Latest news with #travelSafety
The Sun
a day ago
- Health
- The Sun
Dad-of-two placed into coma after Turkey holiday as chef, 55, ‘caught rare disease from dirty 4-star hotel'
A DAD-OF-TWO has claimed he nearly died after contracting a rare disease from a "dirty" 4-star hotel. Richard Moore, 55, began to suffer from a fever and chest pains after returning from a holiday in Turkey with partner Julie, 50. 6 6 Richard, a chef, became so ill that he had to be rushed to hospital and placed into an induced coma. His wife and kids were told by medical staff that he may not survive the ordeal. Doctors confirmed he was suffering from potentially deadly Legionnaires' disease, Richard needed five days of intense hospital treatment which included antibiotics and an IV drip. Richard, of Blyth, Northumberland, said: "This holiday was meant to be a short break before I started a new job as an executive chef. "Instead, it cost me my dream job, my health and very nearly my life. "As a result of the memory loss, I can't recall much of my time in hospital, but when I was admitted, I remember the fear and not knowing what was wrong. "I'm lucky to be alive but it's so upsetting to think my family were told I might not live. "I never realised Legionnaires' disease was so serious and I want to tell my story to make other people aware of the symptoms and the dangers. "I wouldn't want to think that other people were going off on a holiday unaware of what they could be walking into. "If there are issues with the hotel then that needs looking at urgently. "I feel fortunate to have pulled through. However, I do worry that someone else might not be as lucky as I was." Richard and his family paid £2,000 to stay at the four-star Champion Holiday Village in Kemer, Turkey. After arriving at the hotel on August 18 last year, Richard said he thought the hotel was dirty, old and dated. He also noticed that the room felt damp and had a grim fusty smell. 6 He said: "I can't specifically pinpoint to one thing but the water temperature fluctuated a lot in the shower. "The bathroom and hotel generally looked run down and the sofa in hotel room beneath the air con felt damp throughout the holiday which made me think it was leaking." Days after returning to the UK, Richard began suffering from severe flu-like symptoms. On August 30 he developed chest pains, a shortness of breath and a fever and was rushed to hospital for treatment. He spent a whole month in hospital and has been unable to start at his new job as an executive chef. Richard still struggles with lethargy, weakness and mobility issues linked to Legionnaires' disease. He has now instructed travel illness lawyers at Irwin Mitchell to investigate the cause of his Legionnaires' disease. 6 6 Jennifer Hodgson, representing Richard, said: "Richard's first-hand account of his experience at the hotel and contracting his illness is deeply disturbing. "Legionnaires' disease is an incredibly serious condition, and it can take several days from coming into contact with Legionella bacteria before symptoms of the illness start to appear. "As Richard has since discovered, the effects of the disease can be long-term. "Nothing can make up for the impact the illness has had and continues to have on Richard, but we're determined to provide him with the answers and specialist support he deserves. "Public buildings, such as hotels and offices, can have complex water systems, so it's vital that all precautions are taken to prevent the bacteria that causes Legionnaires' disease developing. "As part of our work and to assist with our investigations, we would be keen to hear from anyone else who may also have been affected by illness whilst staying at the Champion Holiday Village Hotel, Turkey."
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Travel + Leisure
01-06-2025
- Health
- Travel + Leisure
I'm a Paranoid Traveler Despite Having Been to 30+ Countries—but These 13 Safety Devices Give Me Peace of Mind
I have lived in New York City my entire life, so you'd think I feel safe traveling just about anywhere. But despite spending over four decades in one of the world's most famous metropolitan cities, I still get pretty paranoid in my work as a food and travel writer. I love traveling. But as much as I enjoy these experiences, I'm also acutely aware of what can go wrong on the road, especially as a solo traveler. Maybe it's my NYC street smarts disguised as travel anxiety, but I've learned to be vigilant about personal safety, identity theft, and protecting my devices from data breaches. If you're gearing up for your next big adventure, it's smart to plan for all the fun—delicious food, great sights, and unforgettable memories. But it's just as smart to prep for the not-so-fun stuff. That's why I always travel with a few tried-and-true travel safety essentials. On long travel days, I'm constantly scanning for power outlets before my phone dies. But public charging stations can come with hidden risks. 'Juice jacking' is when hackers exploit USB ports to install malware or steal data, and it's a real threat. This simple tool allows you to safely charge your devices without exposing your data. It works with iPhones, Androids, tablets, and most USB gadgets. One reviewer said, 'I use these at hotels, on airplanes, and when I don't want my phone transferring data to a rental car. Easy and effective.' This sleek laptop backpack checks all the boxes. It's spacious, lightweight, and built with anti-theft features like combination-lock zippers and an external USB port—so you won't have to unzip the bag to stay connected. One reviewer called it 'the best backpack ever,' adding that 'it's secure, durable, and the slim fit makes it easy to carry without feeling bulky.' These slim sleeves might look like simple card covers, but they're an essential line of defense against digital theft. RFID-blocking technology shields your credit cards, IDs, and passports. 'I had to replace multiple cards due to unauthorized charges,' wrote one reviewer. 'These sleeves give me peace of mind.' As a digital nomad, I rely heavily on public Wi-Fi, and that comes with risks. This compact travel router boosts cybersecurity by creating a secure, private connection. 'This will make business travel a lot easier,' said one reviewer. 'Now I can safely connect my laptop using the hotel's Wi-Fi without worry.' These multi-sized Faraday bags go beyond waterproofing. They also block Bluetooth, GPS, and RFID signals to keep everything from your phone to your passport secure. 'I tested Wi-Fi, cellular, and Bluetooth—these bags blocked all signals,' said one shopper, who promptly bought another set. Hidden cameras are, unfortunately, a real concern in hotel rooms and Airbnbs. This compact detector scans for hidden bugs, GPS trackers, or listening devices. 'I couldn't be happier,' said one reviewer. 'It's easy to use, very sensitive, and makes me feel much safer when traveling solo.' Money belts may feel old-school, but this RFID-blocking pouch is a smart, modern upgrade. Slim enough to wear discreetly, it has mesh pockets for cards, passports, and cash. One reviewer shared, 'It's comfortable even on hot, long travel days, and the organization is ideal.' Whether I'm writing in-flight or catching up on emails at a cafe, I don't want my screen exposed. This easy-to-attach privacy screen limits viewing angles, helping to keep my personal and financial info safe. One reviewer called it 'subtle yet sturdy,' and they love how easily it attaches via magnets. Power = safety. This fast-charging portable battery can get your phone to 50 percent in under 30 minutes—perfect for calling an Uber or accessing maps when you're far from a power outlet. With a built-in USB-C cable, it's compact and hassle-free. 'I bought two for overseas travel—sleek, powerful, and so convenient,' said one reviewer. Sometimes I find myself walking alone at night while traveling, and this compact safety alarm gives me peace of mind. Just pull the top pin to activate a siren and flashing light. 'It's a small step that makes a big difference,' said one traveler. 'I keep it on my keychain and bring it everywhere—gas stations, airports, even grocery stores.' Not every hotel room has a safe, and this portable lock box is a solid backup. It's great for securing passports, cash, and even small electronics. With a combination lock and sturdy design, it's a travel must-have—especially if you're hopping between accommodations or hostels. It's a travel conundrum: You want your luggage secure when it's out of sight—but it still needs to be accessible for TSA inspections. This lock does both. It's TSA-compliant, easy to set up, and built to last. The best part? It features an indicator that pops up if TSA has opened your bag, so you're never left wondering. Amazon shoppers rave about the thoughtful design and solid construction. 'Wow, just got a four-pack of these TSA locks and love the design,' wrote one reviewer. 'Easy to read, easy to set combination, easy to operate. Solid design, good looking, and even a pop-up indicator if a TSA agent opens one with their special tool.' From minor scrapes to unexpected mishaps, it pays to be prepared. This compact, well-stocked kit is perfect for travel—whether you're tossing it in your suitcase or slipping it into a tote. It includes everything from bandages to burn relief, all packed in a cute, durable pouch. 'Exactly what I was looking for,' one Amazon reviewer noted. 'Perfect size, fits in my large purse, and has everything I might need. Plus, the bag is super cute. So worth it.' Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
Yahoo
24-05-2025
- Yahoo
Memorial Day weekend: How to stay safe while traveling, enjoying the outdoors
Memorial Day is a time to honor fallen servicemembers, but it's also one of America's busiest travel weekends. Many Tennesseans will be hitting the road, heading to lakes, and firing up the grill for backyard cookouts. As travel plans are made and grills are fired up, here's what to know to keep Memorial Day a safe and joyful celebration of America's heroes. Nearly 39.4 million Americans are expected to be on the road this weekend, according to AAA. The roadside assistance organization said the most common vehicle problems during last year's holiday weekend were flat tires and dead batteries. AAA recommends travelers test batteries, brakes and tires before beginning their Memorial Day activities. It is also important to adhere to speed limits during the busy travel weekend and to not drink and drive, AAA noted. On holiday weekends, such as Memorial Day and Fourth of July, police monitor roads for reckless driving at an increased level to prevent crashes. As the Memorial Day holiday ushers in the summer, many Tennesseans will head to lakes and rivers. American Red Cross officials recommend remaining aware of weather conditions and surroundings while also using life jackets and other safety equipment and obeying the rules. The state of Tennessee recorded 27 recreational boating fatalities and 58 injuries during the year in its 2023 incident statistical report, which is the most recent available data. It illegal to operate a boat while under the influence of drugs and alcohol. Operating a boat while under the influence also has the same potential consequences as driving under the influence and can count as a second offense to a DUI. Grilling indoors, failing to make sure the grill ignites, or keeping the grill too close to any structures can all lead to an unwanted fire that will ruin the Memorial Day festivities, according to the American Red Cross. It is important to keep a fire extinguisher in an accessible place. If there is a fire that is not containable with a fire extinguisher call 911. Another crucial step in ensuring the success of a Memorial Day barbecue is properly cooking all meat to the appropriate internal temperature. Beef and pork should be cooked to at least 145 degrees, ground meat to 160 degrees, and poultry to 165 degrees. When grilling, pets and children should be kept away from the grill to prevent burns and an adult should always be supervising the grill. This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: How to stay safe and prevent injuries this Memorial Day holiday
BreakingNews.ie
23-05-2025
- BreakingNews.ie
Tánaiste encourages young people to take safety precautions on summer travels
The Tánaiste has advised young people to "make the right memories" when heading abroad this summer. Minister for Foreign Affairs, Simon Harris, has launched a summer travel campaign, encouraging young people to stay safe, informed and connected while travelling. The number of consular assistance cases handled by the department has increased by 22 per cent so far this year. The campaign comes after warnings for students heading on J1s not to participate in protests while in America. Young people have been reminded to take all he necessary safety precautions when heading abroad this summer. Mr Harris said that it is important to know the local laws, customs and cultures of the countries you are visiting. "Keep your phone charged, share your locations on nights out, stay connected wth your friends and family, and please don't forget your travel insurance," he said on Newstalk. "So whether you're a J1 student, a backpacker, or going on your first post-exam holiday, remember to travel wise, look out for yourself and look out for any friends you travel with." Advertisement
CNET
16-05-2025
- CNET
I Travel and Test Home Security: Here Are My Top 9 Airbnb Safety Tips
From Memorial Day trips to fun summer getaways, vacation rentals like Airbnbs remain a popular way to visit a new place while still getting many of the benefits of a home (often with options to save compared to a hotel room). But entering an unfamiliar home also presents a few safety hazards. I'd rather you leave anxieties behind when you're on vacation, so I've gathered the best CNET tips for safety and tech security that work when you're on the way to a new vacation rental. Here are the red flags to watch for and what to keep in mind in nine important steps. Read more: 7 Tips to Spot Hidden Cameras in Your Airbnb 1. Early on, do extra research on your host Check in-depth reviews and host notes on any rental. Screenshot by Tyler Lacoma/CNET Airbnb basics include looking at your host's rating, but don't stop there. You can uncover a lot of useful info -- and potential Airbnb security red flags -- by digging a little deeper as you finalize plans and create your itinerary. Take time to read past reviews and see exactly what they talk about. Be wary if the reviews are all about the surrounding destination but don't talk about the rental itself much, which could mean there were issues they don't want to mention. Always pick hosts who have gone through the Airbnb process to verify their identity and give preference to "superhosts" with plenty of positive reviews. You can also learn a lot from the photos the host includes -- or doesn't include. Look for pics that show access points around the house, how easy it would be to break through windows or doors, and how clean and open the nearby landscaping is. That's what burglars watch for, too. Be wary if the photos don't show a lot of visual info about the rental, or if they don't show any security features that the listing mentions. This is also the perfect time to Google the surrounding area and see if it has any notable risks, from a wave of residential theft to a propensity for wildfires or flooding. 2. Tally any security cameras and where they are The wireless Ring Stick-Up Cam Pro sits perched on the corner of a home, keeping an eye on the exterior of the property. Amazon Airbnb has completely banned indoor security cameras. If you see any, that's an instant dealbreaker and you should request a refund as well as finding another spot. Outdoor security cameras are still allowed, but if you're renting you should know exactly where they are. Rental owners often use a combination of mounted security cameras and video doorbells to, at minimum, check when renters arrive and make sure they're showing up as expected. Find these cameras and make sure they aren't intrusive or pointed through windows to see into the rental's rooms. A single, minimally invasive video doorbell is the best case scenario. Important note: Always talk to hosts ahead of time about security cameras and any security systems that they use. Have the host explain where their cameras are and how they're used. This is a nice mini security briefing on its own. 3. Check the electronics and decide what you will (and won't) use Hosts may provide lots of electronics, but be careful what you rentals are outfitted with their own electronics, which can include computers, tablets, TVs, sound systems, Wi-Fi routers, smart thermostats and many other gadgets. Do a survey of these electronics when you arrive, especially if the host mentioned them in the listing. Decide early on if you'll use these electronics and how. Remember, hosts can often monitor device usage and may even be able to look through webcams. Many renters don't feel comfortable using included computers and stay on their own devices for safety. Devices like TVs are probably safe, although you should avoid plugging a rental's set-top boxes or TV sticks into your own screens. But other gadgets like rental-provided chargers? It's best to steer clear and plug your own chargers into wall outlets to avoid malware and other issues. 4. Arrange for your unique smart lock codes early Smart locks can provide codes, passes, biometric logins and more, but it's important to keep things organized. Lockly Smart locks are one of the most common devices in rentals, and come with lots of advantages for both you and the host. But that comes with a caveat: You need the passcodes or digital keys to use them properly. Ask the host for your digital codes before you arrive. Request the specifics of exactly how the codes work -- are they only viable for a certain period of time? What about certain times of day? Most importantly, have the codes been switched since the last renter? You'll want to guarantee your safety and freedom to leave the rental whenever you want. Hosts who are cagey about smart lock details, don't provide proper codes or digital passes, or want to restrict your movement to certain times of day are walking red flags. In these cases, you should find another place to stay if you can. 5. Run an amenities check before unpacking When you first arrive and air out the rental, this is an excellent chance to look for any obvious safety or amenity issues in your space. People have encountered everything from missing shower curtains and broken back doors to toilets that don't work. Some find an alarming absence of hot water or a very unexpected roach infestation. With big problems like these, it's important to say "nope" ASAP and make other arrangement rather than start unpacking before you realize. 6. Once you get inside, scan for hidden cameras Apps can help you take a closer look at your Airbnb, but we suggest using them with other methods. CNET We wish hidden Airbnb cameras were an urban myth, but it's an all-too-real trend happening all around the world. You can do a few brief checks for hidden cameras once you're indoors and ready to unpack. We have a complete guide on detecting hidden rental cams here. Most can be found simply by using the flashlight on your phone and scanning rooms in the dark, which tends to show reflective lenses and other telltale signs. Apps (like this one from Kupertino Labs) and gadgets can also help if you're particularly concerned. 7. Look for basics like smoke detectors, fire extinguishers and window locks Always check the included device list against what you actually find in the Airbnb. Screenshot by Tyler Lacoma/CNET With electronics and hidden cams accounted for, there's one more gadget run-through you need to make in new spaces like this. Check for smoke/carbon monoxide detectors in every room, and make sure there's an easily accessed fire extinguisher. Look for locks on the windows and any side doors, too. This is also an excellent time to find any home safes that the host may have included to store your valuables. It's your choice if you want to keep electronics, cash and so on here, but a properly managed safe with changing codes is usually one of the most protected places in a rental. However, you have to put a lot of trust in your host. 8. See if there's protected Wi-Fi Netgear's hotspot device may be a safer option than trusting every host's Wi-Fi. Netgear Wi-Fi is a common, even expected inclusion at Airbnbs, but it comes with its own set of risks. It's important that any Wi-Fi the host offers is on a separate guest network, uses WPA2 or 3 encryption and has a good password. Ideally, the host will change this password after every guest, too. Even then, the host still has a lot of control over what devices are connected and what they do. If you can't verify that the Wi-Fi network has the right protections, don't use it. Some prefer to use their own Wi-Fi hotspots or a VPN rather than risk the dangers that come with relying on a stranger's Wi-Fi. 9. Check for local maps or download your own Updates like iOS 18 make it easier than ever to download customizable maps for your plans. Jeff Carlson/CNET Some rental owners offer help to newcomers like providing local maps or guides so you can more easily find your way around and get a few recommendations. If no maps are provided, now is the ideal time to find a few local maps (street, trail, landmark) and download them to your phone or other device. You'll want a downloaded map that doesn't rely on Wi-Fi for safe navigation of the area. Now you're ready to settle in, head out and enjoy your stay. But don't stop reading quite yet -- we also have guides on stopping porch pirates, preventing break-ins whether you're at home or not, and a complete guide to home security questions and answers.
