By Lauren Juliff
Student Travel Expert, about.com
Here are 5 lies you can tell to keep yourself safe on the road.
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"No, This Isn't My First Time Here"
This lie can be used in many situations and to avoid all kinds of unpleasant experiences.
When
you take a cab from the airport, your driver will likely ask you if
it's your first time in the city. While it can be tempting to say yes
and see if you can gather some insider knowledge, it's best to say that
you've been here before. If the driver knows this is your first time in a
city, he can take you on a long and winding journey and make you pay
double. If the driver thinks you've visited before, he'll be much more
likely to take you directly there.
This can also be used when meeting locals.
If someone finds out it's your first day in a
city, they can use that to scam you. You're basically telling them that
you don't know where anything is, you don't know how the city works, and
you're an easy target.
[post_ads]"Yes, I have a Boyfriend"
This
is more for the solo female travelers out there, and can be used to
deflect unwarranted attention. If a guy's annoying you at a bar and
won't leave you alone, tell him you have a boyfriend. Take a photo of
you and a male friend before you leave to travel and show them the photo
of you together. Have a believable story and it'll be much easier to
avoid the harassment.
"Sorry, I Can't Remember the Name of My Hostel"
If
you meet someone that seems to be taking a little too much interest in
who you are, be sure to put your guard up and make sure you don't give
too much away. If someone asks where you're staying, pretend that you
can remember the name of your hostel and only describe it to them in
vague terms. The last thing you want is someone knowing exactly where
you're staying.
"No Speak English"
In some parts of the
world, the touts can be unbearable. In these situations, simply telling
them you don't speak English and shrugging can be enough to deter them.
If they try and find out which language you do speak then continue to
shrug until they give up and walk away. It'll give you more space and a
less stressful travel experience.
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"I'm Traveling With a Friend"
As
frustrating as it is, solo travelers are targeted more than any other
type of traveler. If you're in an uncomfortable situation or don't want
to give too much of yourself away, say that you're traveling with a friend
but spending the day apart to explore different parts of the city.
It'll make you seem like less of an easy target, especially if you're
female.
