How to activate in safe mode in any tourist city in the world
Safe Travel: Expert Tips for Tourists
The excitement and anticipation of visiting a new destination do not exempt any tourist from potential risks, which could lead to the loss of personal belongings, documents, jewelry, or money, ultimately turning what should be a pleasant experience into a negative and exhausting one.
For this reason, we interviewed Mauricio Molina Rodríguez, General Manager of Tokken Security Company Ltda., who shared with Tierra Querida that the key to “enjoying the best tourist attractions in any city in the world is to activate safe mode first.” He also spoke about opportunistic crimes and how to avoid them.
A diverse and multicultural destination like Bogotá is not immune to this global reality. Therefore, being a cautious tourist is always the best option to make the most of a vacation or business trip without experiencing security incidents.
Understanding Opportunistic Crimes
Mauricio, who has been in the private security sector for over 20 years, explains that:
“Travelers become vulnerable and fall victim to theft due to negligence (opportunistic crimes) by not being aware of their surroundings. These types of thefts usually occur without violence, and the main targets are bags, backpacks, wallets, cell phones, and small electronic devices. Violent assaults in large cities around the world happen mostly at night or when the victim resists the robbery.”
As part of his crime prevention efforts, particularly in the hospitality industry, Mauricio has worked with major hotel chains to enhance security awareness among travelers. He emphasizes that, just like in other major tourist cities around the world, Colombian cities also face security challenges. Providing guidance and advice to tourists is one of his company’s strengths. Here are some safety tips he regularly shares:
Safety Tips for Travelers
✅ Activate Safe Mode – Be alert and aware of your surroundings at all times. If something feels off, walk away from the area. The best defense is not being there in the first place.
✅ Stay in Secure Areas – Ask hotel staff or locals about safe areas to visit and places to avoid.
✅ Leave Your Passport at the Hotel – Carry a copy instead of the original to avoid losing it.
✅ Beware of Fake Police Officers – In Colombia, National Police officers always wear uniforms. Never comply with requests from individuals who are not properly uniformed and identified.
✅ Exchange Money Safely – Only exchange currency at official exchange houses or pay with cards whenever possible.
✅ Use Secure Transportation – Avoid hailing taxis on the street. Instead, use ride-hailing apps like Uber and Cabify, or better yet, transportation services arranged by your hotel.
✅ Do Not Use Your Phone on the Street – This is one of the most common theft targets.
✅ Avoid Interacting with Strangers – Do not give directions to unfamiliar people or accept food or drinks from strangers.
About Mauricio Molina Rodríguez and Tokken Security Company
Aside from his experience in international hotel security, Mauricio Molina Rodríguez holds a degree in Security and Occupational Health Administration from Universidad Militar Nueva Granada. He is also a Certified Security Consultant accredited by the Superintendency of Surveillance and Private Security of Colombia. His company specializes in commercial, corporate, hospitality, residential, and service sector security, among others.
One of his key principles is:
“Security is not your business, but without security, there is no business.”
This philosophy reassures his clients: focus on your business and let us do what we do best—protect you. With this approach, Tokken Security Company has built a prestigious clientele across various industries, earning recognition as a boutique security company.
A Message for Entrepreneurs
When asked what advice he would give to someone looking to start their own business, he responded without hesitation:
“God and family are the pillars where great dreams begin.”
He shared that his wife was his biggest motivator, playfully adding that she “pushed” him to take the leap into entrepreneurship. His family remains his greatest inspiration.
With faith, family support, and the dedication of his team, Tokken Security Company continues to establish itself as the top choice in security services.