Monday, October 28, 2019

Tips on Travel Security in a Foreign Country



Authored by: Cedric T., Director of Operations, Odysseus Private Protection, Ltd.

In this article I will try to help you understand the importance of travel risk management without getting into the deep details but through simple examples based on real life.

When you travel to a different province, state, country or continent, the lifestyle won’t be the same and people won’t know you. Whether you travel for business or on holiday you need to know some basic information about the location you are going to visit.

Most people will, of course, check to see if the country is safe and the government stable. But there are many other factors you should check regarding the safety of a location where you will travel. Indeed, the country might be safe for the people living there but is it also safe for tourists/travelers? You should research  the country using open sources to determine whether travelers have had any troubles in the past. Do not forget that within all countries there will be some people or group of people who might be racists (color, religion, sexual orientation) or latent terrorists, so it is very important to check for yourself the level of safety in a “stable country”. Also remember that even in a stable country, local criminals will notice that you are traveling, and so very good prey for them.

My basic advice, even in stable countries:
  • Walk in the main roads, avoid small streets or empty streets. Preferably hire a professional vetted, trained, experienced protector (contact us for a professional service).
  • Always hide your cash and valuables (and try to have a strict minimum of cash with you), ID documents or keep only a copy with you and keep the original in the safe at the hotel.
  • If you don’t speak the language of the country, learn at least the minimum information for directions or safety: all countries do not speak English nor do they have translators readily available.
  • Always keep a business card of your hotel. Then,if you are lost, you can show it to a registered taxi to take you there.
  • Always have the phone number of your embassy and if they have one, their emergency number.
OK, so that was for your everyday life while you travel. But, think about what to do if you get sick. As I said previously, how will you explain what you need if you go into a pharmacy and they don’t speak English and the same goes for the hospital? Imagine you have a severe allergy attack and you do not have the proper medication with you? You must be prepared for such situations.

I will finish this article by saying: always, always prepare for your trip either business or pleasure. Get an insurance policy, not only the one from your bank that will cover you for lost luggage, but a real travel insurance that will assist you in case of medical problems. Declare yourself to your embassy once you arrive. Let them know you are in-country and, if possible, your itinerary. Try to understand the general customs of the country you visit.

As owner of a private protection company and as an ex personal protection officer for an ultra wealthy prince of the Middle-East, I have had to deal with many medical and criminal situations not just in my own country (France) but abroad as well. (London-UK, Colorado-USA, Brazil, Spain, Morocco, …) thank God, I was well prepared for all of the travels and eventualities. Here's hoping you are too.

If you would like any information on our services for protection you may email us: odyssesusprotect@gmx.com  or call us: +3 53 212-066-374 53 212-066-374

Here is a listing of some examples of security incidents around the world.



Monday, October 21, 2019

IBA

This December we are sponsoring a training event in Morocco with the International Bodyguard Association. Instructor will be the Grand Master.
This is an excellent opportunity to train in a desert environment, refresh your skills with internationally regarded instructors.
Also a good way for non-operators such as corporate management to learn the business for purposes of better understanding the danger and risks to clients. Make better risk decisions.
Date and time to be determined at a later date.
Contact Cedric T. at odysseusprotect@gmx.com.