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High season for tourism has been and is here and it will continue through fall! And it is also high season for pickpockets and scammers!
Beware! Yes, the pros are out and they are just waiting for YOU to slip up!
♦ Pick Pockets!
They are everywhere – trains stations, metros, buses, trams, airports, vaporetti, shopping areas, historical centers/sites, events…you name it! They are everywhere that you are and they totally blend in as locals and often look just like other tourists – just like you and me!
They typically work in teams; one will distract/jostle/bump into you while the other picks your pocket! And they are pros!
♦ Don’t Be an Easy Target!
• Try to blend in and always look like you know where you are going. Be aware of your surroundings. (Don’t stand around in the middle of the sidewalk looking confused or at your map or GPS?!)
• Do NOT carry your Passport or all of your money around with you (unless you are actually in transit) but always have copies in a different bag. Keep your Passport in a safe or safe place in your room and divide your currency into different places.
• Do NOT carry your smart phone or wallet in your back pocket! Easy pickin’s!
• Do NOT put your money, credit cards or docs in your backpack . (Better yet, don’t use a backpack but if you must, carry it in front.)
• If you have a cross-body bag, keep it in front of you and keep your hand on it (on the zipper or latch) at all times.
• NEVER leave any bags, luggage, purses, smart phones, packages unattended! Not for a moment! Don’t have more than you can manage. Travel light! And that means in trains stations, on the train or bus or whatever – any public transportation! , airports, restrooms, any place that is crowded…and it also means outdoor cafes where there is foot traffic.
• Be vigilant in crowded spaces – inside or outdoors. They are pros and they are looking for you and waiting for that opportunity when you’re not paying attention! (Examples: you’re taking a photo or looking at a shop window or ??)
• NEVER reach for or take out your wallet or money in public. And when using ATM’s be sure to “protect” (body shield) when entering your pin. If you’re with someone have them stand close by as well.
♦ Scams!
You’re at the train station and you look confused/lost (and maybe you are!) or you arestruggling with your luggage…someone very nicely dressed offers to help you either with your bags and/or to show you where to go… if they “help you”, they will then expect a tip! A hefty tip! Say NO, thank you, and find someone in uniform, a customer service desk or someone who obviously works there.
♦ Street Vendors and Panhandlers
Anyone who approaches you or follows you around and either tries to give you some kind of “free” trinket (such as a bracelet, flower) or gift or to sell you something – absolutely DO NOT stop, do not engage or acknowledge them – keep walking!!
♦ Develop habits that will keep you and your belongings safe! ♦
Ready to Plan YOUR 2025-2026 Dream Trip to Italia? CLICK HERE!
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Important! There is little (i.e., nothing) that local authorities can do to help you – the ultimate responsibility is yours! Be proactive to prevent such incidences happening to you but if you do find yourself compromised, be prepared to contact appropriate institutions and credit card companies.
Also Note: This post was inspired by actual experiences of friends and clients! Let me help you plan YOUR fabulous and stress-free Italy experience!
