London Women Travelers

Women exploring on their own inevitably face some additional safety concerns, but it’s easy to be adventurous without taking undue risks. If you are concerned, consider staying in hostels which offer single rooms that lock from the inside or in religious organizations with single-sex rooms. Stick to centrally located accommodations and avoid solitary late-night treks or metro rides.

Always carry extra cash for a phone call, bus, or taxi. Hitchhiking is never safe for lone women or even for two women traveling together. Look as if you know where you’re going and approach older women or couples for directions if you’re lost or uncomfortable.

Generally, the less you look like a tourist, the better off you’ll be. Dress conservatively, especially in rural areas. Wearing a conspicuous wedding band sometimes helps to prevent unwanted advances.

Your best answer to verbal harassment is no answer at all; feigning deafness, sitting motionless, and staring straight ahead at nothing in particular will usually do the trick. The extremely persistent can sometimes be dissuaded by a firm, loud, and very public “Go away!” Don’t hesitate to seek out a police officer or a passerby if you are being harassed. Memorize London’s emergency numbers in places you visit, and consider carrying a whistle on your keychain. A self-defense course will both prepare you for a potential attack and raise your level of awareness of your surroundings (see Personal Safety).