alcohol and drugs
Everyone likes to enjoy a few drinks especially when they are away on holiday, but remember different countries have different attitudes towards alcohol and your behaviour may offend others if you become too drunk. Recognise your limits and make sure that you are taking care of yourself.
Nobody wants to put a damper on you having fun, but remember some of the following, and you will have a much better time when travelling:
Accidents are more likely to happen after drinking or taking drugs so be careful and know your limits.
Don't drink excessively before you fly. Airlines have the right to refuse to fly you. There are also severe penalties if you are drunk and disorderly onboard the aircraft.
Remember drinks served in bars overseas can often be stronger than those served in your home country so be aware of this and know your limit.
When drinking in hot climates, you could be in danger of dehydrating or overheating so be careful. Drink plenty of water to help prevent this from happening.
Drugs are sometimes used in rape by spiking your drink. Once added to a drink they cannot normally be detected. Try and keep your drink with you at all times. If you need to go to the toilet leave your drink with a trusted friend. If in doubt buy yourself a fresh drink.
When you have a lot to drink you tend to drop your guard. Try and remain vigilant however much fun you're having.
If you've only just met someone ask yourself whether you completely trust them. Think carefully as to whether you should leave the pub or club with them.
Remain aware of acquaintances you have made. Rape and incidents of sexual assault are frequently perpetrated by 'acquaintances', however casual that acquaintance may be.
If you have an accident or injure yourself whilst under the influence of alcohol or drugs, your travel insurance could become invalidated. Leaving you to pick up the bill.
For your own protection, don't get involved in illegal drugs in a foreign country. You have no control over their quality or potency and you could be drawn into a scene that could be very dangerous.
Be aware of the consequences of becoming involved with drugs overseas. Different countries have different penalties for both the supply and possession of drugs. The penalties can often be very severe. In many countries you could be imprisoned for many years; often in grim conditions, fined; or deported, you may even receive the death penalty in some countries. Remember that if you are arrested abroad you are subject to the laws of that country.
Pack your own luggage and secure it properly and remember to keep your luggage with you at all times.
Many countries refuse to grant bail before a trial and often detain people in solitary confinement.
If you have to take prescribed medication you should carry a doctor's prescription with you for any medication you may need. This will help avoid unnecessary delays when going through customs and immigration checks. It's best also to keep medication in its original packaging.
DRUG RUNNING - HOW IT COULD HAPPEN TO YOU
You may have been targeted as a mule for several weeks, by one or more people who have befriended you, or observed you without you noticing. You may even be having regular sex with them. Don't get seduced by promises.
The person who has been targeting you, will unlikely be the person who will compromise you. They would have reported your movements to others.
Accept no gifts, especially those that have a dual purpose.
Do not carry anything for anyone. Even your travelling friends especially if they are new acquaintances. Never let your luggage out of your hands or sight. (No matter what the circumstances).
Do not sit in anyone's vehicle when going through customs or crossing a border.
You could be used as a decoy and 'set up' with the authorities.
The 'bag switch' is a classic way to get caught out, often done in the boot of a taxi or at the hotel.
Do not have an 'open to see' label on any of your luggage and use a reliable locking system for all your luggage.
Lastly use you common sense, be responsible for yourself and no one else.