Health and safety tips for female travellers

(NC)—More and more women are going away with the girls and heading on "girlfriend getaways." Here are some important health and safety tips for female travellers to make sure you don't let your guard down while away.
Before You Leave

1. SAFETY IN NUMBERS: When planning your trip, look for hotels in well-travelled areas. The more people around, the safer you are.

2. DO YOUR RESEARCH: Prior to booking search online reviews about your hotel or resort's safety, and investigate health insurance options, travel documentation requirements and regional travel reports.

3. HEALTH AND SAFETY GO HAND IN HAND: See your family doctor or travel health specialist at least one month prior to departure. This will ensure you have all the necessary immunizations, like the hepatitis A and B vaccine, to allow for a safer and healthier holiday.

4. STOCK UP ON MEDICATION: Buy medications you might need while away - including treatments for headaches, diarrhea, and allergies – in case they are not available in the country you're visiting.
While You're Away

1. BE STREET SAVVY: Always travel with a companion and be conscious of local customs pertaining to woman while in public. In general, avoid wearing flashy jewellery, but wearing a wedding band, whether real or fake, can be a great way to ward off unwanted attention.

2. BE ROOM RESPONSIBLE: Check that your hotel room has double locks – one of which is a deadbolt – and be sure to lock both while in the room. Avoid using the "Please Make Up This Room" sign as it let's people know you're not there.

3. KNOW YOUR RISKS: Be aware of what behaviours put you at risk of contracting serious illnesses like malaria or liver diseases such as hepatitis A and B, and do your best to avoid them. Activities such as eating uncooked or improperly washed foods, ear-piercing, acupuncture, tattooing, or unprotected sex with a new partner can be particularly risky.

4. BE CAR–EFUL: Forty per cent of all deaths among travellers are caused by motor vehicle accidents. Stay off roads in rural areas after dark, as roads and vehicles abroad can often be poorly maintained. Keep items such as maps, guidebooks, and valuables out of sight in order to avoid drawing the attention of thieves on the lookout for tourists.

- News Canada