The guide covers practical pre-trip planning that assists women travelers in making their upcoming journey as safe and non-confrontational as possible, including recommending basic research into the cultural and traditional customs (and taboos) of their intended destination as well as its current political and social climate.

"Women's roles vary from culture to culture as do customs of dress, body language and even such everyday occurrences as making eye-contact or how close one stands to a man when speaking," states Somaia Abdelrahim, Senior Client Relations Manager. "Western norms for women that tend towards gender neutrality are not commonly accepted in some other cultures and in fact can be the root of misunderstanding, harassment and even physical threats. Understanding those differences can prevent incidents that can range from embarrassing to downright dangerous."

Beyond cultural differences that may impact women traveling abroad are gender-specific health and medical concerns, both biological (such as traveling during a pregnancy) and psychological (stress due to separation from family, feelings of isolation) and the level and quality of healthcare available when and if complications or health issues arise.

Add in ways to deal with safety issues that may be taken for granted at home such as making smart transportation arrangements, choice of hairstyle (pony-tails are not the best idea), and finding secure sites for daily work- outs, and women travelers can be more prepared for many eventualities.

Noting that travelers can obtain a great deal of research is available in travel guides; on the Internet and from advisories from government agencies, Abdelrahim points out that the inspiration for this particular travel guide came from requests for MEDEX Assistance pre-trip intelligence reports from clients who did not have the time to do their own research.