Avoiding Crime on Holiday

Having your money or credit cards stolen or being mugged or attacked can ruin a holiday. Follow our guidelines to help prevent yourself from becoming a victim of crime:

1. It is always worthwhile making a note of where your local British Embassy or High Commission is. They are there to help if you lose your passport or are in trouble.
2. Leave any valuables such as passport, money and jewellery in the hotel's safe.
3. Dress conservatively and try to blend in. Wearing expensive jewellery or clothing will simply draw attention to yourself.
4. Never carry large amounts of money or unnecessary credit cards. Try to think about where you are going that day and carry sufficient cash or travellers cheques for that and any unforeseen extras, plus a card. This will limit your losses if anything did happen. If possible, leave a spare credit card in the hotel safe in case your main one is stolen.
5. Avoid walking down poorly lit streets or narrow alleys - stick to the main roads.
6. Avoid travelling alone, and always be aware of what is going on around you. Even though it may be difficult, try to look as if you know where you are going.
7. Don't pull large amounts of cash out of your pocket. This will get you the wrong sort of attention, whatever what country you are in.
8. Never accept gifts or packages to carry out of the country.