How Not To Get Pickpocketed In Rome

A delightful holiday can be spoiled in an instant. It can happen faster than you realise. It will take hours of your time, create an incredible inconvenience, cost you money, jeopardize your identity, and thoroughly spoil your stay. It's called pickpocketing, and Rome has one of the highest pickpocket rates in the world.



Rome pickpockets are extremely skilled. Many of the pickpockets are children who have perfected the crime with Dicken's-like expertise. From public transportation, to shops, to discount hotels, to tourist attractions-the pickpockets are everywhere that you might go. It is important to outsmart the thieves before they take advantage of you. Here's how.



It's important to have the right mindset. Since you are in a different culture, and in an area known for pickpocket activity, arm yourself with mental preparation.



• Be suspicious of everyone. Most pickpockets are women and children-even old women, women with infants, and young children. Despite the tragedy of the situation, you must be defensive even toward those who seem innocent.

• Be aware of everything. Distraction is the number one ploy of pickpockets. They may display a sign for you to read, jostle you, or ask for food. Be on your guard especially in public transportation. Rome's train stations and discount hotels located near the station are hotbeds of pickpocket activity.

• Be knowledgeable about techniques. If you know ahead of time how a pickpocket will attempt to rob you, you will be well prepared. Study up on pickpocket techniques, and spot the tricksters before they get your wallet.



In addition to being mentally prepared, try these defensive techniques.

• Group up. While groups of tourists are prime pickpocket targets, smart groups can foil even the slyest pickpockets. Appoint several members of the group as pickpocket detectors, allowing the rest of the group to ogle at the sights.

• Leave it. If you can live without it, go without it. Backpacks are easy for a skilled pickpocket to snatch. A smaller bag worn close to the body is better. Leave your valuables at your Rome hotel, not on Rome's streets.

• Hide it. If you must bring it, conceal it as best as you can. A zippered pouch worn around your neck and against your skin is perfect for keeping cash and important documents.

• Look smart. Tourists are easy to spot: camera, sun visor, map, etc. If you can avoid the tourist look, you can avoid a lot of pickpockets. Obviously, not wearing expensive jewelry or clothing is a practical defensive technique.



During your otherwise perfect holiday, staying in
">Rome hotels, sampling local Italian cuisine, and enjoying the fascinating sights, follow these tips to protect your cash and preserve great memories.