Should fear stop us or drive us?
It feels like I traveled to Europe like it was yesterday; grey skies and graffiti buildings in Switzerland, bright landscapes and tasty cuisines in Italy, and a midnight escape to Germany just for the heck of it. That trip was five years ago and although sometimes it feels like ages ago, the memories are still fresh in my mind. I still get emails from the tour group for updates on deals for future adventures, which I am still hoping to go on. However, with everything that’s been happening with Paris and Brussels, is it worth the safety of myself to see the world? I say HECK YES! LETS GO!
I asked my friend Tim who is in the Air Force stationed in Germany to provide me with advice on traveling and enjoying the moments without the worries:
1. Know the environment- Have someone who is knowledgeable of the area so that you won’t get lost and can help provide more information on the places to sightsee.
2. When going out, know your exits and sit facing the front door- It’s important to see your exits for any emergencies IF anything could happen. Being smart and having a good time is what traveling all about.
3. Watch people- When going to visit any place, do a quick head count and casually scan the room for any suspicious people. Tips for that are people who look nervous, eyes are fidgety, dressed with more layers and baggy clothes than normal. If anything looks seriously suspicious, leave the area and call the police immediately. Don’t assume, and don’t act too quickly. Making a scene can make the person more nervous.
4. Know important numbers- When you arrive at the airport, train station, or any public transportation, ask for the emergency numbers. In different countries it’s important to have the police numbers saved for any emergency situation. There are more military officers patrolling the areas nowadays, the safety levels will be higher to avoid any problems. Embassy bases are also in every country, so if any problems do occur, there are American soils and safe havens for us.
5. When going to American hotspots, take all of this in- Use all of these tips when visiting places that attract more crowds. When in a crowded area, always remember the tips I stated above to have the best and safe time on your stay!
6. Enjoy the moments and places- After everything that’s been going on, it’s important to just enjoy the country or city to the fullest. Enjoying life and not living in fear is the best decision anyone can make in order to be happy and enjoy their time. When you are living in fear and not experiencing what the world has to offer, are you living or just surviving?
So, when do we leave?