Security

• Western Europe is pretty safe but beware of pickpockets. Carry your valuables in a money belt or concealed in a pouch under your shirt. Rail stations, bus stations and busy places, such as tourist spots, are especially dangerous for pickpockets. Don't leave any bags unattended.

• Try to look confident.(Don't go around with big maps looking lost)

• When sleeping in dormitories or train carriages, put valuables in the sleeping bag with you. Also, lock doors.

• If sleeping outside or in stations use your backpack as a pillow. You should also have a lock for your backpack.

• Ignore demands to see your passport unless from a uniformed police officer. Passports are highly prized by some gangs.

• Consider carrying a personal alarm or even some pepper spray. A can of fly killer spray can also work in an attack.

• If you are strretwise and smart you will be fine, no matter where you go, simple things like don't get drunk in a strange place and try to walk home on your own etc.