Travel Safety for Women in the Middle East - Yahoo Voices - voices.yahoo.com

The foremost rule for any American woman traveling outside the United States, use common sense wherever you go and if you are not sure about how to act or what to do, take your cues from the local women. Most essential, understand the customs and expectations of any region or township you plan to visit. This is especially important where the culture is contradictory from the American culture you grew up experiencing.

When traveling to the Middle East, it is imperative you check the political climate before you go. Consider checking with the State Department for travel warnings and areas of concern. Be flexible and be willing to adjust your travel plans depending on the news and warning. The U.S. Department of Defense regularly assesses some foreign air carriers for suitability and may recommend which airlines are safer ways to travel over other airlines.

Before leaving home, make extra copies of your passport, visas, additional identification cards, credit cards and any papers proving your American citizenship. Give one copy to some one at home and take one with you. It might even be a good idea to leave a copy with someone at the American Embassy.

When traveling alone to any foreign county, it is an excellent idea to check in with the American Embassy once you arrive and let them know where you intend to go while in the country. They can tell you if any areas are hot spots or on the danger list. Keep the contact information of the American Embassy with you; it is a bit like being able to call mom and dad just in case something does go wrong. If you are set on traveling alone to a Middle Eastern country, learn the laws regarding women and understand what is expected of you - before you get on the plane. It may save your life.

In many parts of the Middle East, all women are expected to dress conservatively with ankle length dresses and long sleeves. Western women do not have to wear the traditional dress of Muslim women, but they should be respectful and keep as much covered as practical. Even when it is hot, shorts and tank tops are not a good idea. Wear lightweight slacks or a long skirt instead of shorts. Carry a shawl in case you need to cover your head and take care not to expose your chest. Depending on the region of travel, women of Asian or Arab origin may be expected to follow the traditional dress, simply because they look like a local woman. If your appearance brings unwanted attention, cover up and seek the advice of local women regarding dress and local customs.

Men in the Middle East react differently to women than men in America. It is not that they expect you to be subservient to them, but their idea of how a respectable woman would behave may be different from what you are use to. Women do not look men in the eye when taking to men, unless they are their mothers or someone the man respects. Women do not approach men they do not know. Women do not usually mix with men unless it is a family member or husband. Women in Saudi Arabia do not generally drive and may not ride a bicycle on a public road.

As when traveling to any foreign country, be polite, courteous, aware of your surroundings at all times. Personal safety is your responsibility and knowledge of the lands and people you will be visiting can be a big factor in guaranteeing your safe return.

For Additional Travel Resources and Safety Information

http://intransit.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/10/02/options-for-a-woman-traveling-alone/

http://www.worldworx.tv/safety/middle-east/saudi-arabia/index.htm

http://www.vagablogging.net/solo-girlin-it-tips-for-women-traveling-alone.html

http://www.americanboating.org/traveladvisory.asp