Being a victim of crime is an opportunity no matter where you travel today - even when you stay at home! However, realizing some of the popular scammers and tricks that criminals and opportunists use to persecute tourists can help avoid problems that can ruin a good trip.
South America is a popular destination for travelers in the world and especially for tourists, adventure enthusiasts and those who take a year with a difference. The country certainly has something to offer and a wonderful variety of landscapes from tropical beaches to the spectacular Andes mountains, the Amazon rainforest, Iguazu waterfalls, active volcanoes and the fascinating wildlife of the Galapagos Islands. Many travelers choose exciting and colorful fiestas and carnivals, or visit places of ancient civilizations. (Tip. To avoid disappointment, tickets to the Inca trail and the ruins at Machu Picchu should be purchased in advance).
The best travel advice is to do a lot of research and go into service with as much knowledge as possible. Take a quality travel guide with both Spanish and Portuguese phrases. Most likely, nothing bad will happen, but, unfortunately, travelers are vulnerable, and criminals know it. They will use every opportunity to separate you from your money and property! The most common crimes anywhere in the world are associated with theft and pocket cards and theft of passports - this is a huge problem all over the world. Care should be taken in places where it is easy to get distracted and forget to watch your marriages, such as airports, Internet cafes, public transport or when renting a car. Avoid using public transport at night or at night in lonely places.
It is known that thieves attract tourists by pretending to be policemen, tour operators, taxi drivers or other officials (for example, a real policeman will never ask you to see your wallet!) Taxis should be booked in advance with a reputable company when possible. The so-called “express abductions” are a problem in some areas where the victims were captured and their bank accounts were emptied before their release. Women travelers should take extra care, especially when walking at night, on public transport and in isolated areas, as reported as rape. Be on your guard also for drinking beverages - a problem that has become more common. Avoid taking drinks from strangers, leaving drinks unattended and make sure that they are loved in sight.
Keep in mind that many shops, bars, restaurants and hotels may not accept credit cards in South American countries. Keep an eye on counterfeit money and fake ATMs. In Peru, in particular, some ATMs do not automatically issue credit and debit cards without pressing a button - and the instructions are not always written in English! It goes without saying that travelers should avoid any contact with illicit drugs or drug trafficking, since the penalties are severe, including imprisonment for long periods in extremely unpleasant conditions.
All travelers, especially those with previously existing illnesses, must be thoroughly tested and vaccinated before leaving. Diseases such as yellow fever, dengue fever, cholera and malaria are problematic in many areas. Evidence of valid vaccinations may be required for travel between certain countries in South America.
The above tips are just a sample of the knowledge that people should be armed with, who should have been armed before they set off. British Bureau of Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs Know before you go. Campaign is a great resource for travelers. Their Country Travel Tips section contains current travel updates and recommendations, and the travelers checklist is another useful tool. Young travelers should pay attention to their information about the Year. Avoid attracting the attention of the police so that the locals are happy and impress their travel companions with their understanding of local customs, laws and expected etiquette for each country.
Adventure travelers and adrenaline addicts will find plenty of outdoor activities and thrills. Such activities as kayaking, rafting, surfing, hiking, mountain biking and mountaineering are popular. Care must be taken to obtain the correct travel insurance policy that will cover any potentially dangerous sports. Chile and Argentina are popular ski destinations during the British summer months and, again; do not forget that additional insurance may be required.
Many areas of South America are remote and have limited access to good medical emergency facilities. If a medical emergency arises, medical care or evacuation and repatriation may be required. Without comprehensive travel insurance, expenses could be astronomical and mean the end of any further world travel plans for a very long time!
