Wimpy Travellers

[mrrnice2 157005]

I admit it. I am a wimp when it comes to foreign travel. Over the last few years here I have seen numerous threads and references from members, both men and women alike, who travel extensively outside of Canada either for business or for pleasure.

 

So why am I a wimp? Some would argue that my fears are as unlikely to occur as the chance of getting hit by lightning, twice, but I simply read too many stories of people who get into difficulty when out of the country and then learning that the Canadian government will not help or assist. Is this all media hype or is there truth to it?

 

What brought this to mind today is the story of Christine Davis who was vacationing with her young son in Cuba over Christmas. Sadly she was in an accident and her son was killed. Cuba refused to allow her to leave the country as they were conducting their investigation. Once the story hit the news then the Federal Minister of State personally intervened and as a result Ms. Davis is now free to return home.

 

My concern is not for those who may be intentionally engaging in illegal activities such as drug running, but rather with those who simply by bad luck get involved in an accident or are "set-up," by border guards or corrupt police officials. Where is the Canadian government in those cases?

 

It always surprises me with the number of people that travel to Mexico considering the pervasive local custom of bribery as being a way of doing business. A friend of mine travels extensively in South America for work and his company carries an insurance policy on him to pay ransom demands. Even coming through customs I have been met with some very obnoxious and rude, as well as intimidating border officials - on the Canadian side.

 

This article on the topic is from the National Post last summer and it summarizes my concerns. Unrealistic Expectations.

 

If you or I, very innocently get into difficulty outside of Canada what are the chances of CBC or CTV picking up our story, as it seems that often that is the only way that our government will intervene on our behalf, by being embarrassed into action? I really do wonder sometimes.

 

So, from one travel wimp to all of you who are far more adventurous, do these concerns ever cross your mind?

[Studio 110 by Sophia 150333]

I travel every winter 2-3 times each year. I always get travel insurance, which I have had to use it one time.

 

I do not like Mexico, for the reasons you have stated. Once in Mexico, I was approached by some men who was hoping to rope me into a drug trafficking situation. Of course I did not, but the way they did it was very scary. They did this in a way that they became " friends" escorting us to the coolest bars, hot spots, etc...Then brought us to their "family" home. Once I got into the house, I new this was not a regular house or family. They had bags upon bags of drugs. They wanted me and my friends to bring Canadian green to Mexico in exchange. They say they know the coast guards on their end, have a boat etc....I WAS TERRIFIED!!!! For the remaining of my stay, I basically had to trick them into thinking I was all for it, too scared to say no to them while still in their country cause I am sure if I had said "NO WAY" I may have not returned home! I have mot returned to Mexico since then.

 

Cuba has my heart, I always feel safe there. Lots have changed there since Castro is out. I no longer see military lining the streets, hate propaganda against USA. The punishment for Cubans to commit a crime, especially to a tourist is so sever the Cuban people just would never think of risking it.

 

I have been dangerously sick in Cuba, went to a hospital. I gotta say their hospitals are amazing, no waiting room, you see a doc as soon as you get in. I was very well taken care of while at hospital. I was there overnight as I had caught some kind of bug or food poisoning so bad that I was extremely dehydrated to a dangerous level. Had IV. Learned my lesson about drinking tap water hahahha.

 

It is on my mind when I travel, what would happen if we got in car accident, or whatever. My partner and I have discussed this. Luckily we have very good friendsin Cuba, and if needed to stay longer we would be looked after very well, for however long it would take.

 

BUT it would be a very scary situation in the story you told:( I can not imagine how terrible it was for her!

 

I suppose, I think that if that is how I am going to "go" then so be it. I have no control of that. I will be cautious, like I wont drive a vehicle when I am there. Their road rules are nuts! lol...Pay attention to my surroundings and play it safe. But that is the same as when I home too.

 

P.S MRN2....I suggest for a first time traveler, go with people who are experienced and know the country and do's and don't. Your welcome to join me:) lol...going again in April:)

[Cleo Catra 178382]

Honestly, I'm just a bitch when traveling in certain places. My friends and I were in Central America together, and any time someone would approach us to rope us into anything, we all just said, "NOPE!" and kept walking. We didn't make any friends, but we didn't get into any trouble either, so it all worked out :P

[Parker 19761]

News love fear mongering..

I guess it's not as interesting to report on the great and lovely vacations people have outside the country.

 

There's is so much out there to discover, learn and see.

 

I actually love visiting (parts) of South America. I heard a lot before going there, but I've never come across anything like bribes or abnormally high crime rates. (Though I did find a lot of people stand really close when they talk to you.)

 

I've walked around at night in Asia, stayed with strangers in Europe... once you get out and start seeing places you start to see how similar people are no matter where they live.

 

Don't let fear stop you. If you want to travel, you should.. you're probably just as likely to face unfair persecution here as you are in a lot of other countries.

 

 

 

Edit: Oh and you can totally go missing anywhere! Even here.. Was just reminded of Owen Rooney, who was an Australian who went missing here, in Canada, after being beat up.

[qwertyaccount 15793]

There are risks to everything and there is no reward without risk.

 

Driving is a huge risk on nice summer days, where you trust the oncoming car not to swerve into you, let alone on a snowy day where you are trusting all the cars around you to have decent tires and an awake driver.

 

There are many streets in Toronto that I wouldn't want to walk down by myself during the day let alone at night.

 

A lot of personal safety comes from situational awareness - if someplace looks shady, don't go there; if you find yourself someplace you'd rather not be, leave.

 

The planet is an amazing place full of wonderful things for you to experience - you shouldn't let fear restrict you to a tiny part of it that in many ways is no safer.

[Luckyme 41401]

In addition to what Suite Escapes says, there are a few things IMHO are important when we are travelling abroad. The first thing is - it is a very good idea to register at the Canadian Foreign Affairs's website before our travel. Here is their website -

 

http://travel.gc.ca/travelling/registration

 

This ensures that they know where you are and to make contact in case of emergency.

 

I find it extremely helpful to do some research of the countries or places we intend to visit, the do's and don'ts, places to avoid etc. There are countries such as Japan, China, most European countries where I have no problem going almost anywhere alone in the daytime.

 

No matter where we travel, it is important not to act like a tourist and carry expensive camera or video equipment in full view. Even places like Mexico, if you stick to your resort you are staying and only go out in an escorted group or a large group, there'll be no problem. While it is very tempting to rent a car and go sightseeing by yourself, the risk is high that you can be robbed or get into a car accident.

 

What we should keep in mind is that the horror stories we are hearing are mostly isolated inccidents. For one incident, there could be thousands and thousands of travellers who have enjoyed the experience and never have encountered such bad problems.

[Dorinda Bloom 44036]

I've always wanted to go on a cruise, but would be worried about getting sick. There's sooo many people in one small area, talk about germs galore. :icon_eek: Not that I'm going to let it stop me.....but it is a concern, especially with some of the issues that have happened in the past few years.

[Guest P*rry]

Mrnice2: If you or I get into difficulty outside of Canada the chances of our government intervening on our behalf is excellent. It's not a case of government officials jumping into action only when embarrassed by the media.

 

Ok, I was one of those officials so I'm a tad biased.

 

Provision of consular services can be difficult at times to deliver, I can tell you.

 

The massive assistance extended to Canadians in Lebanon a few years ago is a case in point, and thankfully rare.

 

The bad luck cases can be tough and sad ones. I've visited Canadians in jail who mistakenly thought by me merely showing up waving a diplomatic passport would get them out. Sometimes it would. More often, the local process had to be played out. And, that process can be slow and gut wrenching for everyone. In terms of media attention it can be welcomed by the consular official. It may add pressure on the foreign side for them to move faster.

 

If you want to travel, my advice is enjoy the experience and as Parker posted "There's is so much out there to discover, learn and see."

[Guest A*ro**n]

The best travelling, I've found, is done off the beaten path. Staying away from the major destination hubs. You get to meet people, where they live, and there's isn't any ulterior motives. If you're humble and try (even a little) to speak in their language, you'll really benefit.

 

So my advice would be let your sense of adventure reign over your fear, trust your instincts and make some life lasting memories.

[Studio 110 by Sophia 150333]

I've always wanted to go on a cruise, but would be worried about getting sick. There's sooo many people in one small area, talk about germs galore. :icon_eek: Not that I'm going to let it stop me.....but it is a concern, especially with some of the issues that have happened in the past few years.

 

I agree, I always wanted an Alaskan cruise! But not too sure how I feel about being "trapped" and with all the travel germs one might come across:( Also, not sure if I would be happy not being able to soak in the culture of each port stop, being only couple hours at each stop. What if you really really liked a place?

 

I pick Alaskan cruise as the ONLY cruise I could see me on, as Alaska would be an awesome sight to see, but would not want to actually go there! lol...just to see the glaciers and waters.

[mrrnice2 157005]

Mrnice2: If you or I get into difficulty outside of Canada the chances of our government intervening on our behalf is excellent. It's not a case of government officials jumping into action only when embarrassed by the media.

 

Ok, I was one of those officials so I'm a tad biased.

 

Provision of consular services can be difficult at times to deliver, I can tell you.

 

The massive assistance extended to Canadians in Lebanon a few years ago is a case in point, and thankfully rare.

 

The bad luck cases can be tough and sad ones. I've visited Canadians in jail who mistakenly thought by me merely showing up waving a diplomatic passport would get them out. Sometimes it would. More often, the local process had to be played out. And, that process can be slow and gut wrenching for everyone. In terms of media attention it can be welcomed by the consular official. It may add pressure on the foreign side for them to move faster.

 

If you want to travel, my advice is enjoy the experience and as Parker posted "There's is so much out there to discover, learn and see."

 

Joseph, you have NO idea how much I was hoping to see an informed response such as yours. It is not a nice feeling to have the sense that Canada abandons you the moment one steps outside of its borders. I expect that there may be others who are glad to have read your response.

The planet is an amazing place full of wonderful things for you to experience - you shouldn't let fear restrict you to a tiny part of it that in many ways is no safer.

 

Thanks Qwerty, I shall try to make that a mantra. :)

 

 

What we should keep in mind is that the horror stories we are hearing are mostly isolated incidents. For one incident, there could be thousands and thousands of travelers who have enjoyed the experience and never have encountered such bad problems.

 

In my heart of hearts I DO know this, so thanks for the reminder. :)

 

P.S MRN2....I suggest for a first time traveler, go with people who are experienced and know the country and do's and don't. Your welcome to join me:) lol...going again in April:)

 

Ahhh, "Be still my beating heart!" I expect there are MANY reading who would love to have that offer. :)

 

Thanks everyone to these amazing replies thus far. Maybe I will go buy a suitcase, with a Canadian flag embossed on it. :)

[Boomer 33202]

Over the last number of years I've seen a lot of this world. Since the risk varies immensely from country to country, start with relatively safe destinations. You have to realize that you're a guest and must observe the local laws and customs. If you do get into trouble I'm sure that you will get consular services, but you have to understand their limitations.

 

There are many ways to mitigate risk, good advance research, possibly going with a group or a tour, having proper insurance, and letting people know your plans, and you should always try to be unobtrusive.

 

There are so many wonderful experiences to be had out there, take a chance, we only go around once.

[fortunateone 156618]

Over the last number of years I've seen a lot of this world. Since the risk varies immensely from country to country, start with relatively safe destinations. You have to realize that you're a guest and must observe the local laws and customs. If you do get into trouble I'm sure that you will get consular services, but you have to understand their limitations.

 

There are many ways to mitigate risk, good advance research, possibly going with a group or a tour, having proper insurance, and letting people know your plans, and you should always try to be unobtrusive.

 

There are so many wonderful experiences to be had out there, take a chance, we only go around once.

 

 

This is true. also the bribery in places like mexico and Central America, I didn't see any of it in mexico, but i do know some people think some things are bribes, when in fact Canada does the same thing for example fines for traffic violations that have to be paid if full if you aren't a resident or a fee to enter the country, which Canada also does, If you are from certain places, you have to pay for a visa in non reciprocal countries. Canadians often interpret this as 'bribes'

 

 

i know people in CA that offered a passport stamping service so you didn't actually have to exit the country and reenter 3 days later as required. Someone picks up the passports, travels to the city, sees an official in the appropriate dept who stamps the passport exit and entry and issues another reentry visa with a new expiration date. The entry has a legit fee, everything else is paying for the people to make it happen. cheaper than travel :)

 

 

I like traveling, and encountered no problems with a very extended trip. most of what i work for now is to do it again, for a long trip or semi permanent basis.

 

Whether you cross the border into the US or go to Asian or Colombia (on my list of places i wish to see), you have to respect the country, you are a guest and no you cannot do whatever you want. And expect the unexpected, give no reason to be arrested, you should be fine.

[Guest c**io**m7]

Shit happens...here and abroad. I love traveling and make a point of 2-3 trips per year. I love cruising and I am a sucker for a white sand beach, bikinis and free-flowing beverages.

 

My first ever trip was Bahamas and, while walking the streets of Nassau and snapping hundreds of pics, I was approached by a policeman who insisted I follow him. Who was I to say no?

 

We walked through an alley, almost pissing myself in fear having read many stories of fake cops etc...etc..

 

I am taken to a small guard booth in front of a picturesque building and, upon entry, greeted by another officer...machine gun in hand...pointed at me. On the desk was a second machine gun. No longer pissing myself in fear...too busy trying not to shit myself. Never been so scared in my life.

 

In the end, I had taken a picture of the U.S. Embassy in error and these were real policemen. Fill out some papers, answer some questions, delete some photos and hightail it to the resort for several drinks...never to leave the grounds again.

 

For a while I was a little nervous to travel but now, I will go anywhere with almost anyone while I am away.

 

I should add, to their credit, they were very polite as we left the guardhouse with a very heartfelt congratulations...we were on our honeymoon.

[cyclo 30131]

Like a lot of things in life, deciding where to travel involves understanding your risk tolerance. Here's a link to the Government of Canada Travel Advise and Advisories web page which is always worthwhile checking.

 

http://travel.gc.ca/travelling/advisories

 

You'll see that the advisories range from "Exercise normal security precautions"; warnings about travel in certain regions within a country; up to and including "Avoid all travel". Most of the countries in the world are pretty stable, have low crime rates and the rule of law applies. You just need to use your normal common sense, a bit of street smarts to avoid the hustles that often occur at major tourist sites and always listen to your sixth sense. Travel to any western European country is an easy first travel step.

 

I've recently travelled to Germany, Austria, Italy, Spain, Croatia and the Czech Republic. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend any of those destinations for even the most risk averse traveller.

 

I was planning a trip to Thailand, but I'm taking a wait and see attitude right now because of the political turmoil, demonstrations and violence in some areas of the country. The travel advisory is "exercise a high degree of caution" throughout the country along with a couple of regions where they advise "against all travel". Following the country in the news I understand that there's also a risk of further instability in the near future... While I'm there :-( A year ago the country was quite stable and I'm sure it will be again in the near future. It will always be there, so I can wait out the politics ;-) and go there some other time.

 

Later this year I'll be trekking in Nepal. That has logistical challenges and potential medical risks due to the altitude so I'm booking with reputable local guides.

 

My point is that each of these trips involves a different level of risk, based upon factual information, and a different response from me based upon my risk tolerance.

 

The world may seem like a very big place, but we're actually in a very, very tiny corner of the universe. Might as well take the time to have a look around while we're here ;-) Good luck with your travels. I suspect once you get out there you'll be bitten by the travel bug and you'll become a more confident traveller.

[Phaedrus 209521]

Honestly, I'm just a bitch when traveling in certain places. My friends and I were in Central America together, and any time someone would approach us to rope us into anything, we all just said, "NOPE!" and kept walking. We didn't make any friends, but we didn't get into any trouble either, so it all worked out :P

 

Arrggh. I love traveling, but this is the one thing that I really, really hate. I find that I get so utterly sick of the hassle and the people trying to sell you things that I end up being preemptively and spectacularly obnoxious to anyone who approaches me... which is OK until I suddenly realize that I hate the asshole I've turned into. So then I stop it, and end up being far too nice to someone who's just running a scam of some kind, and then I hate myself for being so damn gullible. It sucks. And it's impossible to work out who's in the 5-10% of people who would be worth talking to, and who just needs to be got rid of as soon as possible.

 

As for the rest of it - there's lots of good advice in this thread. One thing I'd add: learn a few words of the local language - even if it's just yes/no/please/thank you/hello/goodbye, the effort is almost always appreciated and will really make you stand out from the rest of the tourists.

[Metalsmith 2983]

Over the years, I've traveled to almost 35 different countries.

 

Some simple rules to live by that have kept me out of trouble.

 

1. Friends. Have them, bring them along.

 

2. Drunk. Don't get too drunk, unless you have good friends (see 1) to get you back home/hotel.

 

3. Common Sense. Have some.

 

4. Personality matters. If you are a shittrouble-magnet in your home country when you go out, that will not change when you're overseas. If your friday nights downtown often include a bouncer or a cop, that will likely be the case when you travel.

 

5. Hackles. You know 'em....when they get raised, listen to 'em. The worst spot I ever got into cost me about $200 US to get out of....the bar in Egypt was fun....but we had to pay off the bouncer to let us leave...somehow our bill got...well, rather large, rather unexpectedly. My hackles were up, I knew something wasn't right, but we stayed....and paid....

 

 

Oh yes, haggling...

 

6. When shopping overseas, any market you go into, haggle like hell. I got a gold statue for $12/gram once upon a time...the guy came down from $18/gram. In daylight, in a public market (souk) it can be fun to do some of this. In Turkey, they offered me apple tea, and were surprised when I asked for Turkish coffee instead. When you're haggling over something expensive, the seller will accommodate such requests....I dropped $1.8 million turkish lira that day (about $400 dollars I think) so it was worth his while to keep me happy. I got some nice stuff, I paid a fair price, he got his money, I got my coffee and baubles....it was good fun. That said, the annoying guys in the market that follow you...I'll refer back to point 1 and have some friends along.

MS

[mrrnice2 157005]

Thanks to all for the input and information and mostly for the reassurance.

 

I know that this is a relatively long way away but I am looking at the Rio Olympic Games in August of 2016. As I wrote about in a thread on Past Olympic Experience I believe that this may be the opportunity or reason for wanting to venture a little further afield.

 

I guess we won't know for two years if I follow through on this.

 

Oh yes, a question. Anyone like to go to Rio with me? :)

[Guest c**io**m7]

Thanks to all for the input and information and mostly for the reassurance.

 

I know that this is a relatively long way away but I am looking at the Rio Olympic Games in August of 2016. As I wrote about in a thread on Past Olympic Experience I believe that this may be the opportunity or reason for wanting to venture a little further afield.

 

I guess we won't know for two years if I follow through on this.

 

Oh yes, a question. Anyone like to go to Rio with me? :)

 

 

Hmmmmm...Brazilian babes? That's a no-brainer.

[Boomer 33202]

Thanks to all for the input and information and mostly for the reassurance.

 

I know that this is a relatively long way away but I am looking at the Rio Olympic Games in August of 2016. As I wrote about in a thread on Past Olympic Experience I believe that this may be the opportunity or reason for wanting to venture a little further afield.

 

I guess we won't know for two years if I follow through on this.

 

Oh yes, a question. Anyone like to go to Rio with me? :)

 

Well for a wimp you sure picked a challenging one to cut your teeth on, I guess it's go big or stay home.

[mrrnice2 157005]

Well for a wimp you sure picked a challenging one to cut your teeth on, I guess it's go big or stay home.

 

Laughing at that Boomer. Don't say anything that will make me nervous. :) I know you are a true world traveler with your volunteer work so I value your opinion. Thanks!!!

MN2