June 6, 2008
Advice for economists visiting a developing country
As an economist visiting a (particular) developing economy for the first time, I regret to reflect that I have ignored most of Tyler’s advice, although I promise I’ve been sound on point 2:
1. Learn as quickly as you can what is safe and what is not. In Brazil taxicabs are pretty safe, in Mexico City they are not. This will take some doing and in the meantime be very careful. Have a prearranged safety net if you lose everything to a thief.
2. Do not get drunk take drugs or patronize prostitutes. Really, It is a path to trouble and if you want to do it save it for a more familiar environment.
3. Try out the various transportation networks in the region, the more inconvenient the better…
