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Travel health advice - men

Generally speaking, men have less to worry about than women when they go travelling. However, being a foreign man can make you a target in some countries - particularly for the sex industry. Men are also more likely to take risks - especially with adventure sports.

Accidents and injuries

Before you leave, double-check your travel insurance document for what you are covered for. Many charge an extra premium for certain activities, such as skiing, diving or surfing. If you're not sure yet what you'll be doing, ask if you will be able to upgrade your policy while you are travelling - most companies will allow you to do this.

You also need to check if the insurance company will fly you home for medical treatment. This is more of an issue in countries with poor medical facilities.

When you've checked the cover, check any exclusions. For example, some may refuse a claim if you ride a motorbike without a helmet.

If you are travelling in Europe, make sure you have your European Health Insurance Card (get a form from the post office or online for this). This gets you free or low-cost medical treatment in EU countries.

If you do hurt yourself, there's not a lot you can do apart from put yourself in the hands of the local doctors. Make sure you keep all the paperwork that you may need for an insurance claim, and call your insurance helpline as soon as you can.

The sex industry

Firstly, decide before you go that you are not going to contribute to the sex industry. Quite aside from the moral implications and the effects on the young women (and men) who get sucked into it, it is dangerous for you. Hepatitis and AIDS are both rife in many countries and both can kill.

Other risks include getting robbed and facing an uncomfortable or even violent situation (the men who control the industry are not known for being nice people). Also, if you sleep with an under-age girl (knowingly or not), you can face prosecution in this country as well as abroad.

Sex is sold very aggressively in some countries. If you're a man on your own, you may find this uncomfortable or even threatening. Try to hook up with a female traveller when out and about - people will tend to leave you alone.

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