A recent study has revealed that despite Canada being one of the most popular destinations for solo travellers, less than half of Canadians (46%) are aware of the HELP signals used by people who travel alone. Further, the survey found that 63% of Canadians have travelled alone at least once in their lives, but that only 21% know how to proceed once someone signals distress.
The survey by online language platform Preply, released in conjunction with World Day Against Trafficking in Persons this week (July 30), concluded that despite Canada’s reputation (and top ranking in some polls) as the world’s safest travel destination, Canadians need to increase their awareness of SOS signals used by solo travellers and be prepared to use them if they visit less-safe countries.
Among them:
- Order an “Angel Shot” at the bar: Asking for an “Angel Shot” is a discreet way to alert bar staff that someone needs help. Only 20% of Canadians are aware of this practice.
- Ask to speak to “Angela”: This method, used mainly in the United Kingdom, allows a person in distress to ask to speak to “Angela” to discreetly signal for help. Only 14% of Canadians know this code.
- Use the acronym STAN: “STAN” stands for “Send The Authorities Now” and is used to request immediate intervention by authorities. Only 13% of Canadians know this acronym.
- Draw a black dot on the palm of your hand: The “Black Dot” campaign encourages victims of domestic violence to draw a black dot on their palm to signal for help. Only 11% of Canadians are aware of this signal.
Canada
Solo travel is increasingly popular in Canada, with around 30% of travel to the country being solo trips. Data from Airbnb indicates a substantial rise in solo travel by female guests, up more than 20% compared to 2021. Toronto stands out as a top destination for solo travellers, ranking sixth globally.
The trend of solo travel is also strong among Canadians themselves. According to the American Express Travel 2024 Global Travel Trends Report, 54% of Canadians plan to maintain or increase their solo travel activities in 2024. This trend is driven primarily by Millennials and Gen-Z, who make up 53% of these travellers. Many are planning “treat yourself” trips that focus on self-love and personal rejuvenation.
In addition to encouraging travellers to learn even a few words of the local language, Preply language expert Sylvia Johnson says, “In today’s fast-paced world, understanding non-verbal communication is important for keeping us safe. Non-verbal cues like body language, facial expressions, or even a handshake can give us clues about a situation or a person’s intentions. Being able to read these reactions can help us identify if something doesn’t feel right and act accordingly to ensure our own safety as well as that of others around us.
Methodology
This study was conducted by surveying 27 different countries, including Canada, in June 2024 to promote the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons on July 30, supported by the United Nations. Data from Numbeo, Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection, AirBnb, Condé Nast Traveller, Time Out, and Travel + Leisure, and American Express report were analyzed and included in the study.