Travel tips

The general advice is: do not use drugs. Drug use is strongly discouraged. Not only for health reasons, but also because the punishment for using or possessing drugs in some countries are much harsher than in the Netherlands. This applies not only to drug use but also to possession, which can result in harsh penalties in other countries.

Drugging

When you're abroad, there's also a risk of being drugged. Drugging refers to the act of administering a drug or medication to someone without their knowledge or consent. It is done for various reasons. Drugging someone is illegal. It is considered a criminal offense under the law, classified as assault.

Typically, this involves someone secretly adding a drug or medication to the victim's drink. These substances are often referred to as "date-rape drugs." A well-known example of a drug that is put in a drink is GHB. Another substance, Scopolamine (commonly known as "Devils’ Breath") is used in the same manner, particularly in South American countries, and also affects the victim's consciousness.

Another form of drugging is called ‘needle spiking’, where the victim is injected with a substance using a needle. In practice, this method is quite difficult to carry out, leading to uncertainty about whether it actually occurs or if the drugs are simply mixed into drinks or food.

Effects of drugging

Seek medical help immediately if you suspect you have been drugged. The effects of drugging can include nausea, a feeling of weakness, memory loss, hallucinations, dilated pupils, changes in heart rate, insomnia, or unconsciousness. You can find more information on this topic here: drugsinfo.

Here are some tips:

• Never leave food or drinks unattended while traveling.
• Keep your hand or a lid over your drink.
• Do not accept food or drinks from strangers or new acquaintances.
• If your drink tastes strange or different, dispose of it immediately.
• Seek medical assistance right away if you think you have been drugged.