While you’re abroad its important to keep an open mind about things. What’s considered odd to you might be considered perfectly normal over there. You will enjoy your time a lot better if you have a more accepting attitude about things like different foods or living habits.
It’s also important to keep safe. Below are a few tips I recommend for keeping safe while abroad.
Avoid Going Around Alone
Especially at night. It’s funner to sight see with friends anyways. If you have to go out alone make sure that someone knows that you are heading and out and when you will return. That way if something happens, at least someone knows where you went and that you were suppose to return.
Carry Around the Address of Where You’re Staying
Make sure you have it written down in the country’s native language. This way if you get lost you can take a taxi back or ask for directions.
Keep Your Bag/Purse Close to You
I grew up in a large city so I’m pretty used to doing this. However my college town is very safe and people will leave their stuff unattended while they get something. I always found this a bit shocking.
Make sure to bring bags with zippers and keep it close to you at all times and don’t leave your stuff unattended. I wouldn’t carry around a huge amount of cash either. The room I stayed in had locks on the drawers so I always kept my extra cash locked in the room. However I think some of the girls I was with did carry their cash around with them at all times. It depends on how you feel about it. You should also walk with your purse in front of you to prevent someone from pickpocketing you from behind.
Learn Common Phrases in the Native Language
If you’re going to a non-English speaking country it’ll be useful to know how to ask for help or directions in the native language. Carrying around a phrase book (one with a map in the back is nice) or dictionary is useful too.
Watch What You’re Saying in English
English is probably a lot more common than you think. Don’t go around saying rude or insulting things in English and assume those around you don’t understand. Avoid stating opinions about the country’s government as well.