Many of the women I talk with are heading to Morocco, Egypt, or another Arabic-speaking country to visit a partner, sometimes for the very first time. Even if he's wonderful, he won't be by your side every minute. A few words of Arabic in your pocket help you feel steady and confident on your own.

I've spent a lot of time traveling and living in Arabic-speaking countries, including Egypt and Morocco, and for the most part, I've felt genuinely safe and welcomed. That said, I won't pretend harassment never happens. It can, and when it does, having a few words ready can make a real difference.

No single thing can guarantee 100% safety for a woman traveling alone, anywhere in the world. But preparation helps, and one small, easy way to prepare is verbal. It only takes a few minutes to memorize a handful of phrases that can help you set a clear boundary in the moment.

If you're traveling somewhere Arabic is spoken, knowing a few words can help you clearly and confidently communicate that you want to be left alone.

Speaking up isn't a guarantee of safety on its own, but a firm, unexpected response, especially in the local language, can startle someone enough to buy you a moment to assess your surroundings and figure out your next move. It can also signal that you're not an easy target, which matters more than people realize.

Below are a few words and phrases worth memorizing before your trip.

No - La

La, the Arabic word for no, is simple to pronounce and useful in almost any situation. Said on its own, it's a firm, clear no. Adding "shokran" (la, shokran) softens it slightly while staying just as clear, useful if someone is simply trying to sell you something.

Enough - Safi / Baraka

If someone becomes pushy or won't take no for an answer, a firm "Safi" or "Baraka" gets the point across clearly. Saying it loudly, especially around other people, can help draw attention and de-escalate the situation.

Go away - Siir

A loud, clear "Siir" means go away, and it leaves no room for misinterpretation.

Help me! - Saeidni

"Saeidni" is the word to call out in a crowd if someone won't leave you alone after you've tried everything else. In any country, being loud when you feel unsafe is almost always the right move. And if the local phrases slip your mind in the moment, a loud "leave me alone" in English works too, the tone communicates as much as the words.

Words alone aren't a complete safety plan, but they're one more useful tool. What are some of the ways you stay safe while traveling solo? Share in the comments.

This article was written by April Hope.