Every country and culture has their own opinion, what is appropriate to the behavior of women. May, even though you’re not familiar with these views, it is wise to the laws and customs on the ground to avoid problems. You must comply with the laws and customs, from where you want.

Here are tips for women travelers:

Familiarize yourself with the area by studying maps before you get there. Avoid reading maps and guidebooks out in the street or in public areas; you’ll look confused or lost.

If your hotel doesn’t offer information, ask a local female employee whether she walks in the area at night.

In countries that aren’t as welcoming to large groups of women, consider having male guides or allowing male travelers to join the group.

If you must ask directions, ask other women, families, or women with children.

Consider renting a cell phone when you’re abroad, so you can keep in touch with other travelers or friends and family back home.

Stick with a friend or groups. Even if you’re traveling solo, there’s safety in numbers, so join up with another traveler or group for parts of your journey.

Take cultural cues from those around you, for example, if other women don’t make eye contact or smile at other when in a bar, don’t do so.

No hitchhiking.

Keep with you a small light and/or whistle, but avoid potentially illegal items like pepper spray. Use common sense and avoid dark streets and empty neighborhoods at night.

Stay alert in crowded areas like marketplaces and public transportation. These are easy locations for pick pocketing and even sexual assault.

If you’re a women traveling solo, it’s worth doing some cultural research before you head off. Whatever your destination, it’s important to establish the status of women in local society, their cultural expectations and how they behave. Changing the way you dress and behave will not only protect you from harassment but also show respect to the people of your host country.