Reply from Agony Uncle
1) First, check that your personal and medical insurance covers the security and political situation in your destination- it may be invalid if your government advises against travel. Second, ensure that your family and colleagues know your travel arrangements and contact details, and inform them of any changes. Also check that your mobile phone will work on a local network.
Finally educate yourself about the situation in the country. Having a true understanding of a place should help alleviate concerns about safety.
2) You do not need hulking bodyguards; just do not be ostentatious: dress inconspicuously and plan your travel. Do not wander randomly.
Be alert, Attackers often pass their victim and attack from behind. If you do get lost, go into a busy shop and ask for directions or consult your map there.
3) Hand over what the robbers want and then get away- resistance is more likely to provole violence. Do not make eye contact or sudden movements.
4) Wealthy people are rarely detained for no reason, but if you are, ask to contact your embassy. Do not sign any documents until you know what they say even if it means waiting for a translator. Of the police are unwilling to find one , insist politely and firmly.
If you are driving you may come across police who mand cash as a fine for a "traffic violation" .insisting on a receipt will usually deter casual requests for bribes.