Just what is a perfect holiday? There is no right answer to the question; it will always be dependent on variables such as interest, amount of time and time of the year, company and certainly, budget. A perfect holiday is all about great destinations and experiences from tropical islands reminiscent of aquamarine waters, glistening white sand, coconut palms and exotic seafood have always been popular destinations to coveted snowy peaks, big modern metropolis and those places that bred rich culture and history.
A perfect holiday is safe, and yes, dangerous animals have no place in it. Unfortunately, there is no such thing as a perfect holiday. Almost always some sort of challenges or risks may threaten to mar your “near-perfect” holiday. One possible threat may come from animals. What are these animals? Find out more from “Travel Alert: 9 Most Dangerous Animals to Avoid on Holiday.” This is posted in PerthNow – Lifestyle News Section
Travel insurance company TID has released a list of the 9 most dangerous animals you’re likely to encounter while on holiday, and the results are surprising.
- Mosquitos
… these little suckers carry tropical diseases such as malaria and dengue fever … which can put you at risk of dengue haemorrhagic fever…
So, how can you stay safe? “… protect yourself by wearing long shirts and pants in light colours and plenty of insect repellent,” … “Also avoid stagnant water and tip out any water that has pooled in buckets or pot plants at your accommodation.”
- Monkeys
… Thailand’s macaques are the second-most dangerous animal to encounter… macaques can carry B-virus infections, it’s very important that travellers seek medical treatment and vaccinations if scratched or bit by a monkey… also known for pinching items such as sunglasses and wallets, so make sure you keep valuables zipped away.
- Stray dogs
Bali is home to over half a million stray dogs but sadly, these pooches are not nearly as friendly as your domestic house hound… Be wary of dogs that approach you and seek medical treatment immediately if you’re scratched or bit.
- Bed bugs
… these nocturnal parasites … feeding on the blood of their host as they sleep. Not only do the bites form an irritating rash, but bed bugs are notoriously difficult to get rid of and will tend to join you on your travels…
You must also take caution against:
- Insects & creepy crawlies: The world is full of these animals from ticks in South Africa to Malaysian fire ants and spiders in the United States.
- Sea urchins: Certain species have spikes with barbs that will cause you extreme pain if you accidentally step on one. Be warned, they love clustering in colonies in flat substrates.
- Feral cats: They only look as cute as Hello Kitty, but they can carry humongous pathogenic microorganisms in its paws, fur and mouth as they scavenge from food in dirty places. Don’t ever cuddle them; a lick on a skin cut can lead to dreadful infection.
- Squirrels: Another cute, furry animal, squirrels may not give you an “”infectious lick,” but they can bite your finger when you try to become overfriendly and feed them. Once bitten, you would need to be stitched and get an anti-tetanus shot.
- Hyenas: Safaris can be very thrilling, but the risk can be very immense particularly the wild adventures that get you exploring areas inhabited by hyenas and other wild animals. Doing the safari inside the safety of a vehicle doesn’t remove all risks as you enter their food chain.
You seek out destinations with a lot of thought and consideration. Your security is always a consideration. After all, what is an adventure if you will not live to tell your story? These animals are rarely considered as factors that can mar your wonderful holiday plans. Read this article… just so you know.
