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g u e s t
c o l u m n
•
Check that you have all the details on
your trip: information on flights, hotels,
transport, and contacts, etc.
•
Check your documents: visas, insu-
rance, authorization letters or invita-
tion, necessary permits and other.
Copy, scan or photograph all you
important documents and have them
available at your email mailbox.
•
Check the medical aspects on your
destination with the Medical De-
partment.
3.2.Personal and cultural alertness
It is important to be alert and assume inte-
llectually that we are in surroundings different
from hours to avoid being involved in emba-
rrassing situations or even danger: how to
greet someone, the meaning of signs and
body language, courtesy (we should know
at least a couple of words in the local lan-
guage), the customs, being careful of what
we say, ensure that it is a safe place, the
right time to be at that place, etc.
3.3. Low profile
Don’t call attention to yourself. What could
be considered normal in one country could
be a sign of wealth in another and could
attract attention.
•
Don’t attract attention:
do now
show money, jewellery, credit cards,
cell phones or cameras.
•
Avoid eye contact with strangers;
nevertheless, maintain eye contact
with policemen or security guards.
Avoiding eye contact might raise sus-
picions.
•
Avoid talking too much with stran-
gers:
if you have any questions, ask
somebody wearing a uniform.
•
Dress appropriately depending on
the circumstances.
Try not to look
like a tourist.
•
Don’t leave your valuables on display.
•
Be discreet when talking on the pho-
ne, don’t talk loud.