Exactly! And speak up and say NO loudly if they try to scoop up your bag that you’re perfectly capable of carrying yourself! I would also add that, at the airport, only take a taxi from an official taxi rank.

Good tips! I never wear jewelry except for simple stubs as earrings and a very simple wedding ring. And I always want to hear what a place sounds like, so the headphones are just for when I’m on the plane. Good tip about when you leave the room for breakfast! I never thought of that!

And another thought. You said travel light, and this is super important when arriving somewhere like a bus station where if you can’t carry your own bag you are in danger of a taxi driver grabbing it and persuading you to travel with him. It’s one way for them to get passengers but not what you want.

Rachel, I loved this! Yes, a wedge is something I always travel with. Also, if you accidentally end up in a hotel that ‘feels wrong’ or where you are getting too much attention, follow your instincts and leave immediately. When I go down to breakfast I leave the television on and put the ‘do not disturb’ sign up. Any plastic card will usually allow you to leave the electricity on. Use the safe for your passport and tickets and money. Always have an e-copy of all documents. Wear no jewellery or super cheap stuff and a plastic watch. Leave your earphones out. My most dangerous moments have usually been down to fellow travellers rather than locals and nearly always could have been foreseen had I been more alert!

Good point. I wrote about VPNs here: https://rachelsruminations.com/expressvpn-review/. Thanks!