YOUR SAFETY IS IMPORTANT
7 PRACTICES TO CONSIDER
Here are 7 practices that help me stay safe as a queer black female solo traveller (it’s a mouthful, I know). I am pretty sure these tips can apply to anyone in general so even if you don’t identify the same as me, there is still something for you here that you can take away.
D.Y.R (Do Your Research) and Preparations
Understand the cultural, social and political climate of your destination, including local attitudes towards race and gender. This is extremely important to me, personally, I won’t spend money where I am not wanted. Check travel advisories and stay updated on current events. I sometimes use TikTok to hear the experiences of other travellers whom I closely identify with, it helps me know what to expect.
Familiarise yourself with the laws, customs, and local emergency numbers.
If you’re Canadian, check official travel advisories when planning a trip, this will help you know what to expect and when to be extra cautious at your destination.
Accommodation and Transportation
Choose reputable and secure accommodations, preferably in well-reviewed neighbourhoods. Even if you’re balling on a budget, safety should stay a priority. Budget travel and shady accommodations do not have to be synonymous. Also, book directly if you can or use a reputable 3rd party (Hostelworld, Expedia, Booking.com).
Use trusted transportation options like licensed taxis, ride-sharing services, or hotel-arranged transport. Plan your routes ahead of time. If you use a ride-share service, share your trip with a loved one.
Personal Safety
Keep in regular contact with family or friends. Always share your itinerary and flight details with loved ones. If they don’t hear from you, it’s easier for them to know where to start looking.
Dress conservatively to blend in with the local population, looking extra flashy can put a target on you. Stick to well-lit, populated areas, especially after dark. I keep a very loud personal alarm attached to my day bag, when used it’ll draw attention to me and whatever situation I am in and hopefully a good samaritan comes to the rescue.
Utilise safety apps that can alert friends or authorities if you feel unsafe and keep important documents and valuables secure.
Cultural Sensitivity and Awareness
Show respect for local customs and traditions, which can help in gaining the respect of locals. Plus knowing a few key phrases in the local language can be helpful and show your effort to connect with the culture.
In my experience, this might have saved me a few times, the locals appreciated the effort I made speaking their language even though I probably butchered the grammar and pronunciations.
Dealing with Racism and Bias
If you encounter racism or bias, remain calm and avoid confrontation. Hard as that may be to do sometimes, it’s best you walk away because situations like this always escalate. If they do, report serious incidents to local authorities and your country’s embassy or consulate.
Always trust your instincts! Remove yourself from situations that feel unsafe.
Here’s a list of all the Canadian Embassies and Consulates around the world
Health and Wellness
If you will hear me preach about anything, it is to get travel insurance. Even when I travel outside of my province but still within Canada, I get it.
Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers health, theft, and cancellations. There are many options to choose from and I will cover those on another article.
Carry your necessary medications, make sure you’ve got your vaccinations and maintain your personal health routine. You’ll probably clock all your steps and more on a trip, unless you’re on a sunbed vacation.
Empowerment, Confidence, and Support Networks
Consider learning basic self-defence techniques, it could come in handy. Always walk confidently, even if you’re lost and you have no idea where you are. Pretend you know where you’re going then duck into a shop and figure out your bearings. The moment a predator sees that you look lost and you’re confused, that’s when they strike.
Connect with online communities for advice and support. You can join groups like Girls Love Travel or Host A Sister on Facebook.
