*I have been working on these tips since the beginning of the trip and will probably be adding more as time goes on. I know I am not the most experienced traveler but I also know I am not the least experienced either. I have just noticed a lot of things that I think anyone wanting to travel should know before they strike out on their own. It obviously is not comprehensive but...few things in life are ;) *

-comfort and safety > fashion

It is certainly possible to still look good while traveling but remember that it should be more about the experience of seeing and exploring and less about making an impression on the locals. Odds are (not to be pessimistic but realistic) if you catch the eye of a local, he is probably looking for something more than a casual night on the town. And while heels may make your legs and rear look awesome, there is a greater chance of pulling a muscle, twisting an ankle or stepping on a stranger's toes on the metro. None of which are good things (usually).

-pack light

Along with not needing to look like you are coming straight off the runway, you also do not need to bring a ton with you. You can get away with a couple shirts, pants/shorts, shoes, etc., especially if you learn how to wash clothing by hand in a sink or tub. Learn to layer, mix-and-match, and spice things up with simple jewelry. You are solely responsible for your bag. If you bring 50+ pounds of crap, then you are going to be hauling 50+ pounds of crap up stairs, through narrow streets, onto metro trains, and so on. That's how it works :)
Too many girls on this trip way over-packed and then expected others to drop everything and come help them haul their massive bag up several flights of stairs. That's NOT how it works. In the wise words of Boy Scout leaders everywhere, "You pack it in, you pack it out!"
And by "you," I mean ->YOU<- !!!!

-develop situational awareness

Most dangerous situations can be avoided through a combination of good, ol' fashion common sense with a healthy dose of observation. Be mindful of your surroundings and make appropriate judgments. Pay attention to warning signs (unusual groupings, lingering stares, intentional following, etc.)
And...I cannot stress this enough...FOLLOW THE SPIRIT. For those of us who are religious, the Spirit can direct, warn and advise. Keep yourself worthy of His company and be mindful and obedient to any promptings that come.

-acquaintances vs friends

One girl on this trip mentioned that her dad told her that her one job while abroad was to make friends with the locals. Not to be rude, but if her dad truly told her that he is either 1.) a dumb-dumb 2.) completely ignorant of how the world works outside of Utah or 3.) hoping to get a chance to pretend he is Liam Neison and go save his daughter from the sex-slave traders. That may be too harsh and strongly worded, but honestly, I was absolutely furious when I found out what instructions he had given his daughter. Particularly because some of her actions inspired by his words of "advise" have put not only herself, but others as well, in potentially very dangerous situations. Do NOT listen to that girl's father.
While abroad there is nothing wrong with striking up casual conversations with locals, learning about their customs, or trying to strengthen your language skills. There is, however, an extreme amount of danger in volunteering too much information. NEVER say more than you feel comfortable with sharing or more than is absolutely necessary in the situation. You should be more concerned about staying safe than coming across as friendly. Feel free to make some acquaintances while traveling but do not be seeking for life-long friendships because those kinds of relationships require more information and revelation than is safe to provide while out in the world.
*my one exception to this rule is making friends inside the local wards...there is a safety in the Church that I certainly will not deny but still be careful and cautious.

-the virtues of travel: subtlety, humility and confidence

Subtlety: The trick is to try not to play to the stereotypes that exists about Americans, namely being loud, obnoxious and arrogant. This doesn't mean walk sheepishly or looking intentionally uncomfortable, it just means have respect for those around you. Be observant and enjoy the excitement of something new and different but don't feel the need to provide commentary for all those around you, since it can come across exceptionally ignorant if you are not careful (example of what not to say from a girl on this trip: "Oh my gosh! Their accents are so adorable! And look at their cute little costumes!" (side note: NEVER refer to a military uniform as a costume)). Be subtle by trying not to talk too much. The American accent is a dead give-away but use that accent in a loud, condescending, or abrasive way and not only are you furthering the stereotype, you are potentially putting yourself and others into some very awkward situations.

Humility: I have gathered that most (not all) locals will appreciate a humble attitude from you. Try to speak the language if you have any vocabulary memorized and apologize if you don't know a word. Do NOT act like you are frustrated that they do not speak English. Remember that you are the visitor, not them. Some people have this mentality that you are a guest in the country...as in you are a guest who was personally invited into the area and should be treated with all the courtesy and consideration in the world. This is not so. You are a guest in the sense that you are visiting, but you do not necessarily have the undeniable right to be where you are at the moment. Treat each moment as a wonderful opportunity that you were not expecting to have. An attitude of entitlement can be spotted from a mile away and will make you no small number of enemies. It is as simple as the golden rule: treat others the way you would want others to treat you.

Confidence: Subtly and humility do not imply that you need to be weak or uncomfortable. You should be confident but not arrogant (hence applying subtly and humility to the mix as well to keep everything in balance). Even when you are unsure, you should strive to look confident and self-assured. People who look like they know what they are doing (even when they don't really have a clue) are more likely to be left alone by those with not-so-nice intentions. Try to blend in as much as possible. Avoid pulling out maps or reference material in crowded, busy areas or wearing clothing that looks touristy in nature ("I <3 ______ (insert city or country name)!" should be avoided...feel free to purchase them but don't wear them until you are back home). The idea is too look as much like a local if possible. Petty thieves target those who are unsure, confused and distracted, so head up, eyes alert and confidence (even if it is fake) visible.

-hydrate! hydrate! hydrate!

Even when you think you have drunk (drank?) enough water, drink more. Most of us will be hoofing it when we travel because taxis are pricey. The subways and metros are usually pretty affordable but you will still have quite a bit of walking from the stations to various sites. Drink lots of water!
I cannot stress that enough. Dehydration is a sure-fire way to have a pretty dang miserable day :(

-maps can be your best friend

Learn how to read a map. It is seriously one of the most useful skills to have while traveling. That may seem like a no-brainier but...a lot of people forget to brush up on that skill before they take off.