How Can Women Avert Sexual Harassment On Holidays Or Vacation?

Women of today are venturing out to travel on holidays and vacations more globally than at any time in their history. Female travelers, whether traveling alone, with a companion, or as a group, are discovering different cultures, societies, and religions. With this freedom comes significant risks that men may never encounter. It is therefore makes sense for women who plan to travel to learn how to handle themselves when on holiday or vacation, studying abroad, or traveling on business.

Here are some things you can do that may help you have a safer as well as a more enjoyable travel experience.

If you are traveling, or on vacation, your best protection is to understand the local culture and customs of the country you are visiting. What you observe when you watch how the local women behave and dress will give you valuable clues on how to avoid *** harassment.

If the local women cover their hair and their arms and legs then you should do that also. Do not wear bikinis, swimsuits, or short shorts in towns where local women are all covered up. Dress conservatively.

Always avoid any direct eye contact with men as they may think you are flirting. Don't talk, smile, or wave to strange men who smile or say hello. If a man starts to follow you, cross over to the other side of the street. If this does not work, look for a policeman, or enter a store and ask for help.

If you have to ask for directions, always ask a woman. Also, when you are traveling by bus or train, make sure that you always sit with other women.

It is a great idea to carry a versatile head scarf in your handbag just in case you need to cover your head and arms.

You should think about wearing a fake wedding ring to help discourage and ward off any unwanted male advances if you're not married.

Wear a referee's whistle around your neck under your blouse. It may come in handy.

Consider reading guide books on the countries and areas that you are traveling to or through to give you a heads up on what you can expect. Also, bring along a foreign language phrase book to help you communicate with the people when you get there.

It's not advisable to wear expensive looking jewelry, watches, carrying cases for cameras, or even designer handbags. You do not want to tempt any possible muggers or robbers. Take along a conservative outfit with you just in case you need one to wear on certain occasions.

If you are traveling alone, it is best to travel light. For one thing you will be more mobile because you aren't loaded down with luggage. If it's not too small for your belongings, a wheeled, carry-on bag, or a backpack may be you best bet. It is important to try and have one hand free at all times. Having two hands free is even better. You should wear a shoulder bag that has a strong, wide strap that will fit over your head. Wearing the shoulder bag this way may help prevent someone from grabbing the bag and running away with it. The bag should also have secure, zippered pockets.