## What People Fear Most About Travelling to Africa
Africa is a continent with a rich history, diverse cultures, and stunning natural beauty. However, it is also a continent that is often misunderstood and feared by outsiders. Many people have misconceptions about Africa, and these misconceptions can lead to unfounded fears about travelling to the continent.
In this article, we will discuss some of the most common fears people have about travelling to Africa. We will also provide information to help you overcome these fears and make your trip to Africa a safe and enjoyable one.
### Fear of Crime
One of the most common fears people have about travelling to Africa is the fear of crime. While it is true that crime does exist in Africa, it is important to remember that it is not as widespread as many people believe. In fact, many African countries are actually safer than some popular tourist destinations in Europe and North America.
If you are concerned about crime, there are a few things you can do to reduce your risk:
Be aware of your surroundings. Pay attention to the people and things around you, and be aware of any potential dangers.
Avoid walking alone at night. If you are going out at night, be sure to travel with a friend or group.
Keep your valuables safe. Keep your passport, money, and other valuables in a secure place.
Don’t flash your cash. This can make you a target for thieves.
Be respectful of local customs. This will help you avoid any misunderstandings or conflicts.
### Fear of Disease
Another common fear people have about travelling to Africa is the fear of disease. While it is true that some diseases are prevalent in Africa, it is important to remember that these diseases are not always easy to catch. In fact, many of these diseases can be prevented by taking simple precautions, such as:
Getting vaccinated. There are a number of vaccines available to protect you from diseases that are common in Africa. Be sure to talk to your doctor about which vaccines are right for you.
Taking anti-malarial medication. Malaria is a serious disease that can be fatal if not treated. If you are travelling to an area where malaria is present, be sure to take anti-malarial medication.
Using insect repellent. Mosquitoes can transmit a number of diseases, including malaria and dengue fever. Be sure to use insect repellent to keep mosquitoes away.
Drinking clean water. This will help you avoid waterborne diseases, such as diarrhoea and typhoid fever.
### Fear of Wildlife
Many people also fear the wildlife in Africa. While it is true that there are some dangerous animals in Africa, it is important to remember that these animals are not typically aggressive towards humans. In fact, many of these animals are more afraid of humans than humans are of them.
If you are concerned about wildlife, there are a few things you can do to reduce your risk:
Stay on marked trails. This will help you avoid getting lost and coming into contact with dangerous animals.
Don’t approach wildlife. This includes both large and small animals.
Be aware of your surroundings. Pay attention to the sounds and smells around you, and be aware of any potential dangers.
If you see a dangerous animal, don’t run. Running can trigger the animal’s prey drive and cause it to attack. Instead, slowly back away and leave the area.
### Fear of the Unknown
One of the biggest fears people have about travelling to Africa is the fear of the unknown. This fear can be based on a number of things, including:
Unfamiliar cultures. Africa is a continent with a diverse range of cultures. This can be daunting for some people, who may be unfamiliar with the local customs and traditions.
Unfamiliar languages. There are over 2,000 languages spoken in Africa. This can make it difficult to communicate with local people, which can lead to feelings of isolation and anxiety.
Unfamiliar landscapes. Africa is a continent with a wide range of landscapes, from lush rainforests to vast deserts. This can be overwhelming for some people, who may be unfamiliar with the local environment.
If you are concerned about the unknown, there are a few things you can do to prepare yourself:
Do your research. Before you travel to Africa, be sure to do some research on the country or countries you will be visiting. This will help you learn about the local cultures, traditions, and languages.
Learn some basic phrases. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language can help you communicate with local people and make your trip more enjoyable.
Be open to new experiences. One of the best ways to overcome your fear of the unknown is to be open to new experiences. This means trying new things, meeting new people, and exploring new places.
### Conclusion
Travelling to Africa can be a life-changing experience. However, it is important to be aware of the potential fears and challenges that you may face. By understanding these fears and taking the necessary precautions, you can help make your trip to Africa a safe and enjoyable one.
Here are some additional tips for overcoming your fears about travelling to Africa:
Talk to other people who have travelled to Africa. This can help you get a better idea of what to expect and how to prepare for your trip.
Read books and articles about Africa. This can help you learn about the continent’s history, culture, and people.
Watch documentaries about Africa. This can help you get a visual sense of the continent and its people.
Take a group tour. This can help you feel more safe and secure, and it can also be a great way to meet other people who are interested in Africa.