Do you think it’s unsafe for two young women to go backpacking in Europe alone?
June 30th, 2008
Jessica asked:
My roommate thinks I’m naive to think I could go backpacking in Europe with just my sister. She thinks we should have a man with us, just in case. I think she’s paranoid. She thinks we’re going to get kidnapped or raped or something. I’m 21, my sister is 26. What do you think?
My roommate thinks I’m naive to think I could go backpacking in Europe with just my sister. She thinks we should have a man with us, just in case. I think she’s paranoid. She thinks we’re going to get kidnapped or raped or something. I’m 21, my sister is 26. What do you think?
omg, totally safe. The worst that will happen is that you will get pick pocketed. There are a few sketchy cities to watch out for - red light district in Amsterdam, and i def. ran into some heroin users in Prague on the street when i took a wrong turn (they freaked me out a little b/c I was alone at the time). Just use common sense and you will be fine. It will be the most amazing time! Don’t discount Prague or Amsterdam, they are both wonderful cities!
I WENT BY MYSELF WHEN I WAS 18. I SAY GO FOR IT.
Tips
Plan your itinerary give both sets of Parents a copy. Forward to the US Consulates and Embassies so they keep you on file in the countries you are visiting.
Make copies of both your passports. Keep 1 copy in each others backpacks, and leave a copy with your parents. Get a calling card and keep with your passport, and call home everytime you reach your next destination or when you start traveling to the next country or part of the country.
keep your passports in a neck pouch, and extra cash.
I dont know where you are going to be staying but if you are staying in youth Hostels they are pretty safe. They have heavy duty locks. Even on the Bathrooms. and the Bedrooms are same sex only so you guys would be staying by themselves.
Also, Bed and Breakfasts lock down at night in england and you need a key to get into so I felt safe. Dont overdrink or accept the drinks from anyone.
If I can do it at 18 , I think you guys can do it at your age. Have fun !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Yes I’d say so. Just don’t walk around alone. As long as you both stick together, you’ll be fine. Traveling anywhere can be dangerous, but as long as you have a buddy system everything will be fine. You should deffintally check out Germany while in Europe! Hamburg and Munich are especially nice
Good luck and have a blast!
You’ll be fine!
Make sure you get a rail pass: as you can book your own compartments.
you can also book private rooms in most hostels these days for more privacy.
Be very careful. Remember the Holloway story!
You’ll be fine. Just be sure not to go to any bad areas alone.