I would strongly recommend to use decentralized exchanges in order to be safe. I personally use Nxt Asset Exchange and OpenLedger exchange. You got more security but on the other hand the exchangeable coins are limited.
The majority of the people here don't even know what the difference is between normal exchanges and decentral exchanges.
OP; you're best option will be localbitcoins or perhaps that you can find some one here in this forum where you can trade face 2 face in a crowded area.