5 Things I Wish I Knew Before Going to Peru

Few countries in the world compare to Peru’s stunning beauty, cultural patrimony and geographical diversity. With its incredible archeological sites of pre-Colombian civilization, breathtaking mountain ranges, amazing diversity of plant and animal species, beautiful cathedrals and monasteries and unique Andean culture, Peru offers travelers of all styles and interests the journey of a lifetime. From the ruins of Machu Pichu and the jungles of the Amazon to the floating islands of lake Titicaca and the mysterious Nazca Lines, Peru is one the most rewarding countries to travel in the world.
 
Peru recognizes that tourism plays an important part in its developing economy and has taken great steps in the last few years to change its poor security record. You'll find a lot more police, especially plain clothed officers, in the towns and cities most frequently visited by tourists.

 
We asked our friends in the travel biz what safety precautions they would tell travelers, have a look below at their replies. If you’ve got some great tips of your own please add them to the comments!
 
1. From our Twitter friend @cotisgal: Know your Spanish and surroundings, wear modest attire, limit the jewelry and keep $$ hidden & safe.
 
2. Travel with reputable service providers. On every trip to Peru I hear stories from individuals trusting someone representing themselves a local guide or porter, only to discover the guide and their personal belongings gone when the traveler arrives at their destination. All guides must be licensed in Peru. Guides operating inside protected areas, such as Machu Picchu Sanctuary, must also have a special permit from SERNANP (National Service for Protected Area Management).

Rich Tobin, Conservation VIP
 
Also, there are many levels of service on the trains; some just for locals, some just for Peruvians, and others for tourists. Most local trains will not let foreigners ride, so don't assume you can catch any train of your choice--even if you offer to pay full tourist price you often will be denied a ticket, possibly leaving you stranded.
 
3. I have lived and worked intermittently for twenty-seven years in the Cusco region and Peru in general, and I would say that I feel safer now than ever. Terrorist activity is practically non-existent. And in regards to thievery, I think the Peruvian people have worked hard to raise the consciousness that foreign visitors need to have a positive experience in Peru, so that tourism will stay strong and people will want to return. It used to be fairly common that a foreign traveler was pick-pocketed in the market, or had his/her backpack slashed and items removed. Petty theivery is much less than it used to be, and public tourist places seem to go out of their way to make a situation safe and comfortable for visitors. Having said that, there are still common rules that one must be aware of: in particularly crowded local areas (like the market, or bus stations) only carry the money you need at the time, and be "mindful" of your camera. It is easy to tell which taxis are legitimate and which ones are not. If a tourist is aware and does not take risks then he/she should be fine.
 
In closing, I remember once having a conversation with a US friend who commented, "but...aren't you scared down there?" and I remember feeling slightly angry and defensive, responding: "The Peruvian people are some of the kindest and helpful people I have ever met."

Holly Wissler, Wilderness Travel

4. Plain-clothed “policemen”: Travelers may encounter a plain-clothed Peruvian claiming to be a policeman. While most such individuals are real policemen, some have turned out to be thieves using this ruse to catch travelers off guard and steal from them. When encountering a Peruvian claiming to be a plain-clothed policemen, do not give him any valuable papers, and insist on going straight to the local police station by foot.

GeckoGo.com
 
5. If, at the end of the day, you are unfortunate enough to be robbed ... just accept it as a travel experience. Make sure that you have good insurance and that you've read the small print before arriving in Peru so you know what is required to make a successful claim. Excluding precious photos, most things can be replaced in Peru. Finally don't let it spoil your holiday and don't suddenly believe that every Peruvian is a thief. The overwhelming majority are kind, honest, hardworking people who detest the thieves probably more than you do – when they get robbed they usually don't have insurance!

Andean Web

Learn some local lingo!

Of course, whenever you’re travelling to a foreign country its always helpful to know a bit o f the local language, Learn Spanish with WorldNomads Spanish Language Guide.

Read more stories from WorldNomads.com to help keep you travelling safely. WorldNomads.com - an essential part of every adventurous traveller's journey.

Getting high when you travel, safely

Getting high when you travel can be quite adventurous, and in fact it may be the main reason why you head to a destination. Travelers should not be afraid of taking things to the next level, but must also remember a few key points on their trip. Altitude sickness can be deadly and a little pre-travel preparation can keep you safe.

Altitude sickness, also called Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) can really slow down your trip and also be a potential killer. A bit of knowledge and prior to leaving can mean the difference between a very pleasurable and adventurous trip and a headache filled excursion that could potentially end with a medical evacuation from the mountain.

Perhaps the most important tip is to follow the "golden rule of mountain travel": Illness and headache at altitude should be considered altitude sickness until proven otherwise. Basically, if someone is sick at altitude, treat them for altitude sickness first!

How high is high?

Treatment of AMS, HACE and HAPE

The definitive treatment for all mountain sickness is descent.

Treatment of high altitude sickness of all kinds centers around prompt recognition of the symptoms and thinking that altitude could be the cause of the illness. First and foremost, upon beginning to feel ill when at altitude, a person should not ascend any higher!

Some experts even advise descending 500-1000 meters for 24 hours to allow the body to acclimatize more slowly. Medical treatment of more severe forms of altitude sickness such as HACE and HAPE should be done by a person skilled in altitude medicine. A traveler who suspects HACE or HAPE should immediately descend to lower altitude and seek advanced medical care.  Some medications discussed below may aid in the treatment, but descent is the best medicine.

Portable hyperbaric chambers known as Gamow bags can be used to simulate a lower altitude environment in emergencies and should be used only while preparing to evacuate the patient to a lower level, not as a substitute to descent.

Prevention of AMS

Travelers looking to prevent altitude sickness should try to have a slow and gradual ascent to altitude. Some experts advise not climbing more than 1500-2000 meters in a 24 hour period, when traveling above 2500 meters. This gives the body a chance to acclimatize to the new altitude and an opportunity to observe people for symptoms of AMS. This slow and gradual ascent is easier when travelers are hiking. Modern day travel methods such as car travel and airlines that land in cities such as Lhasa, Tibet and Cusco, Peru can immediately put a traveler at high altitude without much time to acclimatize. A savvy traveler will be already on the look-out for AMS symptoms if traveling to high-attitude without much of a chance to acclimatize.

Given that a slow and gradual ascent is not always possible, a few methods can help adjust the body to the shock of suddenly being at high altitude. Some evidence supports mild exercise the day of arrival such as a short walk, to aid with acclimatization. Heavy exercise the day of arrival could be disastrous.

Avoidance of alcohol or sedatives which can mask the symptoms of AMS should be for the first few days of altitude, as well. Adequate hydration should also be stressed.

Medicine for Altitude

Certain medications can help prevent and even treat AMS. Perhaps the most commonly used medication is called acetazolamide. This medication is used to both prevent and treat symptoms of AMS. Often taken as a 125mg tablet, twice per day, Acetazolamide is very effective at preventing AMS symptoms. This medication has the potential to cause allergic reactions in those people with a history of sulfa allergies and can change the way some foods or drinks taste, especially carbonated beverages. Overall, the medication is very well tolerated and is a viable option for travelers looking to take precautions in preventing AMS. This medicine should be started 24 hours before one ascends and taken while at altitude and for 48 hours after descent.

Dexamethasone is a steroid that can be used as a prophylactic medicine for those people unable to tolerate acetazolamide. This medicine is best used as treatment but is still an option.

Ginko Biloba has received much attention as a possible prophylactic AMS drug but the medical literature is scant. Some research shows promise but acetazolamide is still considered superior.

Lastly, the use of Cocoa leaves or other products that contain this plant material should be discouraged by travelers. While having many other applications, decent prevention of AMS symptoms is not one of them. Perhaps most dangerous is the "false sense of security" that one might have by taking cocoa leaf products and ignoring symptoms of AMS believing they are protected.

Overall, many travelers go to altitude each day and return without problems. Keeping an eye out for symptoms of altitude sickness in yourself and others around you should be second nature. When traveling in the mountains, follow the golden rule of treating any headache or illness at altitude as altitude sickness until proven otherwise. Discuss your travel plans and more importantly your ascent rate with your travel doctor in advance and see if using any prophylactic medications might be right for your trip.

Read more stories from WorldNomads.com to help keep you travelling safely. WorldNomads.com - an essential part of every adventurous traveller's journey.

Have you ever experienced altitude sickness? Share your story.

Machu Picchu Landslides: advice for travelers

Overview of the situation

Thousands of tourists have been stranded on the historical site of Machu Picchu in Peru after torrential rain flooded the area, setting off lethal mudslides that have killed five people.

The heaviest rains in the area in 15 years flooded the area over the weekend and forced the closure of the Inca trail, the tourist trek that follows a path from the town of Cuzco to the Inca sanctuary.

Government and private helicopters are currently flying some to safety but many travellers are still sheltering in Machu Picchu village's train station and the central plaza after hostels ran out of space.  More helicopters are promised, but their arrival depends on the weather.

From Times Online, Jan 27,2010

The WorldNomads SafetyHub Blog has detailed survival tips information for travellers caught up in this or other natural disasters here.

Avoiding landslides and mudslides

• If you are in an area prone to landslides and mudslides (i.e. very steep slopes,  canyons, high rainfall zones) be aware of any sudden increase or decrease in water level on a stream or creek that might indicate debris flow upstream.A trickle of flowing mud may precede a larger flow.
• Look for tilted trees, telephone poles, fences, or walls, and for new holes or bare spots on hillsides. 
• Listen for rumbling sounds that might indicate an approaching landslide or mudflow

Advice for World Nomads Policy Holders

What is happening to me and who do I call?

• It is important to remember that the situation you are in can be extremely stressful.
• Keeping an item of comfort nearby, such as a family photo, favorite music, or religious material, can often offer comfort in such situations.
• Call home and your country's Consulate or Embassy to let them know where you are, if you are alright and if you need any assistance.
• Call the emergency assistance hotlines should you need immediate attention (phone numbers below for WorldNomad's policy holders).

If you become unwell within 6 weeks of returning with fever, rash, respiratory illness or any other unusual symptoms seek medical attention and tell them that you were recently in a Disaster affected region.

Emergency Assistance numbers for WorldNomads policy holders

Please have your name, location and phone number ready when you call (and policy number if available)

Australian and New Zealand travellers (Specialty Assist for policies purchased on or after 01 Dec 2009):
Email: operations@specialty-assist.com
Telephone: +44 (0)20 7902 7405

Australian and New Zealand travellers (Mondial Assistance Australia policies purchased prior to Dec 1, 2009):
Email:  medicalnotes@mondial-assistance.com.au
Telephone: +61 7 3305 7499 (While overseas, reverse charges)
Telephone: 1300 729 467 (Within Australia)
Telephone: 0800 630 117 (Within New Zealand)
 
UK travellers (Specialty Assistance Services):
Email:  assistance@specialty-group.com OR assistance@mstream.co.uk
Telephone: +44 (0) 845 643 2628
 
Irish travellers (Specialty Assistance Services):
Email:  assistance@mstream.co.uk
Telephone: +44 (0)20 7902 7403
 
USA travellers (Access America):
Email:  AssistanceGroup@MondialUSA.com
Telephone: +1-877-257-8108 (toll free within US)
Telephone: +1-804-281-5789 (Collect)

Canadian travellers (Mondial Assistance Canada):
Email:  nomad.inquiries@mondial-assistance.ca
Telephone: +1-866-759-2892 toll-free from the U.S., Canada, Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Island or
Telephone: +1-519-342-4947 collect from anywhere else in the world

For all other travellers (ihi Bupa):
Email:  emergency@ihi.com
Telephone: +45 33 15 33 00 (not toll free))

Read more from WorldNomads.com to help keep you travelling safely. WorldNomads.com - an essential part of every adventurous traveller's journey.

When disaster strikes: survival tips for travelers

The recent earthquake in Haiti is a reminder that disasters can occur anywhere at anytime.  It's not always possible to 'be prepared' and in those instances, having some knowledge of safety and survival tips could be vital. This article looks at how travelers can safeguard their own health and safety in an earthquake / disaster affected area.

If you have access to a working phone or the internet:

• Make contact with family, friends & your local embassy and let them know that you’re safe.

If you are injured or become ill

• Contact your travel insurance 24-hour medical assistance service as soon as possible, they’ll guide you through what to do next. Follow their advice to the letter.
• If you’re not covered under a travel insurance policy, seek attention at the nearest medical clinic or ask for directions to your nearest embassy.

Beware of the environment:

• Avoid downed power lines and disaster-caused hazards. Use battery-powered flashlights and lanterns, rather than candles, gas lanterns or torches. Following a disaster there may be rapidly moving water that can also carry infections. Disasters resulting in massive structural damage can also result in exposure to chemical or biologic contaminants (i.e asbestos).
• In the case of earthquakes, do not return to your hotel / accommodations, or any building, if they are in any way damaged as aftershocks could cause a collapse.
• Move to the nearest open area (oval, park) away from damaged buildings, trees or roads where powerlines may have fallen.
• If you are in an area prone to landslides and mudslides (i.e. very steep slopes,  canyons, high rainfall zones) be aware of any sudden increase or decrease in water level on a stream or creek that might indicate debris flow upstream. A trickle of flowing mud may precede a larger flow. Look for tilted trees, telephone poles, fences, or walls, and for new holes or bare spots on hillsides.  Listen for rumbling sounds that might indicate an approaching landslide or mudflow

Keeping Safe:

• Disease can spread very quickly post disaster, so ensure you protect against injuries and infections by wearing sturdy footwear. Tetanus is a potential health threat for cuts and grazes.
• Frequent hand washing helps keep germs at bay. (If a traveler becomes unwell within six weeks of returning home and has fever, rash, respiratory illness or any other unusual symptoms, advise a physician of having just returned from a disaster-affected region.)
• Drink only bottled, boiled or disinfected water. For more information refer to the CDC website (http://www.cdc.gov/).
• In the event of diarrhea, replace lost fluids with clean drinking water or oral rehydration solutions.
• Keep close tabs on personal belongings, passport and money.

Getting out:

• Follow all advice from either your medical assistance service and/or local emergency service team and authorities to move to safe zones or transport to take you to the airport for evacuation.

Chris Noble, General Manager of WorldNomads.com says...

“Being caught in the middle of a natural disaster is both terrifying and confronting, but it’s also the one situation where you need to remain as calm as possible. Help those around you if able, take every precaution to avoid placing yourself at further risk and follow all directions from emergency services”.

Read more from WorldNomads.com to help keep you travelling safely. WorldNomads.com - an essential part of every adventurous traveller's journey.

Tips - Before Travelling to Ecuador

From sun safety to holding onto your wallet, travel experts weigh in with their tips on preparing for a trip to Ecuador and what you should be aware of while you're there.

Read more stories from WorldNomads.com to help keep you travelling safely. WorldNomads.com - an essential part of every adventurous traveller's journey.

Have you been to Ecuador? Share your travel tips with us.

Tips - Before Travelling to India

Thinking of planning a trip to India? From sharing your personal space to embracing the "organized chaos", travel experts share their knowledge and advice about what you should know before travelling to India. 

Have you travelled to India? Tell us your best travel tips.

Travel Scams 2.0: The Evolution of Deceit

You've most likely been warned about pickpockets, drink spiking, and conniving tuk-tuk drivers. However, new and increasingly more creative scams seem to keep popping up on the backpacker trails everywhere. We've highlighted some of the latest scammer tricks and trends, and how to handle them safely while they are happening.                

The Bogus Doctor Scam

Relatives of overseas travellers are being contacted by bogus doctors and hospital staff claiming their family member has been injured and asking for money to be sent for medical treatment. In this new scam, relatives are contacted by phone, email or SMS text messages and given contact details of where to send the money that will pay for the treatment of their supposedly injured loved one. In reality, no one is in hospital, the details are their personal accounts – and if you panic and act on their request, you will be out a large sum of money.

How to avoid this scam – You should share your insurance policy details with friends or family before leaving. If they can’t get through to you, then at least they can get through to the emergency assistance number and they can contact the person who is claiming someone is injured.

How to stay safe when it’s happening - If you are the friend or relative of a traveler and receive such a call, it's advised to hang up and call the hospital or doctor back - but only through a publicly advertised number such as the yellow pages or other reputable directories. Do not use the contact details the potential scammer has sent you or the organization’s contact details given by the person requesting the information. Again, contact your travel insurance emergency assistance team to help, that's why they're there !

The Gems Scam

Gem scams are the most prolific and website forums are littered with stories of travellers who thought they were buying rare, ‘illegally smuggled’ Burmese gems at a fraction of the cost. Soon they find out that their polished gems are polished glass and worthless and the shop they bought from, was not an official government gem store and is no longer there. Worst still are those travellers that choose to pay up front on the belief that the ‘precious gems’ will be sent home, but alas nothing arrives in the mail. This is particularly prevalent in Thailand.

How to avoid this scam – As a rule of thumb, if the price appears to be too good to be true, it probably is! Thai people may sometimes be poor by Western standards but they are not stupid (that goes for market traders everywhere). You’ll be interested to know that there are no jewelery or gem shops that are owned, operated, or sponsored by the government in Thailand.

How to stay safe when it’s happening – As with the tailor scam, you’re unlikely to be at risk from a personal safety viewpoint. Golden rule, do not, under any circumstance agree to follow a street vendor to a gem store that’s ‘just around the corner’, you may well end up being mugged in a back alley!

The Gambling Scam

A traveller is approached on the street by a friendly local who invites you for a drink at their house. After a nice meal a friend or relative arrives and lets them know of a card game happening later that day with some inside tips on how they can cheat and make some easy cash. The ‘mark’ turns up for the game, is allowed to win a few hands but then starts losing and is bankrolled by that friendly person they met on the street, who cooked them such a lovely meal. You see where this is going?

Suddenly the new-found friend is not so friendly and wants that money back and now. Generally under the threat of violence, the 'mark' ends up cashing their travellers cheques or clearing out their ATM.

How to avoid this scam – Just be cautious when accepting the warm hospitality that locals may display that you’re not being coerced into something other than a terrific meal. Trust your instincts if you’re not comfortable. Better to risk offending than your personal safety.

How to stay safe when it’s happening – of all of the scams this is the one that has the most amounts of reported threats of violence. If you do find yourself stuck in this situation, and I hope not after reading this, comply with your attacker. If you’re essentially being robbed at knifepoint, the safest course of action is to hand over the money. Personal safety has to come first.

The Tailor Scam

A classic scam involving promises of the finest Kashmir suits, made to perfectly fit, paid in advance. Two days later your clothes arrive at your hotel and low and behold the material does not seem to be the finest Kashmir and the fit is suitable for an 8-year old. Not to worry, the tailor comes to your hotel to measure for adjustments and tells you the dodgy material is just being used to get the fit right. Promises of delivery are made, ensuring that you’ll have them before your flight leaves. Sure enough 30 minutes before you have to get on a plane, they arrive. The same ill-fitting, poor material rags you saw the day before. Too late to chase them down, home you go with what’s now a pretty worthless outfit.

How to avoid this scam – This is a tough scam to avoid, given the relatively hit & miss results travellers have experienced when getting tailored suits, particularly throughout Asia. One suggestion is to bring your own material and research online for those tailors who are well regarded by other travellers.

How to stay safe when it’s happening – You’re generally not going to be at risk from a personal safety viewpoint when it comes to this scam, aside from the rogue tailors pin when measuring up. Our advice to best avoid this particular problem is to only use a tailor who has a shop or factory and to arrange fittings there.

For more information and tips on popular scams check out:

Travel Scams 101

Scams - the advanced course

Read more stories from WorldNomads.com to help keep you travelling safely. WorldNomads.com - an essential part of every adventurous traveller's journey.

Have you been the victim of a travel scam? Share your story.

Haiti earthquakes: advice for travelers

CNN.com has reported that officials are fearing more than 100,000 people have died as a result of Tuesday's earthquake in Haiti.

Safety tips if you are in an affected area

If you are injured or Sick?
If you are injured or become ill please seek medical aid and contact your 24-hour Medical Assistance Service.  The traveller should recognize that any functioning hospitals and clinics will be busy caring for people who have been injured and/or who are sick.

If you are in a region with no operating medical facilities please contact your Medical Assistance Service Immediately.

WorldNomads policy holders can find these details on their Certificates of Insurance or see phone numbers at the bottom of this article.

Injuries
The risk of injury is high. Persons who anticipate the need to travel to disaster area should wear sturdy footwear to protect their feet from Injury. Tetanus is a potential health threat for cuts and grazes. Any wound, cut, or animal bites should be immediately cleansed with soap and clean water. Seek rapid medical review should you become injured.

Wash your Hands
Wash your hands often using soap and water to help prevent the spread of disease. Waterless alcohol-based hand rubs may be used when soap and/or water are not available and hands are not visibly soiled.

What can I eat or drink?
Natural disasters can disrupt water supplies and sewage systems. If bottled water is not available, water should be boiled or disinfected. For more information refer to the CDC website

Food should be carefully chosen to reduce the risk of getting gastrointestinal illness. Avoid salads, uncooked vegetables and milk products, such as cheese. Ensure your food is freshly cooked and has not been sitting around. Food’s that has been cooked and is still hot or fruit that has been washed in clean water and then peeled by the traveler personally are safer to eat.

What if I get Diarrhea?
Gastroenteritis outbreaks can occur following a disaster.  Diarrhea may be accompanied by a high fever or passing blood in the diarrhea. Replacing lost fluids by drinking clean water is important or the use of oral rehydration solutions.

Insects
Bites can be prevented through combined use of insect repellent and barrier methods such as wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants when. Insect Repellent containing DEET should be used at all times.
Ensure you have been immunized for Tetanus in the past 5 years.

Safety
Traveller’s should be careful to avoid downed power lines. Battery-powered flashlights and lanterns, rather than candles, gas lanterns, or torches, should be used. Keep your personal belongings especially your passport and money on your person or in a safe place close to you.

Environmental Hazards

Be aware of what is happening around you. Following a disaster there will be rapidly moving water.  Lung infections may occur after inhalation of sea water. Disasters resulting in massive structural damage can also result in exposure to chemical or biologic contaminants (I.E. asbestos).

Environmental things to remember
Both hot and cold extremes in temperature can pose a danger. Heat-related illness, such as heat stroke, can even be fatal. Remember to wear your sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat to protect you from the sun. Evenings can become cold so have a pullover or waterproof jacket available. Keep you fluid intake up with clean water during the day. Try to keep a dry change of clothing handy to change into. This will help in keeping you warm and preventing heat loss.

What is happening to me and who do I call?

It is important to remember that the situation you are in can be extremely stressful.

Keeping an item of comfort nearby, such as a family photo, favorite music, or religious material, can often offer comfort in such situations.

Call home and your country's Consulate or Embassy to let them know where you are, if you are alright and if you need any assistance.

Call your travel insurance company emergency assistance hotline should you need immediate attention (see phone numbers below for WorldNomad's policy holders)
 

When you get out of there or get back home

Advice for World Nomads Policy Holders

Should you have any concerns or fears, please contact us on the following emergency assistance numbers.

Please have your name, location and phone number ready when you call (and policy number if available)

Australian and New Zealand travellers (Specialty Assist for policies purchased on or after 01 Dec 2009):
Email: operations@specialty-assist.com
Telephone: +44 (0)20 7902 7405

Australian and New Zealand travellers (Mondial Assistance Australia policies purchased prior to Dec 1, 2009):
Email:  medicalnotes@mondial-assistance.com.au
Telephone: +61 7 3305 7499 (While overseas, reverse charges)
Telephone: 1300 729 467 (Within Australia)
Telephone: 0800 630 117 (Within New Zealand)
 
UK travellers (Specialty Assistance Services):
Email:  assistance@specialty-group.com OR assistance@mstream.co.uk
Telephone: +44 (0) 845 643 2628
 
Irish travellers (Specialty Assistance Services):
Email:  assistance@mstream.co.uk
Telephone: +44 (0)20 7902 7403
 
USA travellers (Access America):
Email:  AssistanceGroup@MondialUSA.com
Telephone: +1-877-257-8108 (toll free within US)
Telephone: +1-804-281-5789 (Collect)

Canadian travellers (Mondial Assistance Canada):
Email:  nomad.inquiries@mondial-assistance.ca
Telephone: +1-866-759-2892 toll-free from the U.S., Canada, Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Island or
Telephone: +1-519-342-4947 collect from anywhere else in the world

For all other travellers (ihi Bupa):
Email:  emergency@ihi.com
Telephone: +45 33 15 33 00 (not toll free))

Very Important Note for volunteers.

 
Please, please only engage in direct travel to Haiti as part of an established charity or organization who can demonstrate that they have proper logistical and security support.
 
Many good hearted people want to rush in and ‘do something’ in the event of a natural disaster such as the earthquake that has hit Haiti. Although these are very admirable instincts this is often the wrong thing to do.
 
In the immediate hours and days following a catastrophe aid agencies, governments and international organizations enact pre-arranged disaster plans involving very experienced and specialist staff with full logistical support. Getting together with a group of friends or just jetting to an area like this on your own can create even more problems on the ground for them and it is potentially highly dangerous for you.
 
What you can do if you are not a part of one of these organizations?

Many agencies have already established disaster relief funds and requests for essential supplies. Although there is a desire in most of us to get hands-on and help, the money and goods collected by these funds will provide important support in the longer term as the people of Haiti affected by this earthquake slowly rebuild their families, homes and businesses.

Read more from WorldNomads.com to help keep you travelling safely. WorldNomads.com - an essential part of every adventurous traveller's journey.

5 Things I Wish I Knew Before Going to Kenya

You will find that Kenyans are extremely friendly but remember that there is real poverty in Kenya and you will soon realize that you are far richer and more fortunate than most local people you meet. Tourists always attract their fair share of beggars and souvenir sellers, but try and meet some ordinary locals going about their day to day business. Don't be afraid to step out of that tour bus - just be sensible and take some safety precautions.

While Kenya is a comparatively safe African destination, there are still plenty of pitfalls for the unwary or inexperienced traveler, from everyday irritations to more serious threats. A little street sense goes a long way here, and getting the latest local information is essential wherever you intend to travel. Learn more about travel in Kenya from Lonely Planet.

We’re lucky enough to know a great authority on Kenya, Josh Steinitz from NileGuide.com, and he’s shared some of his tips for staying safe in Kenya below.

1. Be careful eating meat outside of the higher end lodges, sometimes the quality level or the cooking style don’t suit foreign stomachs.

2. Whatever you do, don't forget your malaria pills. Err on the side of caution on this one.

3. Remember that the small things (biting wasps, acacia thorns, etc) are often more dangerous than the Big Five so come prepared with spray and long pants. If you’re planning a bike ride be extra careful and bring a spare kit because acacia thorns are deadly to bike tires.

4. Just over the border in Tanzania is Mt Kilimanjaro which many travelers to Kenya also visit.  It can be very, very cold on summit day before the sun rises - bring warm clothes and you’ll enjoy the summit all the much more and prevent getting a cold on the way down.

 5. Nairobi isn't the best place to wander around as a Muzungu. Keep your street smarts about you and ask your hostel which areas to avoid.

Basic Safety Rules for Travelers to Kenya

(...and anywhere in the world really) from GoAfrica.com

• Make a copy of your passport and keep it in your luggage.
• Don't walk on your own at night in the major cities or on empty beaches.
• Don't wear jewelery.
• Don't carry too much cash with you.
• Wear a money belt that fits under your clothes.
• Don't carry a lot of camera equipment especially in the major cities.
• Beware of thieves posing as police officers.

Learn some local lingo!

Of course, whenever you’re travelling to a foreign country its always helpful to know a bit o f the local language, Learn Swahili with WorldNomads Swahili Language Guide.

Read more stories from WorldNomads.com to help keep you travelling safely. WorldNomads.com - an essential part of every adventurous traveller's journey.

Dengue Fever: Fastest Growing Vector Borne Disease?

The map shows worldwide distribution of Dengue Fever. Blue: Areas infested with Aedes aegypti. Red: Areas with Aedes aegypti and recent epidemic dengue fever.

WorldNomads.com's roving medical expert Dr. Erik McLaughlin MD discusses Dengue Fever, its symptoms and the preventative measures travelers can take when visiting at risk areas.

What is Dengue Fever?

A recent article on Medical News Today discussed Dengue Fever as the fastest growing vector borne disease in the world.  Dengue is a viral illness that is spread by the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes.  This illness, once confined to SE Asia has now become more common in Latin America, Asia, Africa, North America and even Australia.  Dengue, nicknamed “breakbone fever” due to the wracking muscle cramping it causes, has no specific treatment and carries a case fatality rate of 40-50% if left untreated and progresses to the dreaded Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF). 

Dengue fever is a flavavirus that is classified into 4 different strains, named Dengue 1, 2, 3 and 4.  All four different strains can be present in the same geographic area, at the same time.  Once a person is infected with a specific strain of Dengue, they are believed to be immune to that strain for life.  The problem occurs when a person who has been previously infected with one strain acquires a second and different strain.  This infection by a second strain increases the likelihood that a person will acquire Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF) characterized by uncontrolled bleeding from the gums, intestinal tract, skin rash and fevers.  The increased risk of progression to DHF with each subsequent infection is exactly one of the reasons why producing a successful vaccine has been so difficult. 

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms of Dengue fever can be as mild as a slight fever, head and muscle aches, rash and nausea/vomiting.  Often times, the first case of Dengue gets undiagnosed by a person who believes they simply have a “bad cold” and then go on to make a full recovery.  This has now made their body a candidate for DHF should they become infected a second or even third time. 

Who is at risk?

The World Health Organization estimates that there are roughly 50 million Dengue infections per year and 2.5 billion people live in areas at risk for Dengue infection.  This is 2/5 of the world’s population.  In 1970 there were only 9 countries with Dengue fever and at present there are 100 countries that contain Dengue.  With the Aedes Mosquito acting as the vector or carrying agent for Dengue, one can clearly see the explosive growth the mosquito species has had, as well. 

Researchers are attempting to link increased global temperatures and rainfall with the increased Dengue activity.  The idea that warmer weather leads to increased mosquitoes and mosquito breeding grounds is nothing new, especially combined with standing water which allows the mosquitoes to have an ideal breeding ground. 

How can I prevent Dengue Fever?

Prevention of Dengue fever by travelers centers around several key points.   First, knowledge that one is traveling in a potential Dengue area should raise alert and prompt the traveler to be cautious.  Second, prevention of mosquito bites should become a way of life.  Using DEET sprays, permethrin treated clothing, bed nets and long sleeves and pants are vital steps to help keep mosquitoes away from your skin.  Lastly, be cautious of areas with standing water such as upturned canisters, flower pots, tires that may contain water and lakes or large puddles.  Public Health campaigns center on the destruction of these standing water breeding grounds, trying to eliminate of at least decrease the Aedes mosquito population. 

Travelers headed to areas with Dengue activity should travel prepared to do what they can to prevent mosquito bites.  Caution should also be used when looking at the time of year traveling occurs, especially during rainy seasons.  Dengue should not be going away any time soon and savvy travelers need to be aware of it and start getting used to taking proper precautions.   

Read more stories from WorldNomads.com to help keep you travelling safely. WorldNomads.com - an essential part of every adventurous traveller's journey.

5 Things I Wish I Knew Before Going to Japan

Whatever image you have of Japan, it's probably accurate, because it's all there. But you may also have some misconceptions about Japan. For example, many people believe that Japan is one of the world's most expensive countries. In fact, it's cheaper to travel in Japan than in much of North America, Western Europe and parts of Oceania.

Others think that Japan is impenetrable or even downright difficult. The fact is, Japan is one of the easiest countries in which to travel. It is, simply put, a place that will remind you why you started travelling in the first place. Before you go make sure to have a look at what Lonely Planet has to say about Japan in their online guide.

Did you know? That Japan’s literacy rate is a whopping 99% and that the country has over 200,000 ramen restaurants? Pretty amazing. Below are a few other things you might not know about Japan that will keep you traveling safely.

1. Book Ahead.

I wish I knew how packed hotels and hostels in Tokyo got on weekends. I normally wait until the last minute to get reservations, but that backfired in Tokyo. I had to spend 2 days in a capsule hotel in Tokyo because I couldn't find a room anywhere else. Plan early to ensure you have a hostel in a safe area of town. – Gary Arndt, Everything-Everywhere.com

2. Manage you Money.

Automated teller machines are almost as common as vending machines in Japan. Unfortunately, most of these do not accept foreign-issued cards. Even if they display Visa and MasterCard logos, most accept only Japan-issued versions of these cards. Be sure to plan your spending money carefully so you don’t end up dead broke in the middle of your stay. -LonelyPlanet.com

3. Grab a Map.     

Because location names are often only in Japanese and addresses are often chaotic, be sure to have a good map with you. Mark your accommodation clearly on the map. If you get lost, you can just point to the location to get help from people around, even if they don't speak English. - Peter Daams, Travellerspoint.com

4. Know the drill.      

Japan is known for its earthquakes, so should you get stuck in the middle of one crouch under a sturdy table or desk, stand under a doorframe or head for the bathroom – these locations are usually the most structurally sound and offer you the most protection. Visit this article from the Nihon Sun for more Earthquake safety tips.

5. Get Covered.

Medical treatment is expensive in Japan with payment required in advance, so get adequate coverage. - Christina Tunnah, WorldNomads.com

And of course, whenever you’re travelling to a foreign country its always helpful to know a bit o f the local language, Learn Japanese with WorldNomads Japanese Language Guide.

Read more stories from WorldNomads.com to help keep you travelling safely. WorldNomads.com - an essential part of every adventurous traveller's journey.

What did you learn in Japan and wish you knew before you went? Leave us a comment...

British Airways Strike - How will it affect my travel insurance?

On 14 December 2009, British Airways announced on their website that the union has voted in favour of strike action commencing from 22 December 2009 and ending on 2 January 2010.

Please refer to the British Airways website for further information.


We are hopeful that this proposed strike action will not negatively impact any of our World Nomads insurance customers and wish to remind you to refer to your policy wordings for important information regarding cover under your policy.

Aus / NZ Customers

For policies underwritten by Allianz purchased on or before 30 Nov 2009 - Click Here

For polices underwritten by Lloyd's purchased on or after 01 Dec 2009 - Click Here

United Kingdom Customers - Click Here
Ireland Customers - Click Here
United States Customers - Click Here
Canadian Customers - Click Here
Other Country Customers - Click Here

For Policies Purchased Before 15th December 2009 



We ask that our customers attempt to minimise additional costs in line with the requirements in the Product Disclosure Statement. There is provision for claims, please refer to the Product Disclosure Statement for specific coverage information and details of any conditions, exclusions or limitations which may apply.

In the event of a claim being lodged, you must provide us with written confirmation from British Airways that your flight was cancelled or delayed, confirmation of what your original trip plans were, and itemised accounts for any additional expenses incurred by you. Each claim will need to substantiate that the claimed costs were unavoidable and not reimbursed by British Airways or recovered elsewhere.

For Policies Purchased On or After 15th December 2009


Please note that customers will not be covered for losses incurred as a result of this strike. Costs are only covered when the loss is unforseen and as this industrial action has been widely reported by the media, customers purchasing a policy after this date would have been aware of the strike.

Should you have any further enquiries or wish to contact our teams in regards to claims, please contact the following


Australia  
For policies underwritten by Allianz purchased on or before 30 Nov 2009:
1300 729 467 (within Australia)
+61 7 3305 7499 (reverse charges while overseas)
worldnomads@mondial-assistance.com.au

For polices underwritten by Lloyd's purchased on or after 01 Dec 2009:
1300 625 229 (within Australia)
+61 2 8263 0487 (while overseas)
travelclaims@cerberusspecialrisks.com.au

New Zealand  
For policies underwritten by Allianz purchased on or before 30 Nov 2009:
0800 630 117 (within New Zealand)
+61 7 3305 7499 (reverse charges while overseas)
worldnomads@mondial-assistance.com.au

For polices underwritten by Lloyd's purchased on or after 01 Dec 2009:
0800 807 717 (within New Zealand)
+61 2 8263 0487 (while overseas)
travelclaims@cerberusspecialrisks.com.au

United Kingdom & Ireland
World Nomads Claims UK
+44 (0)845 643 2629
info@csal.co.uk

World Nomads Claims Ireland
+44 (0)1702 427 202
info@csal.co.uk

United States
World Nomads Claims US
1.800.654.1908 (toll free within US)
+1.804.281.5700 (Collect)
AssistanceGroup@MondialUSA.com

Canada
World Nomads Claims Canada
+1 (519) 342 4947
infocanada@worldaccess.com

Other Countries
World Nomads Claims
+45 33 15 33 00
emergency@ihi.com

Savvy Safety Tips for Less Stressful Holiday Travel

Wrapped presents, home addresses on luggage tags and tipsy travelers can rack up negative travel points and stress, especially during the holidays that count as some of the busiest travel days of the year.

At WorldNomads.com, we're in the business of helping independent travelers stay safe and stress-free on the road, so in preparation for the upcoming year-end holidays, we've pulled together some savvy travel trips to help ease stress before and during travel.

8 Savvy Safety Tips for Less Stressful Holiday Travel

1. Secure your home while you’re gone by canceling newspapers, install an automatic light timer programmed to go on and off at various times and ask a neighbor to collect mail.

2. Reduce airport stress by allowing ample time to get through check in and to your gate - we really do mean at least 3 hours for international flights and 1 hour for domestic.

If you find yourself in long lines, why not learn a few handy travel phrases with our free language guides in 25 languages - download a podcast or App that you can download into your iPhone. 

3. Travel light, with hand luggage that fits in the overhead compartments which will save the extra stress of waiting again in long baggage collection queues or worse, having your bags go missing.  On that front, our best tip is to photograph its contents before leaving home and put contact details inside the case.

4. Identify ownership on luggage tags but only with name, cell numbers and email – no home address please. In the event of delays, pack snacks such as dried fruits and nuts.

5. Wear shoes that are easy to slide off for security check.

6. Bring essential medicines with prescriptions, sanitized wipes and if you want to be super-cautious, a face mask for airports and flights.

7. Make absolutely sure you know and trust what's in those presents; don’t unwittingly carry illegal goods through customs. Presents, either those being given or received, should be unwrapped.

8. Drink responsibly; while under the influence of alcohol a traveler is a bigger target for pickpockets and thieves, especially solo and women travelers.

WorldNomads.com provides the tools to keep clients travelling safely throughout the world. For more information visit http://WorldNomads.com

Leave us a comment and tell us your best tips for safe holiday season travel

El fútbol: the latest hot ticket item for travellers

To call football in Argentina a religion would be an understatement.

With over 3000 registered teams, two World Cups trophies and the greatest player that ever lived (simply known as 'El Diego'), you cannot escape the game’s magnetic pull.

Seeing a game while you're visiting is a rite of passage and the place to do it is Buenos Aires, which has the highest concentration of teams. Boca Juniors – the side that produced Diego Maradona – is the country's most popular team, closely followed by local rivals River Plate. When the two sides face off, it's the most heated, passionate, and sometimes dangerous game in the Argentinian football calendar… and an absolute must-see for any visitor.

The 'superclasico' is more than a game – a twice yearly derby which decides bragging rights for an entire city, casting all other results aside; if you beat your local rival, everything is good in the world.

Boca play in the iconic Bonbonera Stadium, while River's home ground is the Monumental and tickets to either side's games are easy to get hold of if you book in advance, but expect to pay over the odds for a superclasico.

You do need to be vigilant where safety is concerned, but most of the violence (if there is any) from the infamous ‘ultras’ tends to take place away from the ground.

Make sure you check out the parrillas outside the stadium, where entire cows are barbecued and served up to hungry fans, testicles and all.

And face it, if you're brave enough to eat cow's nads, you've already done the hard part.

Thanks to Paul Hansford, editor of Australian FourFourTwo magazine.

A fan's story: Adonis at La Bonbonera - a cracking day out.

"Being a fan of the beautiful game, Latin America’s football culture was one of the many reasons why I chose to visit. Since Buenos Aires has a few teams, I decided to follow the most passionately supported one, Boca Juniors. As they are the team favoured by the lower classes, their stadium, the Bonbonera, is in the middle of the poorest (and therefore most dangerous) part of central Buenos Aires. Tourists are advised to go with a tour group at the cost of around $40, or at the very least to get tickets in the less boisterous seated areas which go for around $25.

Naturally I got myself the cheapest $4 ticket to stand behind the goal with the more ardent and unruly fans. I wanted to experience the real thing and not a sanitised version, but I was still nervous, as I had heard a few first hand tales of people being mugged in that part of the stadium. My worries eased when I persuaded a few people from the hostel to join me.

Once we got inside the stadium, it was pandemonium. We weren’t sure where we should go and we didn’t dare ask anyone in case we gave the impression of being helpless vulnerable tourists. It didn’t occur to us that with a few of our party being tall blonde Europeans who looked like poster boys for Aryan supremacy, our origins weren’t much of a secret.

I let myself fuse into the horde, and I was practically carried to the central stands behind the goal by the flow of the crowd. The tightly packed bundle of human emotion around me was electric. The team wasn’t even out on the pitch yet but the stands were full and everyone was singing, shouting, eating, drinking, waving flags, jumping around or any combination of all of those. There must have been about ten thousand of us crammed behind one goal and a similar amount doing the same behind the other.

When the match kicked off, a small group of hardcore fans in the middle of the stand started jumping around and singing and didn’t stop until the match was over. Not even half time could blunt their enthusiasm. Boca Juniors won the match 3-0, but I’m reliably informed that the same thing happens even when they are losing, as the fans are devoted to their team.

It was clearly more than just a sporting event to those fans, especially the sweet old woman next to me that spent the match swearing like a hardened criminal.

After speaking to a few people that had been to Boca Juniors matches, about half of them loved it, while the other half ended up having something stolen or being intimidated in some way. If you’re prepared to take this risk, which can be reduced by being smart about your appearance and behaviour, then the experience is outstanding value for money. The whole event including tickets, transport and food cost me the equivalent of a pint of beer in a London pub."

Thanks to Adonis Stevenson for this excerpt from Travelantics, his first book based on his round-the-world travels. More on the Travelantics website or buy the book from Amazon.

Practical Tips for staying safe at Football games

What to do if violence breaks out at a football match

The perpetrators of crowd violence and hooliganism are well aware that police monitor all football matches and that they will quickly detect and react to any incidents of violence inside the stadium. Incidents inside the stadium are therefore rare nowadays but in the unlikely event of violence breaking out inside the ground the following safety precautions should be followed:

• Your main objective should be your own safety and that of persons with you
• Should missiles be thrown or fighting break out close to you take cover by dropping to the floor and protecting yourself between the seats. If attacked protect your head and face with your arms and hands.
• Do not engage in conversation with the participants and avoid eye contact with them As soon as you feel it is safe to do so, get up and establish where the unruly mob is located and in which direction they are moving. Look in the opposite direction for the closest exit to you and begin to make your way towards it.
• Try not to panic and calmly move towards the chosen exit. Avoid being caught in a stampede. If necessary choose another exit.
• If you are caught up in a moving crowd, move with them. Trying to stand still or go against the flow may result in you falling and suffering injury from being trampled or crushed.

What to do if violence breaks out outside the stadium

Crowd violence and acts of hooliganism are more likely to take place outside, but in close proximity to, the stadium. If this occurs there is the unfortunate possibility that innocent spectators could find themselves unwittingly caught in the disturbance. To avoid or reduce the threat, adopt the following guidelines:

• Avoid streets in which a disturbance is taking place, or through which a lively crowd of supporters is likely to be making its way to or from the stadium
• Avoid any place where police action is in progress
• If confronted by a crowd of hooligans turn around and walk away briskly in the opposite direction - do not run
• If travelling in a motor vehicle turn around and drive away without injuring anyone
• If you are too close to the crowd and cannot turn your vehicle around, manoeuvre your car to the side of the road and park it.
• Get out of your car and without panic or undue haste, move as far as possible off the road or to the end of your  car away from the crowd. Stand and watch passively.
• Should you be wearing any form of supporter's regalia, remove it and conceal it from view. Far rather be seen as a neutral than supporting a particular team - the hooligans might support the opposition.
• If challenged, be polite and agreeable and do not offer any threat or criticism
• Should the crowd start to bounce the vehicle, do not interfere. Interference will make the crowd continue more vigorously and divert new anger towards you.
• Do not produce anything that could be perceived as being a weapon. This will incite the crowd to respond with violence.
• If attacked protect your head and face with your arms and hands
• Let the crowd flow past you. Once the crowd has gone by, make your way to safety. If on foot walk slowly - do not run. If in a motor vehicle drive away slowly.

Action after an incident:

• Report the incident to the police on duty in the area and obtain a report reference
• If you have been injured seek medical assistance

Thanks Red24 for these safety tips.  

Read more stories from WorldNomads.com to help keep you travelling safely. WorldNomads.com - an essential part of every adventurous traveller's journey.

Have you been to a football game in South America? What's your story? 

Feel Safe While Traveling: 10 Things You Can Do

Traveling can be a lot of fun; protect your vacation from being ruined by scams, world events or changing regulations. By being informed and aware of your surroundings, your dream vacation can be everything you want it to be. 

                      Photo courtesy of Flickr.com, by [sidewalk flying].

Donna Baker-Olson of Escape to Travel shares her thoughts on 10 things you can do to feel safe while traveling:

 
1. Know the rules.

As an international traveler, you should be aware of the rules for bringing items back from your trip.
 
2. Be informed.

always check travel warnings for the area where you will be traveling.
 
3. Lock up.

When leaving your room make sure your door is securely closed and locked.
 
4. Get travel insurance.

Any number of things can turn your perfect vacation into a disaster such as illness, accident, natural disasters, lost luggage, delayed flights or canceled flights.  The best way to protect you against these and other major problems is to have good travel insurance.
 
5. Know your rights.

Airline passengers do have rights. Learn what they are here.
 
6. Trust your instincts.

The best precaution you can take is to trust your instincts. Only choose accommodation you feel comfortable with and stay away from ground floor rooms or ones with easy access from the outside (i.e. a balcony). Ask to see a room before you take it-is it clean and safe enough?
 
7. Be prepared.

To help safeguard yourself, consider taking a self-defense course, let someone at home know your itinerary, and register with the closest overseas U.S. embassy if you're going somewhere unusual or offbeat. Also, act confident (even when you're lost) and pay attention to social customs (do women go out alone after dark?).
 
8. Consider your load.

Most importantly, don't carry so much baggage that it could compromise your safety and prevent you from keeping one hand free. If you're feeling weighed down by all your baggage and travel books, mail something home.
 
9. Buy a doorstop.

Protect yourself, never travel without a simple rubber door-stop. It can stop intruders in their tracks. It's inexpensive, light to pack, and gives you the peace of mind to sleep well. The main door to your room usually has a pretty good lock and peephole and sometimes a bar chain. But if there is an adjoining room, that door usually has a fairly flimsy lock. The doorstop is especially useful in those situations.
 
10. Keep your valuables close.

Carry your passport, plane ticket, traveler's checks and cash in a concealed money belt worn around the waist.

Read more stories from WorldNomads.com to help keep you travelling safely. WorldNomads.com - an essential part of every adventurous traveller's journey.

We want to know...what keeps you feeling safe while travelling?

5 Things I Wish I Knew Before Going to New Zealand

Kia Ora, welcome to New Zealand! You’ve just landed in Auckland and passed the rigorous customs screening (do NOT bring any fruits, meats, soils, seeds unless you want a huge fine), but now what? New Zealand is a developed country so there shouldn’t be much to worry about, right? Whether a country is super developed or developing there are always hazards travelers face along the way, we asked a few of our friends in the travel industry what tips they would give travelers going to Aotearoa.

1. Practice sun safety.

The sun is surprisingly strong, especially at high altitudes and in the North Island so always wear sun block even if it’s a cloudy day. Josh Steinitz, NileGuide 

2. Bring bug spray.

The west coast of the South Island can have bad sand flies in places like Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound. Make sure to bring plenty of strong bug spray. Christina Tunnah, WorldNomads

3. Look both ways!

Remember to look right before crossing the street! In big cities like Auckland there are handy reminders on the curb reminding tourists that traffic is coming from the opposite direction that most are used to, but in case the sign isn’t there to save you, look right! Alexia Nestora, VoluntourismGal

4. Know the numbers.

The emergency telephone number in New Zealand is 111. It is a free phone call. If you have an emergency and need a quick response from the Police, the Fire Service, Ambulance or Search and Rescue, dial 111. Ted Martens, Sustainable Travel International

5. Watch out for water hazards. 

Given New Zealand's subtropical climate, it is no surprise that New Zealanders like to spend so much of their leisure time in the water. However water can conceal hazards. We recommend that you visit the Water Safety New Zealand website, for advice on how to stay safe on New Zealand's beaches and waterways. NewZealand.com

The one thing all of our adventure travel friends recommend is, if you have a chance, go see an All Black game where they’ll do a ‘haka’. Check out this video for an exciting preview of a tribal tradition and all around cool spectacle.

Learn some Maori, the locals will be glad you learned some of their history and culture.

Kia Ora – Welcome

Aotearoa – Land of the Long White Cloud, New Zealand

Kai – Food

Marae – Maori religious and meeting place

Pakeha - New Zealander of non-Māori descent, usually European

Whanau – Family

Kauri – Large Native Tree

Haka – Tribal dance

Read more stories from WorldNomads.com to help keep you travelling safely. WorldNomads.com - an essential part of every adventurous traveller's journey.

What did you learn in New Zealand and wish you knew before you went?  Leave us a comment...

5 Things I Wish I Knew Before Going to Argentina

If you’re traveling to Argentina you’ll most likely stop in Buenos Aires, which is by most accounts a very safe city, and local police keep it that way by actively patrolling all tourist areas. Violent crime is extremely rare, and smaller towns in Argentina are even safer than Buenos Aires.

Nevertheless, it is important to remember there are always pickpockets in tourist areas on the lookout for easy prey. Always protect your valuables and keep your passport and tickets in a safe at your hotel. The Buenos Aires barrio of La Boca, just a few blocks away from the famous street Caminito, has seen a number of thefts lately. Take special care when you’re in this area.

We know there is a lot to read before going to Argentina so we asked our friends in the adventure travel space to give us some tips on what they wish they knew before they went to Argentina. Have a read below, we hope it helps and please feel free to add your own suggestions to the comments section below.

1. Carry Change.

Check your 100 peso note BEFORE giving it to the shop assistant – they can claim it was counterfeit and give you back the counterfeit! Also, coins are like gold. It’s hard to get change anywhere and you can’t take a bus without coins! Mat Lewis, i-to-i

2. Avoid demonstrations.

They happen all too regularly in Buenos Aires and occasionally can get a bit violent. Agustina Marmol, Dolomite Mountains


3. Know Your Bearings.

Always know where you are on the map. Buenos Aires is the kind of place where fancier, tourist-friendly neighborhoods are directly adjacent to some rough spots. Josh Steinitz, NileGuide


4. Take Taxis at Night.

Buenos Aires is safe for women traveling and sightseeing alone, but you should be aware that the men there will whistle at you when you pass by, and comment on your looks. During the night it’s better to take a taxi to where you are headed instead of walking the streets alone, that applies if you are travelling alone or not, especially for La Boca area. Antonija, GeckoGo

5. Beware of Dogs.

There are large packs of dogs hanging around some of the bus stations, so beware. Most of the time they won’t bother you but it’s always better to travel with a friend, power in numbers. Christina Tunnah, WorldNomads

Need some handy Spanish travel phrases? Try our Spanish Language App.

What did you learn in Argentina and wish you knew before you went?  Leave us a comment...

Vanuatu & Pacific islands earthquakes: advice for travellers

SMH.com.au has reported that "Four* powerful earthquakes at 9.03am local time on October 8th, triggered a tsunami alert over a huge swathe of the South Pacific, sending residents fleeing to higher ground, just days after giant waves killed 177 in the region.

Vanuatu, Fiji, Tuvalu and New Caledonia sounded sirens and evacuated coastal areas after a 7.8 quake struck off Vanuatu at 9.03 am local time, followed by a 7.7 tremor 15 minutes later off Santa Cruz Islands, followed by a 7.3 quake 55 minutes later off Vanuatu again, the US Geological Survey (USGS) said. A fourth major quake measuring 6.9 struck four hours after the first quake.

"We are trying to get those people staying closer to the coast to move inland," said Tuvalu's acting police commissioner Titelu Kauani.

The Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre issued a tsunami warning for some 25 regional nations and territories including as far afield as Australia, New Zealand and Indonesia, before cancelling it about two and a half hours later.

*A total of ten have hit the region, but only those above 6 on the Richter scale are considered major, according to the United States Geological Survey."

So far, there are no reports of injuries, however it is advised that if you are currently travelling in the region to contact local authorities or your government travel advisory for up-to-date information.

We will make updates to this post should any further news or warnings come to light.

Safety tips if you are in an affected area

If you are injured or Sick?
If you are injured or become ill please seek medical aid and contact your 24-hour Medical Assistance Service.  The traveller should recognize that any functioning hospitals and clinics will be busy caring for people who have been injured and/or who are sick.

If you are in a region with no operating medical facilities please contact your Medical Assistance Service Immediately.

WorldNomads policy holders can find these details on their Certificates of Insurance or see phone numbers at the bottom of this article.

Injuries
The risk of injury is high. Persons who anticipate the need to travel to disaster area should wear sturdy footwear to protect their feet from Injury. Tetanus is a potential health threat for cuts and grazes. Any wound, cut, or animal bites should be immediately cleansed with soap and clean water. Seek rapid medical review should you become injured.

Wash your Hands
Wash your hands often using soap and water to help prevent the spread of disease. Waterless alcohol-based hand rubs may be used when soap and/or water are not available and hands are not visibly soiled.

What can I eat or drink?
Natural disasters can disrupt water supplies and sewage systems. If bottled water is not available, water should be boiled or disinfected. For more information refer to the CDC website

Food should be carefully chosen to reduce the risk of getting gastrointestinal illness. Avoid salads, uncooked vegetables and milk products, such as cheese. Ensure your food is freshly cooked and has not been sitting around. Food’s that has been cooked and is still hot or fruit that has been washed in clean water and then peeled by the traveler personally are safer to eat.

What if I get Diarrhea?
Gastroenteritis outbreaks can occur following a disaster.  Diarrhea may be accompanied by a high fever or passing blood in the diarrhea. Replacing lost fluids by drinking clean water is important or the use of oral rehydration solutions.

Insects
Bites can be prevented through combined use of insect repellent and barrier methods such as wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants when. Insect Repellent containing DEET should be used at all times.
Ensure you have been immunized for Tetanus in the past 5 years.

Safety
Traveller’s should be careful to avoid downed power lines. Battery-powered flashlights and lanterns, rather than candles, gas lanterns, or torches, should be used. Keep your personal belongings especially your passport and money on your person or in a safe place close to you.

Environmental Hazards

Be aware of what is happening around you. Following a disaster there will be rapidly moving water.  Lung infections may occur after inhalation of sea water. Disasters resulting in massive structural damage can also result in exposure to chemical or biologic contaminants (e.g., asbestos).

Environmental things to remember
Both hot and cold extremes in temperature can pose a danger. Heat-related illness, such as heat stroke, can even be fatal. Remember to wear your sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat to protect you from the sun. Evenings can become cold so have a pullover or waterproof jacket available. Keep you fluid intake up with clean water during the day. Try to keep a dry change of clothing handy to change into. This will help in keeping you warm and preventing heat loss.

What is happening to me and who do I call?

It is important to remember that the situation you are in can be extremely stressful.

Keeping an item of comfort nearby, such as a family photo, favorite music, or religious material, can often offer comfort in such situations.

Call home and your country's Consulate or Embassy to let them know where you are, if you are alright and if you need any assistance.

Call your travel insurance company emergency assistance hotline should you need immediate attention (see phone numbers below for WorldNomad's policy holders)

Wash your Hands
Wash your hands often using soap and water to help prevent the spread of disease. Waterless alcohol-based hand rubs may be used when soap and/or water is not available and hands are not visibly soiled.
 

When you get out of there or get back home

Advice for World Nomads Policy Holders

Should you have any concerns or fears, please contact us on the following emergency assistance numbers.

Please have your name, location and phone number ready when you call (and policy number if available)
 
Australian and New Zealand travellers (Mondial Assistance Australia):
Email:  medicalnotes@mondial-assistance.com.au
Telephone: +61 7 3305 7499 (While overseas, reverse charges)
Telephone: 1300 729 467 (Within Australia)
Telephone: 0800 630 117 (Within New Zealand)
 
UK travellers (Specialty Assistance Services):
Email:  assistance@specialty-group.com OR assistance@mstream.co.uk
Telephone: +44 (0) 845 643 2628
 
Irish travellers (Specialty Assistance Services):
Email:  assistance@mstream.co.uk
Telephone: +44 (0)20 7902 7403
 
USA travellers (Access America):
Email:  AssistanceGroup@MondialUSA.com
Telephone: +1-877-257-8108 (toll free within US)
Telephone: +1-804-281-5789 (Collect)

Canadian travellers (Mondial Assistance Canada):
Email:  nomadinquiries@mondial-assistance.ca
Telephone: +1-866-759-2892 toll-free from the U.S., Canada, Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Island or
Telephone: +1-519-342-4947 collect from anywhere else in the world

For all other travellers (ihi Bupa):
Email:  emergency@ihi.com
Telephone: +45 33 15 33 00 (not toll free))

Read more stories from WorldNomads.com to help keep you travelling safely. WorldNomads.com - an essential part of every adventurous traveller's journey.

Indonesian Earthquake: safety for travellers

Padang, a town on the Indonesian island of Sumatra was struck by an earthquake measuring 7.6-magnitude on Tuesday 30th September at 5.16pm local time. The quake was felt as far away as Jakarta which is situated 200km to the north. A Tsunami alert was initially made which was subsequently revoked soon afterwards.

The following day at 8.52am local time, a second unrelated quake measuring 6.8 struck near Padang.

Sadly the death toll has risen dramatically and 24 hours following the event stands at over 1,100 people. Essential infrastructure has been damaged in the region including shopping malls, hospitals and schools. This has also resulted in Fires. 

Padang is home to almost one million people across the coast of Sumatra. It is understood the capital city is without power and communications, several areas are inaccessible to emergency services.

Safety tips if you are in an affected area

If you are injured or Sick?
If you are injured or become ill please seek medical aid and contact your 24-hour Medical Assistance Service.   World Nomads policy holders can find these details on their Certificates of Insurance or log in to the members section. The traveller should recognize that any functioning hospitals and clinics will be busy caring for people who have been injured and/or who are sick.

If you are in a region with no operating medical facilities please contact the Medical Assistance Service Immediately.

WorldNomads policy holders can find these details on their Certificates of Insurance or log in to the members section.

Injuries
The risk of injury is high. Persons who anticipate the need to travel to disaster area should wear sturdy footwear to protect their feet from Injury. Tetanus is a potential health threat for cuts and grazes. Any wound, cut, or animal bites should be immediately cleansed with soap and clean water. Seek rapid medical review should you become injured.

Wash your Hands
Wash your hands often using soap and water to help prevent the spread of disease. Waterless alcohol-based hand rubs may be used when soap and/or water are not available and hands are not visibly soiled.

What can I eat or drink?
Natural disasters can disrupt water supplies and sewage systems. If bottled water is not available, water should be boiled or disinfected. For more information refer to http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/foodwater.aspx

Food should be carefully chosen to reduce the risk of getting gastrointestinal illness. Avoid salads, uncooked vegetables and milk products, such as cheese. Ensure your food is freshly cooked and has not been sitting around. Food’s that has been cooked and is still hot or fruit that has been washed in clean water and then peeled by the traveler personally are safer to eat.

What if I get Diarrhea?
Gastroenteritis outbreaks can occur following a disaster.  Diarrhea may be accompanied by a high fever or passing blood in the diarrhea. Replacing lost fluids by drinking clean water is important or the use of oral rehydration solutions.

Insects
Bites can be prevented through combined use of insect repellent and barrier methods such as wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants when. Insect Repellent containing DEET should be used at all times.
Ensure you have been immunized for Tetanus in the past 5 years.

Safety
Traveller’s should be careful to avoid downed power lines. Battery-powered flashlights and lanterns, rather than candles, gas lanterns, or torches, should be used. Keep your personal belongings especially your passport and money on your person or in a safe place close to you.

Environmental Hazards

Be aware of what is happening around you. Following a disaster there will be rapidly moving water.  Lung infections may occur after inhalation of sea water. Disasters resulting in massive structural damage can also result in exposure to chemical or biologic contaminants (e.g., asbestos).

Environmental things to remember
Both hot and cold extremes in temperature can pose a danger. Heat-related illness, such as heat stroke, can even be fatal. Remember to wear your sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat to protect you from the sun. Evenings can become cold so have a pullover or waterproof jacket available. Keep you fluid intake up with clean water during the day. Try to keep a dry change of clothing handy to change into. This will help in keeping you warm and preventing heat loss.

What is happening to me and who do I call?

It is important to remember that the situation you are in can be extremely stressful. Keeping an item of comfort nearby, such as a family photo, favorite music, or religious material, can often offer comfort in such situations. Call home and your countries Consulate or Embassy to let them know where you are, if you are alright and if you need any assistance.

When you get out of there or back home
If you become unwell within 6 weeks of returning with fever, rash, respiratory illness or any other unusual symptoms seek medical attention and tell them that you were recently in a Disaster affected region.

Advice for World Nomads Policy Holders

Latest advice available for Australian and NZ residents: 02 October 2009
Click here to read the information (PDF format, 12K. Updated 02 October 2009)

Latest advice available for US residents: 07 October 2009
For emergency assistance:
In the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands, call 1-877-257-8108
All other locations, call collect 1-804-281-5789
If you can't call collect, we'll call you back.

Please have this information ready when you call: your name, location and phone number

We will post advice for other policy holders as soon as possible.

Samoan Tsunami: safety for travellers

Samoa and American Samoa were hit by a Tsunami in the early hours of Wednesday 30th September.  Several Tsunami waves up to 20 feet high, triggered by an earthquake with a magnitude between 8.0 and 8.3, swept ashore on Samoa and neighboring American Samoa.

Current reports state that the death toll has risen above 100 in Samoa and neighboring American Samoa and thousands left homeless after the tsunami 'wiped out' entire villages in the region.

Australians have been identified as having been amongst the injured. Reports have also advised of wide spread destruction, with some villages entirely wiped out. The southern side of the island Upolu was the worst hit. There were reports of looting in Pago Pago.  The Samoan capital Apia has been evacuated and thousands of people have been moved to higher ground.

About 20 minutes after the massive earthquake rocked the Samoan capital of Apia, towering waves hit the southern coast of the Upolo Island where many of the holiday resort are located. The water has reached up to one mile inland. There were reports of hotels being hit hard by the tsunami.
 
Tonga has also experienced damage following a four meter waves have caused damage in Tonga, but no casualties have been reported.

Safety tips if you are in an affected area

If you feel another earthquake
Tsunamis are most often caused by earthquakes. Should you feel an earthquake that lasts for 20 seconds or longer or should the sea suddenly recede from the shoreline, do not wait for an official order to evacuate, move immediately to higher ground.

Remain on higher ground for several hours
As tsunamis consist of a series of waves, the first wave to arrive may not be the largest. Waves can arrive up to an hour apart, so do not presume that it is safe to return to low-lying areas once the first wave has subsided. Remain on higher ground for several hours after the first wave and only return to low-lying areas once these have been declared safe by the relevant authorities.

Attract attention
If possible, keep something bright such as a handkerchief on your person to attract the attention of search parties if necessary

If you are injured?

If you are injured or become ill please seek medical aid and contact your 24-hour Medical Assistance Service.   WorldNomads policy holders can find these details on their Certificates of Insurance or log in to the members section.

The traveler should recognize that any functioning hospitals and clinics will be busy caring for people who have been injured and/or who are sick.

What if I get Diarrhea?
Gastroenteritis outbreaks can occur following a disaster.  Diarrhea may be accompanied by a high fever or passing blood in the diarrhea. Replacing lost fluids by drinking clean water is important or the use of oral re-hydration solutions.

What can I eat or drink?
Natural disasters can disrupt water supplies and sewage systems. If bottled water is not available, water should be boiled or disinfected. For more information refer to the CDC's advice.

Food should be carefully chosen to reduce the risk of getting gastrointestinal illness. Avoid salads, uncooked vegetables and milk products, such as cheese. Ensure your food is freshly cooked and has not been sitting around. Food’s that has been cooked and is still hot or fruit that has been washed in clean water and then peeled by the traveler personally are safer to eat.

Injuries
The risk of injury is high. Persons who anticipate the need to travel to disaster area should wear sturdy footwear to protect their feet from Injury. Tetanus is a potential health threat for cuts and grazes. Any wound, cut, or animal bites should be immediately cleansed with soap and clean water. Ensure you have been immunized for Tetanus in the past 5 years.

Environmental Hazards
Be aware of what is happening around you. Following a disaster there will be rapidly moving water.  Lung infections may occur after inhalation of sea water. Disasters resulting in massive structural damage can also result in exposure to chemical or biological contaminants (e.g., asbestos).

The flood waters may have flushed a host of dangerous animals, such as snakes and scorpions, out of their normal environment. Remain vigilant to avoid coming into close contact with these animals.

Travelers’ should be careful to avoid downed power lines. Battery-powered flashlights and lanterns, rather than candles, gas lanterns, or torches, should be used. Keep your personal belongings especially your passport and money on your person or in a safe place close to you.

Environmental things to remember
Both hot and cold extremes in temperature can pose a danger. Heat-related illness, such as heat stroke, can even be fatal. Remember to wear your sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat to protect you from the sun. Evenings can become cold so have a pullover or waterproof jacket available. Keep you fluid intake up with clean water during the day.  This is all common-sense, but is even more important if you find yourself in the Tsunami affected area as finding medical help will be much more difficult.

What is happening to me and who do I call?

It is important to remember that the situation you are in can be extremely stressful.

Keeping an item of comfort nearby, such as a family photo, favorite music, or religious material, can often offer comfort in such situations.

Call home and your country's Consulate or Embassy to let them know where you are, if you are alright and if you need any assistance.

Wash your Hands
Wash your hands often using soap and water to help prevent the spread of disease. Waterless alcohol-based hand rubs may be used when soap and/or water is not available and hands are not visibly soiled.
 

When you get out of there or get back home

If you become unwell within 6 weeks of returning with fever, rash, respiratory illness or any other unusual symptoms seek medical attention and tell them that you were recently in a Disaster affected region.
 

Advice for World Nomads Policy Holders

Latest advice available for Australian and NZ residents: 02 October 2009
Click here to read the information (PDF format, 12K. Updated 02 October 2009)

Latest advice available for US residents: 07 October 2009
For emergency assistance:
In the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands, call 1-877-257-8108
All other locations, call collect 1-804-281-5789
If you can't call collect, we'll call you back.

Please have this information ready when you call: your name, location and phone number

We will post advice for other policy holders as soon as possible.

5 Things I Wish I Knew Before Going to South Korea

Did you know that in South Korea...you should never leave chopsticks in your rice? That you should never beckon anyone with palm up using one finger?; it's the way Koreans call their dogs! That writing someone's name in red symbolizes death?

We've compiled a list of recommendations from our friends in adventure travel to help you land safely in South Korea fully prepared to enjoy your trip!

Photo courtesy of Flickr.com, by [tylerdurden1]

1. Bundle up.
It gets cold! I was there in December and it dropped to well below freezing. While I'm used to cold weather, I hadn't packed the right clothing with me, so I didn't enjoy South Korea as much as I could have, so carefully think through your packing list.

Gary Arndt, Everything-Everywhere

2. Try the tube.
Korea has a very good public transport system, so grab a bus or subway map and ride with the locals for a day!

Sspark from Travellr.com

3. Check the weather.
Peak summer, from late June to late August, starts off with the monsoon season, when the country receives some 60% of its annual rainfall, and is followed by unpleasantly hot and humid weather. Although air-conditioning makes summers much more bearable these days, many locals flee the muggy cities for the mountains, beaches and islands, which become crowded, and accommodation prices double. There is also the chance of a typhoon or two.

Lonely Planet

4. Follow the local news.
News listings about demonstrations should be checked, especially near US Military bases. Demonstrations do tend to turn more violent then not.

Keith from GeckoGo.com

5. Hold on tight.
If on a crowded bus and standing, don’t be surprised if a passenger seated under you tugs at your bag. They are typically just offering to have you rest your bag on their lap. Politely decline or if feeling it’s safe, place the bag on their lap, but keep the strap around your arm/wrist.

Christina Tunnah, World Nomads

Keen to learn more?

It always helps to know a little bit of the local language. We know that Korean isn’t exactly a language you can pick up overnight, so here are a couple phrases to help you get around:

Yes = YE
No = A-NIM-NI-DA
Hello = AHN-NYUNG HA-SEH-YO
Goodbye = AHN-NYUNG-HEE GA-SEH-YO
Please = (No direct translation. Has to be used in context.)
Thank you = GAM-SAH HAM-NEE-DA
It is nice to meet you = BAN-GAP SUP-NEE-DA
Take me to my hotel = HOTEL-LO GAP-SEE-DA
Where is the bathroom? = BYUN-SOH UH-DEE-YIP-NEE-GA
How much does this cost? = UL-MA YIP-NEE-GA
Help = DO-WAH-JU-SEH-YO
Doctor = DOCTUH or EUEE-SAH
Police = GYONG-CHAR
Pharmacy = YAK-GOOK
Taxi = TACK-SEE
Train = GI-CHAH
Subway = JI-HA-RO
Bus = BU-SS
Street = GIL

Looking for more travel phrases?
Check out WorldNomads.com's free Korean language guide.

What did you learn in South Korea and wish you knew before you went?  Leave us a comment...

5 Things I Wish I Knew Before Going to Egypt

Need some handy Arabic travel phrases? Try our Arabic Language guide podcast or iPhone app.

What did you learn in Egypt and wish you knew before you went?  Leave us a comment...

5 Things I Wish I Knew Before Going to Mexico

Ay, Caramba! You’ve gone on that long awaited vacation to Mexico and all of sudden you 1. Are sick 2. Had your money stolen or 3. Are stuck alone on a roadside! At World Nomads we’re lucky to have lots of friends in the travel industry, we polled them to give you the very best tips staying safe in Mexico.

1. Learn the Lingo.
A little bit of Spanish goes a long way! Try your hardest with the locals and it will get you a lot further than simply trying to get them to understand English.

Daniel Radcliffe,  Volunteer HQ

2. Drink responsibly. 
The variety of tequila is simply overwhelming, so was the hangover! Drink responsibly and test new alcohols cautiously and with friends that can watch out for you. No matter what your friends say don’t eat the worm in the Tequila bottle!!

Mat Lewis, i-to-i

3. Stay alert!    
If you get far off the beaten path (for example, deep in the Copper Canyon) and see fancy late-model pickups and gated driveways, know that you're in a drug growing and trafficking area and get the hell out of there.

Josh Steinitz, Nile Guide

4. Check the water.  
Don’t drink the water also means don’t drink the ice! Check with your hotel or restaurant if the ice is made with purified water, same goes for anything that would be washed in water during preparation like salads.

Christina Tunnah, World Nomads

5. Get directions.  
Rural roads can be bad. Very, very bad. Make sure your vehicle can handle them. The last thing you want is your rental to break down, your cell phone doesn’t work and no one speaks English. Check with the locals on which routes are the safest to take.

Kathy Dragon, Travel Dragon

It always helps to know a little bit of the local language, so have a quick study of the below:

¡Hola! = Hello

Buenos Dias = Good Day

Buenas Noches = Good Night

Gracias = Thank You

De Nada = You’re Welcome

¿Cuanto Cuesta? = How Much?

¿A Que Hora? = At What Time?

¿Donde esta el baño? = Where is the bathroom?

¡Emergencia! = Emergency!

¡Ayudame por favor! = Help me please!

Keen to learn more?

If you want to learn more Spanish in prep for your trip, check out our FREE Spanish Language Guides. If you’re determined to nail more than just the basics, check out our latest Spanish Language Guide PLUS iPhone app with over 500 phrases!

What did you learn in Mexico and wish you knew before you went?  Leave us a comment...

Sun Safety: How to Beat the Burn this Holiday

Sunburns

The main cause of sunburns is not the sun itself but the ultraviolet energy.  Just to complicate matters, there are three main types of ultraviolet (UV) energy, designated A, B and C.  Erythema is what your skin gets after a day in the sun, which is redness, some slight swelling and pain.  Doses of UV energy and its effect on the skin are measured in units called minimal erythema doses (MED).  This MED represents the smallest does of UV energy to cause that “sunburn” appearance. 

Beachgoers are typically exposed to 15 MEDs of UVB and 4-5 MEDs of UVA.  Almost all of UVC is absorbed by the Earth’s atmosphere.  There is increasing evidence that shows both UVA and UVB can be harmful to human skin and both can cause skin cancers. 

UVA rays penetrate the skin more deeply and are largely the cause of aged skin and wrinkles.  UVB is generally responsible for most “sunburn” effects and has traditionally been thought of as the cause of most skin cancers.  Ideally, persons in the sun should be protecting themselves with a sunscreen that blocks both UVA and UVB.

Sunscreens

Sun protection factor (SPF) is the ability of a sunscreen to protect skin from ultraviolet induced erythemas (sunburn).  This SPF number is calculated based on the length of time it takes to cause one MED in protected versus non-protected skin.  Basically, SPF is the amount of time it takes to causes a sunburn in someone with sunscreen protection versus someone who is unprotected.  At present, most sunscreens protect largely against UVB only, although there are some products that are beginning to protect against both UVA and UVB.  

SPF:                 % UVB absorption

2                                  50.0

4                                  75.0

8                                  87.5

15                                93.3

30                                96.7

50                                98.0

Chart from “A field guide to wilderness medicine” by Paul Auerbach, pg. 69

Clearly, one can see that UVB protection increases with the higher SPF and use of SPF 30 is becoming more and more advised.

How to Apply Sunscreen

• Apply liberally to all areas of exposed skin including backs of hands,  ears, nose and tops of feet

• Apply 15-30 minutes before swimming or water exposure

• Reapply immediately after exiting the water

• Using sunscreen and DEET based insect repellent will reduce the effectiveness of sunscreen by approx. 35%

What is in the sunscreen?

The ideal sunscreen spread onto your skin easy, does not cause allergy, pimples and does not stain clothing.  PABA (para-aminobenzoic acid) is the most common cause of sunscreen dermatitis and effects 4% of people.  Creams and lotions spread on the skin well.  Oils spread very easily but may cause pimples.  For extreme conditions a wax or ointment will help resist skin chapping.  Aerosols are often wasteful and leave parts of the skin over coated and others under protected due to difficulty in ensuring even spray. 

Sun protective clothing

Clothing that has been tested and proven to block the UV energy is designated by the term Ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) which is identical to SPF for sunscreen. 

The tightness of the fabric’s weave is most important in determining how effective it will be in blocking UV energy.  A good example of this is Lycra which can block nearly 100% of UVR when relaxed but only 2% when stretched tight.  A typical white cotton tshirt has a UPF of about 5-9. 

Wide brimmed hats are especially good for protecting the face, head and ears.  Sunglasses should be labeled to protect against UV energy and side shields do work in decreasing the amount of UV absorbed by the eyes.

Treating a Sunburn

Sunburns are largely self-limiting and will typically resolve on their own.  Treatment is largely centered on relieving symptoms.  Skin moisturizers and cool compress or cool water baths may help decrease the pain.  There is little evidence to suggest tradition treatments such as baking soda, aloe and oatmeal are effective pain relief but there is also a lack of decent studies.  Oral pain control can be achieved with either aspirin, acetaminophen or ibuprofen.  After a day in the sun, dehydration is also a factor and adequate water intake should also be assured. 

Read more stories from WorldNomads.com to help keep you travelling safely. WorldNomads.com - an essential part of every adventurous traveller's journey.

5 Things I Wish I Knew Before Going to Croatia

So we’ve all been there, you’ve read the guide books and done everything you think you could to prepare for your trip overseas. Then you arrive on your spectacular holiday and realize you should have brought your sweater, some sunscreen, extra cash... you get the idea.

We combed our network of adventure travel operators and asked them for their expert opinions on Croatia. Below are a couple tips to keep you traveling safe in Croatia and help you prepare for your vacation (and hopefully avoid the ‘oh no!’ moment).