TIPS FOR TRAVELERS

It's nearing the time for vacationers all over the country as well as those here in the Big Country to begin their summer vacations. Whether you are traveling by auto, air, or ship, we want all our friends and guests to be traveling safely.

A lot of the time we get complacent in traveling and let our guards down when it comes to being safe and aware. One of the reasons for that is we are comfortable here at home and we think it should be like that wherever we are. That is not always the case, even here in these wonderful United States. So in preparation for traveling safely, let me suggest a few reminders.

• Keep credit cards, ID (passport or driver's license), and cash in a front pocket, not the back pocket. And you might consider having your hand in your pocket over the wallet if you find yourself in a crowded bus or train.

• Carry purses with a long strap and have them over the shoulder, preferably beneath a coat if

  in the winter time.

• Avoid wearing flashy jewelry and clothes that quickly draw attention. If in a foreign country baseball caps or shirts with English words identify you as “tourist”.

• If someone seems to be paying you unwanted attention, or moves too close to you, it's probably not for a reason you want. Be polite and move on.

• Keep your antenna up!! Be aware and take note of what's ahead and especially what's behind you. If you feel you are in danger, cross the street or go into a coffee shop or find a store close by.

• Have a strong, confident attitude and body language. Don't be afraid to look a stranger in the eye, just don't linger with that look. You can be friendly and still be aware.

• If you are in an area or country with a reputation for pickpockets, consider purchasing a money belt that has a piece of flexible steel imbedded in it. One other suggestion is to carry a dummy wallet with a small amount of cash if you need to have it in your back pocket or purse.

• Lock your car, and double check. All stolen cars are those whose entry was easy because the doors were unlocked, and in some cases, the keys were left in the car's ignition.

• Be wary of strangers who want to take your picture with them, or who ask you to do something out of the ordinary like holding a bag for them.

These tips are not to make you want to stay at home or diminish the joy of traveling; just reminders that as you travel, be aware and use common safety sense. All this brought to you by the experienced travel agents at The Travel Factory at 4150 Southwest Drive, Ste. 1120, located between Rosa's and Chick-Fil-A on the southside of Abilene.