Travel Risks

There have been many complaints about the dangers of driving in foreign countries, however most of them have been a humorous light; with little resentment. The dangers, however, have risen in the past few years and have forced tourists to think about the risk they undertake driving in a foreign country. (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-11415913)

We know our hometown like the back of our hand. We know the way people drive there, and what the laws are. For example, in my hometown, turn signals seem to be optional. I mean, I never got the memo on that one for myself, but nearly everyone around me seems to think so. We know about speed traps and snow routes, and where the most dangerous intersections are.

Chicago people know when to drive, when not to drive, and how they can get home without killing someone, especially their passengers. People in small towns know whose cows they’re being blocked by, and the name of the kid playing ball in the middle of the road.

But when we’re taken out of our familiar areas things can get ugly. On a small scale, we’ll wonder whether or not that right-on-red was legal in that place, or whether all the roads are gravel, or perhaps even which road is a one-way. We may even wonder if our car can fit through that tiny, spiraling road.

You’ll get lost if you’re lucky, but you may be killed if you aren’t. Learn something about the place you’re going! Especially if you plan to drive there. If you’re out of the country, make sure you learn the foreign country’s laws. The last thing any of us need is a ticket from a guy who doesn’t even speak our language. If they’re really mean they might even put you in jail overnight, which might not be as bad as you think; at least the hotel was free.

However, if you hit the wrong goat you might lose your life; or if you take the wrong road. Some places don’t have fancy road cleaning systems and the roads can be disastrous at best. Consider whether or not it’s wise to drive while you’re there period. Many travel agencies can hook you up with a rental vehicle or maybe even a guide.

Consider Japan, the roads are fine, if a little small, but trains are almost always the great way to go. They’re cheaper than renting a vehicle, and they’re everywhere; provided you don’t mind the experience of getting close to a bunch of strangers.
Buses, subways, and trains are a good way to get around in foreign countries because most of them go to the tourist destinations anyway. You’re less likely to get lost, arrested, or killed if you take public transport, and if the place is too dangerous for public transport, the place may not be worth going to in the first place as a travel destination.

So please, think about where you’re going and how to get around safely while you’re there before you hop on the plane or in your car. It might just save your life.