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9 Travel Safety Tips for Couples – While Travelling

Using a few basic travel safety tips for couples, and solo travellers, you can cut down your risks while you travel the world on your next adventure.

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Note: We actually wrote these travel safety tips for couples before we heard about the tragic killing of the solo female traveller Sarai Sierra in Turkey. Our travel safety tips can also be used by solo female travellers and males.

This post is a follow up to our previous article: Travel Safety Tips for Couples, Before you Travel.

We felt obliged to write about travel safety because we get asked a lot of questions regarding travel safety. We travelled to Egypt over a year ago and still get asked “is Egypt safe to travel to?”

Egypt Pyramids of Giza

Of course travel in Egypt is safe

We basically consider that everywhere in the world is safe to travel to, as long as you are sensible and take precautions. It is like I said in our previous post, you don’t want to listen to everything others say, especially the media.

The world is NOT dangerous or unsafe. Sure there are dangerous people and destinations, but they are a really small percentage of the world.

And most of the unfortunate bad experiences that happen to travellers arise from them being stupid, drunk or just in the wrong place at the wrong time. By using a few simple travel safety tips, you can cut down your risks.

Travel Safety Tips for Couples

After 3 years of travel we haven’t had anything stolen and have NEVER felt unsafe because we follow our basic travel safety tips for couples, and solo travellers.

Travel Safety Tips: Blend in

One of the keys to travel safety is to limit drawing attention to yourself.

The closer you resemble a tourist, or more specifically the less you resemble other tourists, the better it is for you. Wearing sandals with white socks or sneakers with a large camera dangling from your neck is kind of a giveaway.

Similarly if you are waving around a map you may be targeted.

travel safety tips for couples, bruges, typical tourist

Basically, don’t look like me.

Travel Safety Tips: Dressing appropriately

Once you have stopped acting like a tourist you want to dress appropriately.

By leaving your valuables at home you should be carrying less stuff as you explore the streets. Everything you carry should be able to fit into your pockets or be within your bubble of “personal space”. Any time someone gets within that bubble you know to keep an eye on things.

There are always situations where this is unavoidable such as tightly packed public transport or local markets. To reduce your risk and avoid being pick-pocketed you want to keep your wallet in your front pocket, preferably buttoned up. Or use the inside pocket of your zipped up jacket.

You might also want to consider buying a “money belt” (examples here) that wrap around your waist underneath your shirt.

Finally, if you are a travelling couple ensure that you both carry your money and that it is not all in the same place. By spreading it out you won’t lose it all if one is stolen or lost.

Travel Safety Tips: Gather your gear

On arrival, or departure you are most likely to lose something.

At the airport you are tired from travelling and rush through customs eager to go exploring. Simply stuffing your wallet or passport at the top of your bag or in your back pocket is not good enough.

Use a money belt or secret compartment in your luggage to store valuable items.

It’s the same situation in a restaurant, accommodation or at an attraction. Take a moment to stop, gather yourself, and your belongings. As you walk away check behind you to see that you didn’t leave anything behind. I always do a quick “pat down” to check my camera, wallet, phone etc are in the right places.

If you know where everything should be then it becomes very easy to make this a simple routine ritual.

Travel Safety Tips: Don’t leave it unattended

We see this all the time. Someone sits down at a cafe and promptly ignores their bag or coat because they feel safe.

Always keep your items in your line of sight and within that personal bubble of space. It isn’t hard for someone to wander by and take something from your chair, or table, when you are distracted by delicious pastries and coffee.

Coffee and cake around the world

Travel Safety Tips: Stay Alert

Before leaving your accommodation ask the staff if there is anywhere in the city they recommend not going. While you don’t necessarily want to stick to the boring tourist trails, you also don’t want to end up in seedy areas.

It is easy to unwittingly wander up the wrong street when you are gazing at all the sights. Just retrace your steps (guys are a little better at this than girls for some reason) and carry on your way.

The important thing is that you see what is going on around you. Take notice of what strangers are doing because it’s common practice for thieves to work together.

Kids with signs may try to distract you while the others pickpocket you. Or women will beg for money while pushing a crying infant in your face. While we feel bad doing it, we always just ignore them and keep walking. Once you stop, you become a sitting duck.

Our only rule is that if someone outright robs you then NEVER FIGHT BACK. Insurance will cover anything stolen and it is better than getting injured or worse.

Travel Safety Tips: Lock your luggage

While you should travel with minimal stuff, anything you leave in your accommodation should be locked away. Most hotels and hostels provide safes or lockers.

Our small padlocks probably wouldn’t stop a determined thief, but it will make them think twice and/or slow them down. Stealing your stuff is all about speed, so most won’t take that risk.

Travel Safety Tips: Walk away from confrontations

Everyone has been in a situation where someone upsets you or makes you angry. They might have accidentally bumped you or tried to chat up your girlfriend. Some ridiculous people might just be looking for a fight.

Unless you are Chuck Norris, walk away calmly. You never know who that person might be associated with. If they follow you then stick to public areas and find a local spot to ask for assistance.

And by no means are we telling you to avoid people. Meeting people is a main reason to travel!

Travel Safety Tips: Know your way out

Memorising maps and routes comes naturally to me but there are still many times I have gotten lost while wandering small streets in Italy, Egypt and Turkey.

Besalu Village Alleyways

Familiarising yourself with local landmarks as you wander around the streets of a foreign city can be very helpful for when you do take that eventual wrong turn.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help. If you have taken the time to learn a little bit of the local language then someone will be willing to help you out. Our favourite experiences have been after we have gotten lost then shown where to go by a friendly local.

Travel Safety Tips: Don’t try this on holiday

While we love to step outside our comfort zones, we don’t take unnecessary risks. Especially when something looks a little dodgy.

There are way to many stories of travellers getting injured, or killed, while taking part in something life threatening. Sure we have run with bulls, driven scooters in Italy and scuba-dived in Egypt. But we consider these calculated risks. And we had great travel insurance.

Running with the Bulls Pamplona

If you want to take part in adventure travel activities then always check that the operators have legal qualifications and a good safety record too. The cheapest option is usually that price for a reason.

Travel Safety Tips Summary

No we are not trying to scare you away from travelling. We just know from experience that people seem to go on holiday without their brains. By showing you examples of worst-case scenarios we hope that we can limit your risks.

Travelling is safe when you reduce your risks and take precautions.

The important thing to remember is that if you do suffer a loss or a problem, don’t let that ruin your trip!

Cole is one half of New Zealand's leading adventure travel blogging couple who have been wearing out their jandals around the world since 2009. He loves any adventure activities and anything to do with the water whether it is Surfing, Diving, Swimming, Snorkeling or just lounging nearby on the beach. You can follow Cole on Google+. Or consider following us via RSS Feed, Twitter, Facebook and subscribe to our Newsletter.

Travel Tips

How Travel Can Help Clarify Romantic Intentions and Prevent Ambiguous Relationships

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Travel Synchronicity and Its Impact on Relationships

The concept of traveling synchronicity plays a crucial role in how romantic getaways are experienced. Studies indicate that when travel plans and expectations are well-aligned between partners, it enhances the overall experience. A harmonious trip results from the absence of misunderstandings, which can be achieved through effective communication of travel plans.

Academic research has highlighted this phenomenon, revealing that a coherent travel plan among partners leads to fewer misunderstandings. Ensuring that both partners agree on destinations, schedules, and activities mitigates the risks of conflicts during the trip. This harmonious planning process significantly contributes to a more enjoyable and less stressful travel experience for both individuals involved.

Clarity in Travel Intentions

Travel intentions play an instrumental role in the quality of a romantic trip. Researchers studying potential and repeat visitors’ travel intentions identified that destination image mediates the relationship between travel motivations and travel intentions. This means that the perception of a destination influences a person’s travel decisions and the purpose behind them.

Teresa Wu’s exploration on the topic, as detailed in her article “What are your travel intentions?”, underscores the relevance of pinpointing the primary objectives or goals of a trip. This methodology aids couples in organizing their activities and optimizing their time and resources. Clear travel intentions ensure that couples can effectively focus on shared goals, whether those are relaxation, exploration, or spending quality time together.

A further examination reveals that online interactions significantly influence travel intentions. A study of Tinder users during the COVID-19 pandemic found that individuals who disclosed more about themselves were more likely to plan future travels. This indicates a link between online self-disclosure and subsequent travel intentions, underscoring the role of transparent communication even before the actual travel process begins. This is particularly relevant in romantic contexts where understanding each other’s preferences and expectations can prevent ambiguity.

Communication, Trust, and Intimacy

Effective communication, trust, and intimacy form the pillars upon which travel intentions can be built and clarified. Online dating provides numerous opportunities to connect with a wide range of individuals, from those looking for serious commitments to those wishing to find an SB online, where shared interests and mutual respect are the foundation of the connection. The level of self-disclosure in these interactions can predict travel intentions significantly, suggesting that openness in online communications may translate to clear travel plans and intentions.

Clear communication about travel plans and intentions ensures that both partners are on the same page, which is essential in preventing misunderstandings. Trust and intimacy, developed through transparent conversations, pave the way for shared travel goals. The findings from various studies demonstrate that couples who communicate openly about their travel desires and intentions are more likely to have fulfilling travel experiences.

In practice, establishing a clear set of objectives for a trip helps manage expectations and aligns partners towards common goals. Whether the purpose is relaxation, adventure, or bonding, clarity in travel intentions reduces ambiguity and enhances the overall experience. By focusing on specific travel goals, couples can create itineraries that cater to their mutual desires and foster stronger relationships.

Conclusion

In summary, travel can serve as a clarifying agent for romantic relationships by promoting alignment in travel plans and intentions. The synchronicity in travel arrangements minimizes misunderstandings and contributes to a harmonious trip. Understanding travel intentions, influenced by factors such as destination image and online interactions, further aids in creating cohesive travel experiences. By emphasizing communication, trust, and intimacy, couples can ensure clarity in their romantic intentions, preventing ambiguous relationships and fostering deeper connections.

 

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Travel Tips

Visiting the UK for the First Time? 10 Things to Consider Doing (2024)

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Are you planning a trip to the United Kingdom and feeling a little overwhelmed with all there is to do? No worries! The UK is packed with history, culture, and beautiful landscapes, making it an exciting destination for any traveler. To help you get started, here are ten things you should consider doing on your first visit.

1. Explore London’s Iconic Landmarks

London is often the starting point for many visitors, and for good reason. The city is bursting with iconic sights that you’ve likely seen in movies or read about in books. Be sure to check out:

  • The Tower of London: Learn about its rich history and see the Crown Jewels.
  • Buckingham Palace: Try to catch the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
  • The Houses of Parliament and Big Ben: Snap some photos of these famous structures.
  • The London Eye: Get a bird’s eye view of the city from this giant Ferris wheel.

Walking along the River Thames will give you a great perspective of the city’s skyline, too!

2. Take a Day Trip to Stonehenge

Just a couple of hours away from London, Stonehenge is a prehistoric marvel that has stood on the British landscape for thousands of years. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most famous landmarks in the UK. Many tours are available that can provide round-trip transportation and insightful commentary about this mysterious stone circle.

3. Discover the Scottish Highlands

If time allows, venture north to Scotland and experience the breathtaking beauty of the Scottish Highlands. With its rugged mountains, serene lochs (lakes), and sweeping glens (valleys), it’s an area of outstanding natural beauty. You might even want to try spotting the elusive Loch Ness Monster while you’re there!

4. Play the Irish Lottery

While exploring the UK, many travelers try their luck with the Irish Lottery. While based in Ireland, the Irish Lotto remains popular in the UK among locals and visitors alike. People can purchase a ticket from authorized retailers like Lottoland.

5. Visit Historical University Towns

The UK is home to some of the world’s most prestigious universities, and the towns of Oxford and Cambridge are well worth a visit. Wander around the historic college buildings, admire the architecture, and maybe even take a punt (boat) down the river. Both towns have a unique charm and are brimming with history and culture.

6. Enjoy Traditional British Cuisine

Your trip won’t be complete without trying some traditional British food. Fish and chips are a must-have, ideally enjoyed by the seaside. Also, don’t miss out on a classic Sunday roast at a local pub, complete with Yorkshire pudding and gravy. For something sweet, afternoon tea is a charming British tradition where you can indulge in scones, sandwiches, and a selection of teas.

7. Wander Through the Lake District

The Lake District is England’s largest National Park and a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its stunning lakes, forests, and mountains. It’s the perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you prefer hiking, cycling, or simply picnicking by the water’s edge, the natural beauty here is sure to leave you in awe. Don’t forget to visit the charming villages like Windermere and Keswick.

8. Experience the Welsh Culture in Cardiff

Cardiff, the capital of Wales, offers a blend of ancient history and modern Welsh culture. Explore Cardiff Castle, stroll through Bute Park, or catch a rugby match to experience the national sport and passion of Wales. The city also boasts a vibrant waterfront at Cardiff Bay, where you can find delicious Welsh cuisine and entertainment.

9. Attend a West End Show in London

For theatre lovers, attending a show in London’s West End is a must-do. The area is famous for its high-quality theatrical productions, ranging from musicals and comedies to classic dramas and new works. There’s something magical about spending an evening in one of the historic theatres, enjoying world-class performances that you’ll remember long after the curtain falls.

10. Visit the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland

A trip to the UK wouldn’t be complete without seeing the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland. This natural wonder consists of 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, give or take, resulting from an ancient volcanic eruption. Legend says it was built by giants, and as you walk the coastal path with the Atlantic Ocean crashing beside you, it’s easy to see why this myth persists. It’s a truly unique and unforgettable sight.

Remember, the UK is more than just its sights; it’s the experiences and the people that make a trip truly memorable. So, chat with locals, take in the scenery, and immerse yourself in the culture. Have a fantastic trip!

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Did you get receive an inheritance or own the Lottoland’s lottery and are planning a trip to the UK? Here are 10 things to consider doing next time you visit the United Kingdom.

 

 

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Travel Tips

Exploring Equatorial Guinea: A Journey through the Heart of Africa

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Tucked away in the western part of Central Africa lies Equatorial Guinea, a nation often referred to as the “Heart of Africa” due to its geographical location straddling the equator. This small yet captivating country comprises the mainland region called Rio Muni and several islands, with Bioko being the largest and most populous. Exploring Equatorial Guinea is akin to embarking on a journey through a microcosm of Africa’s diverse landscapes, cultures, and history. So, if you are in the mood to plan a trip to this wonderful land, make sure to check out eVisa in order to keep things going easily and plan stress-free.

A Tapestry of Landscapes

Equatorial Guinea’s geography is as varied as it is stunning. From dense rainforests to pristine beaches and volcanic landscapes, this country offers a tapestry of natural wonders waiting to be discovered. The lush rainforests of Bioko Island are a haven for biodiversity, home to rare species such as the drill monkey and the African grey parrot. Hiking through the dense foliage, one can encounter cascading waterfalls, hidden lagoons, and endemic flora that thrive in this ecological paradise.

Venturing to the mainland, Rio Muni unveils a different facet of Equatorial Guinea’s landscape. Here, expansive savannas stretch as far as the eye can see, interrupted by winding rivers and rolling hills. The Monte Alen National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, offers intrepid travelers the chance to witness elephants, gorillas, and other wildlife roaming freely in their natural habitat. Explorations along the Rio Muni River reveal traditional villages where ancient customs and traditions are still preserved, providing a glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of Equatorial Guinea.

Cultural Encounters

Equatorial Guinea is a melting pot of cultures, with influences from indigenous tribes, Spanish colonial heritage, and neighboring African nations. This diversity is reflected in the country’s vibrant music, dance, and cuisine. Traditional rhythms reverberate through the streets during festivals and celebrations, where locals clad in colorful attire showcase their ancestral dances passed down through generations.

The capital city, Malabo, offers a fascinating blend of old-world charm and modernity. Spanish colonial architecture stands side by side with contemporary structures, creating a unique juxtaposition of styles. The bustling markets of Malabo are a feast for the senses, with vendors selling fresh produce, spices, and handicrafts crafted by local artisans. Exploring the city’s museums and galleries provides insight into Equatorial Guinea’s history, from its pre-colonial roots to its struggle for independence and subsequent development.

Island Escapes

Equatorial Guinea’s islands offer a perfect escape for those seeking sun, sand, and sea. Bioko Island boasts pristine beaches fringed by coconut palms, where azure waters beckon travelers to swim, snorkel, and dive amidst colorful coral reefs teeming with marine life. The island’s volcanic peaks provide a dramatic backdrop for exploration, with opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and even volcano trekking for the adventurous.

Off the coast of Rio Muni lies the tranquil island of Annobón, a secluded paradise untouched by mass tourism. Here, time seems to stand still as visitors immerse themselves in the laid-back island lifestyle, characterized by warm hospitality and breathtaking natural beauty. Snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, exploring hidden coves, or simply unwinding on deserted beaches are among the activities that make Annobón a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

Conclusion

Exploring Equatorial Guinea is a journey of discovery, where every corner reveals a new facet of Africa’s rich heritage and natural splendor. From the lush rainforests of Bioko to the pristine beaches of Annobón, this small yet diverse country offers endless opportunities for adventure, cultural immersion, and relaxation. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking an off-the-beaten-path destination, Equatorial Guinea promises an unforgettable experience that will leave a lasting impression on all who visit.

 

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Meet Cole and Adela

Cole and AdelaWe have been wearing out our jandals (Kiwi for flip-flops) on our travel adventures around the world since 2009. We think our blog is thought provoking and a little witty. But we have been proven wrong before. Find out more about us here...

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