Drugs abroad
Taking drugs abroad can be even more risky than taking them at home. Firstly, drugs bought abroad may be different - perhaps stronger. Secondly, the risk of overheating and dehydrating are greatly increased in hot climates. Thirdly, drugs can make you less aware of your surroundings and situation - in a strange place with people you don't know this can be very dangerous.
In addition to the above, the penalty for possession and supply of drugs in other countries can be very severe, and prison conditions often very harsh.
In some situations, being caught with drugs abroad can mean:
- Death penalty
in several countries, including Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, China, Kuwait, Pakistan, Egypt, India, Bangladesh and Singapore - Life imprisonment
in some countries, including Cyprus and Greece - Up to 20 years imprisonment
in several countries, including Tunisia, Turkey.
When you are in another country you are bound by the rules of that country, however harsh they may seem. You will not be treated any better because you are a British citizen.
Also, bear in mind that if you are caught with drugs abroad it is likely that you will be banned from ever visiting that country again. You will also get a criminal record in the UK, which can affect employment prospects, will need to be declared on insurance applications, and may effect visa applications for some countries (e.g. USA).
If you are injured whilst under the influence of drugs, or made ill through drug use, this will often invalidate your travel insurance. Your travel company may also refuse to fly you home, so you would have to find your own flight.
Stay out of trouble - follow these basic rules:
- DO NOT get involved with taking, carrying or dealing in drugs
- ALWAYS pack your own bags, and fasten them securely
- DO NOT leave your bags unattended
- NEVER carry items or bags through Customs for other people
- DO NOT drive somebody else's vehicle through Customs or across a border
- DO NOT lend your vehicle to anybody else
- If you need to carry medicine that has been prescribed by a doctor, carry your prescription with you in case you are questioned at Customs.
A word about alcohol...
Be aware that laws and attitudes relating to alcohol are different abroad too. Alcohol is prohibited in a number of countries, including Saudi Arabia, Libya and Kuwait. If you try to import alcohol into a country where it is forbidden, you will face severe penalties - pleading "I didn't know I was breaking the law" will not get you out of trouble.
Visit the what's your poison? section for more information on drugs.
Also, see www.greatgapyears.co.uk for more useful information about drugs abroad.
Contacts
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