While traveling it is necessary not to lose yourself completely in � �making the deal� � as safety is a big issue too. Especially now a days when the traveling climate is so tense and frauds are so abundant. Remember youre vulnerable when youre on the road, so be careful� �� �� �� �� �

� � Before you travel to a particular city, do online research and check out areas of your interest. Talk to people who have traveled there before you and ask their assessment of the place.

� � Purchase your airline tickets online, either through a travel site or through the airline of your choice. Then print your itinerary and boarding passes before arriving at the airport, which speeds the check-in process. If you happen to lose your itinerary during your business trip, all youll have to do log on and print another copy.

� � Keep your eyes on your carry-on bags. Dont put them on the conveyer belt to be scanned until the person ahead of you clears security.

� � On the plane, keep your laptop underneath the seat in front of you when youre not using it, not in the overhead compartment where it could get tossed around or stolen.

� � Never hitchhike. Also, do not accept rides from unlicensed taxi drivers. Look for a taxi stand and wait for the airport personnel to call you a cab. Alternatively, check out the designated stops for hotel shuttles that will take you to your destination.

� � Flashing expensive accessories or wads of cash draws the eye of thieves so keep a low profile on the street.

� � Take only the credit cards that you will need on your trip, and leave the others behind. Also, when going out at night, leave unnecessary cards back in your hotel room. This will save you the hassle of having to report and replace lost or stolen cards.

� � Keep your money and credit cards in a money belt and wear it in front of you tucked inside your pants, then carry an empty wallet or purse. Female travelers should tuck purses under their arm instead of wearing it slung over their shoulder.

� � If you� �re traveling with your laptop or other high-priced electronics or jewelry, speak with the hotels management about putting these items in a safe or valuables holding spot.

� � Always use all the locks on your hotel room door. If theres a chain lock, fasten it before going to bed. And be sure to rattle your rooms door when exiting to make sure that its properly locked.

� � Avoid the areas of town where rough elements are known to proliferate. Ask your hotel concierge for suggestions on where to eat and what areas of town to visit.

� � If you are traveling with colleagues, try to do as many group activities as possible. Staying with a group will help maintain your safety, and keep you from being a statistic.

� � When you venture out, and especially if you do so alone and at night, speak with the hotel concierge to learn which neighborhoods to avoid. Inquire about which areas pickpockets frequent, streets you should steer clear of, and where the best places are to hail a cab.

Business Travel is an important part of our lifestyle. While the evolving technologies of video conferencing and satellite communications have changed our priorities, the Business Traveller remains a constant ----------so again be careful.