On a European business trip...

My company's policy was to call "rent a mercenary" when we had that contract, unfortunately that organization went out of business. Was a single point of contact for us, do what they said, don't call the local authorities. Now that we don't have that safety net, I've been told to get to the airport and get the first flight out, no matter where it's going. We've had some interesting trips and found new routes to and from certain areas. Always have a card to two with $15k credit and no other charges...not everybody accepts Amex, MasterCard or Visa...but usually will accept at least one.

Luckily I haven't been in a group that have been held for what they could get out of their ATM accounts, but I know folks that have. Travel in pairs, or more, don't encumber yourself with a lot of "stuff", I don't carry a lot of cash, leave anything sparkly at home, I've made colleagues go change what they're wearing if it has any logos or writing on it or looks "patriotic" in any way. If you're carrying items, use a light travel bag (solid color, preferably dark, the type that compresses into a very small pouch) the locals aren't carrying water bottles, iPads, cameras, etc.
I do stop at the concierge or travel desk and ask if they have a map of the local area, take that with you when you leave the hotel. Arrange transportation through the hotel, make sure you have the info for the driver and numbers for the driver and hotel, make note of the cars license plate.
Don't wander off without letting someone in your group know, and take someone with you. We had a guy decide to do a sauna on his own, it was in the basement by the loading dock. We didn't know until a couple of hours later and he managed to have a situation where he felt very uncomfortable with those around him and he did leave quickly.

Tune into surroundings, if you feel uncomfortable get out of the situation. Sometimes all you have is your wits.

Let's block ads! (Why?)

On a European business trip...