Travel safety - ExploreBees

What should I do if I feel unsafe during the tour?

When you feel unsafe

Emergencies can occur in any location, It is important to know what to do in case you experience such an emergency. Knowing what to do in an emergency is just as important as knowing how to prevent them from happening in the first place. All too often bad situations are made worse when individuals are ill-prepared for the bad things that can happen. Better safe than be sorry, The most important thing you can do is to remain calm and stay in control of the situation. Sometimes there is nothing that you can do and that’s fine. Don’t be worried about admitting that there’s nothing you can do to help. Calling emergency services should be your first priority.

Communicate

If you feel unsafe, communicate your concerns to your guide-partner immediately.

Right to stop

You have the right to stop the tour at any time. At your request, your guide-partner will return you to the agreed ending point by the transportation method(s) set out in the tour description.

Report

Please report the incident immediately to Customer Support using the 24-hour emergency only traveler E-mail adress safety@explorebees.com printed on your booking confirmation.

Contact the local emergency services:If you encounter an emergency situation or if your personal safety is threatened while traveling, contact the local police or emergency services immediately.

What are the risks of travelling?

POTENTIAL TRAVEL RISKS

Traveling is riskier than staying at home and watching TV (for the short term only). Yet, traveling will give you unparalleled moments of joy and the risks can be managed with some preparation and the right mindset. We will now go over the major risks you can encounter while traveling and some of the ways you can mitigate those risks.

Health risks

Unwanted health issues are a top concern, especially if you are traveling to a country where diet and hygiene is vastly different to what you are used to. Conditions like stomach flu, vomiting and diarrhea can quickly ruin a trip.

Scamming

Travelers run the risk of becoming potential targets for scammers, especially if you don’t speak the language or are unfamiliar with the culture.

Theft

Nothing will spoil your globe-trotting shenanigans like getting your passport, money or other valuables stolen.

Violence

Travelers may find themselves getting caught in a violent crime, particularly if you are unaware of the locations that you are venturing into.

Transportation risks

Transportation problems can be another issue, especially if you are traveling to a country that is notorious for transport accidents, has complicated (or nonexistent) public transport schedules or is known for its traffic congestion.

Natural catastrophes

Depending on where you are traveling, disasters such as earthquakes, typhoons, hurricanes and other unforeseen natural disasters could arise.

War or political unrest

Although much less common than other risks, depending on the country or region you are traveling to, political risks could pose a problem.

Border controls and visa issues

First,an aside about problematic possessions and drugs. If you ever have them, don’t carry them while crossing a border. But even if you stay clear of problems, some border control can prove to be quite frustrating. If incidents happen, keep cool and don’t lose your temper since this will only make things worse. It is important to check the visa laws applicable to your country before traveling, so invest time in research to avoid problems. Keep your passport safe and in good shape since neglected passport screams fake and a lost passport is truly a hassle that you want to avoid.

Problems at home

There can be problems with family’s health, bureaucracy and so on that are difficult to deal with when you are far away. Mitigate those risks by creating open channels of communication with home to make sure that if something happens, you’ll get the news as soon as possible. It is also recommended to jump back to your homebase every now and then to sort your stuff out, before moving to the next destination.

How to Protect Yourself?

Prevention
& advice

Whatever your reason for traveling, be prepared when it comes to your health and the health of others—before, during, and after travel. Travel can pose various risks to health, depending on the characteristics of both the traveller and the travel. Travellers may encounter sudden and significant changes in altitude, humidity, microbes, and temperature, which can result in ill-health. In addition, serious health risks may arise in areas where accommodation is of poor quality, hygiene and sanitation are inadequate, medical services are not well developed and clean water is unavailable.

Do your research before you travel.

First rule of safe travel — don’t be ignorant about where you are going. Make an effort to learn about the country, the political situation, the cultural norms, the safest spots for travellers, safe accommodations to stay and the areas or regions that are best avoided. Head off on your trip with your eyes wide open to avoid surprises.

Blend in with your surroundings

Once you’ve done your research, you can start your visit to a new destination as if you were one of the locals. This is not only sound exploration advice, but a good safety tip as well. You’ll make yourself more vulnerable to con artists if you stick out like a sore thumb with your massive backpack, two cameras and confused look on your face. and you will draw much less attention if you make an effort to blend in. You also don’t want to disrespect or offend with improper dress or manners. If you’re visiting places of worship, make sure to dress modestly in order to prevent upsetting the locals.

Don’t flash your wealth.

Whether this is with cash or expensive gear, showing wealth will only make you more appealing to scammers and pickpockets. Carry a dummy wallet with little cash in it so that you can give this in case you are mugged.

Stay safe in transport.

Avoid air travel mishaps by frequently checking whether your flight has been rescheduled or cancelled. When using bus services, make sure to go with trusted companies that are have many reviews online. Moreover, try booking your tickets in advance whenever possible, so you don’t end up stranded on remote bus stops with no transport in sight. If you are hiring local taxis, agree upon the fare in advance in case the vehicle doesn’t have a meter. Also, carry a map with you to avoid getting lost.

Keep your belongings safe

Avoid carrying too many luggage pieces and invest in a small sturdy lock for your luggage. Try to choose one that doesn’t stand out, so it doesn’t appear as if you have something really valuable inside. If you have a hand-carry with you, never leave it unattended. Buy wallets that have RFID protection to avoid identity theft.

Get travel insurance

Regardless of whether you are a natural worrier or not, don’t hesitate to take out travel insurance. Not only will insurance cover any unexpected injuries and trips to the hospital, it can also protect you from theft or loss of personal belongings.

Have emergency info at hand

This should entail contact numbers for the local emergency services (police, fire department and ambulance) and for your country’s embassy (if there is one in the place you’re visiting).

Manage your money

If you plan on using your debit and credit cards, make sure to notify your bank in advance that you’ll be abroad, or you may find your card blocked for suspicious activity. Research beforehand where are the best spots to exchange your money into local currency as ATMs might be scarce in certain places. When out and about, always carry a small amount of cash with you.

Keep track of your health

Make sure to have a supply of any over-the-counter essentials like motion sickness pills, probiotics, pain killers and bug repellants. Consult your doctor and get the proper vaccines before traveling. Ensure that any prescription pills are filled for some days extra than the intended length of your travel.

Know how to communicate

Learn the basic emergency phrases like “I need help”, “Where is the nearest hospital/police station/embassy?” etc. in the local language.

Make copies of important documents

You never know when you might need a copy of your passport, driver’s license or another form of identification. Scan these documents to save online and print out several hard copies. That way, you won’t be scrambling to find proper documentation if you need to get home.

Be wary of public Wi-Fi

Don’t let the convenience of Internet access cloud your judgment. When you use public Wi-Fi, hackers looking to steal valuable information can access your data including credit card or Social Security numbers. If you do need wireless Internet service, set up a virtual private network (VPN) that will allow you to access the Internet securely while traveling.

Do’s & Don’ts

Protect yourself

The best thing you can do now is plan for how you can adapt your daily routine. Take few steps to protect yourself as Clean your hands often, Avoid close contact, Cover coughs and sneezes, clean daily used surfaces etc. The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus.

Don’t carry too much cash

Beware of strangers

Don't Lose your temper.

Try local food.

Explore local culture

Follow the rules and regulations

Do's

Do be aware of your surroundings, and watch for suspicious people or vehicles.

Do use cash substitutes such as traveler's checks or credit cards, and only carry as much money as you immediately need.

Do lock up valuables you are not taking with you in a safe in your room or use your hotel’s safe-deposit box services to store them, and lock the windows and doors your hotel room when going out.

Do make a note of your passport number; if it becomes lost or stolen, knowing the number will speed up getting a replacement.

Do make a note of your credit-card numbers and the phone number to call in case you need to report it stolen and cancel it.

Do dress appropriately for your surroundings as much as you can; looking more like a local makes you less of a mark than looking like an obvious tourist.

Do put a band around your luggage as a safeguard against pilferage while in transit; suitcase locks are no barrier to a professional thief.

Do travel with companions while sightseeing or shopping; there is safety in numbers.

Do keep vehicle doors locked and windows rolled up when driving.

Do be alert for staged distractions, such as someone bumping into you, spilling a drink on you, dropping something in front of you or causing a loud commotion; an accomplice can steal your valuables and walk away while you are momentarily distracted.

Dont's

Don't carry and flash large sums of cash, nor exchange money at dubious-looking places or with individuals on the street.

Don’t look like a tourist by dressing like one, appearing lost or consulting a map in public.

Don’t walk with a bag slung loosely over one shoulder, and keep your bag on the opposite side of you from the road to forestall a thief on a bike from snatching it.

Don’t carry a backpack that looks like luggage.

Don't visit dangerous locations, or walk in unfamiliar, isolated or dimly lit areas, especially at night.

Don't leave valuable items in public view; that includes your passport as much as your iPhone.

Don't drive an obvious rental car, the more nondescript the better; keep maps and travel brochures out of sight in the glove compartment.

Don't park anywhere but a well lit place, don't leave valuables in sight (lock them in the trunk), and don’t pick-up hitchhikers.

Don’t keep your vehicle and house or hotel keys on the same key ring.

Don’t store cash, jewelry, medicine or other valuables in your luggage, and never leave your luggage unattended, even for a brief moment.

Tips to travel

People travel to transform, to add excitement to their lives, and to have a great adventure. So let's learn a few tips to make the most of your travels. Check out these tips for travel and start planning your own vacation today!

Be Flexible

Plan for delays and try not to get upset when things inevitably go wrong. Patience is extremely important when traveling!

Make a List

About a week or so before each trip, make a mental list of items that you don’t want to forget.

Learn Common Phrases of the Local Language

A simple “Please,” “Thank you,” and “I’m sorry” in the local language goes a long way.

Don’t Forget an Extra Camera Battery (or Two)

Have you ever gotten to that epic sunset photo spot and realized your camera battery is dead and you don’t have a back up? So carry atleast extra camera batteries on all your trips so that you don’t miss out on that perfect shot.

Always Bring a Sarong

Sarongs can be used as a wrap when you are cold, a towel, a curtain, or a piece of clothing that can be worn dozens of different ways.

Always Buy Travel Insurance

A medical emergency can wipe out your savings — or even worse. So, do buy travel insurance.

Make Photocopies of Important Documents

It's always good habit to keep photocopies of certain important documents so that photocopies can be presented if originals are misplaced or lost.

Pre-plan Your Outfits

Before going to travel , plan your dresses what to wear , which suits more for you , comfortable to you and weather too. Thus you can snaps of your favorite and well dressed pictures that are great memories instaed of same black and grey clothes.

Pack essentials in Carry-on

A few important items should always go in your carry-on. A swimsuit is also a good idea if you are going on a beach vacation. You can buy most of these things if your bag gets lost, but having them in your carry-on will save you money and time if your luggage gets lost in transit.

Enquire about the price BEFORE You Take Public Transportation

It’s a good idea to ask about the price before you hop on a bus, guagua, or other form of public transportation.

Stay Hydrated on Planes

It’s fun to get drunk at 30,000 feet, but it’s also much easier to get dehydrated. Staying hydrated — especially on long-haul flights — makes it easier to get over jet lag too.

Put Your Room Number & Hotel Address in Your Phone

Are you the only one who can’t remember my hotel room number?? There has to be others out there like you.

Ask The Locals

You can ask the locals to point to the best restaurants, awesome spots to watch the sunset, the best coffee shops, etc. Doing so,you may lead to some interesting restaurants that wouldn’t have been first choice.

Beware of Free Public WIFI

We should always try to avoid logging into bank accounts or entering any passwords while using free public WIFI at a place like an airport or any unknown or unauthorized locations.

Alert Your Bank and Credit Card Company of Your Travel Plans

This is a great habit to get into if you don’t want your credit card company or bank to put a hold on your card while you are overseas.

Wear Sunscreen

Carry face moisturizer that has SPF. This is just something we do have, but it’s especially important while traveling.

Keep an Open Mind

Don’t judge other customs. You are a visitor. Be respectful.

Leave Room for Spontaneity

Don’t plan your entire itinerary ahead of time. It’s tempting, interesting, but those unplanned moments while traveling can be the best memories.

Separate Your Personal Items

People often mix up personal items into each checked bag. This creates messy when accessing each individuals personal items, hence its preferrred to separate the personal tems.

Travel First Aid Kit

Always pack up a small first aid kit with aspirin, Benedryl, cold meds, Tums, cough drops, bandages, Activated Charcoal pills (these are a life saver for traveler’s diarrhea and minor allergic reactions), Neosporin, and other things that may not always have easy access to when traveling.

Space saver bags

You throw your clothes in, seal the bag, then roll it up to push out all the air. It can literally fit twice as many clothes in backpack.Even if you don’t want to carry more things in your bag, it frees up so much space that if you need to pack in a hurry, you can just chuck everything in.

Use a VPN

You’ll be connecting to a whole range of unsecured Wi-Fi networks on your trip, so you need to use a VPN to protect yourself from hackers, malware, and all that good stuff. It’ll also allow you to change your location so you can watch your favorite TV shows online!

Don’t change your currency at the airport

That’s where you’ll get the worst exchange rates.

Get your phone unlocked before you leave

With an unlocked phone, you’ll be able to buy local SIM cards and access cheap data as you travel. Cheap data means getting to use Google Maps when you’re lost, being able to Snapchat your way around a city, and being easily contactable by your new friends.

Scan your important documents and email them to yourself

Scan a copy of your passport, any visas, and any debit/credit cards you’re traveling with. Password protect the documents and email a copy of them to yourself and to a family member. If everything you own gets stolen, you can access them safely from your email account, take your copies to your embassy as proof that you’re who you say you are. Plus, you’ll be able to buy flights home and pay for accommodation with your debit cards to keep traveling/go home in an emergency.

Download Maps for offline navigation

Don’t have data? You can download the entire country or city or state maps through Google Maps and get walking directions for anywhere you need to go.

Be polite and smile often

You’ll be more approachable, you’ll find it easier to make travel friends, and the locals will warm to you. Being rude and looking grumpy will bring nothing good your way.

Mark your luggage so it stands out

You don’t want to accidentally take someone else’s luggage or have someone run off with yours at the baggage reclaim. Stick some stickers on it, put some duct tap along one side, tie some ribbons to the handle — make sure it stands out from a sea of similar backpacks!

A power strip will make charging easy

It’s still common to turn up to a dorm room and find you only have a couple of power sockets to share between eight laptop-toting backpackers. Bring a power strip to ensure you can charge what you need to while allowing everyone else to charge their tech, too.

Practice packing before you leave

Have several trial packing runs before you head off to get the hang of fitting everything into your bag. It’ll help make finding things easier, because unpacking your entire backpack to find something every few days gets old fast.

Track your spending

It’s annoying and time-consuming, but you’ll be better off financially if you’re aware of how much money you’re getting through and how it compares to the amount you budgeted for. You can make adjustments if you’re spending too much or allow yourself a small treat if you’re doing better than planned.

Ask permission when taking photos

How would you feel if some random tourist turned up at your house or work and started taking photos of you? Ask for someone’s permission before you start taking photos of them — it’s the polite and respectful thing to do.