1. Read about how to aviod being a victim of crime by entering the appropriate terms in the search engine of this forum.
2. Read about taxi scams by entering the appropriate terms in the search engine of this forum.
3. Get a cheap cell phone and enter a list of radio taxis and remis close to your residence.
4. Make color copies of the photo and signature page of you passport and have then laminated in plastic (back to back).
5. Leave your passport in a safe place in your apartment and only carry your credit/debit card when you are withdrawing cash from an ATM or making a purchase. Take the money and card home asap.
6. Buy a can of mace and/or a stun gun. Lock the door to your bedroom from the inside at night. Have the flashlight and stun gun close at hand.
7. Make sure you have a first aid kit and a flashlight in your apartment. Candles and a battery powered radio are also useful during a power outage.
8. Know a locksmith you can call at 2 AM if you are locked out of your apartment (one who will charge you $200-$300 pesos..not $1200-$1500).
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9. Get homeowners's insurance with Mapfre, even if you are just renting. They will send a locksmith at no extra charge and the policy will cost less than $100 pesos per month and cover your possessions as well. Be sure to carry the card with the toll free number.
10. Get local medical insurance and be sure to carry the ID card with you.