Pitfalls aplenty lie in wait for the unwary traveller. Here are some sites that should help you anticipate many of the more common dangers.
Foreign Office
You might think that France is a relatively safe destination. And so it is. "Most visits to France are trouble-free," consoles the Foreign Office, going on to relate the dangers of hiring a vehicle, attacks on booze-cruise Britons in Calais loading up their cars, muggings at motorway service stations, pickpockets on RER line B, and thefts and terrorism in Corsica. Why not go to Oman instead, where the biggest threat appears to be the chance of hitting a wandering camel on a remote road?
High Altitude Medicine Guide
Explains what happens to the human body at altitude, and how symptoms of altitude sickness can be treated.
Airsafe.com
Airsafe
compiles statistics on the accident records of major airlines and types of plane. It also has safety advice and advertises various products that may or may not increase your chances of surviving a crash or losing your fear of flying.
African Medical and Research Foundation
Joining the Flying Doctors' Society of Africa costs £15 for two months, £30 for a year, and entitles you to free repatriation from Africa to Europe in an emergency.
Scams
Just when you thought it was safe to enjoy a cheap weekend in Barcelona, Terry Jones produces a compilation of the many ingenious street scams he's encountered in the city. But never mind: according to Terry, no one has ever pulled a gun on him.
New York City Police Department
Great stuff here, including an intelligence test for would-be NYC cops and safety tips for visitors, parkgoers and women from McGruff the Crime Dog.
Disease Outbreaks
Chronicles very serious outbreaks of disease, such as cholera, yellow fever, meningococcal disease and Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever. Unlikely to trouble anyone but the most adventurous traveller.
CDC Traveller's Health
The National Centre for Infectious Disease reports which diseases are endemic in which countries and the vaccinations required. An interesting report on the sanitation standards of every major cruise liner is also available.
TheSite.org Festivals
Hedonism can get you into all kinds of trouble. The site has frank advice on dealing capably with the various illicit temptations likely to harm 18-25 year-olds at outdoor festivals. Key advice: take a loo roll and your own condoms.
