Nobody likes to think about it but, as at any other point in your life, you could run into the wrong person in the wrong place at the wrong time. What happens if you are raped overseas?

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Rape advice for backpackers Rape is understandably one of the biggest fears amongst female travellers. Whilst the vast majority of women find travelling to be a trouble-free and enjoyable experience, it’s best to be clued up. The Foreign and Commonwealth Office has excellent, comprehensive advice about how to reduce the risk of being raped whilst abroad. Click here >> to read it. (Following links on the left of the page, click on 'Travel advice', then 'What we can do to help', then 'Rape, sexual assault and assault'.) The majority of this advice is common sense, and is probably stuff you’re used to doing at home, so don’t be daunted by it. To summarise: - Be cautious; keep your wits about you; don’t be too trusting. - Plan your schedule in advance - read up on where you’re going - then you can act and feel confident. - Always keep useful phone numbers and some money on your person. - Keep your room secure. - Look out for your friends; tell them where you’re going and when you’ll get back. - Be really careful with drugs and alcohol - you’ll be much more vulnerable if you’re off your head. - Be assertive. If you’re threatened, leave. Don’t be embarrassed to shout or make a fuss. What should you do if you are raped? Again, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office has good advice. Click here >> to get clued up. (Following links on the left of the page, click on 'Travel advice', then 'What we can do to help', then 'Rape, sexual assault and assault'.) Remember, rape is rape, wherever it occurs. If you’ve been raped, you don’t have to suffer alone. - Talk to a friend or relative - Inform the British Consulate in the country where you are, at any time of the day or night. Carry the consulate’s contact details with you. You can find these on our country pages or from the FCO’s website: Click here >> for details - Consider reporting the crime to the local police. The British Consulate can tell you what to expect from the police if you do report the incident, but will support you whether or not you choose to do so. - Consider visiting a doctor, who can help you with the emotional and physical effects of the attack. The British Consulate can recommend local hospitals and English-speaking doctors. Click here >> for more travel safety advice Click here >> for our country pages, where you'll find consulate contact details More safety advice Click here >> for advice on meeting local people Click here >> for advice on staying safe in the sun Click here >> for advice on staying safe on public transport Click here >> for advice on alcohol and safety Click here >> for advice on self-defence

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