At Libertas Travel, our goal is to provide fun, enriching educational tours for our groups. But underpinning everything we do is the priority of the safety and security of our travellers.
Managing risk effectively involves identifying potential risks, anticipating them appropriately, and applying practical controls. Risk comes in many forms, including but not limited to those described below.
Personal information
In the age of data breaches and identity theft, Libertas Travel understands that data security has never been more critical – especially where sensitive material like passport information and medical history is concerned. Moreover, information relating to minors is managed with particular care, both during the pre-departure preparation period, and while on tour. The potential danger of publishing of images of students online has also been noted by Australia’s e-safety commissioner.
Emotional and psychological
Travel can be stressful and cause potential discomfort. The effects of jetlag and homesickness can cause significant distress, particularly for inexperienced travellers. Keeping communication channels open with both loved ones at home and members of the tour group is a key part of responsible travel, helping to promote safety and support throughout the journey.
History itineraries often include visits to sites with upsetting themes or stories. These venues understandably illicit a strong emotional response in some people, and it is important to handle these situations with empathy.
Physical and site-specific
Real-world risks are an inevitable part of travel, with everything from cobblestone streets, avoiding pickpockets and street scams, and navigating crowded public transport networks. Without a clear plan and appropriate preparation, these experiences can seem daunting, particularly when travelling with minors. Something as simple as knowing which side of the road traffic travels on, or if tap water is safe for drinking, can be crucial to staying safe at your destination.
Risk management can feel overwhelming, and it often forms a large part of an organising teacher's workload. Libertas Travel has extensive experience identifying and managing travel risk, and we have designed a comprehensive risk assessment framework that can assist organising teachers with this task. If you’re considering planning a study tour, you can feel confident that Libertas Travel is ready to assist.
