‘SA most dangerous destination for solo female travellers’
Security company comments, on the back of Women's Danger Index published this week.
South Africa has been ranked as the most dangerous destination for solo female travellers according to the Women’s Danger Index 2019 compiled by travel bloggers and researchers, Asher and Lyric Fergusson.
Various factors were apparently taken into account, and South Africa scored the worst in terms of safety when walking alone at night, intentional homicide of women as well as non-partner sexual violence.
Charnel Hattingh, National Marketing and Communications Manager at Fidelity ADT, said unfortunately many tourists do not realise the risks of walking alone or at night in many parts of our cities. Hotel owners and B&B establishments do need to emphasise the risks and ensure their visitors follow some common sense guidelines to remain safe.
She suggested the following security protocols for guests:
• Familiarise your visitors with the contact details for the police/ emergency services in your area.
• Advise them where the nearest hospital is located.
• If you have a security system in your B&B, ensure guests are aware of how it works.
• Advise tourists to leave their valuables at the place they are staying when they are out sightseeing.
• Advise your guests which crime hot spots to avoid.
• Advise guests not to sightsee alone but rather to go out in groups or with a reputable tour operator.
• Advise guests never to withdraw money at night at isolated ATMs.
Criminals know tourists and out-of-towners are usually relaxed and not always on their guard. Make sure they have the relevant emergency numbers pre-programmed on their mobile phones.
“By following these simple security protocols, your visitors will be able to have a far safer and more relaxing break in our country,” concluded Charnel.
