Welcome!

This blog is to provide additional information about traveling to the Portugal Fall Festival, with teachings by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso. Topics covered include travel tips, suggestions about what to see in Cascais and Lisbon, vegetarian restaurants, etc.

Disclaimer: I cannot verify the accuracy of any information here but will try to post the source.

Sunday, February 24, 2013

Safety Abroad

General
Rick Steves has some excellent general safety advice for travelers or you can find similar tips at various websites, including the U.S. Government's Travel Advisory website before going anywhere; none of these countries is currently on the list. There are also links to safety and health tips for traveling abroad.

Portugal
Portugal is considered a safe country, but it is good to be aware of potential safety problems so that you can greatly lower your risk.
The State Dept website has definitive information about Portugal, which begins "Your greatest crime risk is becoming a target of pickpockets and purse snatchers, particularly at popular tourist sites and restaurants, or on public transportation. ... "
If you are going to Lisbon, the site lists additional details.
I read elsewhere that "pickpockets operate in teams: one distracts the victim while the other targets laptop bags or wallets. Being aware of your surroundings greatly reduces this risk and ensures your safety."
ATM security; Try to withdraw money earlier in the day and try to avoid withdrawing money in some of the train stations late at night, especially Cais do Sodre.
MasterCard has some good tips about ATM safety, particularly the Safety 101 section.

No comments:

Post a Comment

Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.