Gender Abroad
Women and women-identified people are perceived and treated differently from culture to culture.
Even in developed countries, like in Western Europe, the day to day lives of women may be very different from what you are accustomed. Observe the culture and adapt your lifestyle to fit in. This will not only make it safer for you, but will help you understand the culture more deeply.
Know that other countries have varying cultural, social, and legal issues concerning gender roles, social relationships, and dating rituals. Please see "Sexual Health and Relationships Abroad" for more details about dating, relationships, and safer sex practices.
American women traveling abroad, in particular, may receive unsolicited attention in certain countries, such as being followed and heckled by strangers, largely due to negative sexual stereotypes of American women. These encounters are usually more uncomfortable than unsafe, but it's best to be aware and prepared. Here are some general safety tips to keep these annoyances to a minimum:
- Dress conservatively, in a less obviously American fashion. Take note of how local women dress and interact with strangers.
- Move briskly and avoid eye contact with men you do not know. This may seem rude but being friendly with strangers can result in unwanted attention.
- Be firm and assertive in your language. Do not try to be polite, as this may encourage unwanted advances.
- Travel in groups with male students, especially in unfamiliar parts of town. When meeting friends, arrange to meet at a public place (e.g. a café or a store) in order to avoid having to stand idle and alone. If you find yourself in such a situation, such as at a train station, stand near groups or families.
- Never go out alone (or even in small, all-female groups) at night. Make your arrangements for getting home safely ahead of time.
- Use the buddy system. When you go out, always make sure that you leave with the same people with whom you arrived.
- Research how women are perceived in your host country before you arrive. Studying in these cultures may also shape the opportunities available (or not) to you.
- Understand what is considered acceptable behavior and dress for women in your host country.
- Be prepared to accept a certain standard of behavior and adapt your lifestyle, but do not be vocal about your objection when around locals.
- Follow your instincts and put your own personal safety first.
- Observe how local women deflect unwanted attention.
- Be aware of the cultural norms when interacting with men.
- Be aware of the cultural norms for women in your host country. Use good sense and enjoy your time abroad.
Resources
- Journeywoman.com's section "What Should I Wear, Where?" on country-specific clothing tips for women
- TransitionsAbroad.com's Women Travel Portal, with articles and fact sheets for women traveling abroad
- DiversityAbroad.com's section on "Female Students & Study Abroad"
- The Guide to Solo Woman Travel & Women Tours – Transitions Abroad
- Safe Travel Resource Guide for Women – International Insurance Travel Group
- Information for Women Travelers – US Department of State
