by Frank Sinbeans

Created on: February 14, 2010

Criminals like tourists.  Tourists are usually carrying some cash, cameras, credit cards, and ID (which may be sold on the black market, for various purposes - none of which you will like!) and are usually slightly disoriented, especially in foreign lands. They may not speak the language well, so reporting crimes to the police may be difficult or impossible. Swindlers, purse snatchers, carjackers, and muggers often hang around tourist destinations, just waiting for an unsuspecting victim.

So how do you avoid being the target of a crime when traveling? The most basic answer is: Don't look like a tourist. (And we all know what tourists look like, don't we?) Check out the clothing styles and manners of locals, and attempt to blend in. The more one stands out in a crowd, the more likely the crooks are to take note.

If possible, avoid using maps in public places. (Plan well, so you don't need a map when you're out and about.) If you must use one, watch out for anyone approaching you. Turn down any offers you receive, close up your map, and move on. Also, when traveling by car, it is a good idea to identify which car rental outlets have identifiable rental markers on their vehicles. (Most rental companies in the United States avoid such identifying markers, particularly after the tourism-related crime spree in Southern Florida in the 90's.)

Keep valuables inconspicuous when not in use: For example, cameras dangling from your neck are, first, a sign that you're a tourist, and second, an open display of an object a thief might want to steal. Also, when traveling, leave that expensive watch and jewelry at home or the hotel lock box, and carry a cheap digital watch. It will work just as well, but won't be nearly as desirable to thieves.

Use travelers' checks: They're called "travelers' checks" for a reason. Cash and plastic, particularly debit cards, are much more valuable to a thief, and more difficult (or impossible) to simply invalidate in case of a theft than are travelers' checks. Credit cards (not debit or credit/debit) are fairly safe, as long as this is not the sole monetary resource carried. (One should never use debit, as this can lend a thief instant access to all funds in one's bank account. Although the victim will likely eventually be able to recover at least some of those funds from the bank, this may take time, and leave an individual temporarily destitute.)

Finally, be aware of the criminal justice situation in your destination. What are the laws like? Is there a substantial police force? The fewer police there are (or the more corrupt the police are) the more your safety is up to you. But by taking these few precautions, you can reduce the likelihood of becoming the target of a crime.

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