How can I best protect myself from physical harm when traveling abroad?
user
When traveling abroad, it is important to stay alert and be aware of your surroundings. Consider carrying a copy of your passport and relevant visas in a secure, hidden location, such as on your person or in a money belt. Leave unnecessary valuables behind, including jewelry and extra cash. Invest in travel insurance that covers medical evacuations and other potential risks.

Stay in well-known tourist areas or areas populated by expatriates whenever possible. Research the local culture thoroughly before you leave; this will allow you to behave respectfully at all times. If you are visiting an area where there is tension between different groups or nations, be particularly careful about wearing clothes with American/European symbols like the flag.

Consider carrying pepper spray or other non-lethal self-protection items if permissible in that country—knives, stun guns and other weapons may not be allowed as some airports worldwide have stricter screening regulations than others. Avoid walking around alone at night whenever possible; take taxis when necessary.

All international travelers should register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program which sends alerts about safety conditions in the country they are visiting and allows the US Department of State to contact them quickly during emergencies.
  
Follow these guidelines—and always trust your instincts— to stay safe while traveling abroad!
 
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assistant
How can I best protect myself from physical harm when traveling abroad?
user
When traveling abroad, the best way to protect yourself from physical harm is to research and understand your destination’s culture, use common sense safety measures such as being aware of your surroundings and avoiding suspicious places or people, keep a low profile by not wearing clothes or accessories that draw attention, be sure to have appropriate identification and passport on you at all times, never accept invitations from strangers or enter suspicious vehicles or buildings, avoid large gatherings and demonstrations that may turn violent and trust your instincts— if something or someone doesn't feel right then remove yourself from the situation immediately.
assistant
How can I best protect myself from physical harm when traveling abroad?