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What I’ve Learned about Traveling from Taken

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at IUP chapter.

Liam Neeson is a familar movie star to a number of people from his popular movies. The movie Taken came out a few years ago, and it has more to give than entertainment. If you are unfamilar with the movie, it is about a father that rescues his daughter who is kidnapped while she is abroad. Watching this movie can make people nervous about traveling, but being smart is key. Taken can show you ways to be safe when you travel.

1. Don’t Share Taxis With Strangers

In the movie, the girls get off the airport and share a taxi with a young man. He looks harmless, but in reality he is a human sponge who gives information to the kidnappers. So, when traveling abroad do not share transportation with strangers–buses are an exception. In general you should do this, because safety is always important. 

2. Never Let Your Exact Location Be Known

Knowing your room number, address of the place you are staying, and hotel information should be secret information for the most part. Of course staff and maid services are not included in this list, but you wouldn’t tell your address to a random guy in Walmart. Your “house” abroad should be treated the same way.

3. Watch Over Your Stuff

Always be aware of your surroundings and your bag. Pickpocketers are everywhere.  If you get lost or get confused don’t wonder around. Go into a restaurant or store and ask for directions. The more you seem like you know what you are doing the less of a target you become.  

4. Don’t Take a Piece a Luggage That is Not Yours 

You are responsible for your stuff and your stuff only. Even if the luggage is someone’s that you know–don’t take any chances! If someone on your tour or flight asks you to take something or carry something, SAY NO. You might get in trouble with airport secuirty for the contents of a bag that is not even yours. 

If all else fails, just remember to be smart and safe. Safe travels!

Hi, I am Katherine. I am a student at Indiana University of Pennsylvania. I am a member of the IUP English Equestrian team, Sigma Tau Delta, and a Writer for IUP's HER Campus. I love to read, (books of all genres) write, knit, and travel (I visited England this summer). I am also a British Royal Family Fan. My top music favorites are Ed Sheeran, Taylor Swift, Grace Potter, and Fleetwood Mac. My guilty pleasure is late night HPTV. Please check out my personal blogs-http://hiddeninthemargins.blogspot.com/ and http://wanderlustbound14.blogspot.com/