BootsnAll Travel Community

Hi all! I've read a lot of threads that offer good advice for people travelling solo, especially women, and I just thought I'd add my own bit. For those who are really concerned about their safety, why not take a basic self-defense course before starting your trip? Now I realize that most incidents we hear about have to do with theft and pickpocketing, so not really life-threatening (not usually), but still, having a bit of basic self-defense skill can't do any harm, and it would help with peace of mind while on the road.

I'm not talking about becoming a 5th degree black belt judoka here. Just simple self-defense. I'm planning on taking a self-defense course before I do my RTW. So I'll have that bit of knowledge, coupled with common sense, awareness and preparation, of course, to help me be safe while on the road.

I think this is excellent advice. Recently a woman I was sailing with -- 50-something, maybe even 60, not in particularly good physical condition -- revealed that she'd learned self defense and felt very comfortable using it. As it was a rainy afternoon and all seven of the crew were cooped up inside the boat, we urged her to demonstrate.

She proceded to resist being grabbed from behind and in front by a man 20-years her junior who's in good shape. Sure, he didn't try that hard, but nonetheless it was clear that her quick, practiced reactions -- elbow in his gut, heel on his instep. etc. -- would deter a real attacker.

I suppose such training could give a gal false confidence, though. One must be realistic about one's abilities and not enter into unsafe situations because "I can take care of myself."

I think that's a great idea. Maybe not to beat up the other guy but to gain enough time to get somewhere else. There are probably courses in most towns. Look around.