SAFE TRAVELS

Be sure to check your destination for illness, scams and more

Travel opportunities and technology have brought the world to your doorstep, with no destination too far away.

Hundreds of people now queue below the summit of Mount Everest, waiting for their chance to stand at the top of the world; no longer is it only the lucky few who have this opportunity.

Others trek for hours through the dense jungles of Rwanda, swarmed by insects, so they can spend time with the gorillas.

Yet more travel to capital cities like Cape Town, Prague and Ankara, for a taste of something different.

Wherever your travels take you, remember that not all countries are as safe and well–organised as Australia.

Yes, despite its faults, this country is far better administered and its people are much safer, than many other coveted travel destinations.

Before you take off on your

adventure, spare a thought for these issues and make sure you’re prepared to take them on:

■ Scams — Locals at some destinations target tourists in a variety of scams, as they are unfamiliar with the language, area and local customs, and therefore make easy targets.

■ Serious crime — When you travel in a high–crime country, you are just as susceptible to crime as its citizens, perhaps even more so.

■ Illness — Many countries are considered Malaria ‘hot zones’, while others are still suffering through the grip of Ebola, so check for required vaccines and places to avoid.

A quick search on the Federal Government’s ‘Smart Traveller’ website will tell you all you need to know about safety risks and concerns at your destination — from bad weather to epidemics, crime rates and the latest scams.