How to avoid getting killed or mugged

[Guest]

Read the latest version of Dangerous Places. Don't believe any country's state deptartment they are only concerned with your money not your life. Sure Columbia is beautiful but if you look like a rich kidnapping victim you will become one.

One obvious one. Drink only bottled water. Or purified water as a last resort.

Don't pack alot of clothes. You will look like a tourist in these 'weird' clothes. Buy local clothes. Blend a bit.

Don't walk around like a pack of sheep for the wolves to devour. In other words don't travel with tourist groups or in tourist buses, etc. You are a highly recognizable target. BANG BANG in the name of profits, God, the revolution, i.e. insert a cause here_________ for the armed people. Anyhow you get my point.

If you want to visit tourist hot spots don't do it in a group.

That gear we love...cover it with gaffers tape and when not in use conceal it non-photolike bag. If you think your TENBA or Tamrac backpack won't be recognized you are kidding yourself.

Get all the shots you need. Afraid of needles-too bad. Be prepared to be Medi-vaced out-I am serious. I have talked to a couple veteran war photogs. Hire good guides/interperters. Have bribe money. That is right. I said bribe money. In the many countries nothing will get done if several people are not paid. Their government salaries are a joke so can you blame them?

And not to be too morbid have fun and BE AWARE of what is happening around you. Most folks are good.

-peter

Please add you own experiences and ideas. Thanks.

 

[Guest]

I am sure I am gonna overlook at alot of things but here are a few more things to remember.

Have copies of your ids ie passports, and necessary paper work. They can get lost or taken from you.

Know where you embassy is located. Hopefully they will leave the saftey of their air conditioned offices to come to your aid. If you are lucky they will.

No drugs. Now, you don't have any religious or political opinions if asked. Got it!? If you wanna do missionary work or it's various equvialents you are asking for the worst. And frankly I have no sympathy for you if you get into hot water because of the above three offenses. Use common sense.

You aren't in Kansas anymore.

Your rights are meaningless and your life is worthless in many depserate undemocratic countries. Give up your camera and things to the poor Brazilian kid who is armed to the teeth. You may even be able to 'write it off' as a donation. Save the children....

But seriously once you leave the corporatized world be prepared for large a shock.

AGAIN read Dangerous Places cover to cover. Talk to people who have been to your destination recently not the travel agents!

ONE last time read Dangerous Places.

OK, good luck.

 

[Guest]

Wow, sounds like fun!

You don't happen to work for the Columbia Tourist board do you?