5 precautions before traveling to a southern country
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| At Tumaini, we advise you on how to prepare your solidarity trip to a southern country. |
Don't panic: all the countries of the South are not dangerous. In fact, all the NGOs with which he collaborates Tumaini They are in safe environments where travelers, as long as they are careful, can move without problems. But to travel the world responsibly is to do it with your eyes wide open and your mind conscious.. Therefore, before traveling, keep these 5 tips in mind!
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| Take into account the situation of the LGBTI community in the country where you are traveling. |
1 Be aware of LGBTI rights
Even if it is unfair, many countries of the South still have a long way to go in terms of the rights of the LGBTI community. For example in Kenya, relationships between people of the same sex are considered crimes whose penalty can be up to 14 years in prison. In other countries like Thailand or Peru, homosexuality is not considered illegal, but LGBTI couples do not have certain rights, such as marriage or civil unions.
In addition to the law, read about the situation of the LGBTI community both in cities and in rural areas. For example in India, homosexuality is decriminalized by law, but “Hijra” (transgender people) still face prejudice, violence and discrimination.
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| There is no road connecting to Iquitos with another big city in Peru. |
2 The roads are not like in Europe
Have you ever taken a bus in Bolivia? So you know what we are talking about: long journeys, roads in poor condition and impossible cliffs, drivers who double the speed limit... Keep this in mind when organizing trips in the country you visit. India also has some of the most dangerous roads in the world.
And it's not just about danger. Do not trust that communications are so developed like in your country For example, in Peru, if you want to travel to Iquitos you must do it either by boat, through the Amazon, or by plane.
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| In Indonesia, the penalty for drug possession can be up to 15 years in prison. |
3 Don't even think about taking drugs
Most of the countries of the South have zero tolerance for drug use, so don't play it! For example in Indonesia, the possession of minimal amounts in this country can be punished with up to 15 years in jail. In KenyaThe penalty is 10 years in prison. In other countries such as Malaysia, the death penalty is even applied.
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| Always eat fruit peeled by yourself in countries of the South. |
4 The dreaded traveler's diarrhea
You think you have a bomb-proof stomach, but you don't. Traveler's diarrhea is the most frequent health problem when traveling to countries with less hygienic-sanitary conditions. Around 40% of travelers experience diarrhea during or shortly after your trip. How can you prevent it?
- Drinks: always drink water and drinks from bottles or cans you open yourself. Also do it when you brush your teeth. Do not drink ice because the water with which it was made may be contaminated. Only drink infusions if they are served very hot. And do not forget! Do not open your mouth in the shower 😉
- Food: avoid prepared and peeled juices and fruits. It is preferable to take whole pieces of fruit washed and peeled by yourself, or bottled juices. Vegetables should be cooked and served very hot. Do not take salad or raw dishes either! Also avoid drinking milk or dairy products made from raw (unpasteurized) milk.
- Bathroom: avoid bathing in river water, lakes or swimming pools if you do not have a guarantee that the conditions are hygienic.
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| Monkeys in some areas of India and other countries attack tourists in search of food |
5 Beware of monkeys
They are fascinating animals, but in some countries they have generated a real coexistence problem. In India and other Asian countries they are so used to tourists giving them food that we advise you to never carry food on you or get too close to them. Attacks are frequent.
Now yes, in a prepared, cautious and conscious way: have a good trip!