PETRINA’S TIPS FOR STAYING SAFE

1. Smile

People become much friendlier and more willing to help once they warm up to you. In most places, locals are actually very happy to be in contact with travellers and your smile bridges the gap easily.

2. But be rude when necessary

The few times I found myself in a dodgy situation was because I didn’t want to offend anyone. If your instincts tell you to get away from a seemingly friendly man, forget being polite. Just get out of there.

3. Hide the important stuff

Your passport, credit cards and larger notes should always be kept close to you in a stealth pouch beneath your clothes. Never carry anything valuable in your pockets – this makes it too easy for pickpockets.

4. Hitchhike wisely

Dress decent. Don’t take rides at night. Don’t fall asleep in the car. Keep a lookout on the road/map to make sure the driver is going in the right direction. Yell to stop and get out of the car the moment you start feeling uncomfortable.

5. Read about the culture beforehand

In more conservative countries, sometimes even a smile is viewed as an invitation. It may be good to prepare a story of how your husband/brother/boyfriend is waiting for you. I tried the fake wedding ring method, it still didn’t deter men.

Where did she go?

Sweden. Denmark. Germany. Netherlands. Belgium. Poland. Lithuania. Latvia. Italy. Croatia. Bosnia and Herzegovina. Macedonia. Montenegro. Albania. Kosovo. Bulgaria. Turkey. Iran. Pakistan. India. Thailand. Malaysia.

What was in her backpack?

Phone. Camera. Chargers and cables. Two sets of clothes. Bikini. Duct tape. Towel. Flip flops. Painkillers. Sleeping bag. Garbage bags. Journals and pens. Passport, credit cards, emergency cash. Fork, spoon, chopsticks. A tent. Lotion. Wet wipes. Lipstick. BB cream. Ziplock bags.