Travel: Women should take travel precautions

Now more than ever, women are traveling for pleasure by themselves. And although their reasons for travel are similar to men's, women traveling alone have very different needs and concerns.

From safety issues to cultural variations, women travelers encounter a variety of difficulties that can be avoided if the necessary precautions are taken.

One of the initial steps to planning a safe and pleasant trip is first learning as much as possible about your destination. Women might find themselves having to adapt their dress and demeanor to the customs of the destination country. Avoiding form-fitting dress may deter sexual harassment and uncomfortable situations. In some societies, it is particularly important to dress conservatively.

Another consideration is lodging. A travel agent can locate woman-friendly hotels and book the safest room possible. Smaller hotels are often safer the staff are more familiar with guests and are able to more effectively monitor those in the building.

Hotels on a well-trafficked, active street will also fend off would-be thieves. Avoid walk-up hotels. A good question to ask when selecting a hotel is whether they have staff to escort you to your room late at night.

When requesting a room, keep in mind that ground floor rooms are more susceptible to break-ins. Ask for a room near the elevators but away from emergency exits and stairwells. These allow intruders to easily access your room and hide if necessary.

Make sure the room's door has a peephole and a deadbolt. Given the option, store valuables in the safe at the front desk rather than in-room safes the main safe is usually better insured.

Keep luggage and attire simple leave expensive-looking baggage (including camera bags), suggestive clothing and glitzy jewelry at home. Some travelers store valuables in diaper bags to throw off would-be thieves.

Bring a fanny pack or tote bag for short trips. If you'll be carrying medication, it's best to have an extra supply and a copy of the prescription in carry-on luggage.

How you get from place to place is an important safety issue. Travel agents can tell you whether it is safest to rent a car. When traveling abroad, you need to know if an international driver's permit is required. Also, be sure to inquire about State Department information and travel advisories regarding your destination.

At your destination, rental agents should always explain the car's features, provide directions and, in a foreign country, brief you about international traffic signs and rules of the road. Avoid renting hatchbacks luggage in the trunk can be easily seen.

When driving, purchase maps and write out directions ahead of time. Also, keep maps discreet to avoid looking vulnerable.

Finally, while traveling, don't forget to safeguard your home. Advise a trusted neighbor of your trip, or try to arrange for a house-sitter. Set your lights on timers and don't forget to temporary cancel newspaper delivery and have mail picked up.

(Linda Strait is president of House of Travel Inc., a full-service travel agency in Springfield.)