Well you kinda have to do it locally unless you feel comfortable with cash in the post!

Localbitcoins.com

Choose a seller with 100% feedback that has done hundreds of transactions. It is as big of a risk of them as it is for you. They have bundles of cash on them, you would have a secure bitcoin wallet on a mobile phone / or possibly call someone at home to do the transaction for you.

If anything went wrong, chances are you could just pose as someone else and arrange another meetup with the person. It really isn't worth it for them to scam you.

People keep saying to do it in a public place, but handing over large amounts of cash in public places could present more problems. People thinking it is a drug deal etc. I would personally go along with a friend or family member.

I done a cash transaction a week ago with a guy that had over 3000 transactions all with 100% feedback. It was very laid back, the guy didn't even care to check the coins had actually be sent. Just have your wits about you.