Lying is almost always wrong but when you're traveling there are certain situations where it's a good idea to do
so. As travelers, we're often prone to scams, harassment, and many other terrible experiences and a simple white lie is often all it takes to deflect this unwanted
attention.
Here are 5 lies you can tell to keep yourself safe
on the road.
1. "No,
This Isn't My First Time Here" - This lie can
be used in many situations and to avoid all kinds of unpleasant experiences.
When you take a cab from the airport, your driver will likely ask you if it's
your first time in the city. While it can be tempting to say yes and see if you
can gather some insider knowledge, it's best to say that you've been here
before. If the driver knows this is your first time in a city, he can take you
on a long and winding journey and make you pay double. If the driver thinks
you've visited before, he'll be much more likely to take you directly there.
This can also be used when meeting locals. If someone finds out it's your first
day in a city, they can use that to scam you. You're basically telling them
that you don't know where anything is, you don't know how the city works, and
you're an easy target.
2. "Yes,
I have a Boyfriend" - This is more for the solo
female travelers out there, and can be used to deflect unwarranted attention.
If a guy's annoying you at a bar and won't leave you alone, tell him you have a
boyfriend. Take a photo of you and a male friend before you leave to travel and
show them the photo of you together.
3. "Sorry,
I Can't Remember the Name of My Hotel" -
If you meet someone that seems to be taking a little too much interest in who
you are, be sure to put your guard up and make sure you don't give too much
away. If someone asks where you're staying, pretend that you cant remember the
name of your hotel and only describe it to them in ague terms. The last thing
you want is someone knowing exactly where you're staying.
4. "No
Speak English" - In some parts of the world, the touts can
be unbearable. In these situations, simply telling them you don't speak English
and shrugging can be enough to deter them. If they try and find out which
language you do speak then continue to shrug until they give up and walk away.
It'll give you more space and a less stressful travel experience.
5. "I'm
Traveling With a Friend" - As
frustrating as it is, solo travelers are targeted more than any other type of
traveler. If you're in an uncomfortable situation or don't want to give too
much of yourself away, say that you're traveling with a friend but spending the
day apart to explore different parts of the city. It'll make you seem like less
of an easy target, especially if you're female.
this article is taken from:
http://campaign.r20.constantcontact.com/render?ca=bfeeca48-8c14-4ca4-8a88-0f2d94008214&c=6e6d8540-90f7-11e3-8320-d4ae52806b34&ch=63fb21f0-74b6-11e4-85de-d4ae528ed502
