Women
Role of women
The role of women varies widely from country to country and culture to culture. This is a good reminder both to better appreciate a destination's traditions as well as for maintaining personal safety.
Thevast majority of female students that study abroad have exciting and safe experiences traveling internationally. However, in some situations, you may feel some frustration with local attitudes and behaviors toward women. This is all part of the international experience, which invariably involves some degree of cultural adjustment. It's possible that you could find yourself in situations where you experience overt gender discrimination.
Preparation is Key
It is best to prepare yourself before you travel by doing adequate research so you'll have an idea of what to expect as a woman in the host country. For instance, find out how local women dress, how women are expected to behave, how dating works.
Your personal safety
Again, research before you go, and talk to others, particularly women, in your host country to learn about local cultural practices. Is it approriate and safe to smile at strangers? To be seen alone with a male companion? Are there areas or particular places it's best to avoid?
Safety tips:
- Be aware of your surroundings.
- At night, travel in groups, and never walk home alone.
- Be sure you know the local emergency phone number.
- Observe how local women dress and behave.
- Prioritize your personal safety over cultural sensitivity.
- Pay attention to dressing in a culturally appropriate way.
- For females, the presence of a male friend can deflect unwanted attention.
- Try pairing up with another solo traveler.
- Make sure you know the local emergency phone number.
- Take a self-defense class before going abroad.
- Stay in hostels with a clientele of travelers like you.
- Learn basic phrases in the local language.
- If you are being cat called, avoid eye contact since this can be seen as an invitation in some cultures.
- Try to arrive at your destination during the day.
- Engage in conversation with locals about their roles and how to deflect unwanted attention.
It is advisable to dress and act like the local women, and they can be a good resource if you need advice on how to stay safe in the area. Be aware of cultural differences, including body language, that may be misinterpreted in your host culture. If you get lost or need directions, it may be safer to ask a woman than a man. (Read more about women students abroad.)
Women and men are not affected equally by alcohol: Women make up about two-thirds of American study abroad students, and in general, women will be more affected by the alcohol they consume than a man of the same size and weight. Women typically have a higher percentage of body fat than men and will absorb more of the alcohol they consume. Women also tend to have less of an enzyme which helps to break down alcohol in the stomach. As a result, women can absorb almost a third more alcohol than men when they drink.
Risk of Sexual Assault: Alcohol use can result in a number of sexual consequences, including unprotected sex; sexual assault; greater exposure to HIV/AIDS and STD's; and pregnancy. Most sexual assaults involve the use of alcohol on the part of the perpetrator or the victim. Alcohol misuse can result in impaired judgment, which can put you at risk for either committing a sexual assault or becoming the victim of a sexual assault.
Date rape drugs: Rohypnol (also called "roofies" or the "date rape" drug) and GHB are two drugs that are often implicated in sexual assaults. These drugs are sometimes used recreationally but are often given to a person without their knowledge or consent. They are odorless and tasteless (GHB can leave a slightly salty taste in a drink) and can be easily dissolved in a drink. When either of these drugs is administered, you can suffer from dis-inhibition, loss of consciousness, and the inability to remember events that took place while under the influence.
Tips for staying safe:
Do not accept beverages, including nonalcoholic ones, from someone not known and well trusted.
In a bar, only accept drinks from the bartender or wait staff.
Always watch your drink at bars and parties. Never leave your drink unattended. Be aware of what's going on around you.
Be alert to behavior of friends. If someone appears much more drunk than they should be, considering the amount of alcohol consumed, be concerned and closely monitor the person's behavior.
If you feel dizzy, disoriented or physically uncomfortable in any way, tell someone you trust and ask for help in getting home.
Sexual safety
Host country nationals can sometimes have a stereotyped image of American women, often acquired through TV and other media. Men, in particular, might presume a heightened level of sexual promiscuity. Whistling and catcalling are common behaviors in some countries. If you find yourself the target, it's best to avoid eye contact, since this can be seen as an invitation in some cultures. Cultural sensitivity does not mean you must submit to behaviors that make you uncomfortable or invade your personal boundaries. When in doubt, prioritize personal safety over cultural sensitivity.
Find more practical advice about sexual safety for women students.
Campus Resources
If you have any concerns before or after you study abroad, then the Women's Resource Center is a good place to visit for support.
Counseling and Psychological Services
Counseling & Psychological Services (C&PS) is availbale if you wish to speak with a counselor...
Resources for Women Travelers
Her Own Way
This publication is filled with practical tips specifically of interest to the female traveler.
Journey Woman
Travel tips geared toward women, including everything from personal travel stories to what to wear.
Sexual Assault Support and Help for Americans Abroad (SASHAA)
Providing sexual assault prevention & response regardless of age, race, gender, sexual orientation, or location worldwide.