There are plenty of articles on other sites that talks about not hanging out with gangsters and not to give your credit card to random strangers etc. Instead of repeating those well-trodden warnings, I want to emphasize the hazards that almost get me on each and every trip:
- When crossing roads, look both ways then look again. Not only might traffic be driving on the other side of the road from what you are used to but bikes and scooters may illegally drive in the wrong direction. Generally the #1 hazard for travelers is traffic related. Following a local (like the photo above) is a good strategy.
- Fast moving objects on sidewalks: silent bicycles in Japan, e-scooters in Canada, motorbikes in Indonesia. Don’t get too engrossed in your phone while walking.
- Holes/gaps/uneven pavement. I trip on every trip but thankfully no injury so far. There could be holes in random places without any sign or warning. Be doubly careful if it’s dark.
- For people who are used to eating deboned fish in restaurants, in many countries there are bones, small or otherwise, in the fish served – please don’t choke on them.
