Tips for security concerns.Melbourne is a lovely city. You will be safer here than in a lot of other cities. But even at the best of times, it is advisable to practice caution.Some general rules. Melbourne is a well-policed state. However tourists are generally easily identified by their cameras and gawking at what local residents see every day. Do not attract unnecessary attention. Do not flash big notes in public places. Except in enclosed areas like restaurants, it is not advisable to wear visibly chunky or expensive jewelry or carry around valuables. It is unnecessary to carry large sums of money as credit cards and travelers’ cheques are widely accepted. Hand bags should be carefully monitored and not left carelessly slung around chairs or put on a counter while shopping. Most local residents carry bags slung across the body rather than hanging on one shoulder. Cameras are a target for snatch thieves. Always be wary of over-helpful strangers. Sometimes accidents are staged. For example one may accidentally drop a bag and you stoop over to help while someone else picks your pockets. They normally work in pairs. Wallets are always safer inside the front pockets rather than the back pockets. Don’t make it easy for pickpockets. Carrying a map of the city with you all the time is a good idea so you will not get lost. Keep an eye on your credit card all the time. Check amounts before signing for them. Going back to a city to clarify bills is a headache when you are not in the local vicinity. Hotels provide safes for a reason. Make use of them. Avoid going to darkly lit areas at night. To avoid unnecessary bureaucracy when faced with theft for example, photocopy important personal documents and carry them around. We are now in the 21st century. Hitchhiking is definitely not advisable any where in the world. For motorists, always park in high pedestrian traffic and brightly lit areas. It is necessary to lock all unattended vehicles. Do not leave anything tempting visible to passers by. There are trains, buses and taxis as a means of public transport. Some local residents have a preference to be near the train driver especially on late night trains. The easiest way and safest way of course would be taxi. It will bring you right to the door step. But that would defeat the purpose of a holiday and being a tourist, wouldn’t it? In Australia, especially in the countryside, everything shuts down early. Plan your trips so that you will reach your destination before reaching any town that has closed down for the night. It will be safer and will avoid a lot of hassle. Don’t let me frighten you. Melbourne is a very safe city. It is my duty to caution you on all possible mishaps :) |
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