Contributors

In addition to our listed authors, we would also like to thank our initial contributors Courtney Sullivan, Margaret Fabiszak, Alison Hines, Amanda Wang, Caitlin Boehne, Courtney Landy, Courtney Parks, Danielle Levoit, Elaine Devora, Emily Genzlinger, Emily Przylucki (orignal lead), Erica Swallow, Erin Harris, Heather Gile, Hope Friedland, Janessa Brown-Stonbraker, Jillian Brauth, Kaitlin Plat, Kaity Tsui, Katherine Melville, Katherine Otto, Katy Murakami, Lauren Betesh, Lisa Raphael, Meredith Levin, Neha Patel (original lead), Nora Udell, Olivia Chang, Paula Kupfer, Renee Greenberg and Whitney Thompson.  Special thanks to our original Guide Creative Director and Editor, Marti Grimminck and Meret Hofer.

Introduction

This guide is designed to provide you with some useful tips and information when traveling abroad as a woman.

In every culture there are different customs and roles that the women take on. Many of the European cultures have similar standards and perceptions towards women as Americans. However, some cultures like Ghana have very different roles for women in their society. It is important to recognize these cultural differences (big and small) to understand the way local people will interact with you.

Many foreigners have distinct perceptions of American women. As a generalization, foreigners see Americans as louder and less reserved than the women in their own culture. As a result, some foreigners think Americans are more ‘free’ in their sexuality. Be aware of this so you do not find yourself in a precarious situation.