Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
CHAPTER FIVE—
TRAVEL SAFETY AND AVOIDING
TOURIST SCAMS
When it comes to safety in Europe, the main thing you need to worry about is petty
crime—specifically pickpockets and less frequently robbery. Violent crime is rare
and gun-related crime is virtually nonexistent. Of course, there are a few cities that
have elevated crime rates and you should always use commonsense safety precau-
tions, but the chances of anything happening is extremely low.
Pickpockets and Petty Theft
If you're planning a trip to Europe, you've undoubtedly been warned about the danger of pick-
pockets. It is important to be vigilant because thousands of tourists are victims of pickpockets
each year—and no one wants to spend their hard-earned vacation trying to cancel their credit
cards, replacing their passport, and finding alternative means to access money. Luckily there
are many simple things you can do to deter yourself from becoming a pickpocketing victim.
POPULAR CITIES FOR PICKPOCKETS
