Traveling to and being in a foreign land can very understandably translate into sheer moments of exhilaration, but it is vital not to get carried away by this feeling and keep a clear head to study situations carefully and keep out of trouble. One can never be too safe, neither in one’s own land nor especially in a foreign country. There are typical 'tourist traits' that visitors exhibit and those can easily distinguish them from the locals in the area. Expensive clothes, jewelry, etc. will only lure both unwanted attention and danger. All you have to focus upon is being wise and keeping the common sense section of your brain up and running. Your families and your safety can never be compromised with; not even when you are traveling abroad. Always keep in mind the tried and tested phrase that goes like this: "Prevention is Better Than Cure". Trust me, it really is.

It is neither advisable to be a brave heart and jump into things without knowing where you will end up, nor to be so uptight that your trip abroad that it seems more like a secret agent's mission. There are many key strategies that if followed religiously, will ensure that you spend an incredible time in a foreign country and also return home with pleasant memories only.

Indulge yourself into an elaborate research of the foreign country you are planning to visit. There are a host of books available on every country in the world. However, you can also go the easier and more economical way by browsing through all the information you need on the Internet. Gather all the vital information, like emergency numbers, hotel information, political volatility of the country, places you must avoid going to, etc.

It is advisable that you make your arrival known to your embassy. This becomes even more unavoidable if you are visiting a country facing political unrest. Your embassy must be furnished with essential information like your name, the name of the hotel where you are staying, the company you are working for, etc. so that the embassy can provide you with protection and refuge in case of an emergency.  

Try and blend with the locals. Try and incorporate some local elements in your dressing style. There is no point in dressing up too unconventionally and attracting unnecessary attention. Try to learn a few important local words (thank you, help me, give me directions, greetings). Try and make a few local friends, as it is always safer to be in a group than being alone. However, be very careful and wise while befriending people as making friends with the wrong people could get you into lot of unwanted trouble.

Always ensure while walking that your back is not facing the traffic, as that would make you vulnerable to criminals attacking from behind. So, face the traffic while walking and avoid being mugged and harassed on the streets. Be cautious while hiring taxi services. Make sure that the taxi driver is legally licensed by the state. If you are not running late then it is safer to travel by a bus or train. Most importantly, never get into a car with a stranger; especially the over-friendly ones who offer unwanted help. Even if you are getting terribly late, please don't try to make up for the time lost by venturing into narrow lanes or dark alleys that are hubs for dangerous and illegal activities. Be careful while venturing out at night.

Carry your valuables and documents very carefully. Your cash, passport, ID card, driver's license and credit cards, are all extremely valuable items and contain personal information that you don't want to give away to people who are waiting to cause you trouble. Always keep these items in your wallet and carry the same in your front pocket. Don't ever give out your personal information. Where you stay, what you do, what is the purpose of your visit is no body else's business but yours. Keep in mind that your over amicable behavior can be taken advantage of.

Practice these essentials on every trip abroad and make each trip safe and memorable.