For Women Travelers Abroad

As a female traveler in many of our host countries, you are likely to experience unwanted attention from men.

The sexual attention will usually amount to “come-ons” and inappropriate comments, but you might also receive marriage proposals. Very rarely will there be inappropriate touching or actual assault.

Keep in mind that some rules abroad are different compared to life at home.

In most of our host countries, women generally play a submissive role to men.

A woman who acts "like a man" will not be well-received and will likely not be respected as much.

Men you meet may misinterpret your appearance, body language, or simple presence as invitations to approach you. Even a smile to a stranger may be misunderstood.

You will need to modify your behavior in order to avoid unwanted attention. Here are some suggestions:

• Do not wear skimpy clothes

• Wear a “wedding ring” and say you are married

• Never admit that you’re traveling alone. Tell people that your boyfriend or husband will be along shortly to join you

• Steer the conversation in another direction by asking questions – about local culture, politics, news

• Use humor to diffuse the situation

• If the man persists, be very direct and firmly tell him to stop, and be specific

• Walk in a group at night

• If you go to nightclubs, go with a group of friends

• Do not go to a secluded area or hotel/apartment with a man you do not know well