In a recent survey, a majority of women business travelers said they felt it was less safe than traveling as a man. Here are some protective measures that might be helpful, according to the experts at World Travel Protection.

Travel can enlighten, enrich and transform us. To quote the acclaimed Indian novelist Anita Desai, “Wherever you go becomes a part of you somehow.” Or, in the words of writer and intellectual Rebecca Solnit, “When you give yourself to places, they give you yourself back.” So while travel is about learning and discovery – and should be encouraged – women, unfortunately, often have to take extra precautions.

As The New York Times reported in 2019, the number of solo women travelers has increased over the years, but so, too, have unfortunate incidents perpetrated against women. And while numbers are hard to pin down, the article stated the following: “There’s no question that women face unique risks when traveling solo, experts say.” The piece also quoted Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, Executive Director of UN Women, an organization that promotes gender equality, who told the NY Times: “We have evidence that shows that women face risks that men don’t face in public spaces, at home, wherever they may be.”

The U.S. State Department even has a page on its website with detailed, practical recommendations specifically for women travelers. And last year, World Travel Protection – a subsidiary of Cover-More, which is part of Zurich Insurance Group – commissioned a survey on safety to 2,000 business travelers in Australia, Canada, the US, and the UK. The findings were sobering. Seven in 10 women business travelers felt that traveling for work as a woman is less safe than traveling as a man, while 31 percent don’t travel or go out at night on their own, compared to 18 percent of men.

According to the survey, 46 percent of women keep their family and friends informed of their whereabouts (compared to 36 percent of men). More than a third of women (36 percent) also said they didn’t like traveling to countries where women’s rights weren’t protected, compared to only 15 percent of men. In addition, 10 percent have had a women’s health problem while traveling but didn’t seek help because of lingering stigmas around women’s health issues, and 12 percent of women have had a negative experience, from theft to assault.

Kate Fitzpatrick, EMEA’s Regional Security Director at World Travel Protection, says the number of sexual assaults she deals with is “unbelievable,” adding that “it’s shocking and saddening how many cases of sexual assault we deal with. These people are often severely traumatized, and our overriding priority is to ensure that they’re safe and out of harm. Our medical team will also be heavily involved in ensuring their health and welfare, including support to visit a local hospital.”

So with travel – business and otherwise – nearly back to pre-pandemic levels, and with major events like the Paris Olympics and the European Football Championships in Germany this year, consider the following safety tips for women from World Travel Protection. In a nutshell, always stay vigilant, which is sound advice for all travelers, too.

Tip 1. Research (research and more research)

World Travel Protection recommends: “Before booking your trip, check your government’s latest travel advice for your destination. And book accommodation and airport transfers in advance, particularly if traveling to a place where you don’t speak the native language well.”

Kate says: “It’s important to note that, compared to men, women often have different safety considerations to think about when traveling for work. The risk will generally increase in countries with less equality. It’s essential, therefore, that women have a full understanding of the cultural norms in their destinations, from what to wear to how they act. We often undertake specific risk assessments for women business travelers to make sure their safety and security is the highest priority.”

Tip 2. Be especially alert while on transport

World Travel Protection recommends: “Travel in official taxis or an app-based rideshare and sit in the back seat. Keep your luggage close to you while on buses and trains. Sit near other women and avoid empty carriages. Don’t hitchhike.”

Kate says: “Often criminal groups work the unlicensed taxis and look to exploit the inexperienced traveler. Before getting into a vehicle, ask to see their license and identification. If the taxi driver cannot provide their license, do not get in the vehicle. Unlicensed taxis can present many threats to a visitor, such as being assaulted, mugged, held under duress and driven to an ATM to withdraw money – and on very rare occasions kidnap and murder. If it does not look right and does not feel right, do not get in.”

Tip 3. Think (and act) like a local

World Travel Protection recommends: “Be aware of common scams in your destination so you know what to look out for. Try to look like a local where possible to avoid sticking out or attracting unwanted attention. Carry a travel bag that slings across your body, rather than a backpack or loose handbag. Don’t tell people you are traveling alone – if asked, pretend you are meeting someone. Join group tours and organized activities to meet other like-minded solo travelers. Check in regularly with friends and family and ensure someone has a copy of your itinerary and knows where you will be. Share your location from your phone whenever possible.”

Kate says: “Of course it sounds obvious but don’t flaunt your valuables when you’re away. Don’t take that expensive watch or ring on business trips. It just makes you a walking target for a petty, opportunist thief. Leave items of value in a hotel safe when you can and take the minimum that you need out.”

Tip 4. Remember, women’s health differs around the world

World Travel Protection recommends: “Sanitary products and contraceptives may be difficult to purchase in some countries. It’s a good idea to stock up on supplies and medication before you leave.”

Kate says: “Tampons can be hard to come by in some countries, and their use can be frowned upon. We always advise women to stock up on sanitary products and take them with you, as you don’t know what you’ll be able to source on the ground. Also, if you’re questioned about tampons in your luggage, respond politely and calmly, as you might come across ignorance and hostility in some areas of the world.”

Tip 5. Avoid too much alcohol or drugs

World Travel Protection recommends: “Be careful not to drink alcohol in excess or take drugs that could impair your judgement or compromise your ability to maintain your senses or general awareness. It’s important to understand that different countries have differing moral and social standards and making yourself vulnerable may unnecessarily expose you to greater risks of harm. Avoid alcoholic drinks that are being sold from market stalls or any unlicensed setting. Check labels of alcoholic drinks. If in doubt, do not drink it.”

Kate says: “And depending on where you are, you might want to avoid drinking in public. So again, make sure you’re thoroughly briefed on your destination, try not to draw attention to yourself and keep your wits about you. Crucially, ensure you have the emergency contact details of your assistance provider programmed into your phone, and if they offer an app, like the Travel Assistance App provided by World Travel Protection, make sure this is activated on your phone. [On Google Play and Apple.] Then if the worst does happen, you can know where to get help, and we can locate you quickly and easily. But look, I’ve traveled all over the world for years, and it has made for some of the best experiences of my life, so I definitely encourage women to travel.”

Is there anything worse than falling sick on holiday? We don’t think so! Travelling is a frequent way to escape daily life and unwind from the chaos of the workplace, but there are always chances you might fall physically or mentally ill when travelling just as readily as you do at home. Even more likely, perhaps! It’s only natural to disregard the warning signs and put self-care on the back burner when there are so many unfamiliar sights and sounds. While travelling, creating a self-care routine will help you maintain your energy levels, clarity of mind, and physical readiness for adventure. For tips on how to take care of yourself when travelling, continue reading.

Soak In The Sun

Never are two sunrises or sunsets alike. Set aside time to sit quietly and fully take in and appreciate the colours, the beauty, and the day’s fresh start or soft conclusion. While on vacation, commit to watching the sunrise or sunset (or both), as this is something we don’t often have time for at home amid the turmoil of our daily lives.

Be An Active Soul

A long stroll is always excellent for the soul, whether you are on a secluded island, hidden away in a magical forest, surrounded by dunes in the desert, or right in the centre of a bustling foreign city. Get moving, get outside, and enjoy your surroundings. So start moving those legs. This is your vacation, your chance to get away from reality, and your chance just to stop and do whatever you want.

Don’t Mind The Calories

Try everything; go for seconds; eat dessert; order that bottle of wine; and keep in mind that when you’re on vacation, calories don’t matter. Meals are meant to be enjoyed, especially on special occasions. Don’t rush the experience. Instead, cherish leisurely (and device-free) dinners.

Enjoy A Long Beauty Sleep

Prioritise getting enough sleep so that you can rejuvenate because rest is an equally important aspect of the journey. Let’s face it, beds on holidays are usually always more comfortable and luxurious than those at home, so get a head start on bedtime or sneak in a few afternoon naps. You’ll be glad that you took a rest after your holidays are over.

A Spa Day

Make a reservation for a well-deserved spa treatment if the pool day or the afternoon nap isn’t your thing. There are various methods to unwind the mind, body, and soul in a way that appreciates the place you’re in, from private in-room massages, rose petal bubble baths and calming local remedies to world-class urban spas, aromatic tea ceremonies, and ancient hot stone pools.

Use Your Eyes More

Use your camera to record those once-in-a-lifetime moments. But also remember to record them in the memory bank. Every now and then, put down the camera to experience the scene, the surroundings, the wildlife you see, or whatever it is, with your own eyes. Don’t be that person who spends their entire vacation taking pictures—what a terrible way to travel.

Digital Detox

It’s okay if you are in no mood to follow the rest of the self-care tips mentioned above but follow this. Digital detox is today’s most beneficial and essential self-care strategy. Commit to limiting your screen time and simply being present. Although there are commitments you need to fulfil even when you are on holiday, make sure you keep yourself away from the devices, at least when you have food.

There’s nothing quite like the feeling of anticipation when setting off on a motorcycle road trip. From planning your itinerary to choosing your equipment, strapping down your bike, and donning your protective gear, the excitement builds as you rev your engine and pull away into the great unknown. The combination of the open road, the surrounding scenery, and the hum of the engine is an immersive experience that all bikers appreciate. Add to this the element of adventure, and the draw is irresistible.

Good preparation is vital to enjoying a successful motorcycle road trip. Make a checklist that includes all essentials and safety items so nothing gets left behind. It is a good idea to check local regulations and weather conditions, and safety should always be your top priority, so wear appropriate gear and ensure that your bike is in good working order before you depart.

Motorcycle road trips are an exhilarating way to explore new places and experience your natural surroundings. It’s easy to pull over and take a break, grab a bite to eat, admire the scenery, and take a few photos whenever you feel like it. Here, we have selected locations with proper thoroughfares accessible to all motorists but well suited to bikers for their scenic views and serpentine twists and turns. Every biker should consider the following 10 fantastic destinations for their road trip adventures.

Pacific Coast Highway (California, USA)

Whether you are headed north or south, the Pacific Coast Highway promises a spectacular experience. Known for its breathtaking coastal views, the highway occupies around three-quarters of the California coastline on California State Route 1. It offers bikers a relaxed cruise of around 655 miles, but if you are feeling adventurous, you can join Route 101 at its northern terminus, which will take you to the Canadian border. Head south, and you can merge with I-5, which terminates at the Mexican border. However, the highway itself has plenty to offer and deserves a few days to experience it properly.

The PCH has a storied history as it was built using labor from Folsom and San Quentin prison inmates, who were paid the miserly sum of 35 cents per day for their backbreaking efforts. It formed after the consolidation of roads linking Los Angeles and San Francisco with other coastal settlements and finally opened in 1937. Throughout your trip, you’ll pass through delightful towns like Big Sur and Carmel, experience the natural wonders of the giant Redwood forests and the Oregon Sand Dunes, and enjoy stunning vistas of the Pacific Ocean.

The roads are well-paved throughout the Pacific Coast Highway, and the trip could best be described as leisurely, with plenty of places to stay and sightseeing opportunities along the route. Don’t forget to bring comfortable shoes and a daypack for essentials when you’re not on the road, and bring wet-weather gear, especially if you are thinking of riding in the fall or winter months. Temperature ranges can vary widely in the state of California, so you should also consider appropriate clothing while planning your trip.

Scottish Highlands (Scotland)

The Highlands of Scotland are a little off the beaten track, even by European standards, but the rewards are most certainly worth it. Using Edinburgh’s hilly, granite capital as a jumping-off point, you can enjoy the nightlife and historic attractions and even rent a motorcycle before embarking on a trip that could take you over a thousand miles into the Scottish interior and its stunning islands. The rugged terrain and breathtaking landscapes make it an excellent destination for motorcycle touring, and you’ll get to explore historic castles and lochs (home to the elusive Loch Ness Monster) as you ride through the remote and sparsely populated countryside.

You’ll find plenty of campsites across the country if you’re traveling in the summer months (which is highly recommended, given Scotland’s unpredictable temperate climate), as well as an assortment of hotels and B&Bs if you aren’t keen on “roughing it” — although these can be pretty expensive. Roads are generally well-paved but are almost exclusively single-lane country thoroughfares, and speed limits are understandably low, leaving you plenty of opportunities to admire the scenery as it passes by. Livestock outnumbers people significantly, so be wary of sheep and the odd Highland cow as you navigate rural areas.

Points of interest might include John O’ Groats (mainland UK’s most northerly point), the Isle of Sky, with its dramatic scenery, the stunning A87 roadway, the Cairngorm Mountains, Loch Ness, and the North Coast Road. Don’t forget to pack mosquito repellant, especially during summer, and expect to get rained on at any time of year. Remember, there are many remote destinations in Scotland, and due care should be taken on your motorcycle, especially if traveling alone.

Sturgis Motorcycle Rally (South Dakota, USA)

The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally has become a Mecca for motorcyclists, especially those who favor the great American brands. Every year, the biking community descends upon this small town in South Dakota’s Black Hills for 10 days and nights. Here, it partakes in several scheduled bike tours, live music, events, competitions, and plenty of food and drink at this celebration of life on two wheels.

The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally has been around for a while, established in 1938 as a series of racing and stunt-riding events. It has since grown into an internationally recognized festival that regularly attracts over half a million attendees. A choice of accommodation is available, including hotels, cabins, RVs, and camping options. Once settled in, participants can enjoy several planned bike tours, including the Mayor’s Ride, Police Chief’s Ride, and Veteran Warrior Ride, which require registration or a donation to join.

Each pass by various local landmarks and points of interest, such as Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park, the Devil’s Tower, and the Crazy Horse Memorial. If you’d rather go solo or travel in a small group, numerous circuits, as outlined in official ride maps, can be completed over a few hours.

If you plan on heading to the Sturgis Rally, plan in advance and book your accommodation early to avoid disappointment. As with all festivals, it’s never a bad idea to stick to a daily budget and reserve money for unexpected expenses. As the rally takes place in early August, the weather is usually pleasant in Sturgis at this time of year, but always plan for the worst-case scenario and include a rain jacket along with your sunblock.

Amalfi Coast (Italy)

Italy has so much to offer its visitors, including Renaissance artworks, fine food and wine, museums, café culture to rival that of France, and stunning scenery. Of course, it is also a top motorcycle destination and home to venerated brands Ducati, Moto Guzzi, MV Agusta, and Aprilia.

The country’s Amalfi Coast provides a dramatic coastal ride with cliffside roads overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea that makes up part of the Mediterranean. Here, you’ll explore charming towns like Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello along the way, with balconied houses overhanging their winding streets. These open up to well-paved roads that meander through scattered vineyards, with mountainous hillsides lined with Cypress trees inland.

To tour the Amalfi coast, you could start in Rome, where motorcycle rental shops are abundant, and cruise south through the Campania region before arriving in Naples. This is the jumping-off point for most Amalfi coast trips and is home to Mount Vesuvius and the ruins of Pompeii a bit further south for some unforgettable sightseeing. Afterward, head south and travel from Sorrento to Salerno, taking in all the wonders of the Amalfi Coast along the way. You can take the highway back to Rome from Salerno in just a few hours to complete your tour, which can take as little as two days, depending on your schedule.

Italy is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is early or late summer to avoid searing temperatures. Bring some Euros in cash to pay for tolls getting to and from the Amalfi Coast, and perhaps most importantly, relax and don’t rush the experience, as there is much to see and do over its short 50-kilometer distance.

Transfagarasan Highway (Romania)

Eastern Europe offers some fantastic travel opportunities as part of a more extensive motorcycle tour, with cities like Prague, Budapest, and Bucharest boasting stunning architecture and culture at far more affordable prices than their Western European counterparts. The latter of these, Bucharest, is the point of departure for most people embarking on a bike tour of the Transfagarasan Highway. This mountain pass in the Carpathian Mountains offers a varied and beautiful ride, taking you through some dramatic scenery and passing through many tunnels and hairpin turns at elevations of up to 6,700 feet.

Jeremy Clarkson, formerly of “Top Gear,” once described the Transfagarasan Highway as possibly the best road in the world, and for once, he may not have been exaggerating. The number of serpentine twisties and steep descents that cut through the mountain passes make this the perfect road for bikers, and as a relatively new road created as a military thoroughfare during the last days of Communist Romania, it is well maintained. The Transfagarasan Highway spans the historical provinces of Wallachia and Transylvania, home to the fictional Count Dracula and his real-life inspiration, Vlad the Impaler, who lived at Poenari Castle, which you can visit along the way.

The Highway is closed for much of the year, between October and June, so plan your trip accordingly. Adverse weather conditions can strike year-round, resulting in road closures, so check information boards in towns and online before departure. Heavy rain and poor visibility are common throughout the high passes, so make sure you travel with a rain suit and treat your visor with anti-fog spray or use a Pinlock for improved vision while you ride.

Ruta Cuarenta (Argentina)

Ruta Cuarenta, or Ruta 40, is a vast 3,000-mile road almost the length of Argentina. This iconic highway runs alongside the Andes, offering riders a chance to experience the country’s diverse landscapes, from the deserts of Patagonia in the south to the wine country of Mendoza in the north and plenty of wonders in between. You will encounter 27 mountain passes that can reach over 13,000 feet, the vast Patagonian Steppe, 18 large rivers, and 20 national parks as you enjoy this famed bucket list motorcycle trip.

Any biker attempting to undertake such a trip should already be aware of the amount of planning required. Essentials should include comprehensive protective gear, warm and cool weather clothing, and practical bike repair and medical items. There can be 200 miles between fuel stops on the Patagonian Steppe, so know your bike’s limitations and plan to carry extra gas. The roads here are mostly unpaved, so use appropriate tires with off-road capabilities.

The best time to travel on Ruta Cuarenta is in the Argentine spring between November and December. Leave it any later, and winter encroaches upon the south, so bear this in mind when planning your schedule. As one of the longest overland thoroughfares in the world, you should expect your trip to take at least a couple of weeks, and cellphone coverage is sparse outside of populated areas.

Great Ocean Road (Australia)

Australia is one of the least densely populated countries on Earth, and it offers some serious adventure destinations across its vast and varied landscape, as well as plenty of exotic flora, fauna, and wildlife, much of which is unique to the continent. The Great Ocean Road runs along Australia’s southern coast and offers stunning ocean views, lush rainforests, and iconic landmarks like the Twelve Apostles, 12 limestone stacks jutting from the ocean.

The Great Ocean Road is situated just south of Melbourne, and it is well-paved throughout, making this route well-suited to all two-wheelers, whether you ride a 105cc Australian Postie Bike or a BMW R 1250 GS. Leaving Melbourne early, you can make it to Port Campbell in a day, with plenty of stops for pictures and rests. The town is just past the Twelve Apostles and at the road’s furthest point, so you can take in a stunning sunset at the landmark and head for some good food and accommodation for the night before heading back to Melbourne the next day.

While the Great Ocean Road is one of Australia’s more relaxed motorcycle tours, it is not without its hazards. The steep hillsides often leave scattered rocks and debris on the road. Bear this in mind, especially as you enter corners. There are many corners along the road’s length, with extreme cambers and hairpins. Wherever you ride on the continent, you should watch for wildlife on the road and monitor your speed to avoid collisions. As is typical when biking, humans pose one of the greatest threats, so watch for tourists driving erratically, especially when pulling in and out of viewpoints or picnic areas along the route.

Tail of the Dragon (North Carolina/Tennessee, USA)

While it may be the shortest motorcycle road trip listed here, the Tail of the Dragon is among the most exhilarating. This 11-mile stretch of US Route 129 traverses the border between North Carolina and Tennessee. It is a magnet for motorcycle enthusiasts, especially sport bike riders, with 318 curves, making it one of the most challenging and technical riding roads in the United States.

Running almost parallel to Calderwood Lake, the Tail of the Dragon twists through dense forest as it slices through the mountains and past the Cheoah Dam, the location of Harrison Ford’s daring leap in “The Fugitive.” While the scenery and surroundings are impressive, this stretch of road is all about the ride as you grip the handlebars and negotiate its curves as safely as possible. Many riders have met their deaths at the Tail of the Dragon, and it is essential that you know your limits, know your bike’s capabilities, and pay attention to the weather and road conditions as you ride.

The best time to attempt the Tail of the Dragon is either in the summer or fall, and there are plenty of places to eat, drink, and stay the night in the surrounding area. Ensure you perform maintenance on your motorcycle before setting off, including checking your brakes and tire pressure, to help avoid any spills on the road.

Cabot Trail (Nova Scotia, Canada)

Canada has a shorter riding season relative to destinations nearer the equator. Still, with its many picturesque, well-maintained, sparsely-populated highways, it is among the most rewarding countries to travel by motorcycle. The Cabot Trail is a scenic road that winds through the Cape Breton Highlands, offering sweeping ocean views, lush forests, and the chance to spot wildlife like moose and bald eagles. The trail is 186 miles long and hugs the Atlantic coast of Cape Breton Island in a well-paved circuit.

The Cabot Trail takes you up and down in elevation and through shade and light. You will experience many changes in temperature along the way, so bring appropriate clothing. There are plenty of places to stop for breaks and sightseeing, but make sure you buy a $10 Park Pass if you want to take a break at any point, or you will incur a fine if checked.

The best time to visit the Cabot Trail is from early May to late September, and the general consensus is that counter-clockwise is the preferred direction of travel. It’s best not to ride in the evening to avoid moose and fill up gas at a larger town, as those further down the trail may not sell the premium fuel that our cherished bikes prefer.

Himalayan Circuit (India)

For an epic adventure, consider riding through the Himalayas. As the tallest mountain range in the world, this barrier separating the Indian Subcontinent and the Tibetan Plateau is steeped in mystery, Buddhist spirituality, geological wonders, and breathtaking views of some of the world’s highest peaks.

Ride north from New Delhi, or take the bus to Manali. You can rent motorcycles in either of these locations, usually a native Royal Enfield model, such as the aptly named Himalayan. From Manali, spend a few days acclimatizing to the altitude (6,398 feet) in preparation for much higher elevations later. Set off through the foothills and scale the Rohtang La (13,051 feet). Refuel in Keylong (the next gas station is over 200 miles away!) and stay the night in a tent in Sarchu camp. The next day, you will head to the remote city of Leh with its palaces, ancient monasteries, and stupas, via challenging terrain, high mountain passes, such as Tanglang La (17,480 feet), and the 21 hairpin bends of the Gata Loops.

From Leh, you can spend a few days touring. Head north to the Nubra Valley, East to Pangong Lake, or continue your voyage west to Kashmir, passing through lush green valleys, the 11th-century monastery at Lamayuru, and the city of Kargil. Once you reach Kashmir, stay on a traditional houseboat in Srinagar with a local family and drink in the incredible scenery before completing your circuit.

The high passes are closed for much of the year, and it is best to travel the Manali–Leh Highway between June and September. Clothing and additional fuel are essential, as is plenty of money in cash. Permits are required for some locations (arrange with a local tour guide) and prepare to be amazed by this unforgettable trip of a lifetime.

Bringing the pooches along for the December holidays? It’s going to require some extra planning, but it is worth seeing their tails wag on the beach! Here are some important tips to consider when hitting the road with your beloved four-leggeds.

Sort your pet-friendly accommodation first

December is peak travel season, so book your pet-friendly accommodation well in advance. If you are travelling for the holidays, trying to find suitable accommodation a month before your vacation might be a tad too late.

When you do find a digs, remember to check their policies on size, breed restrictions, and any extra fees you may need to cover.

Doggy documents

Make sure to bring your pet’s vaccination records, microchip info, and any other relevant health certificates, especially if you are going to be crossing borders. You’ll need this information on hand in case of any emergencies.

Pack the essentials

If you are travelling long distances with your pooch, it is crucial to bring plenty of food, a water bowl (and sufficient water), a leash, waste bags, and any medications. Adding a favourite toy or blanket can help the four leggeds feel more comfortable in new environments.

Update tags and chips

Make sure your pet’s tags are current with your contact details. Having an updated microchip helps reunite you with your pet if they get lost.

Make it comfortable for them

The journey needs to be comfortable for pets, too. Invest in a quality travel carrier and harness, and ensure that they are both completely safe and comfortable. For anxious pets, using a familiar-smelling blanket inside can ease nerves a bit.

Ease them in

If your pet isn’t used to travelling in a carrier, introduce it a few weeks before travelling. Being familiar with the crate reduces stress they might experience during the journey. Try make it ‘feel like home’ in any way possible.

Know the local vets

It is crucial to look up nearby veterinary clinics at your destination, so you’re prepared in case of emergencies. If you are visiting a remote area, it may be worth contacting nearby farms for their vet details, in case of emergencies.

Stop for stretchies

For longer road trips, make sure to schedule regular stops so pets can stretch, hydrate, and relieve themselves. Plan your route in advance with this in consideration. Pets need breaks to feel calm and reduce anxiety.