He said that Mexico is a high crime area, describing it as the kidnap capital of the world. Other areas where travelers could be at higher risk include parts of Africa (for those considering an African safari), particularly in the southern Saharan region, and certain areas in Kenya.

Street smarts

There are simple things travelers can do when they're on vacation to reduce their risk of being a victim of crime. Odom recommends that individuals try to dress down and blend in with their surroundings and not advertise the fact that they are Americans.

Wear an inexpensive watch while touring or shopping, and avoid wearing gold necklaces or earrings. Thieves are savvy enough to recognize a Rolex or a cheap knock-off. “Go without it and you mitigate the risk,” added Odom. He also recommended not flashing your cell phone in public and making yourself invisible on the street.

Airport safety

Odom said the majority of terrorist attacks take place in the public areas of airports, “That's where your attention to risk should be sky high,” he cautioned. “Spend as little time as possible in the public areas of the airport like check-in and baggage claim.” The gate area is actually more secure than the public areas because everyone has passed through security at that point.

Odom said that people who survive attacks in public areas do so because they immediately drop to the ground and take cover. If someone starts firing a gun, Odom said to get as low as possible on the floor and seek cover if possible.

When arriving overseas, be cautious with how much information is shared with immigration and customs agents. Odom recommends being somewhat vague when describing your job and responsibilities. Use terms like businessman, consultant or even say you're retired instead of an executive, president or other position to minimize the risk of kidnapping for ransom.

He also cautioned against giving a home address and recommends providing a business address when overseas, and only using an actual home address when returning to the U.S.

Tourists being met by a pre-arranged driver should not use their full name on the sign or any indication that they're Americans. Odom suggests using some more generic such as Señor Lopez or Gomez in a Latin American country. Even using just initials will provide a level of anonymity and protection.

While the most secure way to get into town is through a pre-arranged driver, Odom says that hotel vans are another safe and reliable way to get around because they are rarely attacked. If taking a taxi, make sure to use only a legitimate taxi service because they are usually registered and controlled. Gypsy or pirate cabs may be cheaper, but they could also be driven by criminals and cost far more in the long run.

There are additional security measures travelers can take to protect themselves and their belongings in a hotel room. (Photo: Shutterstock)

Hotel room security

When booking a hotel, there are several factors to consider. As evidenced by some of the attacks overseas, terrorists do target large iconic hotels, but Odom said that they also tend to have better security than some of the smaller boutique hotels. However, smaller hotels may be less likely to be targeted.

Once in the room, check all of the locks, chains and u-bars. Travelers can purchase a variety of portable door alarms and locks that will provide a good measure of security. Also make sure that the hotel room phone works in case of an emergency, and review the escape route from the room in the event of a fire. “Murphy's law dictates that if there is a fire, it will be at 2 a.m.,” stated Odom.

When using an in-room safe, Odom said to always recognize that you use it at your own risk. If something is particularly valuable it's better to use the hotel's safe deposit boxes.

Traveling around town

The principle risk for most travelers is street crime explained Odom. Criminals go where the money is and the highest crime areas tend to be the resort and financial districts because that is where the wealthy tourists spend time.

“Always walk with purpose,” he advised, “and act like this is your town. Don't put anything in your pockets you don't want to lose, and don't display any wealth.”

Be particularly cautious when approached by strangers asking for directions or the time. “They're trying to slow you down so they can work you,” said Odom. He recommended using money belts to protect money and credit cards.

“Trust your instincts. Stay on streets that are well traveled, and don't ignore suspicious persons or activities,” he added.

Odom warns tourists to just give up whatever the thieves want if they are mugged. “Make up your mind to give up whatever you're losing,” he said and that should increase the chances of getting out of the situation unharmed.

He also cautions that travelers should be aware of any unrest or political instability in the countries they will be visiting. If a coup occurs, he advised just staying in the hotel room and not trying to get to the airport. “They will shut that down immediately,” he said. “Call your family and the American Embassy in that city or country to let them know where you are, but just hunker down in the hotel.”

If employees are traveling for work, Odom cautioned against letting them know if the company carries kidnap and ransom insurance. “That's the first thing they'd tell the kidnappers,” he explained. Instead, tell them there is a travel “program” in place and if anything happens, the company will do its best to provide assistance.

Justin Tysdal, CEO of Seven Corners Insurance, also recommends that companies provide additional training on travel risks, medical risks and security issues. “Travel policies can cover crisis situations, evacuations, terrorism, kidnap and ransom and more.” 

Kidnap and ransom insurance provides financial and crisis support for a number of threats including kidnapping, extortion, detention of an employee, hijacking or even in the event an employee diappears, explains Tysdal. Crisis management insurance offers coverages “for immediate personal crisis response and management services in case of events including natural disaster, acts of terrorism, politial unrest, disappearance or wrongful detention,” adds Tysdale.

Odom says that people can generally travel safely anywhere except for war zones if they know what they're doing. Taking some practical, common sense steps can be the difference between a dream vacation or a nightmare.