Australian tourists are being warned to do their research before traveling to some of our most beloved overseas destinations, as experts say it’s “frankly nuts” to not find out about potential risks and dangers.
Countries like France, Denmark, Sweden, Thailand, and Indonesia have travel warnings advising visitors to “exercise a high degree of caution.” These popular nations have more or higher risks than what you would typically find in a large Australian city.
Adrian Taylor, manager of general insurance at Compare the Market, highlighted that many Australians are booking holidays to these destinations based on what they see on social media from friends, family, celebrities, and influencers. However, he emphasized the importance of doing thorough research before traveling to any destination.
Dr. David Beirman, a senior lecturer in tourism and risk management at the University of Technology Sydney, echoed this sentiment, stating that being forewarned is being forearmed. He advised travelers to utilize resources like the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trades’ Smartraveller website and to speak to someone who has been to the destination before.
Specific risks in countries like France, Indonesia, Thailand, Denmark, Sweden, Belgium, and the United Kingdom were highlighted, ranging from terrorism threats to natural disasters and petty crimes. Travelers were urged to take precautions, such as ensuring their travel insurance covers potential risks and staying vigilant in public spaces.
In conclusion, the message is clear: before jetting off to your dream destination, make sure you’re well-informed about the potential risks and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.