Members should bear in mind that the majority of people are decent and genuine, but when dealing with numbers on a world-wide basis it is inevitable that the occasional bad apple will get into the barrel. It is impossible for us to vet every member individually, so a certain amount of care should be taken before meeting, and especially going on an actual holiday with another member.

A few pointers are included below:-

• Find out everything you can about your proposed holiday partner before meeting. Especially if you are planning to meet at the holiday destination. Don't be afraid to ask probing questions in order to do this.
• Lay out the ground rules before committing yourself to a holiday with another member and make sure they are understood on both sides. Are you intending to book separate rooms or share? Are you hoping to spend all the time on holiday together or just meet up for certain aspects, such as excursions or at mealtimes? Are you looking for strict friendship or a bit of romance. Any or all of these types of circumstance could be very embarrassing if the exact terms of the relationship are not clearly understood on both sides from the outset. It is better to lose one possible partner and have to search for another than have a very awkward holiday!
• When meeting someone for the first time do so in a public place, such as a restaurant, bar or pub.
• Before meeting let at least one person close to you know exactly where you are going, who you are going to meet and what time you expect to be back.
• Relax and enjoy! Be cautious but don't let caution overshadow what otherwise should be an enjoyable occasion.

Remember that most people are decent and genuine, and that there is little to worry about. However, a little bit of common sense and a certain amount of caution in the early stages can help to ensure you have a wonderful time!

Have a very happy holiday or vacation!