Dangers to look out for when holidaying in SE Asia

Travelling to other countries offer amazing experiences and unforgettable moments. While you are on holiday, do continue to keep your senses intact. Unfortunately, there are people everywhere who are looking for a quick buck. Don’t let it be yours! Here are a few guidelines to ensure you and your property are safe.  

Consider purchasing a fanny pack that you can put a few of your necessities in and leave the rest in the hotel safe. Keep the fanny pack hidden and towards the front. Avoid wearing expensive watches and jewellery and use traveller’s checks if possible. A thief is a people watcher. He or she looks for tourist who seem totally immersed in the beauty of the country to the point of being distracted. That makes the perfect target. By following just a few tips listed here and being constantly aware while enjoying yourself, you become unattractive to the thief looking for a quick steal.  

When going shopping, be sure you know what you’re buying. If the price of a Coach bag seems too good to be true, it probably is a copy or stolen. Some countries create close replicas, but avoid legal issues by misspelling the brand name. So a Coach bag now becomes a Caoch bag – cheaper price and barely legal. While purchasing some of these knockoffs may be fun, be sure to negotiate for a better price. Sometimes just walking away can get you a better deal. Always remain calm and civil. To many vendors and shoppers, this becomes the fun part of shopping!  

Carry a copy of your important documents, especially your passport, but leave your originals in the hotel’s safe deposit box. Should you need to present I.D. to the local officials, a copy is sufficient and they will understand why you’re carrying copies.  

If using traveller’s checks, a helpful tip is to list all the serial numbers and dominations as well as the phone number to contact should you lose your traveller’s checks. Keep that list in the hotel’s safe deposit box as well. Also, try going to a bank to get the best exchange rates as opposed to outside currency exchange location. Check with your hotel to see if their rates are competitive to the banks.  

Consider purchasing traveller’s insurance to protect you in case of emergency such as a property loss, theft or personal accident with you or a member of your family. The price of the insurance is fairly reasonable and it will give you the assurance that everything is handled and just enjoy your holiday.