Meghan Tremaine
Travelling abroad is one of the most exciting and enriching experiences a person can have. Whether on vacation or exchange, those who are visiting a foreign country often have the times of their lives. Swept up in a state of excitement, travellers can lose track of their surroundings. Assault, both sexual and physical, can happen in foreign countries. According to UN Women, 35% of women worldwide have experienced either physical and/or sexual violence. This unfortunate reality means that no matter where you travel, there is always a risk that something bad may happen. However, there are steps we can take to prevent assault from occurring, and formal steps to report an incident abroad. With many Queen’s students on exchange and the idea of solo travelling growing more popular, it’s important for travellers to be informed of potential risks and have the knowledge to prepare ahead.
Plan Ahead
One of the most important steps is to do your research and visit a destination with a safe reputation. The Women’s Danger Index has listed the world's top 50 tourist destinations and ranked each country from safest to most dangerous. The index evaluates each country based on eight factors, which include how safe it is to walk alone at night, intentional homicide of women, non-partner sexual violence, and legal discrimination. According to the index, South Africa is the most dangerous place to visit while Spain ranks the safest. There are numerous resources available online to inform travellers on risks associated with travelling to specific destinations.
Once you choose where you are going to travel, make sure you properly prepare for your arrival. Study maps of the area you are staying in ahead of time and familiarize yourself with the various routes you may take. Make a note of the nearest police stations and hospitals, as well as how to contact them. Learning emergency phrases in the local language is also a helpful tip if visiting a destination where little English is spoken. Also, give your itinerary to friends and family back home so they have an idea of where you will be in case of an emergency.
While Abroad
Be aware of your surroundings at all times. Make note of landmarks so you can remember certain routes. Do not accept food or beverages from strangers. Never hitchhike or accept car rides from strangers. Do not open a map in public; instead discreetly look at one on your phone so that you do not appear vulnerable to offenders. If you are staying at a resort, do not tell anyone your departure date, because sexual assaults are more likely to take place on a traveler’s last night at a resort.
Also ensure that you have a backup plan in place in case of emergencies. Make sure you pack a portable charger in case your phone dies. Write down the address to your hotel in the local language and have the number of reputable taxi services on hand. If you are travelling in a group, designate a meet up spot in case anyone gets separated.
In Case of an Assault
In the case that you experience sexual or physical assault, immediately contact the nearest Canadian government office, or contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre. After you have spoken with consular officials, contact local police and file a report (unless consular officials advise against this). If you are unable to contact the police, record all details of the attack and attacker, and gather evidence including photographs of injuries. Visit a doctor right away to check for injuries, STI’s or pregnancy. Contact you friends and family back home so they are aware of what happened and can provide support. Visit this government site for more information on what to do if you experience assault abroad.
This article is not meant to deter anyone from travelling, nor suggest something will happen if you decide to go abroad. Instead, it is to inform travellers that there are potential dangers and to provide helpful tips and resources to prevent anything bad from occurring. The key to travelling safely is to stay aware and use the same common sense you would at home, and to not let “travel brain fog” get the better of you. As the saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” and I think that is a key saying to remember. So, while you make a packing list for your next vacation, remember to also consult some safety tips and begin preparing ahead. Safe travels!
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