Survival Guide

By Janine Gee

This book includes 30 informative chapters divided into Part 1 - Prepare for Travel, Part 2 - Passage and Part 3 - Prepare for survival (in natural disasters and other emergencies).
John Brandt's career began some 50 years ago in cryptology, counterintelligence, counterterrorism and undercover work in association with Special Forces around the world, particularly with Israeli Special Forces and the SAS. This provides him with extensive knowledge in the fields of intelligence and counter-terrorism. Due to the classified nature of the work he was often involved in, a great deal of travelling and undercover work was required.
John Brandt and Janine Gee team up to bring you this book, which is easy to use and includes these useful appendices:
Appendix A ~ To Do List (prior to travel)
Appendix B ~ Shopping List (for travel)
Appendix C ~ What to pack (when travelling)
This handy little book will ensure that you leave no essentials behind and enjoy the safest journey possible. It will also enable the reader to maximise their chances of survival in a natural disaster or other emergency.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Janine Gee
• Release date: Oct 23, 2011
• ISBN: 9781466065093

Janine Gee

Janine Gee was born, raised and educated in Adelaide, South Australia. Throughout her diverse career she has worked all around Australia in documentation and training in the software implementation environment (Information Technology in a variety of clients' industries). This experience facilitated her progression into a career as author. On a personal level Janine, a serial monogamous dieter, tried diet after diet, each with the same disappointing result. In 2001, a lengthy juggle of dieting and many minor ailments culminated in a battle with a persistent migraine. Janine's 30-year battle with her weight and abrupt solution to a six-week migraine sparked a journey of unimaginable discovery which became the foundation of the book The Epigenetics of Diet. It is about foods, imitation foods and contaminants and their effects on our emotions, bodies and behaviour. Her first book explains how the reader can discover their ideal body shape without the need for drugs ... simply by eating real food ... a *dietary* survival guide! It dispels the myths asserted by the agricultural, pharmaceutical and psychiatric industries! Epigenetics is a fascinating science that bridges the gap between nature and nurture. People evolve in order to survive. Children born on the Gaza strip with PTSD live longer than children born there without PTSD ... and they certainly aren't medicated either. A number of elderly Australians have also teamed up with Janine to co-author many other titles about travelling safely and surviving natural disasters and man-made emergencies (Survival Guide) and University booklets that detail what is required and expected of tertiary students. Her diverse experience and extensive skill set support her talent as a gifted author and co-author of books that appeal to a wide audience. Simply take a look at the growing diversity of her titles. There is likely to be something for even the most discernible reader.

Book preview

Overview

"It is not the strongest of the species that survives,

or the most intelligent that survives.

It is the one that is the most adaptable to change."

~ Charles Darwin

About the author

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Please allow me to introduce myself, John Brandt, as the author of this book. My career began some 50 years ago in cryptology, counterintelligence, counterterrorism and undercover work in association with various Special Forces around the world, particularly assorted foreign Special Forces and the Australian SAS. This provides me with extensive knowledge in the fields of intelligence and counter-terrorism. Due to the classified nature of the work I was often involved in, a great deal of travelling and undercover work was required. Naturally, I had to appear to have gainful employment so I operated a number of businesses including advertising, public relations, security consultancies and sourcing agencies to allow me to delegate work to staff while I was away.

Some of the professional positions I have held include:

~ Chief Executive Officer, International Intelligence Center (Australia)

~ Co-founder of the Defence Industries Association Qld

~ Brisbane president of the Australia Defence Association

~ Member of the International Association for Counter-terrorism and Security Professionals, USA

~ Member of the International Counter-Terrorism Offices Association, USA

~ Director and Fellow of the Inventors Association of Australia

~ Queensland State Emergency Service: 29 years as a Rescue, First Aid and Public Relations Officer

~ General Manager Associated Business Services (a sourcing and security agency)

~ General Manager JMB public relations

~ Zone Vice President of the Queensland National Party

~ Honorary member of the Special Air Services Association (SASA)

~ Past Vice President IIC Washington USA

~ Past Committee member the Royal Astronomical Association Qld

~ Past Member of the Royal Geographical Association.

Of particular interest are my positions in the sourcing agencies business, where I designed and supplied specialised equipment for the Brisbane Police Service headquarters and also supplied one and a half million dollars worth of ballistic vests for Queensland Police officers. I also sourced Australian manufacturers to supply items needed by the Kuwaiti government after the Gulf War. My interest and involvement in motor racing rally driving led me to become a draughter. I designed a family car and taught specialised counterterrorist driving skills. I also designed a number of specialised weapons systems.

I have been called (not always kindly) The What If Man, because whenever I examined a project or plan ~ that concerned either a personal, Defence, security or political issue ~ my immediately thought was, What If an unexpected event occurs that prevents the plan/operation from being implemented successfully as it is designed. My next action was to think of a number of Contingency Plans that could be put into place if the whole of the plan was threatened or part thereof. They detail possible challenges and alternative plans that are likely to overcome the problem. They involve numerous challenges and may include multiple solutions to each problem. Each potential solution must be examined to ensure that the solution does not have any flaws in it. This can be a lengthy process as each potential problem and each potential solution is evaluated and I am satisfied that all contingencies have been covered!

These assorted positions enabled me to develop a particularly diverse knowledge base, which has become the foundation of this book. I trust the reader will find the information contained in Survival Guide worthwhile and, later, invaluable.

About this book

This book is divided into three parts: Preparation, Prior to departure and Passage.

Part A ~ Prepare for travel comprises Chapters 1 6, inclusive, which detail various tasks that are ideally performed in the months leading up to travel. Some recommendations pertain specifically to the last few days before to exodus.

Part B ~ Passage comprises Chapters 7 17, inclusive, which describe tasks that can be performed during travel and other information that explains how to stay safe while away from home.

Part C ~ Prepare for survival comprises Chapters 18 30, inclusive, which explain tasks that can be performed at any time to prepare for natural disasters. It also covers how precautions that can be taken to increase personal safety at any time.

Part D ~ Additional Information comprises all other extra relevant information: Glossary, Additional Resources, Threat Assessment, Security and Intelligence, Travel Products and Travel Bulletin.

Survival Guide evolved from a physical training program, involving both lectures and field experience for very important people (VIPs) intending to travel or work overseas. It became a written manual that was pertinent to anyone travelling overseas. However, a book for the general public, despite its detail, might still look insignificant amongst the shelves of books on survival. Costly advertising would be required to inform the general public of its advantages, adding considerably to the cost of publication. It was subsequently produced in DVD form, with the production costs covered by revenue from selected advertisers, enabling it to be distributed at little or no cost.

The material for Survival Guide was garnered from people from all over the globe. The author draws on a career of some 50 years involving innumerable intelligence and counter-terrorist activities. As Vice President of the International Intelligence Center based in Washington DC, the author brought the agency to Australia as the International Intelligence Center (Australia) and expanded it to involve associates in US, Great Britain, Europe, South Africa and Israel. With long associations to various foreign intelligence agencies, the author considers some of them to be the very best performers in counter-terrorism and hostage rescue in the world.

When reading Survival Guide for the first time the reader might find a number of recommendations or items are mentioned more than once. When people obtain Survival Guide and read it for the first time they are likely to read it from beginning to end. Later, when planning a trip or undertaking an activity, however, they are most likely to read just the appropriate chapter, section or activity. Many recommendations and/or equipment are relevant to a number of subject headings, for instance GPS units (global positioning systems) are mentioned in chapters relating to city travel, outdoor survival, and boating. Most people only read and retain information relevant to things that interest them. So if they were not an outdoors-type person, they may not remember the GPS units section when they were planning an urban trip.

Even though the reader might feel that they will never be in a position of being attacked by terrorists while driving, they should remember that the advice in that relevant section could also apply to road rage, which happens all around the world only too often.

I hope that this duplication assists readers more than it frustrates them.

John Brandt

30 August 2011

Why this book?

Survival Guide was originally designed to be a means of instructing VIPs on the methods of safety and survival while travelling overseas. It is considered one of the most comprehensive guides on survival to date. It is readily available to many   not only fellow members of the safety and security industry.

Survival Guide is planned for release in three formats:

1) An eBook, enabling the reader to navigate to any particular section of the guide. Maps, drawings and still photographs clarify more complex issues.

The reader may print the eBook in part of whole, enabling them to carry, for instance, lists, procedures or instructions.

2) An Audio Book on DVD, enabling a person to listen while relaxing or exercising.

3) An audio visual combination, where the material in Survival Guide is discussed in an interview. Audiovisual clips describe how to perform concepts such as driving techniques, first-aid procedures, map reading, tying knots, building shelters, making survival equipment from found items, defensive techniques.

These three formats make Survival Guide one of the most comprehensive and easy-to-follow manuals on survival available. Young and old can follow the instructions along with those with no previous experience. Some of the more complex subjects covered provide the necessary knowledge for people home or away to survive various potentially dangerous situations occurring around the world.

Is this book credible?

My qualifications and extensive experience in the armed forces has proved very beneficial in obtaining, processing and assembling the information presented herein. While it can be difficult for those outside of the military to understand the lengths that service members are trained to go to, there are always reasons for such often extreme precautions. I decided to document all that I have learnt, as a result of travelling for personal and professional purposes, sometimes adequately prepared and other times not so much so in order to assist others in travelling safely.

The book is extensively referenced with superscripted numbers in the text linked to an alphabetically ordered bibliography at the back of the book. Inclusion of the references verifies that the facts and information presented are derived from a credible source. The reader is encouraged to use the references to check the credibility of the source and/or obtain additional information should they wish to.

While my professional experience and diverse travelling history provides me with extensive knowledge, I do not consider myself a writer. However, I would like to take this opportunity to say that I am very grateful to Janine Gee (B.Ed.) for her writing expertise. She has proofed, corrected and clarified the text in my draft manuscript. She has also exercised her editing skills with enormous benefit to the book to reduce the sometimes lengthy descriptions that originated.

In some areas I express a personal opinion as to why or how a particular item or action results in a particular outcome. Such opinions are usually preceded by referenced information which is foundational to the formulation of my opinion. The text always clearly indicates when the opinions is mine and the reader can then use their own judgement to decide if the opinion is credible.

How to use this book

The book contains three symbols with individual meanings or significance. The symbols may appear alone or in combination. They are:

tmp_1042b65488f90dbe8203530633354b2f_qRmiW1_html_63cbefd7.png : An instruction relevant to any traveller, from back-packers, middle class travellers, senior executives to the most seriously prepared McGyver-type security enthusiast.

tmp_1042b65488f90dbe8203530633354b2f_qRmiW1_html_503ad424.png : An instruction relevant to anyone wanting to be moderately prepared for anything, such as executives travelling on business or people holidaying in remote areas with no limits to their luggage.

tmp_1042b65488f90dbe8203530633354b2f_qRmiW1_html_2a0f09b7.png : An instruction relevant to the seriously prepared McGyver-type security enthusiast, from very important persons (VIPs) to anyone who believes that their life has already been threatened. The term VIP, which refers to anyone who may need to take every possible safety precaution, is used throughout this book for simplification purposes. Many security precautions are labelled with red exclamation marks, however, there are countries where backpackers have been abducted and murdered so each reader can evaluate their own risk level using the questionnaire in Chapter 1: Assess status.

Smallcaps text indicates a scenario and relevant instructions to prevent injury and preserve life.

A caret^, hash# or asterisk* indicates a footnote.

^ eBook formats display flowing text without a page.

# eBook formats do not allow footnotes.

* Footnote text appears in the next paragraph.

Part A ~ Prepare for travel

The Prepare for travel section (Part A) details all of the things that must be done or purchased prior to departure on a trip. It also describes the ideal supplies and clothes to pack for travelling. Supplies need to be purchased or ordered well in advance of the departure date. Everything from tweezers to bullet-resistant vests may be useful. This section also describes the tasks performed just prior to the departure date. This includes the often difficult conversation to have which can be a letter that can be used to put a person’s affairs in order in case the worst should happen.

Part B ~ Passage

The Passage section (Part B) covers what to do while away from home including travelling necessities and tips.

Every one of us hopes to have everything they will need while away travelling. This book enables the reader to take every reasonable precaution to ensure that they have the happiest, most productive, emergency-free experience by choosing which items or actions they wish to take. This book enables a person to plan, prepare and hopefully execute a safe and enjoyable life, trip or stay.

Part C ~ Prepare for survival

The Prepare for survival section (Part C) covers what to do to best prepare for and maximise the chances of survival in the event of natural disasters and other emergency situations. It also covers what a person should do when another human being threatens their life. There are many different types of these situations. Each might involve many potential dangers and just as many precautions, approaches and variables. It is impossible for this Survival Guide to offer unequivocally correct solutions for every single possible precaution, approach and variable, however, it presents many scenarios and the safest approach to take. The final decision about what to do and when to do it ultimately rests with the reader.

Part D ~ Additional Information

The Additional Information section contains additional information including Glossary, Additional Resources, Threat Assessment, Security and Intelligence, Travel Products and Travel Bulletin.

Summary

The Overview section summarises this book, providing a general road map as to its structure and purpose. Also provided is a brief discussion regarding its origins and information about the author, especially his background and motivation for writing and publishing the book. This book is full of information that may be relevant to many readers or just a few. Specific instructions that are relevant to everyone are indicated with a green exclamation mark ( tmp_1042b65488f90dbe8203530633354b2f_qRmiW1_html_63cbefd7.png ), instructions relevant to typical travellers or families who may not have limited space in their luggage are indicated with an amber exclamation mark ( tmp_1042b65488f90dbe8203530633354b2f_qRmiW1_html_m44566dbc.png ) and instructions that may only be relevant to serious McGyver-types (either fully prepared or ingenious at improvisation) who believe that their life has already been threatened are indicated with a red exclamation mark ( tmp_1042b65488f90dbe8203530633354b2f_qRmiW1_html_2a0f09b7.png ).

Read on to find out more ...

* * *

Part A covers how to plan, prepare and hopefully execute a safe and enjoyable journey.

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Part A ~ Prepare for Travel

This part details various tasks that are ideally performed in the months leading up to travel. Some recommendations pertain specifically to the last few days before to exodus.

Chapter 1. Assess status

"My career should adapt to me. Fame is like a VIP pass wherever you want to go."

~ Leonardo DiCaprio

Overview

This book is full of information that may be relevant to many readers or just a few. The Self assessment questionnaire helps a person to determine their threat level, which indicates whether the reader should pay particular attention to just the green exclamation marks ( tmp_1042b65488f90dbe8203530633354b2f_qRmiW1_html_63cbefd7.png ) as they have a low level of threat and perhaps the amber exclamation mark ( tmp_1042b65488f90dbe8203530633354b2f_qRmiW1_html_m44566dbc.png ) paragraphs if they have a moderate level of threat and possibly the red exclamation mark ( tmp_1042b65488f90dbe8203530633354b2f_qRmiW1_html_m2a492bb8.png ) paragraphs if they have a high threat level. Subsequent chapters in this book provide information, tips and tricks that identify their target audience by these exclamation marks. Readers should use the questionnaire is this chapter to assess the level of threat that they face in everyday life and during travel.

Self assessment

The first thing the reader should do before planning to travel is Assess their Own Threat Level.

This term is not intended to frighten; it really is similar to those personality tests in magazines that determine whether a person would be a good boss, lover or whether they are adventurous or not. The results are calculated from the true answers given to personal questions. The only difference with this questionnaire is that it could provide answers to questions which require changes to the travel itinerary. So, the reader should be truthful as their life might depend on it!

Personal survey

A person’s threat level can be assessed by asking them each of the following questions. Each answer corresponds to a score and the total score can be calculated. The corresponding threat levels are described below.

1) Would you be classified professionally as working class, office worker, top executive, professional person, politician, Defence Force personnel or Religion leader?

Score: 0 points for working class or office worker; 1 point for professional person or politician; 2 points for top executive, Defence Force personnel or Religion leader.

2) Would your financial situation be considered to be average, above average or very well-off?

Score: 0 points for average; 1 point for above average; 2 points for very well off.

3) Has your type of profession or lifestyle attracted unpleasant attention from groups or individuals, either here or overseas?

Score: 0 points for No; 1 point for once or twice; 2 points for often.

4) Have either you, your family or your business been threatened because of business dealings, personal views, activities, race, colour, religion or politics?

Score: 0 points for No; 1 point if someone close to you has been; 2 points for Yes.

5) Have you made public your personal or professional views, where these views could be taken as offensive or threatening to dissident groups who might wish to take action against you, your family, your business or your fellow travellers and, if so, are any of these groups known to be active in any of the areas you intend travelling to or through?

Score: 0 points for No; 1 point for only via social media; 2 points for Yes. Score 1 additional point for a Yes to the if so part of the question.

6) Do you believe that your wealth or position could make you a target for kidnapping or extortion?

Score: 0 points for No; 1 point if someone close to you is in this category; 2 points for Yes.

tmp_1042b65488f90dbe8203530633354b2f_qRmiW1_html_720bdde7.png If your score is over 8 at this stage you could well be a prime target tmp_1042b65488f90dbe8203530633354b2f_qRmiW1_html_m2a492bb8.png

(Only if powerful enemies are made in a country is it likely that they would expend a large sum of money to harm someone while out of the country.)

7) Can you afford the best travel arrangements?

Score: 0 points for No; 1 point for possibly; 2 points for Yes.

8) Would you classify the type of trip as business / holiday / function?

Score: 0 points for Holiday; 1 point for Function; 2 points for Business.

9) Are you going alone, with business colleagues, family including children?

Score: 0 points for Family; 1 point for Colleagues; 2 points for Alone.

10) What country/countries are you going to visit, or stop over in?

Score: 0 points for North America, Europe, United Kingdom or Australia during peace time; 1 point for Asia, South America or remote areas of any country; 2 points for Russia or African or Middle Eastern countries.

11) What modes of travel are you going to use to get to the country and/or once you are there?

Score: 0 points for commercial aircraft, cruise, public transport or taxi; 1 point for hiking, bicycling, motor cycling or hire car; 2 points for private/charter aircraft or hitch hiking.

12) How long will you be away all together/how long will you spend in each individual place?

Score: 0 points for months/months; 1 point for less than 3 days/less than 3 days; 2 points for between 4 days and 6 weeks/5 to 7 days.

Calculate the total score: ________________________________

What it means:

0 to 11: Low threat level. A person with a total score in this range should read this Survival Guide in its entirety but may find that the topics and advice preceded with a green exclamation mark tmp_1042b65488f90dbe8203530633354b2f_qRmiW1_html_63cbefd7.png () resonate the most.

12 to 23: Moderate threat level. A person with a total score in this range should read this Survival Guide in its entirety but may find that the topics and advice preceded with a green or amber exclamation mark tmp_1042b65488f90dbe8203530633354b2f_qRmiW1_html_63cbefd7.png (or tmp_1042b65488f90dbe8203530633354b2f_qRmiW1_html_m44566dbc.png ) resonate most.

24 to 37: High threat level. A person with a total score in this range should read this Survival Guide in its entirety and may find that any and all topics and advice resonate ( tmp_1042b65488f90dbe8203530633354b2f_qRmiW1_html_63cbefd7.png , tmp_1042b65488f90dbe8203530633354b2f_qRmiW1_html_m44566dbc.png , or tmp_1042b65488f90dbe8203530633354b2f_qRmiW1_html_m2a492bb8.png ).

Certain backgrounds or activities, considered a red flag in the above survey, might necessitate a check of the itinerary to see if any countries (visiting or going through) might pose a threat to a person, their family or associates travelling with them. If so, it is strongly recommended that they reconsider going to or through these potentially dangerous places.

tmp_1042b65488f90dbe8203530633354b2f_qRmiW1_html_720bdde7.png If a person’s personal or professional image or business indicates that they could be a primary target it is strongly recommended that they contact a specialist counter-terrorist company to advise on what actions they should take to minimise their threat level. Some people may feel that this section is overstated, but in these troubled times they must consider how much they value their life and the lives of those who might be with them!

Reader categories

All readers should use the questionnaire above to assess the level of threat that they face in everyday life and during travel.

Information and advice that are preceded with a red exclamation mark ( tmp_1042b65488f90dbe8203530633354b2f_qRmiW1_html_m2a492bb8.png ) are intended for people who take the above questionnaire and identify that they have a high level of threat. These people are referred to as VIPs throughout this book.

Information and advice that are preceded with an amber exclamation mark ( tmp_1042b65488f90dbe8203530633354b2f_qRmiW1_html_m44566dbc.png ) are intended for people who take the above questionnaire and identify that they have a moderate level of threat.

Information and advice that are preceded with a green exclamation mark ( tmp_1042b65488f90dbe8203530633354b2f_qRmiW1_html_63cbefd7.png ) are intended for people who take the above questionnaire and identify that they have a low level of threat. Many paragraphs of information are not preceded by a green exclamation mark and this is because it applies to everyone. Instructions, advice or recommendations that indicate the reader should perform a certain task may be indicated by a green exclamation mark. This does not mean that it is *only* relevant to people with low levels of threat in fact it means that the advice could apply to anyone (Figure 1)!

Figure 1: Applicability of exclamation marks

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Subsequent chapters in this book provide information, tips and tricks that identify their target audience by these exclamation marks. It is helpful for readers to be aware of their threat level and then read the book in its entirety. If however, they later wish to return to a particular paragraph it may be easier for them to identify it as they may be aware of the colour of the exclamation mark that accompanied it.

Summary

The reader is encouraged to assess their own threat level and use it to take note of recommendations, advice and instructions in subsequent chapters that pertain in particular to them, based on their threat profile. This chapter indicates whether the reader should pay particular attention to the red exclamation mark ( tmp_1042b65488f90dbe8203530633354b2f_qRmiW1_html_m2a492bb8.png ) paragraphs because they have a high threat level, the amber exclamation mark ( tmp_1042b65488f90dbe8203530633354b2f_qRmiW1_html_m44566dbc.png ) paragraphs because they have a moderate level of threat or just the green exclamation marks ( tmp_1042b65488f90dbe8203530633354b2f_qRmiW1_html_63cbefd7.png ) as they have a low level of threat. Paragraphs with a green exclamation mark indicate advice or instructions that generally could apply to everyone.

* * *

The next chapter explains the factors that determine which mode of transport might be the most appropriate and the types of accommodation that may be the most suitable or safest for a trip.

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Chapter 2. Plan itinerary

"It's worth recognizing that there is no such thing as an overnight success.

You will do well to cultivate the resources in yourself that bring you happiness outside of success or failure. The truth is most of us discover where we are headed when we arrive.

At that time, we turn around and say, yes, this is obviously where I was going all along.

It's a good idea to try to enjoy the scenery on the detours, because you'll probably take a few."

~ Bill Watterson

Overview

Before any travel, planning is paramount. It is wise to consider the Five Ps: Proper preparation prevents poor performance. In addition to logistical plans including mode of transport, there are other preparations that may be life-threatening if omitted, such as obtaining adequate medications and an appropriate insurance policy.

There are differing views on the safest modes of transport and types of places to stay while travelling, particularly overseas. There are many factors that determine the ideal types of places to travel through and to. And these may change depending on the time, season, budget, company (accompanying people) and objectives.

Journey survey

When planning travel, whether business trip or a holiday, there are certain criteria that govern a person's actions, such as:

a) Is the trip business, pleasure or both?

b) Will they be on their own (as opposed to with others)?

c) Where are they going?

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

d) How long will they be away?

e) Who, and what, will they be seeing, and doing?

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

f) What will be their main modes of travel?

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

g) How much money have they allocated to the trip?

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

Total spent prior: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Total spend during: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

The relevance of the above questions becomes more apparent after reading this book in its entirety. Each is covered in the appropriate section of this Survival Guide to aid preparation for travel.

Mode of transport

The method a person uses to travel is naturally very important and it correlates to additional issues thus:

1) Cost

2) Time

3) Availability

4) Safety

The first three items relate to the priorities of the individual person, their budget and time constraints. Even if these are not limiting priorities, the last one, safety, is of paramount importance. Travelling on a reputable ocean liner is arguably the safest mode of travel but it is not necessarily the most practical if long distances need to be covered in a short timeframe. Regrettably, this mode of travel has recently been the subject of bad publicity, due to the bad behaviour of some passengers, inadequate security and deficient medical procedures.

Travelling on smaller poorly crewed vessels, in some countries, has resulted in the loss of many lives. Small water craft are covered in Chapter 9: Travel on water.

Travelling by air is obviously faster and, in many cases, more cost effective. Many concerns have recently been raised, however, on airline safety issues relating to poor maintenance. Some major airlines, trying to remain competitive, have resorted to using cheap contractors to perform maintenance which may have led to delays, injuries, incidents and   in some cases   deaths.

The fear of terrorist attacks concern many people. Fortunately, the frequency of hijacks seems to have diminished over recent years, but the threat is still always there. Hijack is covered in Chapter 22: Endure skyjack (aircraft hijack).

With terrorist bombings, the threat is also still prevalent. Many recent cases have been averted due to good management and perhaps a little good luck.

Security at major airports in western countries has improved over recent years and many incidents have been averted through significant developments in technology and procedures. Airport staff in western countries must follow increasingly stringent procedures, however, the criminally minded are increasingly creative in their efforts to obtain security clearance and/or assist in the smuggling of drugs and weapons through airports.

Aircraft left on the tarmac of all major airports in western countries must be locked and chocked, however, there have been reports of aircraft left unattended, unlocked and not chocked and gates to airports left unlocked and unattended.

tmp_1042b65488f90dbe8203530633354b2f_qRmiW1_html_720bdde7.png A number of years ago, associates of the author's, in US, gained access to the tarmac at a major airport, boarded a parked aircraft, walked around inside it for some time, left and then returned, doing the same thing again and not once were they challenged.

Although, with improvements to technology, training and procedures, this is unlikely to happen in the twenty-first century, one cannot be too careful.

Security infrastructure in the hands of properly trained security personnel intercept significant numbers of prohibited items at major airports and these breaches will continue to be detected. Regrettably, when security management install high-tech security equipment and procedures at major airports, they are faced with complaints from the flying public about delays and privacy issues particularly concerning body scans and ethnic profiling.

Even well-dressed professional-looking seniors, such as the author, would be very concerned if airport security staff didn't fully check people before boarding aircraft, because terrorists are unlikely to wear balaclavas and carry bombs in their hand! Subsequently, every passenger must be treated equally - for everyone's safety. Then passengers can enjoy their flight knowing proper security procedure has been followed.

In the case of those who are in the fortunate position of having access to, or owning executive aircraft, the security risks are dramatically reduced although major dangers still prevail. Many people may ask, How this could happen? How could terrorists be a threat, when travelling in our own executive aircraft? The answers include the following:

1) Anyone with access to ~ or owns ~ executive aircraft may be seen as members of the official elite and thus be deemed an enemy of terrorist, anti-globalised or anti-capitalist groups. Therefore, they may be seen as worthwhile targets of terrorism.

2) Those supportive of western-type governments and defence forces who are opposed to Muslim terrorist groups would be seen as worthwhile targets.

3) Anyone on board may be taken as hostages for ransom, which has become more prevalent than killing, as it is more likely to provide money for their cause and to continue their war against the unbelievers. Terrorists may threaten to behead hostages if their demands are not met. Unfortunately hostages are taken for ransom on a regular basis, including captured soldiers, aid workers, medical and religious groups. This is a very real threat to the head of the group and also for all personnel with them.

4) Aircraft can be shot down with a shoulder launched missile while taking off or landing, blown-up on the ground by a RPG, explosives. Aircraft or be rammed by a captured fuel tanker, explosives could be brought on board by terrorists posing as refuellers or catering staff replenishing food and drinks on board or staff emptying the toilet tanks. Thus, any required stopovers could prove a threat to what would appear to be the safest and fastest mode of travel.

In most cases, executives who can afford their own executive aircraft would have personal security staff accompany them on flights. It is the security staff's responsibility to check and monitor anyone approaching the aircraft to perform work on or inside it and to ensure that no security procedures are breached. If the owner of executive aircraft is on favourable terms with the appropriate government, they may be allowed to land in a military airbase and/or arrange for local military or police to guard and monitor the aircraft while in their country.

If possible, aircraft owners should hire a lockable hangar while the aircraft is in foreign and/or high-risk airports. It is recommended that extra security is used protect the aircraft by way of various miniature camcorders to cover the exterior and interior of the aircraft. Miniature audio-visual camcorders can be as small as a pack of chewing gum. Some models have security mode, which operates for 250 hours and activates when any sound is above 65 dB. The information recorded on their memory chips can be downloaded onto a computer and viewed later providing exceptional clarity from documents to landscape. These can be very easy to conceal. They can also be useful at conferences and seminars and other such meetings, where clandestine recording could be useful.

Budget

The cost of accommodation is usually a large factor with most travellers. The selection may depend on whether the trip is for business or pleasure. For people on holidays, accommodation choices are usually made by considering its portion of the budget. Luxury accommodation and facilities at some large international hotel may be a priority, with the very high costs involved, whereas a backpacker would most likely opt for a Hostel, with minimum facilities.

Backpacker Hostels often have minimal security and often sleeping rooms are shared with strangers. Unfortunately, at hygiene and fire safety at some establishments are not high priorities with the management. In an Australian country town a mentally unstable former guest with a grudge set fire to the Hostel causing the deaths of 17 guests. Due to inadequate fire alarms and lighting these unfortunate souls were unable to escape in time.

tmp_1042b65488f90dbe8203530633354b2f_qRmiW1_html_63cbefd7.png If the accommodation is not a large modern international hotel, verify that it is fitted with smoked detectors and sprinkler system throughout. If an agent is handling booking, request that they inquire if this is the case.

tmp_1042b65488f90dbe8203530633354b2f_qRmiW1_html_63cbefd7.png If the accommodation is a luxury international hotel, do not accept a room above the tenth floor because, if evacuees have to be rescued by the fire department, few extension ladders reach above this height. While people have been rescued from on top of buildings on fire by helicopters, casting wind, smoke and even flames ~ particularly in very tall buildings~ can make trying to land or winch people from these areas an extremely daunting task for the chopper pilot and crew. So, unless instructed by professional rescue party members to go to the roof, the roof is not an advisable destination in this event.

If the budget is of no concern, then the most expensive accommodation is a likely choice!

Style

Style is very important to some people. Many people that have stayed at international hotels all around the world believe that they are all basically the same. They may lack the local touch of the older established private venues. Bookings are often simpler to make at large international group hotels and the modern facilities are abundant.

If a more cultural experience is desired, one of the top quality local hotels may offer its historic background, opulent décor and old fashioned quality service. They may have good reputations over decades of service and they may have had celebrities or Royalty stay.

Location

The location chosen may depend largely on whether the trip to that country is for business or pleasure. Business trips usually involve accommodation in the central city area for convenience. If a central location is not important, the more regional areas may have beautiful surroundings with opportunities to walk around and absorb the local culture and make memories to take home. They are also more restful places to stay.

Service Industry

The travel industry is a service industry. The product they offer is movement of people and their belongings. Sometimes, however, the two do not end up in the same place. Lost luggage is a problem experienced at some time by every seasoned traveller.

Accommodation booking miscommunications and inefficiencies are another inconvenience suffered by every frequent traveller at some time in their life.

tmp_1042b65488f90dbe8203530633354b2f_qRmiW1_html_63cbefd7.png All bookings should be confirmed, where the staff repeat back to the customer all details prior to concluding verbal communication. Likewise, scrutinise all written correspondence for correct dates, times, locations, modes of transport, inclusions and exclusions prior to assuming that a booking is finalised. During each leg of a journey, the accommodation booking for the next location and the mode of transport to get there should be confirmed (again) prior to the day of departure to prevent arrival at a location only to find there has been an error in the booking and there are no rooms available. Bookings for travel must include dates, the number of people, the mode of travel, the time of departure, the check-in process duration allowance, the arrival time and any inclusions and exclusions, such as meals/food, and luggage allowance. Bookings for accommodation must include room type (basic room, suite, bathroom/kitchen facilities) and bed combinations. Many motels assume that two people sharing a room will also share a bed and this may not always be the case.

Breakdowns, while never intentional, happen and each venue should have a backup plan in case of equipment failure. This redundancy can also be confirmed during booking rather than a flight being missed because of the hotel’s inability to get guests to the airport, for example.

Another common saying is, There are no guarantees in life, and while this may be true, each traveller can take it upon themselves to confirm, repeat and again later confirm bookings and details. Unfortunately, the activities done and the sights seen may still be different to the things promised in the glossy brochure!

Security

Security of self (and accompanying people) is always of the utmost importance; hence it is the theme of this book. When deciding where to stay inquire through reliable sources whether the country(s) is stable. If the advice indicates that security is not a real concern, then the primary focus can remain on budget, style and location.

If there are possible dangers to take into consideration, the following factors should be considered. International chain hotels usually have the resources and qualified staff to provide excellent security arrangements for their guests. Their security capabilities are likely to be better than those of the private venues and certainly far superior than those in regional areas. They have experience in international security providing the best and most up-to-date protection available to their clients. This is worthy of serious consideration by any traveller.

In 2008, a 29-year-old Australian woman working as a beauty salon manager in a five-star luxury United Arab Emirates (UAE) hotel had her drink spiked with Rohypnol. She was told she could legally drink in the staff bar. She was then raped by three to four co-workers. When she reported the assault to authorities she was jailed on an adultery charge. Her UAE colleagues had not warned her that she could be charged with adultery and face prison if she complained of being raped without having four adults male Muslims as witnesses to the alleged rape. She then spent eight months in prison because it is illegal in the UAE to have sex outside marriage. Australian embassy staff advised her (and her family) not to go to the media during her time in custody, where she was locked in a cell with 30 other women. Fortunately, she was pardoned and released in March 2009. She thought she would be safe and protected in an international hotel group. Always watch the drinks being prepared and do not drink anything that has left unwatched ~ even for just a few seconds! Also, do not assume that the laws overseas are the same as back home (in the reader’s own country).

Terrorists do not announce where they will strike next nor do they specify who they are targeting. The threat from terrorists is ever present even for people who are not VIPs. It is obviously much more concerning for those that have been warned that they are in the playing ring. If terrorists do want to target tourists the best place to look for them would be at international hotels! Terrorist bombs and stray bullets do not discriminate one from the other so associating with VIPs or spending time in the same location can be courting danger.

Unfortunately there are no clear cut answers regarding the safest venue. Some so-called experts state that the local establishment are safe to stay in because local terrorist groupies would not want to kill their own people or destroy one of their country’s icons. These assumptions are unsound as the majority of terrorist groups have left wing political views thus the class of people that frequent local entertainment venues are the very ones they target. Iraq has examples of terrorist insanity where bombs have been used to blow up their own hospitals and people with no apparent motive behind the attacks other than publicity.

If the reader is not a Primary or Secondary Target the safest venues to stay, eat at, or shop in may be those not likely to be frequented by up-market tourists. Like the venues in many Western countries, those venues may have little or no security to protect their patrons against the local criminals, thieves and pickpockets (or terrorists/kidnappers for those readers who are Primary or Secondary Targets). These venues may not offer the same top-class service or facilities, but they cost less and the local lifestyle can still be enjoyed.

Regrettably there are no recommendations that can guarantee safety under all conditions because threat levels change from person to person, place to place, time to time and the types of crimes. Since there are so many variables, it would be very wrong for anyone to offer advice without all of the facts about the traveller, companions and the intended trip. These would need to be considered before an assessment of risk could be made.

tmp_1042b65488f90dbe8203530633354b2f_qRmiW1_html_2a0f09b7.png Contact a reputable international security firm, provide them with all relevant information and seek their advice. The local Embassy or a reliable business friend who has lived in the area for some time and has local knowledge should be able to advise about whom to contact.

Further information on how to avoid dangerous venues and other places is detailed in Chapter 18: Avoid danger.

Summary

When a phone booking is made for hire vehicles, accommodation or restaurants, staff must repeat all details back to the customer to confirm the information has been recorded correctly. This must be done prior to either party hanging up. Likewise, all written correspondence must be scrutinised for correct dates, times, locations, modes of transport, inclusions and exclusions prior to the booking being considered finalised. Bookings for accommodation must include room type (basic room, suite, bathroom/kitchen facilities) and bed combinations. Many motels assume that two people sharing a room will also share a bed and this may not always be the case.

When a person makes a booking into accommodation other than a large modern international hotel, they should verify that it is fitted with smoked detectors and sprinkler system throughout. Agents can inquire about this if they book on a customer’s behalf.

For those that feel they should take all precautions, when they stay at luxury international hotels, they should not stay in a room above the tenth floor because, if they have to be rescued by the fire department, few extension ladders reach above this height.

* * *

The next chapter details a comprehensive list of all of the tasks that may need to be performed prior to travel. Each traveller’s list may be different and the list for one person preparing for one trip may change when they plan their next trip.

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Chapter 3. Make a To Do list

"A weed is a plant that has mastered every survival skill

except for learning how to grow in rows."

~ Doug Larson

Overview

This Survival Guide suits all travellers, from minimalist backpackers to wealthy business people with bodyguards. Whether a trip is for business or pleasure, there are essential tasks to be performed well before the departure date. This book details these tasks and items that may need to be purchased prior to departure. It is up to each reader to read this guide and determine which advice is relevant to them.

To Do list

No matter how good a person's memory is, it is essential that a list is made of ALL of the tasks to do before departure, including people to see, things to purchase, bookings to make, things to pack, items to forward in advance and information to seek. With the superior organising ability of computers, this type of list can be prioritised, dated and even prompt when tasks are due to be performed.

To indicate that a task on the list has been performed, it can be highlighted. Do not delete the items after completion or cross them out completely: either change their colour or format them to be strike through or underlined, otherwise confusion later results from not knowing whether they have been performed. This system enables notes to be added, advice, follow up, phone numbers/addresses and part - or all - of the list can be printed to take in a pocket as a reminder of outstanding tasks or questions to ask. If travelling with family with the possibility of sharing luggage, list each piece of luggage and what it contains, such as first aid kit, medication, spare spectacles etc.

There are very important reasons for doing this: it saves the time and frustration of unpacking all bags, possibly on the airport terminal floor to find a spare pair of reading glasses - having left the others on the bedside table! Of course, if the list was read before leaving home, the glasses would not have been left behind in the first place.

To prepare for a trip, there are a number of tasks that should be completed well before the departure date, as follows:

1) Notify the security firm of the dates the house will be vacant (or occupied by house-sitters and list them by name).

2) Notify the local police of the dates the house will be vacant (or occupied by house-sitters.

3) Notify the fire brigade of the dates the house will be vacant (or occupied by house-sitters.

4) Notify the SES (State Emergence Service) or equivalent of the dates the house will be vacant (or occupied by house-sitters.

5) Complete a Mail Redirection/Hold Form at the local Post Office or arrange collection by a reliable neighbour or friend.

6) Arrange all other regular deliveries to be stopped (milk, newspaper, groceries).

7) Arrange for a reliable neighbour or friend to put the rubbish bins out on the appropriate night and brought in the next day.

8) Arrange for regular ground maintenance.

9) See a doctor (explained below).

10) See a dentist (explained below).

11) Contact the Immigration Department (explained below).

12) Contact an Insurance Broker (explained below).

13) Contact the bank (see Chapter 4: Organise finances).

14) Buy the Lonely Planet travel guides (books) that relate to the countries in the itinerary

15) Learn some common phrases in the local languages of the countries in the itinerary

This entire list of tasks is important to avoid a return from an enjoyable trip only to find the home has been robbed or the weather has damaged it.

It is recommended that a check-up by a doctor be performed to verify that all is well, medically. Vaccinations may be due, recommended or required in order for travel into certain countries. If medication must be taken during a trip, verify that any prescriptions are up-to-date and/or that enough medication is available from the chemist. This is most important, as medical conditions can prove life-threatening without it. Also, medication might prove expensive or difficult to buy overseas especially as product names and medical benefit schemes vary.

It is also recommended that a check-up by a dentist be performed. Health problems (medical or dental) can both spoil a trip away and be expensive if in a foreign country.

Any required items not already in possession must be purchased for the trip, including clothing, toiletries and other useful items (see Chapter 6: Pack appropriately). Be wary of buying essential items at duty free shops as ~ in most cases ~ it is nearly impossible to get a refund, replacement or repair if something goes wrong. Solving many of these problems can be made worse by language and possible time constraints.

Some electrical goods might not work in other countries due to different voltages or they may be prohibited items, carry high import duty and, lastly, there may be no agent available to service the item bought overseas. If the model is not available in one country parts may need to be obtained or sent overseas and finding technicians trained to work on that particular model can prove difficult in a country other than where it was purchased. (This is covered in more detail in Chapter 17: Prepare to go home!)

tmp_1042b65488f90dbe8203530633354b2f_qRmiW1_html_63cbefd7.png For a To Do list template, see Appendix A: To Do List.

tmp_1042b65488f90dbe8203530633354b2f_qRmiW1_html_720bdde7.png The author bought a watch in London and had to wait for parts and information about repairs to it as that particular model was not known in Australia at that time!

Solicitor

In the unlikely event that something were to happen to someone while overseas, it is advisable for them to sort out their affairs before departure. In fact, anyone reaching adult status should legally document what they wish to happen to them and their personal belongings in the event of brain function impairment or death.

Arrangements can be made with solicitors and accountants to provide relatives, business colleagues or friends with Power of Attorney so that they can - in conjunction with solicitors and accountants - operate bank accounts if, for whatever reason, money is needed but one is not in a position to access it themself (being unconscious in hospital, for example). Investing the Power of Attorney with someone prior to leaving for a trip could well be a fortune-saver.

Should an incident occur that prevents a person from being able to look after their affairs while away, it would be reassuring to know that the home/family and business interests are in capable hands and being operated in a manner previously agreed.

There are certain matters to be agreed, even though they are least likely to come to mind when planning a holiday, such as updating a will. There are very good reasons (as unpleasant as they are to think of) to instruct a solicitor on what funeral arrangements are wanted should a person pass away while overseas.

Should this situation eventuate, one must consider beforehand what they want done with their remains. There may be a family plot at home where relatives are buried. If one dies at home then their wishes for their bodies (in case of brain function impairment, organ donation and burial versus cremation) are best already known by family members. If one dies overseas the cost of returning the body home can be an extremely high additional expense. If a family's finances are somewhat limited, this money might best go to the next of kin instead.

Some insurance policies cover for death and illness. If, for instance, one's death was due to a plane crash, the airline would most