-paid cab, and note the number.
• Inform your family that you have arrived safely and give them the cab number.
• Avoid night flights / trains. Delays can make your arrival later than you expect.
• Carry a list of emergency numbers
• List out numbers of people you know in the city.
  
  Smart Travel Tips

Yes, smart women do travel smart!

• Make sure someone knows where you are, and your plans for the day.
• Keep your cell phone charged at all times.
• Ask a local friend or colleague which areas are safe and which areas you should avoid after dark.
• Carry a map of the city in your handbag
• Simplicity in dressing goes a long way. Make sure you don't stick out.
• Avoid wearing expensive jewellery or flaunting jewellery that "looks" expensive.
• Do not draw attention to yourself.
• Opt to travel with a friend / colleague if you can.
• There's safety in numbers. Avoid secluded areas.
• If asking for directions, ask a woman or a man with children.
• Get back to your hotel at a decent hour.
• Always be aware of your surroundings
• Travel light. You may not always find someone to watch over your luggage!
• Carry a whistle with you. It's a great way to draw attention if caught in a situation.

There are no guarantees that nothing will happen, if we take precautions. If caught in a situation, it's important to keep your wits about you. Do not panic, trust your intuition and most important, remain vigilant.

If you have travelled alone and have a story to tell, come blog with us.
If you think you'd like to share your experiences or travel tips, pen down a blog!
Bon Voyage...

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