Babel Travel prides itself on the extensive network of ground operations, tour leaders and local contacts, which keep us informed and up-to-date on all local situations in which we operate. Our passengers safety is of the utmost priority and we rely on these networks to allow us to make the operational decisions necessary to keep our trips running safely. We often know of situations on the ground before the media and we are in constant contact with our local offices, tour leaders, local operators, and colleagues in order to closely monitor and inform you of the most current information affecting any regions where we operate. Future safety updates, for any Babel Travel destination will appear on this page.

By choosing to travel with Babel Travel you can be sure that your safety and well-being is our prime concern. Over the years we have built up a network of local offices, and a team of Destination Managers, local and non-local staff enables us to maintain constant contact with events on the ground in each of our destinations, and to ensure that every aspect of your tour runs as smoothly as possible. If you find yourself worrying far too much about all the terrible things that might happen to you while travelling overseas, remember that generally overseas travel is very safe and group travel even more so. If you have not done much travelling before, a few simple guidelines may be useful.

Although it can be traumatic and distressing to lose personal belongings, remember that almost everything can be replaced. Your valuables are your responsibility so look after them. Keep items like cash, travellers cheques, tickets and passports on your person in a hidden money belt or stored in the hotel safe. Leave all non-essential jewelery at home.

Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure. Many of our hotels have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. Your leader will accompany you on all included activities however during your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy or explore at your leisure.

While your group leader will assist you with the available options in a given location, please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your Babel Travel itinerary, and Babel Travel makes no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgment when selecting an activity in your free time. Please also note that your group leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to safety concerns.

Please be aware that local laws governing tourism facilities in the Middle East differ from those in the western world or from your home country and not all the accommodation which we use has a fire exit. Petty theft and personal safety: Please be aware that while travelling in the region of North Africa and the Middle East there is the risk of pick-pocketing and petty theft, particularly in the more touristy cities. We recommend that you exercise caution when walking alone at night and encourage you to walk together and only on main, well lit thoroughfares.

Be particularly vigilant on public transport. Simple measures like carrying your day pack on your front, not hanging your bag over the back of your chair and wearing a money belt will reduce any chance that your valuables should go missing. Depending on where you come from please note that drivers in this part of the world may drive on the opposite side of the road from what you are used to. Look both ways before crossing any road.

Traffic can be a little more chaotic than you might be used to at home. Be aware on the roads and even small streets and alleyways. Vehicles find their ways into impossibly small passages leaving no room for both you and the traffic. Professional riding equipment and helmets will not be provided when riding any camels or donkeys. Bicycle helmets (when provided) may not be the same standard that you are used to at home. If you are particularly concerned for your safety while riding a bicycle then we recommend you bring your own helmet.