Share this
Twitter
Digg
Del.icio.us
Slashdot
Yahoo
Technorati
Googlize this
Facebook
Print
E-mail
Staying Safe in Ecuador:
“Is Ecuador safe?” As a resident of Quito, I hear this question all the time. The answer? It is true that crime rates in Ecuador are high, and personal safety is something you need to think about while traveling here. However, most crimes involve petty theft, and the likelihood of being a victim of a physical or sexual assault is lower than in many American cities. You can avoid being a target by being aware of the risks, and acting accordingly.Plan Ahead
- Notify your embassy in Ecuador and sign-up for email updates if available (you will get news of any risks while you are here).
- Try to have a contact (ideally in Ecuador, but at home is okay too) who you arrange to contact on a regular basis. This person will know to contact authorities if they don’t hear from you.
- Avoid traveling by bus or car near the borders with Peru and Colombia – they are high-risk areas, especially after dark. Huaquillas crossing to the Peruvian town of Aguas Verdes is not exactly the most secure border crossing and it is not recommended. It is strongly advised to do the crossing at Macara, which has less people and merchandise, and is on a nice highway. This is a more secure border crossing that avoids crowds. The best crossing from Colombia is to go for the pass at Ipiales. The crossing is actually at Rumicacha, two hours from Ipiales. Only use taxis that are registered and ask police officers or customs officials for advice about secure taxi services.
- Ask the concierge/owner at your hotel or hostel about the city or town where you are staying – safe & unsafe areas, where you can safely go after dark, etc.
Most crimes involve petty theft, and the likelihood of being a victim of a physical or sexual assault is lower than in many American cities...
Communicate Confidence:
- Plan out where you are going before you go out for the day. Taking your map out on the street makes you a beacon for theft. If you get lost, stop in a restaurant or store to get directions or read your map.
- Walk with purpose (even if you don’t have one) and respond politely to greetings. Always take care with well dressed people in the street who want to interview you but who do not have the normal local accent. They work in groups and have different scams such as giving you money or asking for your documents. They are focused in your wallet, credit or debit cards, cash, digital camera or laptop.
- Prepare for your trip by brushing up on Spanish – you will be more capable to handle yourself in various situations.
- Learn how to be more “street smart” with these tips: http://www.wikihow.com/Be-Street-Smart.
