How to Safely Explore Your New Country While Living Abroad
Moving to a new country comes with all sorts of challenges and exciting opportunities — and the best way to learn what those are is to get out there and explore! But before you toss on a backpack for a trek through your new city or a hike down a remote nature trail, you should take the time to learn how to keep yourself safe.
No matter where you’re from or what continent you’re on, here are seven tips to safely explore your new country while living abroad.
Explore With Friends
Most countries have many areas that are perfectly safe to explore alone, but it’s generally safer to venture out in a new country with someone you know and trust.
If you’re brand new to the nation, consider joining expat community groups and discovering the country as a team or small group. If you’ve already made native friends, ask them to give you a tour from a local’s perspective.
Safety in numbers isn’t just an overused phrase — it’s best practice.
Respect the Local Culture and Customs
Every country has its own laws and customs. Before you venture out, take the time to learn what’s legal, what’s expected of you, and what’s frowned upon.
In some countries it’s a sign of disrespect to give a thumbs up signal or show the soles of your feet. In some regions, it’s insulting to alter your food with condiments or finish your entire plate when dining. In some countries, it’s expected that women dress in modest clothes, no matter how hot the weather may be.
If you’re exploring the United Arab Emirates, swearing or making rude hand gestures can land you in jail. In Singapore, you can be fined for chewing gum. In certain parts of Canada, it’s illegal to climb trees.
When exploring abroad, be mindful of local customs, norms, and criminal laws so you don’t accidentally offend anyone or end up in jail.
Avoid High Crime Areas
Every nation has neighborhoods and cities that are considered more dangerous than others. To stay safe when exploring a new country, it’s best to avoid those areas and stick to neighborhoods and regions where crime is less prevalent.
Many expats assume that areas that attract lots of tourists are safe, but that’s not always the case. While tourist spots may have more visible police or better security measures in place, they’re often also hubs for petty crime, such as pickpockets and bag snatchers who prey on unsuspecting out-of-towners.
Understand the Natural Environment
From deadly insects and dangerous wildlife to extreme weather conditions and potential natural disasters, it’s crucial to understand the environment around you. This is especially important when hiking, camping, or exploring remote areas.
Countries that are prone to natural disasters like tsunamis, tornados, and earthquakes often have strong disaster response protocols in place. Before you start exploring your new nation, familiarize yourself with the local response plans, warning systems, and alert signals.
Be Aware of International Travel Warnings
Every country is subject to political and civil unrest, terroristic threats, and criminal elements that are unique to the region. Stay up to date on local news in your new country and heed warnings from within the region as well as from external sources.
An easy way to stay abreast of the most current international threats and safety concerns is to check the current travel advisories listed on the U.S. Department of State website.
Know How to Contact Emergency Services
911 is the standard emergency services number for many countries in the world, but many countries utilize different emergency call systems. Some even have different emergency numbers for police, ambulance, and fire services.
When you arrive in your new country, learn the emergency call numbers so you know how to contact the proper authorities in time of need. It’s also wise to know how to contact your local embassy in case you need more assistance than local agencies can provide.
Carry International Health Insurance
No matter where you live abroad, protect your health and wellness with international medical insurance. Healthcare systems and the quality of medical care range quite a bit from country to country, so it’s best to have a private insurance plan that will allow you to access the best services the country has to offer.
This article from International Citizens Group explores how to access the best hospitals in New Zealand and links to similar articles about healthcare and safety in dozens of other popular expat destinations around the world.
In Conclusion
Touring a new country can be exciting, educational, and mind-opening. Whether you’re exploring vast, rural regions of Australia, glamorous cities in Europe, or tiny villages in Southeast Asia, don’t lose sight of the most obvious safety measures:
Exercising common sense, using good judgment, and being aware of your surroundings at all times.
