You guys know I love my Muslim brothers, and most of the time, I have felt quite safe when I have visited, or lived in Muslim countries like Egypt, Nigeria, Morocco, and other places.

However, I must admit, there are times I have felt harassed and just wanted to slap somebody. Of course, I do try to dress a bit more conservatively than usual (and you know that shit is hard for me ’cause I love me some Daisy dukes and sexy heels) but no matter what I wear, sometimes the men can be…a bit much.

Most of the time, they were not looking to harm me. At least, I have not felt my life was in danger in these places. Some strangers may not have had pure intentions and may have been capable of hurting me financially, emotionally, or sexually if they had the choice. But I have tried to be aware of my surroundings and to prepare myself as much as possible for the possibility of being in danger.

I do not think that it is possible to “do” anything to keep yourself 100% safe when you are a woman existing on this planet in this day and age. But you can do what you can to stay “safer” by learning how to protect yourself.

One small way to do this is to prepare yourself verbally. It only takes a few minutes to memorize a few phrases that could help you. But, alas, be prepared to say them many times throughout the day in some places that are known to have men who prey on solo female travelers.

In order to travel safely as a woman in any country, it helps to know a few basic words to say to a man who might be harassing you, or making you afraid or uncomfortable. If you are traveling in an Arab country, just learning a few words can help you to clearly express that you want to be left alone.

While speaking may not be enough to help you feel safe, your shouting in Arabic may startle a man long enough for you to have a bit more of an advantage. Also, if a man hears you speaking in his native Arabic language, he might think that you are an ex-pat or married to a local Muslim man, or maybe even that you are Muslim.

While none of these beliefs are enough to protect you 100%, sometimes you just need a minute to think of your next step or to evaluate what your options are if you feel that you are in danger.

Most of the time, men are not seeking to actually harm you physically, but learning a few words and phrases is one of the many various ways you can try to protect yourself.

Below are a few words and phrases you can memorize. Click here to hear the correct way to pronounce these words, and check out these videos to find other ways to ask for help, as well as to learn other helpful Arabic phrases.


No – La


La, which is the Arabic word for no, is really easy to pronounce and can be helpful in any situation. If you just say La, it is a strict and definite no. If someone tries to sell you something, you can politely decline with la, shokran. This is also clear, but polite. 


Enough – Safi/Baraka


If you are harassed or a man follows you and becomes pushy, you will always get further with the clear statement Safi or Baraka. The more specific you say this, the clearer it is. Especially when people are around, it can help to say this very loudly and thus draw attention to yourself.


Go away – Siir


Also helpful when getting rid of a man who is following you or getting too pushy is a loud Siir. This means go away and is very clear and understandable.

Help Me!- Saeidni

Saeidni is the word to yell in a crowd, or if a man still has not left you alone after you try the other phrases. In any country, it is helpful to be loud when you feel pressured. If you can’t remember the language, a loud “leave me alone” in English is also sufficient to make it clear that you are feeling harassed.

Of course, words alone may not be enough to help you stay safe, but you can check out these articles to find other tips to help you stay as safe as possible while traveling solo.

Since travel is pretty much on hold now due to the pandemic, why not use this time to learn a new language? Check out this article on “65 Best Netflix Shows to Learn a New Language”.

What are some of the ways you keep yourself safe while traveling? Please comment below.

BEFORE YOU GO:

 Book your flight:  My absolute favorite sites for cheap flights are Skiplagged and Kiwi.com. I also find really great deals on Skyscanner, Google Flights, and Momondo. The reason I’ve been able to get dirt cheap flights around the world is that I’m flexible, not only with travel dates but also with airlines, baggage, seat choices, etc.

 Book your accommodation: I always use Airbnb and Booking.com. If you’re on a budget, consider using  Hostelworld. If you click on the Airbnb link and you don’t have an account yet – you’ll get a $30 discount on your first booking.

 Protect yourself: Yes, I mean condoms, girl. But also, travel insurance. Travel insurance is a must, especially in a post coronavirus pandemic world. World Nomads and SafetyWing offer the best rates. 

  Do you need a visa? If you aren’t sure if you need a visa, it would be a smart idea to take a quick look before you go. You can use iVisa – it’s super useful and easy to use.

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I prefer focusing on writing content rather than sending emails, but in the future, I intend to make more time, both for emails and stalking men who have ghosted me.

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For the best accommodations, and more tips & tricks when traveling to Morocco, check out these popular articles below:

And here are a few other general tips on safety for the solo female traveler:

Solo Female Travel Safety Tips

Staying Safe in Morocco

How to Avoid Romance Scams

Avoid Getting Robbed

How a Smart Woman Got Scammed by Sex Tourism Gigalos

Don’t Let Your Sex Toys Get You Arrested

Before You Go: Money Tips & Tricks

For more travel tips and tricks, and to learn about the world’s most romantic destinations, check out Love Lust or Bust!

This article was written by April Hope.

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