Photo from Flickr by kdvenus

As we all know find the perfect location of your wedding can be an extremely stressful process, there are all kinds of things that need to be considered alongside the pressures that come with everyday life. Devon is one of the most beautiful counties in England because of this there are a number of fantastic wedding venues to choose from depending on your requirements. In order to take the pressure off this process, here are 5 simple steps that can help to ensure that your wedding goes off without any problems.

Make sure that you set the right date

Despite the fact that this may be quite obvious, ensuring that you have the right date is so important. This crucial factor has the potential to greatly impact on the overall wedding budget. If you are not too fussed about getting married in the quieter months then most Devon wedding venues are able to provide lucrative discounts for the privilege. Furthermore, if your guests are undertaking long journeys then it may be best to encourage them to stay at the venue as they may be able to offer lower rates.

If you have your heart set on a summer wedding then you will get to experience the fantastic unique nature of Devon as it is the only English county to have two separate coastlines. Right in the heart of this sandwich is the fantastic Dartmoor National Park that plays host to over 368 square miles of fantastic countryside which can provide the ideal location for amazing weddings scenes. It is important to note that the majority of the wedding venues in Devon get booked up very quickly so make sure you book well in advance to avoid disappointment.

Choose the wedding you want

When it comes to wedding types, this is where couples are the most picky as it helps set the agenda for the whole day. Most couples feel that it is essential that both the wedding and venue demonstrates something that represents the true meaning of their relationship.

Deciding on the theme of the wedding can be a tricky process; however Devon has a fantastic selection of unique venues to help you make your mind up which come to include hotels, cathedrals and castles that go back centuries. The wide range of venues available to couples demonstrates the fact that there is a venue for every type of wedding.

Choose the perfect wedding venue

For those couples looking for the best venues in Devon have to take into account a number of factors such as superb scenery, excellent views and unique locations before deciding on which venue suits them.  This underlines the fact as to why Devon is such a popular location for weddings. Although you will experience these qualities all over Devon, the surrounding areas around Tavistock are by far the best. There are companies such as Browns operating in the Devon area who specialise in providing the best wedding venues in Devon & Cornwall, it’s always a good idea to seek professional help to lighten the wedding load.

Hire a wedding planner to help you find your Devon wedding venue

If you are looking for someone to help with your wedding, then why not hire wedding planner to help relieve some of the stresses associated with organising a wedding. Through their experience they will be able to know how to make the most of the venue and the catering which will allow you to have a stress free wedding day. Although this maybe the easiest way to put together  a wedding, many wedding venues still give the brides the freedom to design the wedding in whatever way they wish to create their own unique wedding.

Think carefully about the food

Even though this may not be evident at the time, one of the things that your guests will remember is the quality of your food. Therefore, it is vital that you choose a venue that can offer a fantastic array of high quality food. Furthermore, Devon has a fantastic landscape with a great scenery and bordering coastal water which yield a variety of local food and drink which are usually used by most wedding venues.

After taking into account these 5 steps, you will be well on the way to enjoying your perfect wedding. Although, there will still be a lot of other things that need to be sorted before the wedding day itself but at least you will have secured the best Devon wedding venue by that stage.

The Top 5 Steps for Finding Your Dream Wedding Venues in Devon was originally published by HappytimeBlog - Backpacking around the world - Online Sihanoukville Cambodia Guide

Photo from Flickr by Chris Milne Photography

Biker or Bikie, you’re looking for your next adventure but your bored of the same old routes? Well you’re in luck! Carol Nash have come up with an easy to use online tool that allows you to pick and plan your next trip on the open road with ease and more importantly, at no cost to you. This new online bike route tool, in it’s functionality, is so simplistic, straightforward and intuitive, that any literate person, can research and create their desired motorbike route within minutes. Simply pick your region, route type, length and difficulty level and all your routes to ride options are provided for you. It’s that easy!

With 39 routes available throughout the UK, you can choose from an easy Sunday morning ride to a route that will allow you to open the throttle and get the adrenalin really pumping. This great bike route planing tool even allows you to select route tags so can you choose a ride that suits your particular preferences being flat, fast, coastal, scenic and even routes that will take you through mountains and past scenic lakes.

Once you have customised your search criteria, all you need to do is hit the ‘View Routes’ tab, where you will be presented with a list of routes that meet your search criteria. Once you select a route of interest, you will be provided with a detailed description including directions, the degree of difficulty, local attractions, scenery to expect and other particulars regarding the route, enabling you to make a more educated decision on which route best suits your interests and the type of experience you are after. To view the other route options, just return to the previous page and cycle through the other routes until you find the one that pleases you best.

One of the other great features of this online bike route tool, is not only the detailed route map that is provided but also the other handy icons that give you details from where to fuel up, grab a bite to eat and even where to stay along the way. Accommodation options en route also provide their web addresses and contact numbers to make the booking process that much easier.

The site also boasts a host of other features for the serious enthusiast, including an option for you to add your own favourite routes to the site, giving your fellow riders the opportunity to enjoy some of your own favourites. Another handy feature is an option to get a quote on the always essential, (though, perhaps never desired!) insurance options that Carole Nash provide.

Of all the route planning, trip advising and ride recommendation websites I have used over the years, routes to ride is by far the greatest, and most functional and informative, easiest and useful sites I have ever come across. So if your itching to hit the open road, routes to ride should be your first port of call!

Motorbiking through the UK but not sure where to go? was originally published by HappytimeBlog - Backpacking around the world - Online Sihanoukville Cambodia Guide

photo from Flickr by: fiat.luxury

Peru is one of South America’s most picturesque areas and a haven for tourists and travellers – from ancient Inca ruins to the flora and fauna of the Amazon jungle; from desert scenery to snow-capped mountain landscapes; from world famous treks following ancient pathways to more modern adrenalin activities such as white-water rafting or mountain biking in the Sacred Valley – and of course the never-ending warmth and colourful culture and dress of the local people. Aside from the classic destinations like Machu Picchu and the Inca Trial, there are many a range of other highlights which you must see during your stay:

1)    Lake Titicaca –

It is good to escape the somewhat seedy atmosphere of the nearby town of Puno and get out on the water to discover the unique floating islands on the world’s highest navigable lake.  It is a rather odd feeling ‘squelching’ around with little more than a few reeds between you and the water, and incredible to think that people actually live on these moving islands but the colour of the local’s native costumes and the dazzling smiles of the children make for a memorable visit.

2)    Sacred Valley –

The Urubamba Valley is not just all about Machu Picchu.  Within it lies countless other magnificent Incan ruins and the incredible city of Cuzco – a place where one can easily spend a week enjoying the sights, browsing the markets and enjoying the merging of cultures as native Quechuans come in from the surrounding countryside to sell their wares, amidst the modern Peruvian shops and backpacker hostels.  The best way to enjoy the many sights of the Sacred Valley is on one of the adrenalin adventures on offer here – white-water raft beneath towering cliffs and picturesque terraces, some still displaying remains of ancient Inca buildings or try mountain-biking on a ‘gravity-assisted, heart in your mouth’ ride.  What better way to enjoy Peru?!

photo from Flickr by: chany14

3)    Huacachina sand dunes –

Huacachina is the only oasis in South America and is surrounded by massive waves of sand that stretch all the way to the Pacific. Take a tour in the afternoon around 3:00pm or 4:00pm, the sun will still illuminate the landscape, but it won’t be too hot to handle. I had an amazing time sandboarding, which is pretty much Peruvian style snowboarding – you can stand up, sit or lay down; it was amazing to see fellow travellers faces as they descended down steep dunes scared for their lives! Legend has it that the oasis was created by a mystical mermaid princess, it’s absolutely beautiful.

4)    Amazon macaw clay lick –

Take an unforgettable river journey up the Upper Tambopata river, where you will see some of the most beautiful wildlife, including parrots and Macaws of all shades and colours. Delve deep into the Peruvian amazon, where the jungle joins the Andes to find some beautiful landscapes rich in biodiversity and colour. Here you can visit the famous macaw clay lick where hundreds of macaws gather to eat clay each day. These beautiful, multi-coloured birds illuminate the jungle from afar and are a really special sight.

5)    Gocta Falls –

Gocta falls is the largest waterfall in Peru, at 771m, and one of the largest in the world. Stay in Cocachimba for a night, there are some wonderful birds and wildlife here. The hike to the fall is well worth it, your guide will walk you through a number of crop fields and teach you some ancient Peruvian agricultural processes – I watched sugar cane being processed, powered by a huge, muscular ox. As you hike through areas of jungle, draped with vines and orchids, you will catch glimpses of the fall through the trees. Suddenly it appears like a beautiful pearl necklace draping the mountainside. Take a swim in the pool below the fall; people will soon disappear in the thick cloud of water vapour.

photo from Flickr by: ThiagoJ

6)    Arequipa –

Not as high on people’s lists as it should be.  The ‘White City’ lies beneath the stunning backdrop of snow-capped volcanoes and high altiplano. Its historical centre is a World Heritage Site and a peaceful contrast to Cuzco’s bustling streets.  The mesmerising blue and white walls of the Santa Catalina Monastery add to the appearance of a shimmering mirage surrounded by arid desert and the snowy peak of the Misti Volcano, which towers behind the city. Compared to the somewhat less appealing atmosphere of Lima, Arequipa is a breath of fresh air and a useful stopping off point before travelling up to the …..

7)     ….Colca Canyon –

Well the last sight on the list could have been the Nazca Lines or the Ballestas Islands, but to witness the sun rise over this breathtaking gorge, reportedly the deepest in the world, and then gasp as the massive wingspan of a condor passes overhead, soaring gracefully on the thermals, beats any scenic or wildlife wonders found on the Peruvian coast.  With no jungle on show and not an Inca ruin in sight, the Colca Canyon is one of Peru’s most surprising attractions.  Which is precisely the reason it makes it into this Top Seven!

Seven sights to see in Peru – off the beaten track was originally published by HappytimeBlog - Backpacking around the world - Online Sihanoukville Cambodia Guide

Photo from Flickr by tim caynes

Berlin! My favourite city in the world. The greatest nightlife I have ever encountered. Kreuzberg is my stomping ground of choice. The diversity of clubs, pubs, restaurants and people are mind blowing. I check into my hotel at around seven in the evening, just as the sun is setting. My room has a window overlooking the river Spree. It’s a million dollar view, for which I only paid one hundred and twenty Euros! I didn’t come here for the view though; I came to party like a rock star.

I have a shower and dress to impress. Now it’s just a short walk to my first stop. A small bar on Eichenstrasse, playing some chilled out funky house music. I head in and order a scotch and soda in Spanish. I don’t know any German and I always feel like such a tourist speaking English in any country, so I at least make some effort to seem a little cosmopolitan!

I head outside and spy a spare seat at a table with six or seven people that happen to be speaking English. Jackpot! I head over and ask if I can sit down. Luckily, they didn’t pull a Forrest Gump-esque,‘You can’t sit here’. We get to chatting and I find out that they are all DJs and are just having some warm up drinks before heading to the club that they work at, Club der Visionaire (http://clubdervisionaere.com). They invite me along to join them and check out their sets.

We head down the road, walk straight to the front of the line and get let in like royalty. Now this club is something else. It is set right on the river and is one of the most majestic places I have ever been to. I fell in love instantly. Maybe that has something to do with the fact that all of a sudden it’s ten in the morning and the owner of the club is asking me politely, by name to leave! I start trudging home in broad daylight, feeling like my legs weigh more than the taxi that I can no longer afford, hoping that the devil will appear so I can trade him my soul for a pair of sunglasses.

I finally make it into my room and it seems that the laws of physics are not applicable in Berlin as it is brighter inside my room than it was outside in the mid morning sun. However, this time I had no need to make a deal with the devil. I was in luck. I walked over to the window and lowered the Hillarys blackout blinds. Instant darkness. It was as if the window became a wall. If it wasn’t for those blinds, I just may have had to, ironically enough, make myself blind!

Saved by the Blackout Blinds; a Night in Berlin was originally published by HappytimeBlog - Backpacking around the world - Online Sihanoukville Cambodia Guide

Photo from flickr by pochacco20

Dolphins. One of the most sociable mammals in the world. The continual research into how dolphins behave and communicate is well documented in mainstream media- just ask any child and they can probably tell you that dolphins can kill sharks to protect their young. And there is a recurring theme in what is being learnt about dolphins- their behaviour is thought to be extremely similar to humans. They communicate, identify each other by whistles (the way we do a name) and live in families or ‘pods’. They are sociable, and their playful interaction with each other is thought to be important in keeping dolphins healthy.

So what happens when dolphins stop living in a pod? The phenomenon of the ‘solitary dolphin’ has caused concern amongst experts, who are still unsure of why it is happening and what it means for the mammals living solo. As humans, we use solitary confinement as a punishment, so it isn’t a long stretch to suppose that this phenomenon may be causing damage to solitary dolphins.

Of course we all secretly dream of splashing around in the sea one day and being approached by a dolphin who wants to play, Flipper style. But the reality of situations like this is far more worrying than any terrible ‘90s Hollywood movie was.

Scuba divers who have encountered solitary dolphins on dives around the world have reported seeing scratches and cuts, which look like they could have been made by fins worn by divers and snorkelers. Although unintentional, the damage done to dolphins whilst they ‘play’ with humans can be really dangerous for the animal. Cuts can get infected, plastic fins can damage a dolphin’s eyes as well as skin, and the less wary of humans dolphins become, the more dangerous we are to them.

Boats are also another serious hazard to solo dolphins, who reportedly get closer to boats than dolphins in pods. The New Zealand charity The Jonah Project have records of dolphins dying of septicaemia or having to be euthanized as a result of injuries caused by boat propellers.

Experts are currently in disagreement about what this phenomenon means for dolphins and the scientific community. Some argue that there is no value in studying solitary dolphins as they do not display normative behaviour (in fact, the leading international marine discussion forum MARMAN specifically bans mention of human-dolphin interactions, except for when they take place in an aquarium). Others argue that further study is needed, to learn more about what causes dolphins to break away from their pods.

So what can we do? One thing that most experts do seem to agree on is that if the opportunity to swim with a wild solitary dolphin does present itself, we must behave responsibly. ‘Taming’ wild animals can reduce their ability to hunt or defend themselves in their natural environment. It is also important to remember that solitary dolphins are still wild animals, even if they do approach humans, and that any wild animal can be unpredictable and dangerous in certain situations.

If on your travels, you do come across a solitary dolphin, the best decision is probably to marvel at it from a distance, rather than approaching it. Try to report your sighting to a local marine biology group, who may keep records of such occurrences. And if you really do dream of swimming with dolphins, opt to do it in a safe environment, for both you and the dolphin. Marine parks such as Discovery Cove in Florida can arrange for you to swim with dolphins under the watchful eye of an expert.

The Solitary Dolphin Phenomenon was originally published by HappytimeBlog - Backpacking around the world - Online Sihanoukville Cambodia Guide

Photo from Flickr by AdamCohn

Where ever you travel, you’ll meet backpackers who talk about ‘getting off the beaten track’. It sounds ideal, but when your main form of transport are buses, trains or (for the flashpackers amongst you) planes, it can be pretty difficult to get away from the most popular routes. But that doesn’t mean it is impossible, especially if you choose a more independent way to travel… like a bicycle.

There are a plethora of reasons why exploring places on a bike is a good idea: you cut down on your carbon footprint, it’s good exercise, you decide your own schedule and never have to wait hours for a bus that was definitely going to be there at 8am. But talk to anyone you meet who’s cycling and they’ll tell you the same thing- cycling means getting to explore places other travellers might never actually see. Planning a whole trip by bike can be really rewarding (check out Explore Adventure Holidays if you think it’s for you), but it can be equally enjoyable to rent a bicycle for a day or two, to explore the city you’re in. Especially if it’s one of these cities:

Battambang, Cambodia

Extremely flat, with not-too-crazy traffic, Battambang is an amazing place to get on your bike. The largest province in Cambodia, it doesn’t take long to get out of the town centre and discover rice fields, small villages and locals going about their daily business. There are loads of places in town that rent bikes for a dollar or two a day, or you could check out one of the local eco-tour companies who organise tours of the surrounding villages- www.soksabike.com/‎ or www.butterflytour.asia/‎ are your best bets.

Hoi An, Vietnam

The ‘Venice of South East Asia’, Hoi An Old Town is an idyllic place to explore by bicycle. No cars are allowed in the area around the old market and along the riverside, so cycling is pretty safe compared to many of the busier Vietnamese cities. It’s also only a half hour ride along relatively quiet roads to the beach, where you can laze in hammocks and drink fresh coconuts!

Don Det & Don Khon, Laos

One of those places still sometimes described as ‘off the beaten track’, Don Det is one of the small islands in the middle of the Mekong in Laos. Renting a bicycle is popular with backpackers who make it here, as the path around the island is only about 7km. It’s also worth paying the small fee to cross the old railway bridge from Don Det to Don Khon, which is not only very picturesque, but is the way out to the temple and large waterfall on Don Khon.

Kampot, Cambodia

The sleepy town of Kampot is a great place to mooch around on two wheels, stopping off at any one of the many great cafes if cycling along the river gets too much for you. If you’re feeling a bit more ambitious, head over the old bridge away from the town centre, take a right and keep going up into the hills. A few kilometres out there’s a bathing spot in the river, where you’ll find local kids playing with inner tubes and splashing around, whilst women sell iced coffee and fresh seafood.

Da Lat- Nha Trang, Vietnam

For the more adventurous among you, one of the most stunning routes to cycle is the mountain roads from Da Lat to Nha Trang. Winding, with some steep climbs, this isn’t something to do on a whim. The guys at www.phattireventures.com/bikedalatcoast.php can arrange good quality bikes, plus a support vehicle that travels with you (in case of any problems), but if you are up to the challenge, the views are unbelievable.

So, what are you waiting for? Get on your bike and get out exploring, whether it’s for a day or two leisurely cycling, or one of the many cycling holidays abroad available all over the world!

Top Cities to Explore by Bicycle in South East Asia was originally published by HappytimeBlog - Backpacking around the world - Online Sihanoukville Cambodia Guide

Photo from Flickr by Littleone33x

Air sickness is the kind of affliction that’s only really appreciated in terms of its severity by those who actually suffer from it. The feeling of not being able to travel by airplane or risk the most hideously unpleasant of journeys is something that can to an extent be life-changing especially for people who want to enjoy their multicentre holidays. The world as a whole can suddenly become a much smaller and more closed-off place if air travel is ruled out, which is an unfortunate reality faced by thousands across the world.

However, for most it usually becomes a case of just gritting teeth and bearing the brunt of what unpleasantness air travel might bring, rather than staying put and calling it quits on the idea. And the good news for those brave and plucky enough not to give up on their travel dreams is that there are plenty of tried and tested ways and means to combat air sickness, or at least minimise its effects to a significant extent.

Light Meals

Not just on the day of travel, but for a good few days beforehand it’s a good idea to start taking it easy on your body with a regime of light and healthy meals, doing away with gut-busting calorie-bombs. The latter is only guaranteed to make things worse and while the last thing you want is to feel worse due to being hungry on the journey, it isn’t a good idea to run the risk of an upset stomach before you even take off.

Hydration

Never forget the importance of hydration both before and during the flight – both of which should be upped from your daily norm. Don’t go drowning yourself in the stuff, but even if it means drinking when you don’t feel thirsty you need to make sure you hit your two-litre daily minimum and a fair bit extra besides. Dehydration and nausea are pretty inseparable bedfellows.

Comforts

Don’t just assume you’ll have a comfy seat on the plane, but if need be take along your own pillows and/or blanket to at least be as comfortable as possible for the duration.

Distractions

Some will find that reading makes everything better and other can’t even look at a book without feeling worse, but whatever it is that works in terms of distractions you should stock up on. Basically, anything that prevents you from dwelling on how bad you’re feeling or talking about it non-stop is a blessing.

General Health

Air sickness studies have proved that those in a good state of health are infinitely less likely to suffer truly horrific bouts than those whose health is of a rather poor level. As such, think about getting in shape prior to a journey and this could take the sting out of its tail in one fell swoop.

Cigarettes / Alcohol

And extension of the above, you might think alcohol and cigarettes calm your frayed nerves before a flight, but in reality they do a number on your body and increase your chances of a pretty unpleasant few hours ahead.

Sleep it Off

And finally, air sickness generally has no effect when a person is asleep. As such, if you can manage to time it so by the time you step on the plane you cannot keep your eyes open, sleeping off the whole of the flight is probably the biggest winner of all.

Seven Simple Tips for Fighting Air Sickness – Long-Haul or Otherwise was originally published by HappytimeBlog - Backpacking around the world - Online Sihanoukville Cambodia Guide

photo from Flickr by: Fryncita

When it comes to holidaying in Majorca, tourists are spoilt for choice. The island’s numerous events and famous nightlife obviously play a big role in what it has to offer, but the beaches, natural landscapes and countryside of Majorca are also one of its highlights for travellers. Choosing an appropriate destination to access both the island’s biggest draws and hidden gems can prove a difficult task, but the small, little known town of Palma Nova can prove to be a surprisingly good choice to do so.

photo from Flickr by: Fryncita

Palma Nova is one of Majorca’s first resorts built exclusively for tourism. A town in Calvia, its location means it’s just a twenty minute journey away from both the island’s capital of Palma and the bustling holiday resort of Magaluf. The latter plays host to some of Majorca’s most famous events and has some of its best bars and clubs, whilst the former is the go-to place for the best high streets and shops. If you’re in Palma, it’s also well worth going to the port town’s Old City, so named because it was constructed during Majorca’s Arab history. As such, it has a feel unlike anywhere else on the island, with its architecture and quietness setting it apart from the rest of the city.

photo from Flickr by: Wolfgang Jung

A forty-five minute car journey from Palma Nova will take you to one of Majorca’s less frequented towns. A number of small villages and hamlets with a collective population of only 12,000 make up Soller, a town that serves as a gateway to some of the best countryside on the island. A number of mountains both large and small surround the town and make ideal walks for both experienced and inexperienced hikers. Soller itself is home to several old lighthouses that make for interesting viewing, as well as a number of restaurants, cafes and shops where you can try the local food and purchase souvenirs.

If you’re interested in visiting one or all of these parts of Majorca, then the Don Bigote in Palma Nova is a good choice of hotel. It’s located right in the centre of Palma Nova, where you can easily find transport to the places above, but if you fancied a day of not travelling, it’s also just a short walk from the resort’s beach.

Holidaying in Majorca – taking advantage of all the island has to offer was originally published by HappytimeBlog - Backpacking around the world - Online Sihanoukville Cambodia Guide

When the cold weather starts to draw in I like to think about more exciting things than thermal socks and big scarves. This is the time of year for cracking out the old photo albums and seeing images of happy holidays of the past. Camping in France with keycamp, island hopping in Scotland and trekking in South America all tend to get fondly recalled over a hot chocolate and a doughnut or four.

Source: Flickr

So what makes a holiday memory special in the first place? Why are exotic trips and seemingly more mundane ones just as precious to me? I had a think about some of the reasons for this and here are the best ones I could come up with.

Once Upon a Time

Could it be that looking at older pictures gives me a warmer glow than looking at more recent ones? I think this is definitely the case and it is far more interesting to get out my old, tattered snaps which I took on a dodgy old camera than look at smart digital ones on screen. I am not quite sure why this is but older holidays certainly seem to have an extra special feeling attached to them.

Lost Friends

Another thing I noticed is that in many of my older snaps there are people I have since sadly lost touch with for one reason or another. In some cases these were just fellow travellers I had bumped into by chance and spent a few days with. However, in a few days with someone on holiday you can spent a lot more quality time than with, for example, someone you sit next to at work for years. I often wonder what happened to the people I have some shared travel memories with and I am pretty sure that they wonder the same thing of me. In these days of Facebook and what have you it is easy to stay in touch I suppose but for me that might take away some of the magic I am talking about here.

The Chances of Going Back

This in another point which is quite difficult to explain. Is it more interesting to remember time spent in incredibly exotic places which I know that I will never, ever go back to or is it better to look back at those holidays which could be fairly easily repeated? There is certainly something incredible about looking at a picture of myself somewhere like Machu Picchu and knowing that it was a once in a lifetime experience. However, there is also a lot to be said for recalling those trips made to places which I know I can go back to next year if I like.

Source: Flickr

So what’s the verdict? To be honest, as I’ve gone through my memories I have come to realise that I simply love getting away. You could offer me a fortnight in China or a couple of days on a Keycamp holiday and I would jump at the chance. If you approach your holidays with this attitude I reckon that they will all be memorable for one reason or another.

Special Holiday Memories for a Long Winter was originally published by HappytimeBlog - Backpacking around the world - Online Sihanoukville Cambodia Guide

Photo from Flickr by Donna_Rutherford

Becoming a victim of crime is always unpleasant, but doubly so when it happens abroad. Apart from the fact that it is likely to spoil your holiday, it can be intimidating to have to deal with police and other public bodies in a system that is alien, and in an unknown language. There is also the issue that police in other countries may be unhelpful or may not investigate the case as well as could be hoped. In some countries where corruption is widespread, you may have to hand over some cash before you see anything such as a crime report.

Many British travellers may not realise that they are lucky enough to have the Foreign Office at hand in case of emergency. As part of the British Embassy abroad, it is dedicated to looking after British people who have become victims of crime. The British Embassy has outposts in almost every country in the world, so is in a position to deal with issues arising from crime on the victim’s behalf. There are various things that this section of the Embassy will do on behalf of travellers.

In case of an emergency situation or becoming a victim of crime, the first thing to do is to contact the Office. Where necessary, it will arrange lawyers and interpreters who will be able to help you make holiday compensation claims whether it’s to your insurance company or to a third party insurer.

The Embassy will also be in a position to contact relatives and friends of the victim in the UK, and informing them of the situation, as well as easing their minds and keeping them up to date with what’s going on. In some cases, they will be able to organise the transferring of money from family or friends in the UK, for example if a robbery has occurred and the victim has been left with nothing. They are also able to cash cheques for holidaymakers into the local currency.

The Embassy has limitations, of course, and it should not be expected that they will give general financial help, or be able to get involved with the outcome of criminal trials. Neither will they be able to give legal advice. However, British lawyers are on hand to do this even when crimes have occurred abroad.

Any Brits looking to set off on a backpacking trip should note the contact information for the Foreign Office somewhere accessible, such as in an email. Leave loved ones at home with the same number so that in case there’s a national emergency or natural disaster in some area where you’re travelling, they’ll be able to know if you’re okay. Use the sources at your disposal!

Victims of Crime Abroad was originally published by HappytimeBlog - Backpacking around the world - Online Sihanoukville Cambodia Guide