The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo and Safety Principle #5

I have been going through and reading your blog over the last week and I have to say out of all the other travel blogs I have read, yours contains the most useful information about what it takes for women to be safe as they travel alone. I like how you talk about the benefits and pros of solo travel but also the realities of it and how dangerous it could potentially be. Your honest and realistic and I truly like that about your blog.Thank you.
 I wrote a blog post awhile back about reverse sexism and how people say that women suffer from it if they constantly think the worst of men’s intentions. The thing is we don’t have the luxury to not look at a worse case scenario. We can’t afford to let our guard down because somewhere there is always going to be someone who will want to take advantage of it. Now, that’s not to say we need to be paranoid, but if it comes down to it… I’d much rather be considered a snarky b***** for ignoring a man’s catcall or refusing an offer of a drink than be on the 11 o’clock news. I think people should be more sensitive to the situations they try to put others in and realize more how it comes off to them. 

I have had to do this. A guy came up to me in Montmartre, an Italian who said he was also in Paris because of work. He was visiting friends and asked if I would like to join him. I found that beyond my comfort level, even though he seemed nice and remained so after I declined. Better safe than sorry! I may have missed my chance at true love or just narrowly avoided a mugging, I’ll never know, but I don’t regret my caution.

Great reminder Janice! It can be hard to be rude but is so important to trust your gut! It’s the one thing I tell people – trust your instincts, they won’t fail you.

Yes, scammers like sweet and simple marks. I heard the Swedish version was better as well.

Great reminder! I have the hardest time with this. It’s ridiculous! Especially being a female — how many times have I been with a guy who’s been the tiniest bit rude? I say something, and he’s like why do you care what that stranger thinks of you — you couldn’t see that he was (fill in situation here).

there you go Cailin. It is absolutely necessary sometimes. Fortunately not often.

That’s cool Debbie. I don’t think this statement stood out for everyone.

I think there’s truth in what you say. If you’re forced to be rude to protect yourself it’s because someone else hast been rude first.

I agree with Satu — that’s a valid point in that type of situation when you’re being physically assaulted. I was referring to non-physical coercion.

if you are just looking for nice weather and the activities or amenities you like – this is a great last minute site. http://www.flytailit.com

Very good advice. Everyone can get into a bad situation if they’re not careful. I don’t think we ever have to be rude if you decline an invitation with a polite (or contrived) excuse. If the other person pushes you about it, they’re the one being rude. And that should make you think get out of there and away from that person as fast as possible.