·
Carry an extra passport picture with you just in case you need to
replace a lost or stolen passport
·
Leave copies of your important documents with a reliable friend or
family member in case you need a back-up sent to you in an
emergency (tickets, driver's license, passport, visas, etc.)
Your money
·
Safeguard your telephone credit card numbers when using them in
public. Criminals may be observing you with binoculars and/or
video taping you in order to steal your number for sale or other
unauthorized use.
·
Be careful when using ATM cards. Criminals hang out around ATM
terminals and "steal" your number. Some ATM cards are "cash
cards" (the money is removed from your account immediately) and
do not require a pin number to remove money.
·
It may not be possible to contact your bank on weekends to inform
them that your card has been stolen or that you believe that the
number has been stolen.
·
When using "big bills" record the numbers of each bill. Short
changing tourists is a common practice. Knowing the bill number
gives you some leverage with the service provider and the police if
they get involved.
·
Most thefts of money, documents and other personal effects could
be avoided if a money belt was used.
·
If you think you have been charged too much you probably were.
·
Carry lots of small bills to pay charges so that you don't have to
display larger bills in public.
·
Check your credit cards statements upon returning carefully for any
additional, unauthorized charges and overcharges.
·
When paying a bill with cash using large denominations say in a
loud voice "I'm giving you a $xxxx bill."
·
Watch out for "slow change artist" especially when you are in a
hurry.
·
Never FAX your credit card number to anyone.
·
Keep all receipts for credit card transactions and compare them
against your statement.
·
Leave your checkbook at home. If you carry it do not leave it in
your hotel room. If you leave it in your room check it and make
sure all of the checks are still there when you get back.
·
Never expose your money belt or your important documents in
public.
·
Find out where the best legal place is to change money.
·
Don't carry all of your money in one location
