Travel Guides

Top 10 hotspot cities for pick pockets

By Dominic Welling

dominicwelling@consumerchoices.co.uk

Although most holidays pass off without incident, it is worth being aware that in many places there is also a very real threat of pick pockets and purse snatchers.

No matter where you are on holiday you should keep a beady eye on your important belongings at all times, but with the help of TravelAdvisor.com we have narrowed it down to the 10 most pickpocket-prone cities in the world.

Tourists would do well to watch their bags in places where many popular attractions happen to be outdoors and which are extremely busy - and therefore prime targets for purse-snatchers.

So, in reverse order working up to the place where you ought to be the most vigilant, here is the list...

1. Hanoi, Vietnam

The capital of Vietnam is a beautiful and unique place to visit, but also a place to stay alert for mischief.

2. Athens, Greece

This legendary city features countless ancient monuments, many of which are outdoors.

Whether visiting the Parthenon on the Acropolis, or anything else in this magnificent historic city, keep your bags close to your chest while your eyes admire the rest.

3. Amsterdam, Netherlands

It’s easy to get carried away in Amsterdam with so many things to see and do, but don’t be too taken in by the canals and the friendly, laid-back atmosphere - pickpockets have been known to take advantage of countless tourists in this great city.

4. Buenos Aires, Argentina

Buenos Aires is a vibrant and culturally rich city with much to offer visitors.

However certain locals, as friendly as they may appear, will try all sorts of tricks to swipe your belongings while you’re sightseeing, so beware.

5. Florence, Italy

It is easy to see why tourists would be distracted by the beauty of Florence and its many incredible works of art and pieces of history, but be warned; when you are admiring this busy city others may have their attention on your wallet.

6. Paris, France

The City of Light draws enormous crowds from the base of the Eiffel Tower to the steps of Sacré-Coeur and everywhere in between. But enormous crowds can also be found below ground, in the city’s metro system, where travellers should be especially cautious.

7. Madrid, Spain

El Rastro flea-market and the crowded metro are often cited as spots where unfriendly pickpocket schemes can put a damper on a visit to this beautiful city. However, travellers should also beware that in museums - and Madrid has many - pickpockets can be crafty as well, preying on distracted tourists.

8. Prague, Czech Republic

The famously beautiful Charles Bridge in Prague sees thousands of tourists crowd its ancient stones each year, making a perfect hotspot for a bit of pickpocketing.

9. Rome, Italy

With its ancient buildings and astounding historical and cultural attractions, Rome is full of both tourists and incredible things to sightsee. With thousands of people admiring the Trevi Fountain or the Pantheon, it’s easy for a pickpocket to lift a camera or purse with you noticing.

10. Barcelona, Spain

One TripAdvisor reviewer compared Barcelona pickpocketing to a generally practiced and accepted sport, like football.

If you are visiting the wonderful city of Barcelona take caution: Las Ramblas, the famous wide, pedestrian walkway full of life, music, and people at all hours of the day and night, is the perfect place to get your wallet poached.

Amelie Hurst, a spokeswoman for TripAdvisor, says: “Pickpocketing is a true art and whilst thieves can strike anywhere, home or abroad, tourist hot-spots often yield far richer-pickings.

“The combination of an awe-struck traveller and a bag bulging with local currency, not to mention passports, cameras and credit cards, is an appealing prospect for any light-fingered thief.”

Key ways to protect yourself from a nimble pickpocket:

1. Never keep your wallet or valuables in your back pocket, even if it buttons up - it’s by far the easiest target. Use something like a money belt instead.
2. Beware of the distraction tactic, such as dropping something near you, squirting something on you, or simply jostling you. Be on guard when in crowds, and secure your belongings.
3. Pickpockets often work in pairs or groups and it’s not just the usual suspects. Be cautious with any strangers - sometimes people who don’t look like they’d be a threat, such as children or the elderly, can be part of larger operations.
4. Stay alert in confined spaces and near passageways. Try to avoid standing near the doorways of trains as groups of pickpockets can rush at you when the doors open.
5. Before you set off on a trip, pare down the contents of your handbag or wallet - the smaller the bulge, the less likely pickpockets are to covet it.

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