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"From Here to There"
July 22, 2000
Laura Cannon
From taxes to traveling, the Canadian government has made a vast quantity of information available online. One aspect of the site I find particularly valuable to the Woman Traveller is the information compiled under the title 'Her Own Way: Advice for the Woman Traveler." The information found here is essentially the online version of a 1999 Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade booklet and can be found at http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca/travel/consular/16009-e.htm.
According to the site, "Canadian women are travelling like never before. They're travelling solo, in pairs and as members of interest groups. And while women travel for many of the same reasons as men do, their social concerns, as well as their health and safety needs, are very, very different." This publication offers plenty of advice specific to women's needs, such as health and safety issues.
Women can access information geared to their own unique needs. For example, if you are considering travelling to a male-dominated culture or a society with strict religious beliefs, the site provides guidelines to avoid placing yourself in jeopardy.
Avoiding harassment and being alone at night are often concerns for women travellers. The site has numerous strategies you can take advantage of before you leave on your vacation. Measures of precaution and alternative suggestions to avoid uncomfortable situations are available.
General suggestions regarding coping with foreign bathrooms, staying healthy, and networking will be useful to all women travellers. Furthermore, there are tips specifically aimed at businesswomen, senior women, and women who are travelling while pregnant or with children.
The guide ends with a list of useful references, resources, and recommended readings for women considering traveling abroad. As well, there is a list of consular assistance contacts and an emergency number. The 'Advice for the Woman Traveller' is an excellent resource for any Canadian Woman who is considering a trip abroad. Take advantage of all it has to offer before your next vacation.
Laura Cannon is a CAP Youth with the Oxford County Library. She is currently working within the Innerkip and Princeton branches.
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