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 they don't let their guard down while away.

Before leaving:

1. Safety in numbers: When planning a trip, look for hotels in well-travelled areas. The more people around, the safer a person will be.

2. Do research: Prior to booking search online reviews about the 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 a family doctor or travel health specialist at least one month prior to departure. This will ensure the traveller has all necessary immunizations, like the hepatitis A and B vaccine, to allow for a safer and healthier holiday.

4. Stock up on medication: Buy medications ahead of time, including treatments for headaches, diarrhea, and allergies - in case they are not available in the country you're visiting.

While travelling:

1. Be street savvy: Always travel with a companion and be conscious of local customs pertaining to women 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 the 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 the risks: Be aware of what behaviours puts a person at risk of contracting serious illnesses like malaria or liver diseases such as hepatitis A and B, and 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.