Safety Tips & Tricks

September 1, 2016

Safety is very important when traveling abroad. There are many things to consider and make sure to be wary of. When filming it is easy to get lost in your project, and forget that you are in a public place where anything could happen. We were told to wear our backpacks on our chests so that we could be sure no one was pick pocketing us, and as a good way to stabilize your camera when you are shooting. It is always good to go in groups of people, especially at night, and only get in marked cabs.

There isn’t a single person who hasn’t been sick on the dialogue, including our TA who is usually the one taking care of us when we get sick. It is important to stock up before heading out on your trip. Elevation pills were very necessary to acclimate to the high elevation of Quito. Traveler’s Diarrhea pills are also a very good call in case you get bad stomachs or food poisoning. Taking probiotics is also helpful. In Ecuador the water is not safe to drink because there are different microbes in the water, and in other foods because of this. Ice cream is probably not a safe bet, unless it has been pasteurized. Wearing a fanny pack or an over the shoulder strap bag is a good bet because it keeps your valuables closer to you and safer. I didn’t know when going abroad that your passport is needed for more than the airport. It is a good idea to keep colored copies of your passport on you. Hotels may need it before checking you in, and if you use a credit card at places like supermarkets. This is also a good way to have identification on you, that you don’t mind losing in case anything happens. These safety tips and tricks will ensure your safety and fun abroad!

Written By

Michael Mendez

Being a Media and Screen Studies and Theatre major, I chose this dialogue because it directly correlated to making videos, and media production. The chance to work with indigenous media makers will be a huge learning experience, and very inspiring. I am very interested in depicting Latino culture in film, being Mexican American, which is another reason I chose traveling to Ecuador and the Galapagos. I have a passionate desire to travel, and see everything the world has to offer me. I think that going abroad is a great way to experience other cultures, but also a great way to learn about yourself. I want to submerge myself in a foreign environment, and see how it influences my art. I am hoping to make beautiful videos that capture the breathtaking scenery and highlight the fiery South American culture I will be submersed in.