Personal security abroad

Quick overview

Are there destinations particularly at risk?

During a trip, no matter where you are traveling, your safety can be challenged. Nevertheless, the risks are not the same for all destinations. Generally speaking, poor or developing countries may be considered to be high-risk areas for tourists, who are generally viewed as wealthy.

Before departure

Inform yourself prior to departure

Travelers should seek information about the social and legal situations in the country and/or in the city they are planning to visit. Look for information about local customs. Research the social and political situations of the place you will be visiting by reading news stories about the area and checking for travel advisories issued by your Foreign Ministry or similar agencies, and follow scrupulously their recommendations. If you're traveling abroad in a country with a high crime rate, call your embassy to let them know what your travel plans are.

Prepare your trip

Plan your trip cautiously, the better you are prepared, the less you will be at risk. You should make copies of your passport and visa, driver's license, credit card, transportations tickets, travel itinerary and other important documents. Give a copy to your emergency contact and keep one set with you. For further safety, you may save one set "online" by emailing it to yourself.

Do not carry expensive items with you (jewels, electronic items...) and dress as simply as possible: avoid anything that makes it worth robbing you.

Once at your destination

Upon arrival

Once you are at your destination, you should look for the locations of police stations, hospitals, embassies and airports in the area. Avoid sensitive areas. Keep your personal information secret: do not give your hotel address to strangers and do not give any details regarding your itinerary.

General behavior

Maintain a low profile and exercise caution at all times, and refrain from discussing controversial subjects such as politics or religions.

Carry a small amount of cash with you in case you need to arrange transportation quickly. Always carry your passport and visa (or copies) with you as well as the address and telephone number of your embassy. You may also keep an emergency credit card with you.

How to protect yourself from an attack

Maintain awareness at all time and always remain calm. Trust your instincts: if you feel something is wrong, leave the area as quickly as possible without running, as it would draw attention to you. Seek shelter in large and safe places. Avoid dark streets, empty alleys and large parking lots.

As they might contain drugs, do not accept any food, beverages, candy (even cigarettes) from a stranger. Do not agree to carry any items for strangers and do not exchange your currency with illegal operators/agents. If you want to take pictures of people, always ask for their consent. Be aware that in several countries, it is an offense to take pictures of official buildings.

How to react in case of an attack

Remain calm. If your attackers are carrying weapons, do not panic. If you do get mugged and the robber wants something from you, don't argue, just give it to him. After the aggression, call your embassy as soon as possible, follow their advice and call emergency services.