Laura Begley Bloom , WOMEN@FORBESTransformative Travel: I look at how travel can change lives. Here, we list the 10 most dangerous places for solo female travelers, according to Trip by Skyscanner, details from the U.S. State Department about safety concerns, as well as tips for how to protect yourself while traveling.
With views like this, it's no wonder travelers flock to Mexico. But a recent State Department warning has underscored the dangers of traveling here — especially for women travelers. (Photo courtesy of Shutterstock)
With the recent U.S. State Department warning about travel to Mexico in the wake of a woman dying at an all-inclusive resort, safety while traveling is top of mind – especially for women. It's not the first warning about travel to Mexico: In December 2016, the government cautioned travelers about going to almost half of the country's states — some of which are home to popular vacation areas like Los Cabos and Acapulco — because of violence and crime.
But this latest warning is particularly noteworthy, as the incidents that prompted it impacted a number of women and underscored the importance of safety for female travelers, whether they're on vacation or a business trip in Mexico or anywhere in the world.
As part of the launch of its newest and 20th tribe, Solo Female Travelers, Trip by Skyscannerrecently released a list of the 10 most dangerous places for solo female travelers. Based on a survey of Trip by Skyscanner users, the list comprises the lowest rated countries. For some Trip by Skyscanner users, this doesn't necessarily mean "no go," but it definitely means "take caution." And while Mexico didn't make the top 10 list, it still raises concern with people like Julia Pond, Trip.com’s editorial director, who shared her insight on how to stay safe, whether you're in Mexico or any of the places on the list.
Here, we list the 10 most dangerous places for solo female travelers, according to Trip by Skyscanner, details from the U.S. State Department about safety concerns, as well as tips for how to protect yourself while traveling.
Egypt – the most dangerous place on the list.
1. Egypt
Why it's so dangerous: This country topped the Trip by Skyscanner list of dangerous places, and the U.S. Department of State has issued a stern warning to travelers about going to Egypt: "A number of terrorist groups, including ISIS, have committed multiple deadly attacks in Egypt, targeting government officials and security forces, public venues, tourist sites, civil aviation and other modes of public transportation, and a diplomatic facility." But Pond doesn't advise avoiding the country entirely. "Egypt is interesting in that a lot of people actually advise you not to travel there solo at all. That being said, there are plenty of people who do and don't have problems — Egyptians can be really hospitable," she says pointing out that although Egypt was the lowest rated country, it was still rated 5.5 on a scale of 1 to 10, indicating that it has some risk, but Trip by Skyscanner's female users did not feel that it was a no go. " It's important to remember that even in countries with political problems or issues with violence, 'danger' is not a 100% guarantee. I'd say the same with Mexico, honestly," says Pond. "There is certainly cause for concern but that doesn't mean you should cancel all travel plans."
Trip by Skyscanner's advice for how to stay safe:
- Be on your guard. In the Trip by Skyscanner survey, some women noted that Egyptian men can be aggressive, especially in crowded markets. One user noted that her “female guide would not visit the markets...because the merchants would harass her mercilessly if (the tourists) didn't stop at their stalls.”
- It is key to respect local dress norms in Egypt and avoid attracting attention: Cover your shoulders and knees. Very loose clothing that covers your wrists, ankles — and even hair — is better.
- Be aware that eye contact can be considered flirting. Some travelers find it helpful to wear sunglasses.
- Some women in the Trip by Skyscanner survey preferred to sign up for a private or small group tour, at least at the beginning of their trip. This can help you get oriented to the place and culture.
- If you do use the metro, seek out women's carriages.
- Look for local information: Cairo 360 has great tips on going out, events and more in Cairo.
- If you’re in Cairo, seek out good neighborhoods like Zamalek.
- Consider an Uber in favor of a taxi.
Morocco was the second-most dangerous place on the list.
2. Morocco
Why it's so dangerous: Second on the list is this exotic North Africa country where there's high potential for terrorist violence against U.S. citizens, according to the State Department. The State Department also warns that crime — aggressive panhandling, pick-pocketing, purse-snatching, street robberies, burglaries — is a serious concern, particularly in major cities and tourist areas.
Trip by Skyscanner's advice for how to stay safe:
- Street smarts in Morocco are similar to other countries (wear a cross-body bag, don’t flash valuables, walk with purpose, etc).
- It’s fairly rare for a man to physically touch you — but you should expect catcalling. The best way to deal is to ignore the person and keep moving. That said, if you feel threatened, find the closest police officer and report the incident.
- Clothing is a hot topic — you’ll see a wide variety of it in Morocco. But it’s advisable to stick with modest styles and avoid belly-baring shirts, short-shorts and strappy tank tops. The reality is, the less you wear, the more unwanted attention you’ll attract.
- If you lose your way, don’t ask a man on the street: Step into a shop or ask a woman for directions. Loitering young men are eager to make quick money “helping” tourists but women out and about or shopkeepers have no ulterior motive.
- Learn some Arabic phrases: If you go outside the city, this will serve you better than French. However, basic French phrases are also worth knowing.
Jamaica may look beautiful, but it's wise to be careful when traveling to this Caribbean island, especially when you go beyond tourist resorts.
3. Jamaica
Why it's so dangerous: "Popular resorts are fairly safe but traveling beyond those borders will mean dealing with unwanted attention," says Pond. Indeed, the State Department warns that violent crime is a serious problem throughout Jamaica, particularly in Kingston and Montego Bay. And even if you're staying at a seemingly safe resort, beware: According to the State Department, "the U.S. Embassy received more than a dozen reports of sexual assaults against American visitors to Jamaica in a 12-month period. Most of these took place at all-inclusive resorts; most were allegedly perpetrated by resort staff. "
Trip by Skyscanner's advice for how to stay safe:
- The culture can be homophobic; if you’re traveling with your girlfriend, be very discreet.
- This is a great place for using a cross-body bag, but also not a destination where you have to be overly concerned about covering up.
India is another place to take caution, according to Trip by Skyscanner users.
4. India
Why it's so dangerous: "India is a Trip by Skyscanner favorite destination for solo female travelers and one of the most complex, with wide variations across regions," says Pond. But the country continues to experience terrorist activities that may impact U.S. citizens, according to the State Department. "Past attacks have targeted public places, including some frequented by Westerners, such as luxury and other hotels, trains, train stations, markets, cinemas, mosques and restaurants in large urban areas," advises the State Department. "Attacks have taken place during the busy evening hours in markets and other crowded places, but could occur at any time."
Trip by Skyscanner's advice for how to stay safe:
- If you go, go with eyes wide open. Even with a companion, sexual assault remains a serious and ongoing problem.
- Wear long, loose clothing that covers your shoulders. Lots of female travelers we know even buy and wear Indian clothing upon arrival.
- Be prepared for staring; you’ll likely experience a lot of it.
- Start and end your days early to avoid being out at night.
- If taking the train, purchase the highest-class train tickets in advance and take women-only transportation options in cities like Delhi.
- Never walk alone on city streets at night. In smaller towns, try to have a male companion. Even then, this may not be enough of a precaution.
- Regions like Kerala and cities like Rishikesh (known for its regular influx of yoga students) are comparatively safe, as are Gujarat, Punjab and Calcutta. Family-run guesthouses can be lovely places to stay.
- Take a small doorstop with you in case you’re staying in accommodations that make you uneasy (Pond had an unexpected late overnight in Bangalore once and says she felt anything but relaxed). These can slow an intruder down for a few seconds, long enough to yell for help or find an escape route.
Peru also ranks high on the list.
5. Peru
Why it's so dangerous: Armed robberies, express kidnappings, carjackings, petty theft and credit card fraud top the list of State Department concerns in this South American country known for Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail.
Trip by Skyscanner's advice for how to stay safe:
- Trip by Skyscanner's users recommend visiting the countryside, smaller towns and mountain regions over Peru’s big cities.
- Call an Uber or cab from your hotel — no hailing on the street in Lima. Your hotel can give you the number of a reputable company.
- When you’re in the taxi, put your purse on the floor under your feet and store your suitcase in the trunk.
- Stick to the beaten path when hiking, especially if you’re alone.
- Avoid flashing jewelry or other valuables; wear costume jewelry you wouldn’t miss too much and go for a “less is more” aesthetic.
- Even if you speak Spanish, pretend you don’t when approached by strangers who set off your internal alarm bells.
- Avoid sporting events after dark — that’s when gang activity is common.
- Don’t skimp on inter-city bus tickets. Cheap companies never enforce basic safety rules and the Andes are a notoriously dangerous place to drive. Always keep your valuables on you — don’t put any in the stowed luggage compartment.
- A cross-body purse is best — it’s hard for someone to simply grab it and run
- Carry only the amount of cash you might need for the day when you can — otherwise, leave credit cards and extra cash in a safe at your hotel.
- Consider renting a cell from the airport (recommended for calling taxis). Store useful emergency numbers in it like 105 for the police and 117 for an ambulance.
The Bahamas: It's beautiful, but travelers should take caution.
6. Bahamas
Why it's so dangerous: The risk of traveling to the Bahamas comes as a surprise to many U.S. travelers, who flock to this chain of beautiful islands for blissful beach holidays. But New Providence — which includes Nassau and Paradise Island — has a criminal threat level (armed robbery, sexual assault) that's rated as critical by the Department of State. Crime in Grand Bahama has been on the increase. And a 2012 United Nations report said that the Bahamas has one of the highest incidences of sexual assault in the Caribbean. "The U.S. Embassy has received multiple reports indicating tourists have been robbed at gunpoint or knifepoint in tourist locations in the downtown areas of Nassau; several of these incidents occurred during daylight hours," says the State Department.
Trip by Skyscanner's advice for how to stay safe:
- This destination is really all about the resorts, and maybe fishing trips; however, it ranked low for safety with Trip by Skyscanner's community.
- Watch your drinks and food closely when out and about.
- Stick to more populated areas and resorts.
Colombia — another dangerous place.
7. Colombia
Why it's so dangerous: "Colombia can be an incredible experience," says Pond, who two months traveling through the region, but Trip by Skyscanner users included it on the list for many of the same reasons the State Department cautions against travel here, including violence linked to domestic insurgency, narco-trafficking, crime and kidnapping that can occur in some rural and urban areas.
Trip by Skyscanner's advice for how to stay safe:
- Use common sense: You might pull out a cell phone on the street in the U.S. or hang your purse on the back of your chair but here, those are definite no-nos.
- Book taxis ahead — never, ever hail them on the street.
- Avoid walking alone at night and, if you must, brace yourself for catcalling and other forms of street harassment.
- Overnight buses can be good travel options — but don’t skimp. The more reputable ones cost a bit more but are safer (they check passengers for weapons at boarding) and more comfortable (reclining seats!).
A pretty street in Ecuador — but don't let looks deceive you.
8. Ecuador
Why it's so dangerous: "Most Trip by Skyscanner women found Ecuador to be fairly safe as compared to other destinations on our list and a place where people are friendly and supportive of tourism," says Pond. However, the State Department still says that crime (pickpocketing, robbery, hotel room theft), express kidnappings, sexual assaults and rape are big issues here.
Trip by Skyscanner's advice for how to stay safe:
- Bus travel allows people to hop on and off — so make sure you keep an eye on your valuables.
- Bring toilet paper and hand sanitizer everywhere — the toilet situation can be, to say the least, unpredictable.
- Listen to trusted locals for advice on best neighborhoods.
- Take particular care after dark.
Turkey, one of the top 10 most dangerous places.
9. Turkey
Why it's so dangerous: "Turkey has experienced a considerable amount of political instability in the last year," says Pond, who also points out that it's important to check regular safety advisories before planning your trip. The State Department warns that U.S. citizens should "carefully consider the need to travel to Turkey at this time." The warning goes on to explain that in 2016 "numerous terrorist attacks involving shootings, suicide bombings, and vehicle-borne bombings in tourist areas, public spaces, private celebrations, sporting events, and government, police and military facilities throughout Turkey resulted in hundreds of deaths."
Trip by Skyscanner's advice for how to stay safe:
- Assault is not uncommon, according to this survey. Be careful. Conservative dress is critical in less urban areas. Bring a scarf and use it as a head covering if needed (for example, if you want to visit a mosque).
- Grab taxis from well-lit, well-trafficked areas and use lowest denomination bills whenever you can.
- Ignore aggressive shopkeepers and restaurant owners — just keep walking.
- Definitely seek out a hammam experience. Most of the hammam options are either all-female or all-male so choose the all-female time to visit.
The landscape of Guatemala.
10. Guatemala
Why it's so dangerous: The State Department warns that the threat of violent crime in Guatemala is critical. And while not targeted at U.S. citizens, travelers should still be careful, since "criminals in Guatemala may assume that U.S. citizens and their relatives have more money than average Guatemalans," the State Department says.
Trip by Skyscanner's advice for how to stay safe:
- Cabs at night, arranged for via your restaurant or hotel, are advisable versus walking home alone.
- A tour company to take you from city to city is a great idea — choose one with door-to-door service.
- Use a money belt for your valuables: While robbery is actually pretty gender-neutral here, it’s not a pleasant experience for anyone.
- Learn some basic Spanish phrases. Being able to ask for help, say "hello," determine how much something costs and where the bathroom is are all valuable.
Watch out what's in that cocktail when you're traveling to Mexico, advises the State Department. (Photo courtesy of Shutterstock)
Mexico
Why it's so dangerous: Despite travel warnings, a record 35 million international travelers visited Mexico in 2016, up 9% over the previous year. So the percentage of crime is low, when you take into account those numbers, but it still exists. In certain states (some of which are home to popular resort areas), the State Department warns that U.S. citizens have been the victims of violent crimes, including homicide, kidnapping, carjacking and robbery. But even in less dangerous places, there have been recent examples of crimes against travelers.
Trip by Skyscanner's advice for how to stay safe:
- Women should be cautious and exercise general safety practices: dress modestly, watch your drink, be careful at night. Though the guidebooks don't always get it right, in this case it's best to do as it tells you in terms of staying out of danger.
- Do research on which regions you will travel to because, just as the culture and customs can vary widely across the country, so can the level of safety. One user surveyed mentioned that women going solo should be especially careful in the south of Mexico.
- New reports on tainted alcohol served at some five-star Mexican resorts should be taken seriously. Consider not drinking at all or only drinking only from sealed bottles you inspect yourself. If in a group, designate one person, or even a couple of people, to avoid drinking and keep an eye out for anything unusual.
No matter where you're traveling, Trip by Skyscanner's Julia Pond has tips for how to stay safe:
Always, always follow your instincts. "All too often women especially feel they need to be polite — and stick around longer than is wise. If you have a feeling that it’s better to get out then get out — of the taxi, the bar, the whatever. Better to look foolish or rude than get into real trouble," says Pond.
Look to other women. "Approach local women or mixed groups of men and women if needed," says Pond. 'The odds are better you’ll encounter someone who might be willing and able to help you."
Do your homework about local authorities. "Some are corrupt; your best avenue for help may be your local embassy or consulate," says Pond.
Protect yourself. "Bring a small doorstop for flimsy hotel room doors. It’s not foolproof protection but it can slow someone down just enough for you to alert others you need help or find an escape route," says Pond.
Be conservative. "The more conservative a country is, the more conservative you should be," says Pond. "If you can avoid drawing attention to yourself, then you can concentrate more on the experiences that make travel worthwhile."
Be careful everywhere. "The bottom line is, no one place is 100% safe or 100% dangerous," says Pond. "It’s important to work with your own comfort levels. I’d always encourage travelers to ride their own edge — whether that’s a solo trip to Paris or Bangladesh."
1/9/18: Editor's Note: This story was based on a survey that was originally done by Trip.com. The name of the company changed to Trip by Skyscanner after it was acquired by Ctrip.
https://www.forbes.com/sites/laurab...-travelers-and-how-to-stay-safe/#7f3cd1ae2448
