Safety Tips While Traveling In The Balkan Region
The influx of tourists to the Balkan region has increased in the recent years. The Balkan region or southeastern Europe offers places of historical interests, picturesque mountain ranges, lovely beaches, and National Parks. There is so much to see and do for the travelers.
According to a report published by the United Nations, the Balkan region is supposed to be one of the safest places to travel in Europe. There has been a downward trend in the incidences of homicide, robbery, rape and such other crimes in this region compared to Western Europe. The situation now in the Balkan region is a contrast to the period during the 1990s when the area was wracked by war and violence.
However localized political differences and difficulties continue to plague every region. Random violence may spark off with no apparent warning. It is better to adhere to certain safety tips while traveling in the Balkan region. This is both for ones personal as well as physical safety. Since tourists also often do fall prey to miscreants, it is better to take precautionary measures to avoid your happy vacation turning into a nightmare.
•Travelers should avoid confrontations or public disagreements with local citizens on any issue.
•Try to avoid discussion of your travel plans, your hotel room number, or any personal information in a public place.
•Do not wear anything flashy like expensive watches, or gold jewelry. It is better to leave those at home before you embark on your trip.
•When traveling in any country in the Balkan region it is wise to travel in a group. You must also avoid tunnels and commute through well - lighted areas. This is to avoid pick pocketing or other serious crimes.
•If your U.S. passport is lost, you must immediately report to the closest U.S. Embassy and also the local police in the Balkan region.
•Certain regions in the Balkans especially those outside any major city might lack proper medical facilities. It is in the best interest of the tourists to bring in their own set of prescription drugs as well as preventive medicines.
•Americans should have a discussion with their medical insurance company before coming down to the Balkan region to know if their policy will cover such emergency expenses as medical evacuation.
•In certain areas of Balkan region like Bosnia and Herzegovina roads may be narrow at places lacking guardrails. Driving through fog in the morning and evening might be risky. Travelers are advised to convoy if possible with other vehicles. It is also wise to make a journey during day time as far as practicable. Do rent a car from only a reputable company so that you can call them for support in case of breakdown or other problems. You should also make a note of the emergency number in that particular Balkan country for vehicle assistance.
The key to smooth and safe traveling is better understanding of your surroundings, staying in control of situations as well as avoiding distractions.