A solo female travel expert has issued an urgent safety warning to holidaymakers after experiencing a terrifying burglary while she slept during a recent trip to St Lucia. Sue Ross, founder of the travel platform Sue Where Why What, described the incident as 'sickening' but considers herself fortunate that the intruder only stole her valuables and left her physically unharmed.
Night-Time Intrusion Prompts Safety Rethink
The burglary occurred in the middle of the night when an intruder sneaked into the apartment where Sue was staying alone. This shocking experience has led her to passionately advocate for improved security practices among travellers, particularly those journeying solo. She now dedicates herself to helping others avoid similar ordeals by sharing practical, actionable advice.
Critical Pre-Sleep Security Checks
Speaking to the Daily Express, Sue emphasised several non-negotiable steps every holidaymaker should take before sleeping. One key tip she regrets ignoring is ensuring all windows are securely locked throughout the night. She explained a significant change in her own behaviour: 'If there is one big thing I have changed it's appreciating air conditioning, or using fans to get the air circulating. I will never open the windows at night again.'
She added a crucial caveat for situations without cooling systems: 'If there isn't any air conditioning or a fan, then again, the higher your room, the better for both safety reasons and access to a cooling breeze.' However, she cautioned that even higher floors aren't foolproof, as intruders can use balconies or fire escapes, making window security paramount.
Simple Yet Effective Deterrents
Beyond window locks, Sue stressed the importance of drawing curtains to add an extra layer of privacy and security. For door safety, she recommends using a rubber doorstop or, for those willing to invest, an alarmed version. Propping a chair against the door handle can also create an additional obstacle. Burglars typically seek easy targets with minimal complications, so implementing these physical barriers can often prompt them to abandon their attempts and flee.
Expert Insights from Seasoned Travellers
Meanwhile, another experienced female traveller has shared unique safety strategies on the social media platform Reddit, specifically tailored for women holidaying alone. Her advice includes keeping jewellery 'very minimal' during trips but suggests wearing a cheap, fake wedding ring. This tactic aims to deter unwanted attention, as some men might misinterpret a woman travelling alone as seeking romance.
The Reddit user elaborated: 'Especially in the US or English-speaking countries where random men are more likely to engage with you if you’re not wearing one.' This simple prop can serve as a psychological deterrent in certain cultural contexts.
Creative Strategies for Uncomfortable Situations
For moments when travellers feel particularly vulnerable, such as with a 'sketchy' taxi driver, this seasoned traveller advises employing light acting to enhance safety. She shared examples: 'I have pretended to have conversations with someone I’m meeting. I might even say “See you soon Dad” or “Meet you there husband".'
The underlying principle is clear: 'Do not let anyone know you are alone' and 'lie your way out of sketchy situations if you stumble into them.' These deceptions, while minor, can create a perception of support and deter potential threats.
Both Sue's ordeal and the collective wisdom from experienced travellers highlight that vigilance and preparation are key. By adopting these practical measures—from securing windows and doors to using social strategies—holidaymakers can significantly reduce risks and enjoy their travels with greater peace of mind.
