All the advice you need for a safe time overseas.
Usually, parents are the watchdogs, right? Now it's up to you and your mates to look out for each other. Luckily, Smartraveller's got all the advice you need for a safe time.
Smartraveller's got all the advice you need for a safe time.
Certain situations carry more risk; like mixing the trio of drinking + drugs + navigating water or heights. Just a heads up – a little extra vigilance goes a long way in these moments.
So, when you're out partying or just having a few, stay sharp. Drink spiking and methanol poisoning are real dangers, so know what they are, recognise the signs, and do your best to avoid them.
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Drink spiking is slipping alcohol or date rape drugs into a drink. Sneaky, right? These drugs are like ghosts – no color, no smell, no taste. Stay savvy out there!
Some of the signs you may have been spiked are:
• feeling drunker than expected
• speech difficulties such as slurring
• memory loss and blackout
• loss of balance and difficulty walking
• nausea and vomiting
• a severe hangover when you had little or no alcohol to drink.
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Alcohol production is less regulated in some destinations than in Australia. This can lead to methanol (which is highly toxic!) being added. As little as one shot of methanol can be fatal. Locals and foreigners, including Australians, have died, or become seriously ill from poisoned drinks. Labels on bottles aren't always accurate.
Drinks that could be contaminated include:
• local home-brewed spirits
• spirit-based drinks, such as cocktails
• brand name alcohol
It’s important you’re vigilant whenever you’re consuming alcohol, but especially if you’re having these types of drinks.
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In a situation where you’re surrounded by friends and having a good time, it can be hard to say no to new experiences. If you want to take drugs or are offered some by friends, know the impacts it could have on you. You should take extra care if you’re offered drugs by strangers. Remember, you’re not in Australia and you’re even less likely to know what’s in the drugs.
Drug use, even one time drug use, can have detrimental effects. Consider whether it’s worth the risk.
Here are some of the impacts of drug use when overseas:
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You could suffer a serious side effect or overdose and need urgent medical assistance. Sometimes from substances cut with toxic chemicals. Other times from drugs of higher purity than expected.
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You could become a victim of a crime. This includes theft, mugging, assault and sexual assault. When you're on drugs, you're less aware, and less able to protect yourself. An easier target.
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Using drugs tends to void travel insurance policies, so any costs you incur for medical assistance or property problems are on you. Or your family.
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Arrest, jail and the death sentence are the most publicised impacts of drug use overseas. The Australian Government is limited in how and when it can help.
