One of my best decisions for international travel (where I take mostly public transportation) is to buy travel coats/bags optimized for security (but don't look it). 1) All my coats MUST have internal zip pockets where valuables are secured and I don't fuss with them on the move 2) I carry a travel phone with local sim and keep my primary phone in the hotel safe 3) I carry a dummy wallet with an expired card, transit pass, and a few local dollars should things get ugly and I need to hand something over 4) Small slings/bags worn on the chest are a strong deterrent as the perpetrator would struggle to gain access Finally, if you are lost or confused, don't be a cheapskate. Take a cab and pay more to get where you need to be. Looking lost = increased risk. These small adjustments allow me to travel happy and safe
Very good advice. I was in Paris alone in 2019 for ten days. I felt very safe even at night . As a solo female, I made sure to be aware of my surroundings and applied the tips in this video. Also: 1- I bought a Travelon anti theft purse. 2- I had another thin anti theft hidden extra thin belt bag that I wore inside my pants. 3- On the metro platform made sure to walk alongside a wall, to avoid being surrounded on all sides. 3- Avoided being in a crowd. 4- Looked around for those young Kids, and weird People. 5- In the trains, I made sure to be far from the door and against the train wall, or in a corner, to be able to see what was in front of me. 6- I made sure not to look like a tourist, so, no map watching, or travel book . 7- Dont use your phone as much as possible in train station or in train, some pickpockets are specialised and will run and grab your devise.
I'm not sure how good these pickpocket people are, but once I met a pro who made a fortune from this at the time and I think you must be pretty naive to get nailed by them. Of course, you will get nailed if you're walking down the street like it's the 70s.
@@Mtl-zf9om There is plenty of videos and articles on the pickpockets and their skills and techniques to fool the senses of the victims. You will never know what happened to you. As for the young adolescents robbing People in the metro, in 2019, the Parisian authorities estimated that the adults racketters controlling those Kids had €20 000.00 revenue per week. I dont know about the 70's... but I know I am not naive.
The trick is to carry a fake phone or wallet attached to you with a fishing line (1 foot long so you notice immediately) Then you turn around and beat the living crap out of the theif and EVERYONE around you will realize you are in the Right because he is verifyably a pickpocketer I've done this 3 times, all 3 times people backed me up and all I had to yell is "THEIF, PICKPOCKETER, I CAUGHT HIM!" while beating the theif's face in.....
@@blackterminal Ya- after traveling for long periods of time, in general I just avoid large crowded areas, also my pants pockets are tight so there is no possible way I could get pickpocketed, I'd feel it instantly, I have trouble prying my own phone out of my pocket so the thief would struggle and appear to be grabbing at my dick So I went after pickpocketers not because I was jacked, but because I've heard of so many people getting jacked---- I always thought "what a great excuse to beat up a bad guy" .... I'm a laid back happy guy but if someone deserves a beating, I am happy to hand one out.... so I pray to witness a criminal committing a crime so I can teach them a lesson I found out they are often scrawny lowlifes-- easy to choke out and beat up.... they are in shock someone even fights back, so being unprepared; they lose the fight ;)
I'm french and have lived in Paris and around almost my whole life. Simple tricks are, put your bag in the front. If you have a backpack, flip it so its on your front. Nothing on your backpocket, and if you have wide pocket that can't close on your jacket or pants, Don't carry your phone/wallet in it put it in your bag. They will check the bulge of your pockets. Also when you are walking with your phone in your hand, don't leave your hand hanging on the side and place it in front of you. I've seen people get their phone snatched out of the hands while walking. They walk behind you and pass you on the side your holding your phone on and run. If you keep your hand in front they can't do this as it has to be quick. If you are withdrawing money, check the people behind and around you before you put your code. They do everything to go unoticed so look at them straight in the eyes while you stop what you do and they will walk away. Don't be scared of looking at people in the eyes when suspicious. If they have no ill means they will just look at you back wondering what's wrong or avoid eye contact. Scammers and pickpockets tho will go away in fear of being confronted. Keep a hand on your bags/luggage in the metro if you can too! Stay safe people!
paris is such a city. better to not visit, than to roam scared and alert all the time. its not a healthy lifestyle. I have been to Paris once - nothing special to take that risk@@liewnyoklin218
Something one learns in the MILITARY. 1. Never with with hands in pocket/s 2. Spatial awareness is critical to safety. - pay attention to detail - be aware of who is around in the vicinity - be aware of who is following - be it on the same side of the street / and also on the opposite side of the street. 3. Ones head must be on a swivel - scanning 36 degrees 4.. Pay special attention walking through pedestrian tunnels 5. Do not walk while starting at the phone screen - The phone can wait. ( Stay off the phone whilst walking ) 6. Stay off the phone when in a crowded situation - 7. Make your eyes like surveillance cameras 8. Be aware of distractions on escalators Everything else in the video is valuable advice Also be aware of muggers and pick packets dropping things such as coins to cause their intended victim to STOP and help pick up the dropped items ---- DO NOT STOP to help - keep moving
instead of saying what tips tourists should know - as a local, you better focus towards improving your city's law and order. Its crumbling in Europe, as imperialism vault is becoming thin after 6-7 decades. all the pleasures of 1900s and 2000s waning now.
Visited France for the first time with my wife. Went into the train with a suitcase and a sling bag containing over 3000 Euros and my passport. A young couple with a baby in a trolley positioned very close in front of us. Another man positioned on our right side and was also squeezing us. Finally a man in a suit stood on our left side. I was thinking probably nice French people. When the train started to move, I looked up to hold on to the metal rails above and when I looked down, a jacket was already covering my bag in front of me. My instinct kicked in and pushed the jacket away (being a Captain in the armed forces and a black belter in various martial art disciplines). I saw a hand already inside my bag holding my documents and money so I grabbed that hand and gave it the most painful locking twist which almost broke the hand. The man started swearing at me and shouting expletives, the other 3 people were also starting to confront me while my wife was wondering what was happening. I was prepared to fight them all but at the back of my mind, I was a bit worried as I was in a foreign land and do not know what will happen to me if I beat them all up. Luckily, my wife pulled me away and we immediately went out of the train when it stopped. The 4 people were still getting more aggressive (specially the suited man who now has a very painful wrist) but to be honest, they were all lucky as we were in France and not in where I came from as I do not tolerate people stealing from me. The sad thing was that not a single word or intervention came from the many people in the train. Maybe it was a French culture or they see this everyday and no longer care. Anyway, I did not enjoy my holiday in France as I have to be hyperactive whenever we were in a crowded place. This is a true story and I hope everyone will look after themselves when they go to France or any other holiday destination.
You were lucky that you were able to stop them. Good for you!! All of them were in on it. Advice for the future and for others: Your important bag with all your money and all of your documents in it should’ve been in a _cross body sling bag_ with your coat covering it and it should have been zipped up as well. In hot weather, you can use a thinner jacket that can be zipped up. If you possibly might need money while you are still getting to your hotel, it would be a good idea to take out just a few euros in advance, before you leave the airplane/airport and put them in a different place that could also be zipped up in your jacket. But easily reached. And ideally, while on the subway with your important bag under your jacket and the jacket zipped up, you would still want your arm across the bag guarding it, while you’re on the train or subway. Your other arm can be holding subway handle. Try to back yourself up again the wall so you can’t be surrounded on all sides by these professional thieves if possible. They have done this all their lives and practiced and practiced. They are way better than us. And they don’t care that they could be ruining your trip. We are just _dollar signs_ to them.
You were lucky that you were able to stop them. Good for,you!! All of them were in on it. Advice for the future and for others: Your important bag with all your money and all of your documents in it should’ve been in a _cross body sling bag_ with your coat covering it and it should have been zipped up as well. In hot weather, you can use a thinner jacket that can be zipped up. If you possibly might need money while you are still getting to your hotel, it would be a good idea to take out just a few euros in advance, before you leave the airplane/airport and put them in a different place that could also be zipped up in your jacket. But easily reached. And ideally, while on the subway with your important bag under your jacket and the jacket zipped up, you would still want your arm across the bag guarding it, while you’re on the train or subway. Your other arm can be holding subway handle. Try to back yourself up again the wall so you can’t be surrounded on all sides by these professional thieves if possible. They have done this all their lives and practiced and practiced. They are way better than us. And they don’t care that they could be ruining your trip. We are just _dollar signs_ to them.
That's actually the scariest part that people dont even try to help you. That wouldnt happen in Ireland where I am from. People would jump on and defend you. There have been a few incidents of attempted kidnapping of children in Dublin since they have opened up our borders and the Irish kicked their asses in the streets.
@@sandrashane677 think a bit about this, these thieves will continue to use the same trains, subways, buses as those commuters who didn't help. This tourist will go away in a few days, but the persons who helped will stay using the same transports. These gangs will obviously retaliate against the local commuters. It's not all black and white. People will help by calling the cops. You know where most heroes end up? In the graveyard. Obviously most will help in serious stuff that involves children, but for money? Not worth our lives, not in the moment nor later if we get stabbed in the back for helping someone who probably is no longer in the country. Best regards 🎩
Me and my husband were at a Copenhagen station with luggage and needed to look at a map. Clearly vulnerable, mid aged tourists 🙄 but we were aware. We each noticed a ‘triangular’ team - 3 people at different points watching us. One came over to ‘help’. The other two moved forward at the same time. Both of us surprised each other by suddenly shouting extremely loudly ‘ go away, get away from us!’ They disappeared so fast, we weren’t sure if it had happened but it did and a sixth sense had come into play, thank goodness. Drawing attention is the last thing they want!
Copenhagen, like a lot of major cities in Europe, have loads and loads of pickpockets and they are brazen. I was there with my elderly mother-in-law and daughter years ago and even though we were all together, they managed to slash open (two slashes no less) her canvas shoulder bag and steal her wallet without her ever noticing. We figured they got her at a crowded intersection. She lost over $200 that day, plus her debit card and ID. 😢 Fortunately, we live in Sweden so she could easily get home and replace everything.
Yeah, Copenhagen Central Station is known for having lots of pickpockets. I live in Denmark and whenever I'm in Copenhagen I always wear my backpack on the front(which looks ridiculous but rather that than losing something important)
I used to teach self-defence. There is an innate tendency in all humans to look to the front. You really have to force yourself to look around and behind. Awareness is always number one. Pick-pockets tend to sense when you’re switched on and leave you alone anyway. Merci pour les super vidéos.
The trick is have a fake phone/wallet on a fishline When it is stolen, you IMMEDIATELY know, and can beat the CRAP out of the thief That is a GREAT WAY to stop pickpocketers because when they look in a mirror upon getting home, their broken face suggests perhaps they did something wrong Simply avoiding pickpocketers ONLY EMBOLDENS THEM........ you must FIND THEM and BEAT THEM (easy to lure them, like cheese to a rat).... this worked for me 3 times so far
Yes! Awareness shows on your body language: how you walk, how you dodge obstacles, where you look, how you carry your body in general… If you are actively aware of your surroundings like you should always be, you’ll either notice suspicious people beforehand or they see you and choose to leave you alone because they see you’re not in your dreams.
Excellent and clear advice. My father was the victim of a pickpocket in Paris at the Tuileries Metro station. He was on an escalator and the pickpocket team was in front and behind him. At the top of the escalator the one in front hesitated to move away from the escalator, creating a moment of confusion. My father yelled at him and return to the family shaking his head about how someone could be so stupid to stop at the top of an escalator. Then he realized that his big fat wallet that he always kept in his back pocket with his passport we're gone. This was the last day of a 3-week once in a lifetime family vacation. We spent half a day at the police station and then the embassy to report the theft and get a replacement passport. For the entire trip we had been telling my dad not to put his wallet in his back pocket the way he always did at home. He just refused to do it. He thought he'd be able to feel it and then catch the person. Instead, thie.theft killed the fun for the day and ended the trip on a sad, sour note. He was really down for a couple of days with remorse, embarrassment, and anger at himself. And, of course, that was always one of the big events when we talked to other people about our trip so he had to keep hearing about it over and over. So, for all you stubborn guys, take everything in this video to heart and save yourself from a really embarrassing story about you.
My father was the leader of a small pickpocket operation on the Toulouse line and made a point of only assisting wealthy tourists with the removal of their wallets of they looked like lucrative clients. He used to call them "clients" l think perhaps in an attempt to personalise an soften the memories of his encounters.
And now, you get to repeat it one more time. :D I keed - I’ve been putting my wallet in my front pocket for years, and it’s still uncomfortable, and inconvenient when I drive! Best to Dad!
For me it was over 20 years ago on our honeymoon. My husband and I were travelling from Disneyland. We were very tired. we placed all our bags and shoppings in the seat in front of us because it was late and the train was almost empty (we were young and very naive-we did not expect bag snatchers in Paris). My husband fell asleep. In one train station, a group of young men(6-7) came in, looking around - I thought they were just looking for a place to sit. But I still got my tourist hat on, so I just observed them, curious about the youth culture. One young man kept coming towards our direction and slyly looking at us and our things. He tried to not make it obvious, but i was following where his eyes are going. He was benignly smiling, but I felt something was off. Then they all decided to go back out, but the young man went for one of my bags. We grabbed the handles at the same time, and for a few seconds we just looked at each other to see who will let go. He looked surprised that I was holding on to my bag. I was thinking "This is dangerous, the bag is just filled with snacks" but for some reason i could not let go. Thankfully the train door started to close and he ran back out without his loot.
Thanks for these great tips, I think you covered all the bases. I once saw a guy reaching into a lady's shopping bag on the bus. Lots of people saw him do it and called out to the woman that he was stealing her things. If people look out for each other this way, the pickpockets have much less chance of success.
From accounts I have heard from France people are indifferent and so it;s the perfect environment for pickpockets to thrive. In Ireland we would shout and scream and kick the shit out of pickpockets if we saw that happening here.
I’ll share my experience visiting Paris. My husband and I are usually very careful when it comes to pickpockets and we never take with us any expensive bags/jewelry/etc. However, little did we know, that we’d be stolen at the hotel itself. We kept our extra money safe in our luggage. The hotel was known but wouldn’t mention it. The cleaners went through our stuff in our luggage’s and stole our money. That’s also another lesson… they might not be walking outdoors.. they might be even closer to you at your hotel! Please be careful. Edit: thank you all for the likes! :) a little update, we did report them don’t worry. We even threatened them to leave a horrible review on Google Map. And they refused to give us our money back. It was around $1,225 cash and some of our local money that we needed for the airport on our way back (we were confused as why she’d also steal our local money lol). Anyways, we did end up going to the police station and filed a report, once we were back and once they knew it was real, they got scared and knew right away to give our money back. It showed everything in the cameras that we weren’t there for hours and the cleaner was the one who stole the money. They still told us not to mention the hotel to anyone and they’d let us checkout without paying for our 1 week stay as a payback (it was almost the same amount so we let it slide). Also, there was a safe but we didn’t think that anyone would go through our luggages but at least now we know. Stay safe wherever you go. Keep in mind that thieves are everywhere not just in Paris.
When at a hotel, you have to remember that any number of hotel staff can open your room door with a master key card. Then they can go through your luggage when you are out enjoying your trip. Why would you ever leave valuables just sitting in your luggage? The hotel staff is made up of people you don't know, most of whom are working for relatively low pay. The only safe place, relatively speaking, for your valuables, passports, I.D., credit cards and cash is on your body. It cost under $20 to buy a flat belt pack, which has zippered compartments, which you can then carry INSIDE THE WAISTLINE OF YOUR PANTS with a thin and comfortable belt. Thieves can't see a belt pack worn inside the pants, so they won't try to pick it. Even if they knew you had one, they would have to overpower you and take your pants off to get the pack away from you.
When we arrived at our next destination I noticed a skirt was missing from my luggage. Obviously a cleaner in our Parisian hotel, as it had been too cold to wear it in Paris. It was new, too. I was quite upset but decided that the cleaner probably needed it more than I did.
@@battledome64good recommendation! I was going to put a fake "$15" price sticker on my perfume (a 1oz size, so maybe believable) to keep it safe, but I'm just going to lock it up instead.
Great advice! My wife and I used to go to Paris nearly every year for several years. In 2011, I made a decoy wallet and put it in my back pocket. It was an old wallet of mine that I stuffed fat with flyers for strip clubs in Las Vegas. I then took the electronics from a speaking greeting card (the cards that have a funny voice greeting when you open them). It said "Hey baby, do you want a piece of this?". We had spent several days roaming around Paris with the wallet in my back pocket. On our final morning, I commented to my wife that I was a bit disappointed that nobody had stolen it from my back pocket yet. That day we were at the Philippe Auguste Metro station and it was crowded. I walked my way to the turnstile which suddenly locked on me. The man in line behind me bumped into the back of me and I didn't think much of it. When we returned to our apartment in Saint Martin, I suddenly realized that the decoy wallet was gone! We had a good laugh about it and imagined the pick pocketer's expression when he opened it up.
That's funny! My wife and I are going to Paris in September (2024) and I thought of doing something similar, or perhaps constructing a booby trapped wallet for any would be pick pockets. Plan on taking lots of precautions. Just hoping things don't get ugly. I'm fully capable of physical confrontation, but the stories I've read about pick pockets getting angry when you do, has me a little concerned. I guess it's best to just hold up your hand and say "Non Merci" and be on your way.
@@WHJeffB they tend to prey on tourists who are not situationally aware. If you look like you’re alert and aware, they’ll pick on weaker targets. In my incident. I was not alert with the decoy wallet in my back pocket. But I always carry my cash and credit cards in a small pouch under my jeans so you’d have to reach your hands inside my pants if you want to get to them. Not ideal unless you want your fingers broken.
@@samuelguimaraes2885No, what's terrible are those parasites that the government is not keeping in jail and not giving stiff fines.😡🤬 To stay away from streets. People have no freedom!
About 40 years ago, 3 of us (males) on the Ponte San Angelo bridge in Rome were surrounded by about a dozen kids and a 45ish woman. We were all experienced travelers and immediately went tactical. Our wallets were in our front pockets and the kids pressed asking for money. We all shouted NO, swung our arms around and made faux kicks. One of us (ex cop) felt a hand, he grabbed it (the woman) and had her on the ground flat on her back in half a second. The kids ran and we shouted GET LOST. She got up on her own and fled.
You know it's allowed to punch as well. I would. Kids or not. They're scumbags no matter the age. Hopefully it'll teach them a lesson. And no way they'd ever involve the cops haha.
Sometungsten, I also heard that whenever you feel you're in this sort of situation, try to scream from the top of your lungs " POLICE " !!!!!! They say it is the magic word.
There is definitely something to be said for 'squaring up' on these folks and not looking afraid. Thankfully my only untoward experience to date was a random (possibly homeless) man rushing me from behind to squeeze through a subway gate with me in Barcelona. I didn't confront him; I just kept it moving into the station at an accelerated pace.
I've been to Paris numerous times, and thankfully, I have not been targeted -- at least not that I was aware of. I'm too much of a New Yorker and never let my guard down. I leave the expensive stuff at home, wear minimal jewelry, don't carry gadgets or electronics, never, ever carry backpacks , and always keep my suitcase locked when I leave the hotel room. I never put money in my pockets, keep most cash concealed on my body, with the minimum that I'll need for the day in my purse. I usually wear a cross-body bag and put my jacket on over it. I carry only essentials, and I hold the bag in my arms when I board the train or am in crowds rather than let it dangle. I carry a cloth tote bag as well with a folding umbrella and water bottle and to stash any small purchases. I also move further inside the trains or try to find a seat. I NEVER hang my bag anywhere, like on the back of a chair and always keep it in my lap in a restaurant, zipped up and still tethered to me. I ignore anyone who tries to stop me or get my attention and will often just push right past them. Same thing with anyone who stops in the middle of the sidewalk or top of a staircase disrupting the flow of traffic. I know this may sound harsh, but I am always mindful that these kinds of bottlenecks are created by design to entrap potential victims.
I read of a great tip also. In Europe you sometimes come to an area where there is a sign saying “watch out for pickpockets” which I legit. But the habit (I’ve done this) for many when they read that sigh is to feel in their pocket where they have valuables/cash/credit cards. So pickpocket apparently wait around those areas, and many of us pretty much tell them exactly where we have our valuables!
Great tips. I'm a solo traveller in my 60's and quite often get approached by seemingly benevolent people who want to "help" me. But I'm experienced and I'm not afraid to say "no thanks" I'll even rehearse this phrase in whatever language I need. My day-backpack only contains clothing and a water bottle. All my valuables are in a reliable slash-proof, tamper-proof across the body bag with special locking devices that makes it a pain to open but I have the peace of mind knowing that pickpockets will struggle with it. My pockets contain nothing of value. The main thing is to be situationally aware, don't flash money or valuables either. A great traveller told me once that "Paranoia is the ultimate state of awareness." Just know that while you're out enjoying your holiday, someone is certainly watching you in tourist areas. My attention isn't on my phone either, but sometimes I have to consult Google maps to find my route which makes me a target so I use tactical glances on my phone navigation App, no volume to attract attention, and keep scanning as I move through crowds. It's all become second nature to me now,
I'm 64, have always been very paranoid about pickpockets and robbers when in foreign cities, and consequently I have never been pickpocketed or robbed.
As a dutch woman often traveling alone, I have been aware of pickpockets in Amsterdam and had several near-miss experiences in Rome, Amsterdam and Paris. THE NUMBER ONE TIP - I carry a crossbody PACSAFE handbag. Impossible to get in. And NOTHING of value in any pockets. And I am aware of scooters, motorbikes approaching while walking and will stand back when I hear them coming. Been traveling for many years and nothing happened. And of-course, wearing a backpack (purse or bigger) on your back screams: "I'm a naive tourist" Yes, be aware of your surroundings, always. Good tips in this video.
I think wearing a backpack in front of you screams "I'm a tourist, who has something valuable in their backpack" much more. When in a crowd and it might inconvenience other people, or when I'm really worried I wear it in my hand like a bag. Of course it won't help if someone wants to rob you really bad, but it's another story.
I taught in Rome for a year and I carried my backpack on my back - until I was standing on the corner waiting to cross the street in Florence (which has a lot of pickpockets in the summer)- some Americans told me a man was trying to unzip my bag! He was quite good - he had made progress and I had not felt a thing! I then removed it from my back. Another situation: as noted in the video, you want to avoid crowded situations because you may not be able to move if you are pinned in (pick pockets often work w a partner or group). This happened to one of my students on a crowded bus in Rome known to target travelers: pickpockets surrounded him, pinned his arms down by standing too close and emptied his bag. He couldn’t move his arms so he couldn’t stop them! But - don’t get paranoid. Just be alert and think it through. For example: - don’t put valuables in your backpack (I put a jacket if it looks like the weather might change; inexpensive souvenir or snack to take back to room) -Wear a money belt under your clothing. -put a small amount of money in a pocket to make a cheap purchase: enough for a subway ticket or an ice cream @@bettinaceciliasilveira5773
Thank you for this video. We watched this video before our trip from US to Paris in early June. The tips provided were super useful. We (2 kids and 2 adults) got off the Eurostar at Gare Du Nord, bought metro tickets and headed towards one of the metro entrances for our hotel. As I was helping our younger child navigate the ticket turnstile, a guy slipped his hand into my pocket and put his hand on my wallet. My child by that time had made it to the other side to my wife. I immediately sensed the hand in my pocket but was in motion to make it to the other side of the turnstile. So I stopped midway through the turnstile, the gate slammed on me but I grabbed my pocket and guy's hand so tightly that he let go off the wallet in the pocket and acted as if he has was just making his way past the turnstiles. He also had an accomplice in the adjacent aisle who was there for cover. Both guys seemed like african immigrants and were mum when I confronted them on the other side. While we were shocked at how close we were to losing the wallet and all the trip cash, ids, cards etc, we were thankful for this video and its tips and to the Lord Jesus for protecting us from such a loss. Overall, we enjoyed the rest of the Paris trip and we are thankful for videos in this channel. Thank you Antoine and Colleen.
@prettybrwneyez7757 only reason they probs mention is that most pickpockets tend to be Romani gypsies. OP is probably saying pickpockets can look like anyone.
Can you buy metro tickets online and avoid going to the ticket machines? I’m traveling to Paris Gare du Nord from Amsterdam in a couple of weeks. This will be my first trip to France.
Thank you Antoine and Colleen! Unfortunately, My wife and I were targeted on our very first day on our first trip to Paris in March. Arriving at Gare Du Nord from Eurostar, due to the strike action we decided to take Metro to our hotel. Looking back, we felt we were targeted at the ticket kiosk as the same person who helped my wife scan her ticket then followed us into the train car. He did work with an accomplice as the 2nd person attempted to swipe my wallet. I did grab him and began screaming at him and pinned him against the door to block his escape. The 1st guy ran and then I let the 2nd guy go when I discovered he did not get my wallet. Thank you for your videos as we so appreciate your insight. We are looking forward to our return in December.
oh wow, sorry that happened to you two. I'm going to Paris in two days and I was considering in taking the metro due to the ongoing strike. However, since I'm traveling with my mom who tends to not pay attention to her surroundings, I think I'm gonna just book a taxi or uber from the airport to our accommodation instead.
@@jenphan8674 If i undestand, you'll arrive to Paris the 1st may ? I don't know in you country but, in France, it is a holiday bank. You're right, better to call a uber from airport to your hotel. So you will not arrive to Gare du Nord Station where there is a lot of problem with pickpockets (and because of the jetlag you could be less attention). Even if there is strike in the streets, the subway is ok. Hope you will spend a good time in France ! Welcome !
The ticket kiosks at Gare du Nord are favorites of Romanian pickpockets. Usually in small groups of 2 to 4 young individuals, incl girls. They operate there almost every day. They are often caught but are seldom jailed or deported due to various regulatory loopholes.
As a security pro I can confirm that this is solid info. I would add that there are bags and clothing (pacsafe & clothing arts are examples I trust) specifically designed to thwart pickpocketing and they are certainly worth a look to protect your valuables. Inside the waistband money belts are also worth considering.
I visited Paris with my brother in June 2019 (Paris Air Show). In addition to keeping close to each other, vigilant, and suspicious of strangers, we also kept nothing in our pockets. Or general luggage (water, clothes, sunscreen, pamphlets) was zipped in our backpacks, while all valuables were zipped in a fanny pack against our abdomen underneath our shirts (the buckle was also covered). It's not fashionable, but we didn't care.
There is a reformed American pickpocket that became a consultant and lecturer. He liked to relieve pickpockets of their stolen items undetected and return them to the owner. There is a documentary program - probably somewhere on TH-cam now - that follows him on a trip to Europe where he identifies a pickpocket team looking for a mark. They start a conversation that quickly becomes a brag fest.showing off their tricks. The American guy gets so excited, he demonstrate his special trick to remove a man's belt to score a money belt. His wife had to point out to him later that by showing off he'd just helped the pickpockets become even more successful. Great job Mr Security consultant!
I have never been a victim of Parisian pickpockets (yet). Even though I work in Paris for about 20 years, and I even lived in Paris for several years. But I witnessed such situations twice. But both of them were somehow different from those you describe in the video. Once the guys were acting in the RER train. And they were quite agressive, so it makes sense to call them robbers, not pickpockets. It's happened late in the night and the train was quite empty - just 7 passengers for the whole RER car. Three guys entered our car at one of the stations and for some reason they walked along the car from one end to another. At the next station two guys tried to grab bags from two Chinese tourists and one Englishman who were sitting near the car's doors. And the third guy was holding doors in the same time so the train could not departure. Finally I and other two passengers went to help victims, so robbers jumped out of the car (as far as I remember, they succeeded to steal one bag). Another case happened several years ago on the metro platform of the line 10. A boy 10-11 years old tried to pick in an old lady's bag. And another boy around 15 years old (so still he was a minor, and even if got caught by police they could not really prosecute him) was kind of guarding the little one walking a couple of meteres away. When they saw me entering the platform and they saw I stare at them, they quickly disappeared from there.
Been living in Paris forever, and pickpockets got me twice. First time was at the airport. A girl approached me and my brother, asking to sign a petition. We were focused on it, where we heard a man yelling and and the girl ran away. I turned to see that my backpack had been opened. But nothing was taken, because I only carried a phone charger and a water bottle. Second time was at a random asian coffee (in Paris). I spent an hour there talking with a girl. When I went my way, I noticed that my wallet was missing all my cash, and my credit card. The thief sat behind me and managed to pick my wallet from my vest, empty it then replace it. He did so right in front of a security camera. The police never caught him (looks like they didn't even try).
Great video. Decades ago, I was a victim of no.8, in Brussels. My tips: 1) Take your back pack off and carry it between your legs when riding the metro or bus or buying a ticket. Having a big pack on your back is not only a risk of being pick pocketed, but it annoying as hell for your fellow passengers when you turn and bump them in the face. 2) No smartphone or reading material while on the Metro. Head up and just look at people. Pick pockets and drug dealers just hate when people they are stared at. Even the kids know when they are being watched.
You really nailed this! Without scaring the daylights out of us! I'm an airline crew member and come to Paris often. I wish I could share this with my passengers. They always ask about safety. I do remind them about their cell phones - easily stolen bc Americans can be pretty free and easy with their cell phone attentiveness. Thanks!
i alway use an older travel phone for direction massaging because there are cases of grab and go…. watch out people. Parisienne now need couple more years to retire. lol
Don't act like a victim.... don't just avoid pickpockers..... that only emboldens them I can understand why women would rather just avoid them..... but for all the real Men out there: Lure the pickpocketer with a fake phone/wallet attached to you by fishline..........1 foot is perfect for fishline length.... you immediately feel the tug and turn around BOOM punch the guy in the face or put him in a chokehold......... if you do this---- you are SAVING other people's lives by stamping out the crooks........ I've done this 3 times.... caught 3 pickpocketers and BEAT THEIR ASSES TO A PULP And guess what? Pickpocketing is no longer a thing in that city.....easy peezy When you fight back, its amazing......... theives decide its NOT WORTH IT anymore............... however IF YOU DON'T beat them up...... they have AN INCENTIVE to steal more
@Gordon Gekko Thats why I carry a knife and don't go near crowds But I agree, sometimes a quick knockout and running to safety is the best option Just make sure to shout "PICKPOCKET THEIF!!" so everyone knows why you punched and ran..... or else, you might get chased down and people will stand by and watch By shouting "PICKPOCKET THEIF!", bystanders should know to help you, and not the thieves..... The trick is be social and say hello to many people--- more likely they will come to your aid If the thief is armed and brandishes a weapon during a robbery/pickpocketing..... you are justified in using deadly force against them..... but the "justice system" might try to imprison YOU rather than the criminal, so at that point its MORALLY CORRECT to use deadly force and flee or else you might be wrongly imprisoned
@@tremblence or, instead of risking getting arrested for assault : mind you, in Paris, there are often security agents in touristic areas or main stations, police patrols or military ( for Vigipirate). If anything, defend yourself, for sure, hold onto him and yell for an agent or help to come. Same goes for the other guy telling people to carry a knife. Don't risk ruining you trip getting arrested for dumb reasons when it could be avoided. Look up what's legal to carry and use in public spaces, and what's not. Don't make any unnecessary use of violence that will be turned against you...
Just got home from a trip to France, Germany & Austria. I watched a LOT of your videos before going and loved everything about them. Thank you for all your hard work and useful information about so many things we would encounter. I truly don't even know how you do such a great job of making your videos with all the chaos that goes on in these places, but they are so appreciated! We only had one instance when I and a friend were surrounded by 3 young males - one who had suddenly pushed his way in front of us to get on the metro in Paris while the other 2 pushed us from behind. Not realizing at this point that they were likely pickpockets, my friend called the one out by telling him his pushing was rude and I made eye contact with him and continued to stare at him. When one of the other males beckoned the pusher to switch places with him, it finally dawned on us they were pickpockets. Our suspicions were confirmed by an older gentleman, from Paris, who informed my friend that they were indeed pickpockets. We held on to our bags tightly and they young males exited at the next stop. Thankful they didn't get a thing from us but a scolding and a cold stare! Again, thank you for your great work!!!
Few years ago I was a victim of pickpocket on the train to the airport to depart Paris. Loaded down with backpacks and “helped” onto a crowded train. Within seconds my wallet was gone and metro pass in front jean pocket was gone. Never felt anything. Made a police report at next stop. Later, sitting at airport gate I started getting notices from credit card co of unauthorized purchases. Folks, this really does happen and the tips in this video are spot on!
I am a Parisian, each time I want to help tourists who look like they are lost they suddenly freak out, start screaming or running like crazy… you guys should make videos on “how to speak to tourists without scaring them”
They watch too many alarming vlogs on YT... 10 conseils pour traverser la rue à Paris Comment éviter les vieilles dames à Paris 10 façons de ne pas se mêler à la foule à Paris 10 façons d'éviter les contacts avec les "locaux" Comment s'asseoir à table : nos 10 conseils 10 façons de ne pas se faire arnaquer dans les toilettes publiques à Paris... 😅😅😅
@@LesFrenchiesTravel la où il n’a pas tort c’est qu’à force de publier ce genre de vidéo, les interactions entre les touristes et les parisiens sont froides. On a cree climat de terreur pour les touristes.
Great video, helping people feel comfortable, not scared. We are on our final day in Paris and have used the Metro and walking everywhere (including Chez Bartolo today - thanks for the pizza tip!) We had 2 teens approach to ask a question about a train interruption after leaving the Eiffel Tower - could be they thought we were local, could have been a target, but either way, confidence and preparation ensured a smooth interaction and even allowed me to practise my terrible French!
I’ve just gotten back from Paris and watched a few of your videos which are all super helpful. From buying tickets as well as being aware of pickpockets. Happy to report that I didn’t have any unfortunate incidents and absolutely love the city and its people. I will 100% come back again. And I absolutely agree that Parisians are happy to help as long as you approach them politely and ask kindly. J’adore Paris. Thank you for all your helpful videos Les Frenchies
A must when on travel in a foreign country: Move around as much as possible. Walk, turn, twist, look up, down, backward, jump up, sideways-whatever-just don’t stop moving. Being a constantly moving target drives thieves nuts and these moves cut down the possibility of anyone trying to corner you. Three teen boys and a lady tried this with me in Europe and I outsmarted these fools.😈
My husband got pickpocketed in Barcelona in 2015, exactly how you described. Two women came beside him on the metro /subway while he hung on to the pole. One had a raincoat over their arm. Close to the stop, they pushed up against him while the one with the raincoat removed something from my husband's back pocket. My son and I had taken steps to have our back up against the metro/subway car and any over shoulder bag in front of us, while being vigilent who was standing near us. Luckily, we had gone over the many scenarios of possible theieves while in Europe, so we had already divided our spending money into daily allowances and divided that amount between the three of us, each into our own money belts. So all the theives got away with was our itinerary. Lol. But it was a good lesson. You are right when those two woman quickly exited, a man also joined them. Group of three.
I have seen a group of 5 women enter a train in Barcelona. At a sort of command they all put a coat over their arms and entered. The one who picks your pocket generally passes the loot to on of the team immediately. So if you caught one just to late, you have no proof.
I've travelled to places where everyone I spoke to warned me about pick-pockets, and I've also been regularly to cities that are far more dangerous those in Europe, but Paris is the only city I've been to where I've actually seen pick-pockets and thieves at work. Now I'm always prepared, and but still found a lot helpful tips in this video.
We were almost victims in Milan metro, but luckily, I was alert and saw my wife purse opened and the wallet was almost out. I remember now and based on your advice, pretty much violated all these advices. We were obvious targets, with branded shopping bags ready for predators to strike. Not anymore. Never use the the metro after a busy shopping day, especially when buying branded items.
Also, try not to dress like a tourist. I always wear long pants Ange, a casual jacket or sweater, kind of looking like I lived in the area, or nondescript. Never wear shorts or sneakers, or T-shirts. And if it wasn’t feeling right, or I was tired, I always took a taxi and avoided the subways.
Back in 2019 my younger sister and I had caught the last train of the night back to our hostel in Paris. We were chatting away in english and after a couple of stops a man got on behind us then walked up and stood DIRECTLY in front of us in an almost empty car… thankfully we have decent situational awareness and picked up on that weirdness. As soon as the doors opened at the next stop, he tried to snatch my sister’s phone out of her hand and bolt out the open door. My sister probably looked like an easy target because she’s thin, but she’s a ballerina and ALL muscle. Anyway I stuck my foot out to trip him as she kicked him full force in his shin/knee, we both yelled ‘NO’ in his face and he stumbled off the train empty handed. A bunch of concerned faces peered back at us from the next car, she called out “it’s okay, I won” and some people quietly applauded. Some of my travel tips: - Don’t sit right next to the doors - Choose the more crowded metro cars at night - Put your phone away - Use a bumbag worn cross-body, thinner purse straps can be cut - Use your best ‘resting bitch face’ when looking up directions or navigating so you don’t look confused or lost - Walk like you know where you’re going, even if you don’t - ALWAYS PRACTICE SITUATIONAL AWARENESS - Don’t skip leg day
Excellent advice. The only time I have encountered problems of this kind was when my travel companion who had not done her homework was distracted while she was loudly telling me off for being "paranoid". Needless to say that my friend learned the hard way that my concerns were justified.
I had my wallet stolen on the metro (having just boarded at Montparnasse) and was left with no cash or cards. I was travelling to CDG to get a flight early the following morning to Washington DC so ended up unable to go, a complete nightmare. I've lived most of my life in London so always considered myself relatively streetwise but obviously not enough. It was evening, i was tired after a long train journey and just wasn't alert enough to the risk. I wish I'd seen this video just before going as it would have reminded me to take more care. To your tips I''d also add that it's good to split your cash and cards so if the worst does happen, you still have some options for money.
This video is spot on. Happened to me traveling by Metro from the airport to my hotel. I thought I was prepared, wrong. Traveling with my wife daughter, SIL and 3 year old grandson. Without a doubt we stuck out as vacationers for sure. We were followed in and I was forced into staying at the doorway. It was packed and as we began to travel I was literally being thrown around and I thought this typical rush hour travel in the Metro. My wallet had $20 bucks and 2 CC’s was zipped in my soccer pant front pocket, my cellphone in the other. After a few stops the train emptied a bit and I was relieved until I noticed my wallet was gone, luckily they didn’t get my phone. I used my phone to lock my credit cards. I was mad at myself because I thought I was prepared. The rest of my family were fine because they were deeper in the train away from the door. I did file a report at Parisian police station.
Rene, I bet you never heard a word from the cops. It is their indifference which encourages these sub-humans to carry on ruining innocent people's lives.
This video is spot on! I was recently the victim of pickpockets and I currently live here. I was with my 2 daughters. A group of young girls (14-15 yrs old) rushed onto the train before the doors closed. They started asking us directions to get to the Eiffel Tour to distract us. One of the girls opened my purse and took my wallet while one was distracting me with questions-textbook scenario and I fell for it. My daughter said she saw these girls walking the platform before the train arrived. It was line 1 train. I’m sure they heard us speaking English and targeted us. Many of these groups are Eastern European teenagers. Don’t talk to anyone on the metro, shake your head no or shrug your shoulders. I notified the RATP and filed a police report. Also when I carry a backpack I put a small luggage type combination lock on the main compartment zipper. As they say in the video, stay off your phone and be vigilant.
Do you know geographical directions? Those children are from southern Europe, not eastern. Eastern Europe is Poland, proudly, or Lithuania. These are white, christian people with money to spend and not beggers or thieves.. Nobody from Poland will be steatling your poor purse, damn it.
My mother was picked pocketed from her purse on the escalators in Paris at the train station. They took her wallet and her address book. I was with her this day and I felt the horror, dispar and panic my mother had knowing she was in major trouble. These people need to be stopped and put in jail for over 10 to 15 years. The laws need to be enforced. The victim shouldn’t be the only one suffering. Politicians and law enforcement need to be held accountable like they hold us normal people accountable. They know who they are without a doubt but choose not to do anything about it. It’s time we as a people make a change because these politicians and law enforcement do not care at all about you. It can’t be just people blowing whistles and shouting ‘pickpocket pickpocket’ and chasing and shaming them. This doesn’t work. More drastic measures need to be taken. Not tomorrow but today.
This is great advice not just for Paris but for other European cities where there are tourist attractions! I was with a group of women in London and we decided to go to Harrahs to shop. It was very crowded and one of the women had her wallet stolen from her handbag. She didn’t realize it until she got back to the hotel. Barcelona is another city where there are pickpockets in the tourist areas. Thank you for all you do to make these videos! They are always so informative!
Whilst I of course appreciate that you are posting this video to help others which is awesome, I am surprised that, as experienced travellers, you both don’t use an anti-theft back pack. Having everything safely locked away in a bag that is slash proof, lockable and theft proof would make your travels so much less stressful and easier. Many of the risks you discussed in this video can be avoided by simply using an anti theft backpack! Cheers from Australia.
Great tip! Im a parisian and last week two attackers slashed the handles of my handbag to steal it... no more Keys, Phone, crédit cards... unfortunately you have to be extra cautious these days. I wish à safe travel to everyone
As a French I should add one piece of advice: if you have a piece of luggage to the train station in Paris, take a cab, you'll get right to the place and save headaches and risks. The point with pick-pockets is they want you to put your attention into something else when they do what they want to do. If you have some money or valuable things put them in your suitcase and remove them when in a quiet place. Otherwise a bunch of good advice in this clip, the one of people bothering when getting out is cery relevant.
As a Londoner who visits Paris a couple of times a year using Eurostar, my tip would be to know where you are going when you get to Paris. Don't carry a map in your hands, walk confidently and if you do get lost and need to look at a map go into a coffee shop or bar and sit in a corner with a drink and plan where you are going next. Try to look like a local, my husband speaks quite good French and the first thing we do when we leave our apartment in the morning is to go and buy a copy of Le Monde which he carries in his hand. So far that's worked for us. Another place to be very careful in is Lisbon. The past few years it has become horrendous for pickpockets. Thank you for all your videos we really do appreciate your advice x
I’m smart to these guys. Once in NYC. I put a huge rat trap sitting flat in my trench coat pocket. Sure enough… a guy behind me and took the bait. He got what he was looking for. Four broken fingers made my day !…
Ah, NYC. I travelled from Disneyworld to NYC, so my guard was lower in the glow of that friendly place. When we arrived, the bus dropped us off, there was a man there helping people off the bus, looking like an employee. For some reason I needed to change a $100 bill and he offered to change it. I lost that bill.
I live in Paris and unfortunately, the part on the childreen/teens is very true. I haven't seen many issues with pick pockets but every time I did, they were involved (often putting their arms in people's bags while the rest of the group is being loud/childish). They're small and that makes it easy for them
Also, be careful of bag-snatchers. Keep shoulder bags tight or crossed over your body. I lived in London for 5 years and was fine, but my daughter was mugged outside a London station when a guy pushed her on the ground and run off with her bag. Luckily, she wasn't hurt and her phone and keys were in an inside jacket pocket. Replacing bank cards and ID was a real pain, though.
Paris Law Enforcement are too busy and have no time to fight this kind of crime..? I’m a resident of Toronto Canada never heard same crime like Pickpocketing happening here.
@@phuxuankingthey do and they are in civilian clothes in those main metro stations with more in uniforms watching the platforms on video from the train offices in the same station. They can only see the platform and won’t necessarily catch everything. Also when they catch the pickpockets, they have to let them go if the victim won’t press charges. Tourists mostly just want to go on with their holiday and refuse to press charges, that’s one of the reasons pickpockets target them. Also, the reason they don’t want to get caught is that on the rare occasion that someone presses charges they will be arrested etc. They know the police is never far away, that’s why they want to do everything quietly…
@@annea5781 That’s why..nice to know the real circumstances,that means no way to stop them.Tourism will be hurt..Sorry for Paris and Parisiens .Thanks.
@@phuxuanking some police officers in civilian clothes actually know some of them and when they can will hop on a train with them either to discreetly keep them from doing anything if possible or basically physically shove them out of the train, with their victims along, on the next platform and force them to give back the belongings and try to convince the victims to press charges…
If I may, I'd like to add to this. Biggest advice I can give is never let your guard down. You’ll never, ever be immune from theft. We’ve lived in Paris for 15-years. I got pickpocketed early on and my nephew a few years ago. So, we thought we were more aware, but a few months ago my husband got pickpocketed on the metro. Here’s the new pick-pocket scam on the metro. You see a train come, in our case the line 12 (a non-tourist train), looked empty by the door entrance. As we stepped in and doors were about to close a bunch of kids (Roma’s) swarmed us, pretending to get off, cause a commotion ensued, but I pushed through to the other side of train. My husband was not so lucky and got pinned up against the door. He instinctively held onto his wallet, in the zippered portion of his sling bag. However, his phone was in the front of his bag with just a flap, they got his phone. I looked at him, and said, ‘THEY GOT ME’ Ironically, as soon as they swarmed us we knew instinctively to get off, but we got pinned in. I was lucky because I had a shoulder theft-proof/slash-proof bag (pacsafe) which I keep a mini lock on, zipper-to-zipper. I made my husband a believer, and now he has a theft proof bag. There are different brands, but I add an extra precaution by adding a lock, and it’s slashed proof. In Rome, someone tried to slash my bag. In Barcelona, they know the brand so stay away. Be paranoid folks, and not just in Paris, but any major European city. As an aside, do not wear expensive jewelry on the metro. Last week a friend was wearing a diamond necklace, 3 girls ripped it off him. Fortunately for him, the diamond fell in his shirt and he had his shirt tucked in. They got the chain, but not the diamond. Another aside, we saw a group of teenage picpockets on line 1, we reported it to the guichet, we waited for police to show up so we could identify them. Police never came, guichet asked, so what are you waiting for? My point is, pickpockets are endemic so nothing really happens, sad....
I've said it before, that paranoia is way better than losing your stuff or having to deal with the police (which can do nothing at that point). Assume it CAN happen to you. Make yourself too much trouble for a thief to deal with.
I have had the amazing opportunity with my career to travel around the world and have lived in many major cities. This is really good advice. Never let your guard down, always have your back against the wall if possible or sitting down where you are in full view of all your important belongings. Backpack, on the floor, zipped up and hard for others to reach inside. Never wear your backpack on your back while on the metro, getting on or off. It should always be in your hands, in control. Use a money belt if you carry cash, otherwise, one back up credit card in your belt and use touch and pay on your phone for everything else. Always know where your phone is. If you only have 1 thing to keep safe (your phone) then there's very little risk of you losing it. Everything else, non valuables should be in your backpack. If in emergency, you should be able to drop your backpack and get home without it. I wish no one is ever scammed or ever pick pocketed. Such a horrible thing to happen to you.
Every traveler needs to see this video as you've given excellent tips! I'm a solo traveler to Paris, every year (except pandemic). While I've never been pickpocketed, I know it may be luck, of course. First, I don't carry an obvious "American" travel nylon purse, nor a designer purse plastered with logos. I carry a leather purse with an inside zipper pocket. In that interior zipped pocket, I carry a slim wallet with my ID, one credit card, one ATM card, my insurance card, paper Euros, a copy of my passport. If someone reached into my purse, they'd likely pull out my little pouch with lip balm, etc. I carry my purse crossbody on the streets and in the metro. My iPhone is in a Bandolier brand case, separate crossbody. I put the phone in the back slip pocket of my purse for easy access, but it's on a separate strap. My Navigo card fits in a slot on the back of the case. At night, I wear the phone case (with an attachable pouch for my apartment key and my ID) beneath my outer layer. I carry a little coin purse for coin Euros. It clips to the outside of my purse (or phone case), so I never open my purse when I need to grab a few coins. If someone wants to steal my coins, it's never more than a few Euros. So far, no problems. I have a "city" style backpack that looks like what a business person would carry to the office. It has no access on the back, except a slip pocket that I never use. The zipper is at the very top of the bag, but with big rings on the zipper, I could latch it if I had anything valuable in it. I use it as my personal item on the plane, but in Paris, I use it for gathering groceries or taking on picnics. Again, my phone is in a separate crossbody case, so I can keep my hands on it. I've felt vulnerable when leaving a market with shopping bags loading me down. I put my filled shopping bag inside my backpack and feel less a target as I go back to my apartment. It's also easier to carry that backpack up flights of stairs. We do what we can, but as you said, it takes only a few seconds of letting one's guard down and never feeling the theft.
I appreciate the specific details on how you manage the necessities. We (family of 4) will be visiting Paris this summer and the fear of being pickpocketed has been nagging me. I know it’s common in big cities all over the world so not specific to Paris. Your description on how you keep safe has assuaged my concerns.
@@joannefowler391 I've been going yearly since 2008. Since my husband died, I've been going solo. I feel safe in Paris and will soon be back for a full month, so enjoy your time, but remain aware. With four of you, you can watch for each other. I think Les Frenchies covered this in another video, but always use an ATM that's inside a bank, rather than on the street. You'll have to press a button for the door to open to go inside. I've seen kids (girls and boys) swarm people at ATMs on the street. Since I've been so often, I don't go to the usual tourist places unless there's a special exhibit I want to see. I do travel on Line 1 quite often, though. Enjoy Paris! It's a fantastic city. Watch all the Les Frenchies videos -- I do, and I know Paris. My expat friends living in Paris also watch their videos.
We have always done the same but my nylon purse is small and fits under my coat. I have undies with zip pockets also inside zip pockets. But. , three large men holding your arms isn’t going to help. I called pax wussies for not helping. They all stared at their phones. I am 69 but fit and come from a state where most people would pull out a gun. I just slapped them with my bag full of books. Thugs.
@@joannefowler391 best not to carry a purse at all. I just took my son last son (single mom and tern son Trip) I used a neck wallet. Basically a small cross body bag but it's close to u and u can tighten or loosen it as u please
Splendid advice! My son watched this video (I showed it to him for my own peace of mind) before he left the US to study abroad this summer in London. The program coordinator added a 3 day trip to Paris, where the students were free to come and go, explore, as they wanted. My son remembered this video, followed the tips, and did what Antoine did regarding where to stand on the metro which helped. He had a great time in Paris. Thank you both for all you do!
@@LesFrenchiesTravel Luckily he followed your tips in London too. I think initially he thought I was being an overly-worried Mom (I'm widowed and he's my only child), but he knows people on his trip who were confronted by strangers using the same scenarios you mentioned in this video. I can't help but wonder if you probably saw him at some point in Paris, shared a metro, etc. I realize it's a big city with a lot of people, but it's an interesting thought.
I too was extremely careful when I was an Aussie backpacker in Europe. (20 years ago!) it was when I was living in London that I made the mistake of withdrawing a largish amount of cash from an atm at Victoria station and then heading to a cafe where my handbag was stolen. ( I had my foot through strap but chair was knocked and i shuffled chair to let robber get past). It’s funny how when u start living day to day life ur a little less careful- if I’d still thought of myself as a traveller I would have been using my money belt.
Thank you for a great video...My husband, myself and our kids were scammed at the ticket booth, gentleman approached looking very legit wih a badge around his neck as though he worked there and since there wasnt an attendant sitting behind the glass at the ticketing booth we decided to accept the kind strangers help....well, to make a long story short. He sold us a one way ticket but accepted payment for a roundtrip. Be aware at the ticketing booth, people offering help does not always have good intentions.
Great video. I’ve been living in France for almost 20 years, never had any issues until a month ago at Gare d’Austerlitz. 4 Eastern European girls tried to rob me, using the tactics you mentioned, fortunately they had been surveilled by 3 undercover police men who saved my back. The girls were between 11 and 14, they failed in their attempt, they got caught. No expression whatsoever on their faces, dead eyes. I could not even get mad, because they are groomed for this, not succeeding will probably be punished. And their choice is either this or becoming a sex slave. It’s the adults behind this that I would see get caught the most.
And here, dear viewer, we get to see another example of the successful brainwashing trend of generalizing the thieving gypsies as Eastern Europeans. It's a tried and proven way of avoiding being called racist while smearing a dark stain on the predominantly Caucasian nations in Eastern Europe who bear no responsibility for the gypsy minority who distinct themselves like night and day in their way of life to the majority of the Eastern European population.
How did you figure out that the girls were Eastern EUROPEAN??? Did they have little passport pictures on their heads? Or, May you mean they were gypsy or Albanian, i.e. non-European ethnicity? What is a disgusting arrogance! If they were Slavic, remember: Slavic are the LARGEST European race and only true white race.
I fell a victim a coupe of years ago as a girl solo traveller when I just arrived in Paris. One guy tried talking to me on a metro asking me for directions. I told him I don't know but he was persistant and folowed me when i changed trains. At that point I felt anxious and was constantly checking my pocket if I still have my wallet. And at one moment it was gone. I confronted the guy followed him off the train, security got him but he didn't have my wallet. It was his friend who actually stole. I was left alone in a foreign city without an id, credit card or any money. I definietly have learned my lesson
I got pickpocketed in the Madrid metro years ago. I had my wallet in a waist pouch, the train was packed and I felt something, looked down and saw my wallet dropping to the floor. The guy just in front of me (a well dressed not young adult that I would have never suspected of being a pickpocketer) said "You dropped your wallet", to which I sarcastically replied, "Yes, sure" while picking my wallet up. The guy started to over act his victim role shouting how I dared accusing him of being a thieve after being reckless with my own wallet. It is amazing how the guy opened the waist pouch zipper, took the wallet out, opened the wallet and took the money without me not noticing until the end. Oh, by the way, "the money" was 1 Argentine peso, 1 US dollar, 1 Spain's Peseta (that was before the Euro), 1 Israeli Shekel, and 1 Egyptian Pound that I was collecting, because the real money was in an inside pocket in my jacket.
Antoine and Colleen give extremely helpful advice! Speaking first- hand, follow it! One experience: train from 3rd Arrondissement to 7th was overlapping shoulder to shoulder. Held personals close and kept eyes on others. All of the sudden people yelled, “WHOA, WHOA, WHOA”. Four feet in front of me a gentleman was aggressively trying to pickpocket. The whoa, whoa, whoa, stopped him and passengers rallied together. STAY ALERT! I’ve seen many people wearing a book bag who are staring at their phone and make easy targets for someone to access their bags from behind. Keep your bags zipped! Keep your bag in front of you! Les Frenchies mention this. Don’t take this advice lightly. What I’m using and recommend: I’m using the Travelon anti-theft purse. Highly recommend for its durability and zipper latch. We’ve been here one week and overall felt safe. But it’s a city and it’s imperative to stay vigilant. Don’t let your kids wonder from you and don’t take your eyes off your belongings. Have fun! Be safe! We are having a blast! Thanks in part to Les Frenchies superb tips! Much love to all, especially Les Frenchies. ❤️
A lot of this same advice for avoiding pickpockets on the Metro (*any* metro, really), also applies to when you're on the major tourist boulevards or even checking into your hotel, especially if the lobby is busy. Pickpockets and bag thieves work in teams there, too.
100% accurate! It’s exactly the same here in Rome. Especially on line B, the route from Termini train station to Colosseo. There is a group of 5 sometimes 10 girls, dressed normally, with tote bags, carrying a jacket on their arm (to cover while they’re stealing), some of them pretending to be pregnant (more space to hide stuff). Please don’t expect pickpockets to be beggars or weirdly dressed people: they want to go unnoticed! Airlines should show your video on the plane as “after-landing safety instruction“ for our cities 😂
This is such a good segment. I live in NYC and pickpocket crimes surprisingly are not as common compare to the major cities in Europe. I made a mistake of letting my guard down when I took the bus Barcelona. It all happened so fast I barely noticed my wallet missing until I got off the bus. Needless to say I’ve been extra cautious since. That was almost a decade ago and I’m sure these type of crimes are much more sophisticated nowadays. We’re headed to Paris this summer so thanks for the reminder. 😊
I live in Barcelona & yes, at one time, my thick gym bag was sliced in a crowded bus. Apparently the bus driver knows who are they, as they travel the same routes. Barcelona is full of them just like in Rome & Paris -- they're from the eastern europe.
As a person who is living in Japan for the past 3 years we tend to get so relaxed. Even if we lose an AirPod in the train there is a high chance that we will get it back. Also we have been to Switzerland but didn’t face this problem 😢 The sad part is that you have worked so much throughout the year to fund a happy trip, saved and spent quite some money to buy travel gadgets and it gets spoiled because of this. This has happened to 3 of our acquaintances and it scares me a lot to visit these beautiful cities 😢
Don’t be afraid just be situationally aware. Pickpockets are trying go unnoticed and if you keep an eye on people, they will avoid you more than someone who is not paying attention. Also avoid groups of kids with or without adults trying to do petitions and the like. Safe travels! 😊
During my 2019 European trip, Paris is my first trip and was told by tour manager that Paris is famous for pickpocket so he gave us some tips how to avoid those pickpocket people.
Japan is insane. My mom left her purse and diary (full of contact details) on a public telephone booth in Tokyo. She realised too late when we were taking the train back home. She went the morning after and the purse was still on the telephone - untouched, despite the queue of people
When arriving in Paris by train, I went to buy a subway pass, and a man approached me telling me he had some unused tickets to sell to me, he tried to lure me down a dark side tunnel, when I refused to follow him he grew angry and cursed at me. So much for being helpful.
NEVER buy tickets from anyone who isn't behind the glass counter in the station. Also, beware of people offering to help you with machines. They often switch your day pass for a single ride ticket.
Another pro tip: don't look like someone who's worth pickpocketing. One of my coworkers once described my look as "homeless chic." I'm from New Orleans, one of the most crime-ridden and dangerous cities in the US (which is really saying something), and in my 54 years I've never had any trouble. Muggers probably tell each other "No, we should give _him_ some money."
@@LesFrenchiesTravel You think that's funny, one night in 2016 I was sitting on the front steps of a house off of Bourbon St just having a cigarette and minding my own business, and this drunk college kid walks up to me and gives me five bucks! I thought at first he was a friend of my cousin's and he just wanted to shake hands. My family still ribs me about that one.
“homeless chic” huh? 🤡 You get strong arm or armed tobbery in new orleans, pickpocket would be the last criminal id be worried about there. you act like poor people dont get robbed in new orleans because of looks😂
@@antcantcook960 Well, 55 years now and never a problem fwiw. But you do realize I was speaking largely in jest and not making a thesis statement, right? Learn to read a room, bruh.
Great video and tips!! I was not a victim of pick pockets but I seen it take place right in front of me. I didn’t see it covered in your video so maybe this will help someone. As my wife and I got down to the bottom of the stairs from the street level, there was many ticket checking machines. An older lady had put her ticket in and as she went to walk through, a man ran up and as she made it past the gate arm, he slid his fingers in her purse and took her phone and backed out. 1) she had no idea of what just happened (yes I felt bad but I also didn’t know who this guy was working with and didn’t wNt to put myself in harms way) and 2) once she was past the gate arm, she was stuck on that other side and the guy was free on the this side. It took literally 3 seconds. Hope this helps someone out there or that you can include it in a video.
Was in Las Vegas a while back and saw a sidewalk sign warning tourists about pickpockets. Then saw a news report that the signs were placed there by the pickpockets, who just stand off to the side and watch tourists who see the sign, then instinctively touch where they keep their wallet or valuables. The signs may as well say “Show me where you keep your money”.
This is one of the best Paris pickpocket videos I’ve seen and I’ve searched for them all. The comments here also share a lot of informative information as well.
As someone who has been pickpocketed in Paris... all great info! My experience wasn't on the Metro. It was my last day of a 2 week stay and I was headed back to the Louvre one last time. I went through one of the archways towards an interior courtyard area and there was a big group of people going through at the same time. Three little girls surrounded me, touching all over my arms and back and saying things in French to me that I couldn't understand. I had a bag in my hands and couldn't get my hands in my pockets right away. I did get them into my pockets quickly but not quickly enough. They had my phone that fast. As soon as they did, they dispersed. I didn't realize it was 3 girls at first. I turned around and cornered the two girls that I saw and yelled at them, demanded to see inside their pockets and empty purses. They yelled back at me that I was crazy. Then I realized there was a third girl and she was already a block away and across a wide busy street. She's the one who had my phone. On the brighter side... good and kind people exist literally everywhere. A tourist and a couple Parisians had seen me yelling and stopped to see if they could help and/or comfort me. Sucked to lose my iPhone like that but I still remember the kindness of those people. Also, I have been to Paris again since that trip, no issues. I've been to several other major cities in Europe as well and no problems. I was just unlucky that one time.
SO TRUE. I got pick pocked in a crowded place in New Zealand. My brand new camera from my bag has been pick pocketed. It really ruins my day. It good that the zipper from the inside pocket is quite hard to zip open & ive noticed that that too has been opened half. My money was saved. Thanks to YSL bag for using a zipper like that in their inside pocket.
I have lived in Paris for almost 4 years now and haven't been pickpocted before and hopefully never. Some comments said act like you live here and dress same. That's true. 1) Parisians don't wear too many overly bright colours or designs. Sometimes when you do, it just tells everyone that you don't live here. 2) I always have a fighting face on in the metro. You would think I could beat you up in a heartbeat.😅 3) For a handbag with a front opening flap, i face the flap towards my body. For bags with zips without a flap covering it, I face the handle of the zip towards my body and consciously look at it every other second. 3) Sometimes Parisians have headphones on in the metro. It can be another trick to know when your phone is missing. If your music stops playing suddenly, you can quickly look around you.
Years ago I was in Paris on business, and whilst going through the ticket barrier on to a platform. I felt a hand going into my right hand trouser pocket (my wallet was in my jacket). I put my hand in the pocket and pulled out the hand and bent the fingers back hard enough to feel them break. I was through the barrier, and the pickpocket was the other side, screaming. When I looked round and saw it was a teenage girl. There was a station man on the platform who nearly pissed himself laughing.
Some great tips and advice. I particularly liked the bits about distraction being a key part of pickpocketing. 'Parisiens won't offer to help you unless you ask' - the same is true of London ;)
I'm sorry but that's not really true, especially re London. I'm a Londoner, and having good knowledge of my city, as well as having worked for many years in tourism, I am now in my seventies and always happy to offer help to those who look lost. During the London Olympics in 2012, London was so very friendly and with many volunteers, many locals wanting to welcome visitors. Very sadly, the current international tensions and crimes have created suspicions of all 'others', including of innocent well-meaning locals. It is depressing that good intentions with an innocent offer of help, are often now rejected with a hostile stare!
Thanks Les Frenchies! Another tip is to wear your cross-body bag underneath any jacket/coat and wear your bag no lower than waist level, such that your arm rests on top of your bag if you're crossing your arms or holding onto the pole.
I did that my last trip and had nothing in my pockets. My husband use a sling bag in front of him. I have to say that we actually felt safer in Paris metro than in NY or London.
This is exactly what I do everytime! I put my sling under my outer layer and if I do hold anything out of it, it’s straight into my jacket pocket WITH my hand on it at all times. They’d have to pry it out of my hand if they want it.
A man I met from Manchester told me of a good counter measure he used on the London Underground. He put his collection of fish hooks in various pockets and rode the circle line for a day. He never told me if he caught more there or at his local quarry. He just smiled.
Actually I saw this "trick" in a British movie at least 40 years ago. And the movie itself may have been even older, I don't remember the name or if it was in the theatre or on tv.
All of this is excellent advice. I had a 25-yo Barcelonan try to dip my front left trouser pocket, but I caught him in the act. Yes, he was working with at least two others on the platform. Waiting to board, one pushed me out of his way as a distraction, but it failed. I'm sure there was another to whom he would have handed off the goods, leaving himself "clean as a whistle." He was very nicely dressed too, so you can't judge a book by its cover! This was near Sagrada Familia, BTW.
It's not just Paris. We were in St Petersburg, recently, and the hotel had maybe 20 guests, daily, who reported being pick-pocketed. Everything from 'accidental' bumps to being singed with cigarettes as distractions. A number of people on my tour were robbed within about 10 mins of each other, on the same block, and our tour guide was really angry with us because he'd given us very detailed instructions on what to look for and to avoid. The following day, he admitted that he'd been at a bus stop on his phone (complaining to a fellow tour guide about the stupidity of tourists) when someone asked him for directions. It was only when he went to use his travel pass, on the bus, that he realised he'd been robbed! It can happen to anyone. Having said that, I've travelled as a solo woman for over 30 years and have never had any bother. Maybe I look poor 😁 To the people who are upset by my recollection, please know that I really loved visiting Russia, and the people in St Petersburg were unfailingly kind and funny in day-to-day interactions. It's just that, as in any major city, theft is a reality. I live in London and Covent Garden is a pick-pocketing nightmare.
It's too bad after all that history of theft travelers didn't stop carrying the valuables! Hotel safes are a good way to protect your things --I divide my things between me and the hotel safe; if I'm robbed it's likely only 1/2 my valuables.
As an expat living in Europe and having to travel to Paris many times a year for work I appreciate the information in this video. However I have either seen or been the victim of pick pockets 90% of my visits. It is far more prevalent than you mentioned, and no matter how savvy you are it still happens, especially if you are a single traveler with no one watching your back!
Lol, not to victim blame but if it happens to you on 90% of your visits, it might have something to do with you as well. It didn't happen on 90% of my visits, I can tell you that much and I bet it's not happening to Parisians every third day either.
These pickpockets are even operating at the airport!!! First time coming to Paris and literally as soon as i exited arrivals and entered the lift an attempt was made on me. Thanks to all these awareness on YT, i managed to realize and get out of situation without loss. Thank you. Major European cities really should do something about this. Left me shell shocked.
We didn’t have any issues while in Paris but some of that was because I watched an earlier video you did & it made me sensitive to the possibility. We employed several of your suggestions & kept our eyes opened. As always, thank you for your concern!
This is exactly why I came back to Japan so I don't have to worry about any of this. Many people sleep in train. I have lost smartphone and wallet on train before and they all came back to me eventually... One less thing to worry in your daily life makes your QOL better and better.
A country with strong social trust is a peaceful place to live. I've heard that Sweden is similar. A family member visited there a few months ago and it amazed him that people would leave expensive bicycles unlocked on the sidewalk while they shopped--sometimes for hours--and they were never touched. Complete opposite of the US. If you leave anything of value outside of your home, even in suburban areas, it's gone the minute you take your eyes off of it. Heaven help you if you leave your home to go on a vacation. When you come back, squatters have broken into your home & it takes thousands of dollars in lawyer fees & court costs, and several months to get them out of your now-destroyed home. And petty thieves don't usually bother with pickpocketing. They jump you from behind & knock you down or sucker-punch you to take your property. In broad daylight in public areas with people around....who stand there and watch because they're afraid to get involved. It wasn't always like this, but it sure is now.
The only pickpockets I ever encountered in Paris were gypsy kids near the Louvre. They operated in groups of three all of different ages. They would come up to someone, put a piece of cardboard at their chest level to distract them, and the other two would go through the person's pockets.
Thanks Antoine & Coleen! Philippines is known for having problems about pickpockets too. Much as the country has great cities to see with lots of ancient & cool architectures, scammers and pick pockets are all over the place. Their frequent targets- foreign travelers.
On a trip to Paris, my hulking son and I were always “situationally aware,” anytime we went to an ATM, ticket machine, subway stations, the Louvre, etc. I am a US Army combat veteran and retiree (34 years, US Army Medical Corps). No one in Paris ever approached us not even within arms length. We later went onto London with all our money intact.
I was visiting Paris about 22 years ago at the age of 19 with my mom. We were separated in a very busy metro station and ended up on two different metro cars. I had my large travel backpack on and a cross body bag. While standing on the train I noticed a man watching me from across the way. He was holding a plastic shopping bag. He moved over to stand next to me. After a minute I looked down and realized his shopping bag was covering my cross body bag so that I couldn’t see the side pocket. I lifted up the corner of his shopping bag and his hand was in the pocket of my bag. Although I only had a disposable camera in there, it shocked me and, without thinking, I forcibly knocked his hand out of the bag. He didn’t react just stood and stared straight ahead. Nobody around me seemed to notice or care. Luckily it was a good outcome and nothing else happened but I’ll never forget it!
Thank you for posting this video. Been traveling around the Iberian peninsula and riding buses, metros and trains with an eye on keeping pickpockets at bay. Today, just about an hr. ago, I had 3 young ladies try to pickpocket me at the Chatelete station, just as the doors opened and we all tried boarding the metro. I had my hands in my pockets all the time. Young lady No.1, taps my right shoulder as we all move into the train. She asked me for something, I immediately felt a small hand slide into my right pocket and I squeezed a young lady No.2 fingers, and she retreated. I did not react quickly enough, as I could have easily cracked her fingers, but i did not see her until I backed off and they too moved as to blend with the crowd. I only realized it happened when other people behind the minors started to call the team out. There was a 3rd person watching and guiding them. I was lucky, but a fellow US family, just next to me, did loose something and the passengers told them to go talk with an attendant upstairs. I went to look for the one that tapped my shoulder and they got off in the next station like in a hurry. Thank you for this public service video.
In Lisbon, I avoided the main crowded street cars- the ones that run up the hills. We have those in SF. We took the one that ran along the river, that was nice and not crowded
A great tip especially for women travelling alone on the metro in the evening. Travel as near to the driver as you can (near the driver's cabin at the heard of the train). If there is something wrong, the driver can be alerted more easily and call the police/help.
If you are a woman traveling alone..... find a MAN who doesn't look sketch (stay away from migrants and non-Europeans) and ask him politely to back you up in the case of a pickpocket Sounds like too much.... but trust me..... real men out there are happy to help (unless they are wimps)
Thank you both for taking the time to make these videos. I will be taking my daughter to Europe as a Bucket List Trip April 22 to May 1, 2024. I am a very detailed planner and want to know all I can before I go anywhere. The end of the trip is 2.5 days in Paris. I not only watch this and other video's, I also take notes as well as put those notes in something I call a journey document. I will use these rules you have given for all Europe countries I visit. Many are the same I learned when visiting Europe last year with my wife. Thank you so much and please tell me how I can help you both so you can continue to do what you do.
The pick pocketing scam in the 1980s would be carried out on the escalators in metro stations near the tourist attraction sites and the usual victims were obviously tourists. What I saw then live was in such a metro station. A group of middle aged tourists from Canada were about to take the escalator up to street level when a group of local Algerian teenagers talking loudly and in a very rash behaviour rushed on to the escalator in front of these unsuspecting Canadians. I was behind on the line with my father and felt uncomfortable (my suspicious Asian mind!) and decided to take the stairs that ran on the side of the escalator and saw the whole modus operandi. As the Algerian teenagers reached almost the top of the escalator one of them dropped his key ring and pretended to pick it up. Every body behind him began to fall on top of him, except for the other Algerian kids because they kept shuffling with their feet on the running escalator, a feat that is almost impossible for a common tourist. The Canadians fell on top of each other while the Algerians got busy robbing them of their cameras, wallets, watches, everything and it happened so fast and was over in seconds. Many tourists got hurt on the escalator. After that I never took a crowded escalator in Paris throughout my stay there.
France is the worst, when it comes to pick pockets and theives that operate under broad daylight with no fear. Even worst than the notorious Belgium train station. Me and mum were travelling across Europe a few years ago, mainly by train. We knew about how bad the pick pockets were in Paris. And i took extreme precautions. Including not having a wallet object on me, distributed cash and credit card sources, never carry backpack on shoulders and lower it down to my foot level for close monitoring. Have my back against wall... etc. So i was ok. My mum wasn't as alert and took a seat at one stage despite my warning against her choice. I had my eyes on her for most of the time. Yet the pick pockets got away stealing her make-up bag, which made her super upset 😜🤣 no money was stolen as we both took extreme caution with this. But the most scary part of our experience is not in Paris, but in Cannes. Here we were heading towards the Cannes train station. We arrived ahead of time and decided to enjoy lunch and coffee at a Cafe close by. The Cafe wasn't busy, there were a few other customers. I was observant. There was an event around that i wanted to quickly check out so she stayed enjoying her coffee while i quickly scoot around before returning in a few minutes. Upon returning, I noticed something strange. The person who sat on the table in front and behind our table ordered nothing and seemed to know each other, judging from the eyesight. All other customers have left. It started with two. Then i noticed the woman called, and a few more arrived. I said to mum that if she noticed that she is being watched. I quietly communicated to mum that these people are about to jump us and they would attempt a daylight grab-n-go type robbery. The cafe owner also seems to know who these people were and what they were planning, but chose to avoid direct eye contact to cause a scene. But i can tell from her reaction as she serves our table. And she never bothered to take orders from the table behind and in front of ours, which is a red flag to me as this is highly unusual. They didn't know that mum is a black belt Karate instructor 😂🖤 but we were ready to fight back if this becomes violent. We knew that they won't make a move until we leave the Cafe. So we pretended that we didn't know what was happening and carried on with our meal. I made sure we settled the bill out of prying eyes. The only way we could get out of this tricky situation unharmed is to pull a surprise move that these people didn't expect. And just when they kept their guards down, we suddenly dropped everything we were doing, including the food we were eating, quickly took all our luggage and made a quick dash to the station entrance around 50m away. I made sure my mum was in front and i shielded her physically from the gang that came pursuing us. Yes, sure enough the women and a few men also came chasing us. But we were quicker and had the surprise element in our favour. We just made it into the station behind the police guards equipped with machine guns and would only allow entrance upon the display of our train tickets. Luckily we had the tickets ready. We turned our heads back and saw the frustration on the woman's face as they were blocked by the police, having invested hours of wasted effort planning for their big move. But it was a very close call. We never went back to France since this incident. Switzerland is a much nicer place to visit and spent time in. France really is over rated in every regards 🇫🇷😂
Goodness, that is scary. Kudos to you and your mother! I bet they paid the restaurant owner a commission for him ignoring them and letting them sit there. Or they could’ve been a violent gang and the restaurant owner had to turn a blind eye out of fear. You should write a review on that restaurant owners homepage or other review site if there is such a thing saying what a scary place it was.
My mom almost got robbed from behind in Paris. However, a Parisian screamed, and they stopped. They were in a group. Yes, I very much agree that Paris is extremely OVER RATED. I have no reason to go back ever again. I have lost all interest in France, unfortunately. The world isn't safe anymore.
I live in Buenos Aires, so I'm used to this kind of things. I just mind my own bussiness trying not to catch attention of anyone and be aware of what happens around me. And I also put locks on the zips of my backpacks.... I went to Paris in 2019 and luckily I had no problems, but for my next trip to Europe I'll get one of those anti theft bags, those are a grat idea!
I have started traveling solo. My strategy is to not bring anything I’m afraid to lose. This includes not packing branded clothing and purses; I wear a less expensive wedding band and pack light in a small backpack. I wear very little makeup. I look around me before taking photos with my phone. I don’t worry about impressing others . Simple. Be polite but keep moving. I rarely feel fear. I often feel unnoticed. Perfect for me!
that’s a good point for all middle aged women! When I’m sightseeing, I pack a comfy sweatshirt, no makeup/jewelry, sneakers, and carry a shopping bag from a local grocery store plus my crossbody bag. Not my favourite look but I’m practically invisible, hopefully looking like an expat running errands on my day off. Invisible isn’t always a bad thing, LOL!
Was in Paris this week Monday-Friday (visited some of your recommended spots like La Jacobine and Richart, was amazing!) and we saw the aftermath of a pickpocket. As we were entering our train after a crowd exited, an older gentleman suddenly exclaimed loudly in French, panicked. Once he had run off the train in persuit of the thief, it was already too late. We kept our things close to us, in zipped pockets with the zipper hook clipped into the bag straps.
The first thing my father told me when I got my first wallet was: never carry it in your back pocket. That was 60 years ago. Still good advice. Best tip I can give: don't carry a wallet, period. Keep it locked up in your hotel. Carry one credit card. Every place in Paris, down to food mall shops, small stores, and Starbucks, accepts credit cards. If you absolutely must carry some cash, just put it deep in a front pocket: don't use a wallet. I rode the metro several times during rush hour. Never had a problem because I essentially had nothing to pick. Did carry my phone and used that to take pix. Keep it in a front pocket and keep your hand on it when in crowds.
Great video. A team of child pickpocket team got me while I was with my 9-year-old daughter. They gently pushed their way onto the train and her away from me. Nothing agressive or noticeable. Just normal hustle and bustle on the subway. I was still within arms reach of my daughter over the heads of other children holding her hand. Then came the second distractiion, one of the kids pretended to get hurt with his arm caught in the door. At first I ignored it assuming the doors would reopen and because I was maintaining my focus on my daughter. But when it seemed like the kid might actually be getting hurt the good samaritan in me kicked in. I quickly used one hand to pull the door back and that's when I think they got me. They all immediately got off the train, feigning sympathy for their friend. Now it's a fun memory for my daughter and I, but at the time it was stressful.
Great suggestions, Antoine and Colleen! As a New Yorker, my back is to the wall of the subway station- never standing near the edge of the platform .…ever. We have crazies that will push you on to the tracks ( yes!) and my money is in a front inside pocket of my coat with very little in my wallet. Pickpockets are global! Great tips that also apply in NYC! Merci! PS : Never EVER wear a “I ❤️NY “ tee shirt in New York City : wear it when you get home. In NYC that is code for “Rob Me …I’m A Tourist!” ✨👍✨
The code is San Francisco are the people wearing freshly bought hoodies with SF logos. Becuz summers in SF can get very chilly around 4 pm and onward and unprepared tourists forget their winter coats for summer
On point. Also a New Yorker, and growing up became trained to people watch everywhere I go. if I notice anyone staring at me, I raise both my palms like asking "What?" but not in a friendly manner. Being afraid not to be polite makes you a target. If someone seems to be following me on a crowded platform, I abruptly turn around and place my back to the wall. I also say loudly "Are you following me?" if we cross paths again. I also turn around suddenly when walking anywhere to see who's behind me and cross streets if something feels off. Stay safe everyone!
Please advise 1. Are safes in the hotel room considered safe? If so I’d like to leave things like passports in the hotel. 2. Are iPhones the targets for pickpocket too? Thanks.
Let me just add one other place to watch out. I was in Paris for the first time last week, and someone attempted to pick my pocket. It was at the Liberte station on M-8. My family and I were tired, and coming home to our Airbnb in the evening. While on the escalator up to the street, I felt a hand go in my pocket. I spun immediately around to see a man had crept right behind me, I didn't notice because my family was in front of me on the way up. He surely followed me from the platform. Luckily, I felt it, turned and confronted him rather loudly..."Is your hand in my pocket? Are you trying to take my wallet?" He shrunk back and at the top of the escalator turned and walked away very fast in the other direction. Thanks for your videos, they were very helpful for our first trip to Paris.
Thanks for the video. It happened to me on the train at Milano train station while I was walking in the crowded isle looking for my seat. However by the grace of God, as the pickpocket got my purse out from my backpack, it fell on a passenger who came after me and handed it back. I think the thief was a young woman from East Europe who got off the train after the incident. Now I have an anti-theft backpack and I keep it very close to me in crowded areas.
This was very informative. Great job. I smiled to myself on #8 when you kindly mentioned kids and teens "from Eastern Europe." I knew exactly what you meant. You were talking about the gypsies. I lived in Romania for 15 months after marrying my Romanian wife there, and I have plenty of stories about gypsies (plus I worked with some, my wife worked with some, and my wife's sister taught in a gypsy village). The stories I could tell would shock you (like the 8 year old student of my sister-in-law whose father let her uncle rape her on a regular basis if she didn't get his cigarettes and alcohol on the way home from school). I'm glad to say I never had one successfully pickpocket me, but I was smart and VERY cautious. These tips were nearly all things I did while living in Romania. Thank you for making this video.
I am a parisien, the few tips that work every time are : “nothing valuable in your pockets” “shoulder bag with the bag in front of you(not on the side and your hand on it”… never ever use back bags (unless you wear it in the front with your hand on it)… and don’t act like a tourist! And what you say about team of kids from Eastern Europe (roms) is completely true! And…in the streets be very careful when you talk on cell phone, some people (usely arabes) grab your phone and run… also same at terrasse of coffee shop, don’t leave your phone on the table…those 2 last one are very very commun and they are targeting parisien just as much as tourists. However, the real “pick pocket artist” will take your watch without you feel anything. Thankfully, those don’t work in the subway!
Great tips! I would like to add that on an escalator, stand with your back on the side to have a good look at people behind you. I live in Denmark and once found a pickpocket behind me opening my purse. I felt him and he did not succeed but he could have taken my wallet easily.
We stayed vigilant during our 6 day stay this week in Paris. One time it was announced over the train pa system that there were pickpockets on board. We didn't see anything. Until, our last evening, today, when we were coming back from Les Deux Magots after a short day of shopping in the Champs Élysées with expensive bags. We had a connection at Michel Ange Auteuil. I noticed there were a group of young ladies staring at us. To be honest, this was also the only day we were too lazy to make any effort not to look like tourists😅. I pointed them out to my wife and said "those are pickpocketers! Watch out!" Anyway, we got off, and they did too. They were kind of wheeling around us as a pack, but I made strong eye contact with them to let them know I knew what they were about. We also walked with purpose and made a beeline for the exit. I think they must've gotten spooked when I spoke to my wife in French and said "fais attention!" And that's when they ran off in another direction toward another exit. But it was wild that they were just kids...
@@LesFrenchiesTravel it's truly sad. I do want to thank you and other travel TH-camrs for the in-depth tips and tricks on how to travel safely and efficiently. I plan on returning to Paris again in the near future. I had a lovely time. It's a great city with very friendly people (honestly). I will continue to watch you folks and learn more. Merci beaucoup🙏🏽
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One of my best decisions for international travel (where I take mostly public transportation) is to buy travel coats/bags optimized for security (but don't look it).
1) All my coats MUST have internal zip pockets where valuables are secured and I don't fuss with them on the move
2) I carry a travel phone with local sim and keep my primary phone in the hotel safe
3) I carry a dummy wallet with an expired card, transit pass, and a few local dollars should things get ugly and I need to hand something over
4) Small slings/bags worn on the chest are a strong deterrent as the perpetrator would struggle to gain access
Finally, if you are lost or confused, don't be a cheapskate. Take a cab and pay more to get where you need to be. Looking lost = increased risk. These small adjustments allow me to travel happy and safe
Very good advice. I was in Paris alone in 2019 for ten days. I felt very safe even at night . As a solo female, I made sure to be aware of my surroundings and applied the tips in this video. Also:
1- I bought a Travelon anti theft purse.
2- I had another thin anti theft hidden extra thin belt bag that I wore inside my pants.
3- On the metro platform made sure to walk alongside a wall, to avoid being surrounded on all sides.
3- Avoided being in a crowd.
4- Looked around for those young Kids, and weird People.
5- In the trains, I made sure to be far from the door and against the train wall, or in a corner, to be able to see what was in front of me.
6- I made sure not to look like a tourist, so, no map watching, or travel book .
7- Dont use your phone as much as possible in train station or in train, some pickpockets are specialised and will run and grab your devise.
I'm not sure how good these pickpocket people are, but once I met a pro who made a fortune from this at the time and I think you must be pretty naive to get nailed by them. Of course, you will get nailed if you're walking down the street like it's the 70s.
@@Mtl-zf9om There is plenty of videos and articles on the pickpockets and their skills and techniques to fool the senses of the victims. You will never know what happened to you. As for the young adolescents robbing People in the metro, in 2019, the Parisian authorities estimated that the adults racketters controlling those Kids had €20 000.00 revenue per week. I dont know about the 70's... but I know I am not naive.
The trick is to carry a fake phone or wallet attached to you with a fishing line
(1 foot long so you notice immediately)
Then you turn around and beat the living crap out of the theif and EVERYONE around you will realize you are in the Right because he is verifyably a pickpocketer
I've done this 3 times, all 3 times people backed me up and all I had to yell is "THEIF, PICKPOCKETER, I CAUGHT HIM!" while beating the theif's face in.....
@@tremblence For real?
@@blackterminal Ya- after traveling for long periods of time, in general I just avoid large crowded areas, also my pants pockets are tight so there is no possible way I could get pickpocketed, I'd feel it instantly, I have trouble prying my own phone out of my pocket so the thief would struggle and appear to be grabbing at my dick
So I went after pickpocketers not because I was jacked, but because I've heard of so many people getting jacked---- I always thought "what a great excuse to beat up a bad guy" .... I'm a laid back happy guy but if someone deserves a beating, I am happy to hand one out.... so I pray to witness a criminal committing a crime so I can teach them a lesson
I found out they are often scrawny lowlifes-- easy to choke out and beat up.... they are in shock someone even fights back, so being unprepared; they lose the fight ;)
I'm french and have lived in Paris and around almost my whole life. Simple tricks are, put your bag in the front. If you have a backpack, flip it so its on your front. Nothing on your backpocket, and if you have wide pocket that can't close on your jacket or pants, Don't carry your phone/wallet in it put it in your bag. They will check the bulge of your pockets. Also when you are walking with your phone in your hand, don't leave your hand hanging on the side and place it in front of you. I've seen people get their phone snatched out of the hands while walking. They walk behind you and pass you on the side your holding your phone on and run. If you keep your hand in front they can't do this as it has to be quick. If you are withdrawing money, check the people behind and around you before you put your code. They do everything to go unoticed so look at them straight in the eyes while you stop what you do and they will walk away. Don't be scared of looking at people in the eyes when suspicious. If they have no ill means they will just look at you back wondering what's wrong or avoid eye contact. Scammers and pickpockets tho will go away in fear of being confronted. Keep a hand on your bags/luggage in the metro if you can too! Stay safe people!
Merci du partage; de très bons conseils!
Easy solution. Don't visit cities famous for pickpockets. I am sick being traumatised every time I have to use the metro in Paris
paris is such a city. better to not visit, than to roam scared and alert all the time. its not a healthy lifestyle. I have been to Paris once - nothing special to take that risk@@liewnyoklin218
Something one learns in the MILITARY.
1. Never with with hands in pocket/s
2. Spatial awareness is critical to safety. - pay attention to detail -
be aware of who is around in the vicinity -
be aware of who is following - be it on the same side of the street /
and also on the opposite side of the street.
3. Ones head must be on a swivel - scanning 36 degrees
4.. Pay special attention walking through pedestrian tunnels
5. Do not walk while starting at the phone screen - The phone
can wait. ( Stay off the phone whilst walking )
6. Stay off the phone when in a crowded situation -
7. Make your eyes like surveillance cameras
8. Be aware of distractions on escalators
Everything else in the video is valuable advice
Also be aware of muggers and pick packets dropping
things such as coins to cause their intended victim to
STOP and help pick up the dropped items ----
DO NOT STOP to help - keep moving
Are you writing a novel here?😢😢😢
I'm a train operator in Paris this tips should be known by every tourists who coming in Paris. Nice job
instead of saying what tips tourists should know - as a local, you better focus towards improving your city's law and order. Its crumbling in Europe, as imperialism vault is becoming thin after 6-7 decades. all the pleasures of 1900s and 2000s waning now.
@@debchak27 bruh
Visited France for the first time with my wife. Went into the train with a suitcase and a sling bag containing over 3000 Euros and my passport. A young couple with a baby in a trolley positioned very close in front of us. Another man positioned on our right side and was also squeezing us. Finally a man in a suit stood on our left side. I was thinking probably nice French people. When the train started to move, I looked up to hold on to the metal rails above and when I looked down, a jacket was already covering my bag in front of me. My instinct kicked in and pushed the jacket away (being a Captain in the armed forces and a black belter in various martial art disciplines). I saw a hand already inside my bag holding my documents and money so I grabbed that hand and gave it the most painful locking twist which almost broke the hand. The man started swearing at me and shouting expletives, the other 3 people were also starting to confront me while my wife was wondering what was happening. I was prepared to fight them all but at the back of my mind, I was a bit worried as I was in a foreign land and do not know what will happen to me if I beat them all up. Luckily, my wife pulled me away and we immediately went out of the train when it stopped. The 4 people were still getting more aggressive (specially the suited man who now has a very painful wrist) but to be honest, they were all lucky as we were in France and not in where I came from as I do not tolerate people stealing from me. The sad thing was that not a single word or intervention came from the many people in the train. Maybe it was a French culture or they see this everyday and no longer care. Anyway, I did not enjoy my holiday in France as I have to be hyperactive whenever we were in a crowded place. This is a true story and I hope everyone will look after themselves when they go to France or any other holiday destination.
You were lucky that you were able to stop them. Good for you!!
All of them were in on it.
Advice for the future and for others:
Your important bag with all your money and all of your documents in it should’ve been in a _cross body sling bag_ with your coat covering it and it should have been zipped up as well. In hot weather, you can use a thinner jacket that can be zipped up.
If you possibly might need money while you are still getting to your hotel, it would be a good idea to take out just a few euros in advance, before you leave the airplane/airport and put them in a different place that could also be zipped up in your jacket. But easily reached.
And ideally, while on the subway with your important bag under your jacket and the jacket zipped up, you would still want your arm across the bag guarding it, while you’re on the train or subway. Your other arm can be holding subway handle.
Try to back yourself up again the wall so you can’t be surrounded on all sides by these professional thieves if possible. They have done this all their lives and practiced and practiced. They are way better than us. And they don’t care that they could be ruining your trip. We are just _dollar signs_ to them.
You were lucky that you were able to stop them. Good for,you!!
All of them were in on it.
Advice for the future and for others:
Your important bag with all your money and all of your documents in it should’ve been in a _cross body sling bag_ with your coat covering it and it should have been zipped up as well. In hot weather, you can use a thinner jacket that can be zipped up.
If you possibly might need money while you are still getting to your hotel, it would be a good idea to take out just a few euros in advance, before you leave the airplane/airport and put them in a different place that could also be zipped up in your jacket. But easily reached.
And ideally, while on the subway with your important bag under your jacket and the jacket zipped up, you would still want your arm across the bag guarding it, while you’re on the train or subway. Your other arm can be holding subway handle.
Try to back yourself up again the wall so you can’t be surrounded on all sides by these professional thieves if possible. They have done this all their lives and practiced and practiced. They are way better than us. And they don’t care that they could be ruining your trip. We are just _dollar signs_ to them.
It’s really not that serious as you describe it, I’ve been to France many times before. It’s just that you should know how to not be a target
That's actually the scariest part that people dont even try to help you. That wouldnt happen in Ireland where I am from. People would jump on and defend you. There have been a few incidents of attempted kidnapping of children in Dublin since they have opened up our borders and the Irish kicked their asses in the streets.
@@sandrashane677 think a bit about this, these thieves will continue to use the same trains, subways, buses as those commuters who didn't help. This tourist will go away in a few days, but the persons who helped will stay using the same transports. These gangs will obviously retaliate against the local commuters. It's not all black and white. People will help by calling the cops. You know where most heroes end up? In the graveyard. Obviously most will help in serious stuff that involves children, but for money? Not worth our lives, not in the moment nor later if we get stabbed in the back for helping someone who probably is no longer in the country. Best regards 🎩
Me and my husband were at a Copenhagen station with luggage and needed to look at a map. Clearly vulnerable, mid aged tourists 🙄 but we were aware. We each noticed a ‘triangular’ team - 3 people at different points watching us. One came over to ‘help’. The other two moved forward at the same time. Both of us surprised each other by suddenly shouting extremely loudly ‘ go away, get away from us!’ They disappeared so fast, we weren’t sure if it had happened but it did and a sixth sense had come into play, thank goodness. Drawing attention is the last thing they want!
Good idea! Thanx
Copenhagen, like a lot of major cities in Europe, have loads and loads of pickpockets and they are brazen. I was there with my elderly mother-in-law and daughter years ago and even though we were all together, they managed to slash open (two slashes no less) her canvas shoulder bag and steal her wallet without her ever noticing. We figured they got her at a crowded intersection. She lost over $200 that day, plus her debit card and ID. 😢 Fortunately, we live in Sweden so she could easily get home and replace everything.
Yeah, Copenhagen Central Station is known for having lots of pickpockets. I live in Denmark and whenever I'm in Copenhagen I always wear my backpack on the front(which looks ridiculous but rather that than losing something important)
Love it!😁
I used to teach self-defence. There is an innate tendency in all humans to look to the front. You really have to force yourself to look around and behind. Awareness is always number one. Pick-pockets tend to sense when you’re switched on and leave you alone anyway. Merci pour les super vidéos.
keep everything in front
Yes, I learned it from many of my combat instructors - keep your head on a swivel at all times and remain in condition yellow.
The trick is have a fake phone/wallet on a fishline
When it is stolen, you IMMEDIATELY know, and can beat the CRAP out of the thief
That is a GREAT WAY to stop pickpocketers because when they look in a mirror upon getting home, their broken face suggests perhaps they did something wrong
Simply avoiding pickpocketers ONLY EMBOLDENS THEM........ you must FIND THEM and BEAT THEM (easy to lure them, like cheese to a rat).... this worked for me 3 times so far
@@patshozo9158 Oh yes, Col. Jeff Cooper's 'States of Awareness'. Good stuff. ☺
Yes! Awareness shows on your body language: how you walk, how you dodge obstacles, where you look, how you carry your body in general… If you are actively aware of your surroundings like you should always be, you’ll either notice suspicious people beforehand or they see you and choose to leave you alone because they see you’re not in your dreams.
Excellent and clear advice. My father was the victim of a pickpocket in Paris at the Tuileries Metro station. He was on an escalator and the pickpocket team was in front and behind him. At the top of the escalator the one in front hesitated to move away from the escalator, creating a moment of confusion. My father yelled at him and return to the family shaking his head about how someone could be so stupid to stop at the top of an escalator. Then he realized that his big fat wallet that he always kept in his back pocket with his passport we're gone. This was the last day of a 3-week once in a lifetime family vacation. We spent half a day at the police station and then the embassy to report the theft and get a replacement passport. For the entire trip we had been telling my dad not to put his wallet in his back pocket the way he always did at home. He just refused to do it. He thought he'd be able to feel it and then catch the person. Instead, thie.theft killed the fun for the day and ended the trip on a sad, sour note. He was really down for a couple of days with remorse, embarrassment, and anger at himself. And, of course, that was always one of the big events when we talked to other people about our trip so he had to keep hearing about it over and over. So, for all you stubborn guys, take everything in this video to heart and save yourself from a really embarrassing story about you.
Thank you for this. I am like your father with my wallet always in the back pocket and being stubborn about it. I'll learn from his mistake.
J’suis désolé pour ce qui est arrivé à ton papa… 😢
@@PascalDupont-ft7hd merci beaucoup
My father was the leader of a small pickpocket operation on the Toulouse line and made a point of only assisting wealthy tourists with the removal of their wallets of they looked like lucrative clients. He used to call them "clients" l think perhaps in an attempt to personalise an soften the memories of his encounters.
And now, you get to repeat it one more time. :D I keed - I’ve been putting my wallet in my front pocket for years, and it’s still uncomfortable, and inconvenient when I drive! Best to Dad!
For me it was over 20 years ago on our honeymoon. My husband and I were travelling from Disneyland. We were very tired. we placed all our bags and shoppings in the seat in front of us because it was late and the train was almost empty (we were young and very naive-we did not expect bag snatchers in Paris). My husband fell asleep.
In one train station, a group of young men(6-7) came in, looking around - I thought they were just looking for a place to sit. But I still got my tourist hat on, so I just observed them, curious about the youth culture. One young man kept coming towards our direction and slyly looking at us and our things. He tried to not make it obvious, but i was following where his eyes are going. He was benignly smiling, but I felt something was off.
Then they all decided to go back out, but the young man went for one of my bags. We grabbed the handles at the same time, and for a few seconds we just looked at each other to see who will let go. He looked surprised that I was holding on to my bag. I was thinking "This is dangerous, the bag is just filled with snacks" but for some reason i could not let go. Thankfully the train door started to close and he ran back out without his loot.
Just human nature to resist an opposing action. Glad it turned out ok for you.
Thanks for these great tips, I think you covered all the bases.
I once saw a guy reaching into a lady's shopping bag on the bus.
Lots of people saw him do it and called out to the woman that he was stealing her things.
If people look out for each other this way, the pickpockets have much less chance of success.
I think they would have less chance if they were un@lived when they are caught.
@@thevegastanWhy do you think there are no pickpockets in Saudi Arabia 😂
Exactly! The incident on a crowded train where the guys arms were pinned! Was he mute. Scream stop thief! Hopefully someone intervenes!!!!
From accounts I have heard from France people are indifferent and so it;s the perfect environment for pickpockets to thrive. In Ireland we would shout and scream and kick the shit out of pickpockets if we saw that happening here.
I’ll share my experience visiting Paris. My husband and I are usually very careful when it comes to pickpockets and we never take with us any expensive bags/jewelry/etc. However, little did we know, that we’d be stolen at the hotel itself. We kept our extra money safe in our luggage. The hotel was known but wouldn’t mention it. The cleaners went through our stuff in our luggage’s and stole our money. That’s also another lesson… they might not be walking outdoors.. they might be even closer to you at your hotel! Please be careful.
Edit: thank you all for the likes! :) a little update, we did report them don’t worry. We even threatened them to leave a horrible review on Google Map. And they refused to give us our money back. It was around $1,225 cash and some of our local money that we needed for the airport on our way back (we were confused as why she’d also steal our local money lol). Anyways, we did end up going to the police station and filed a report, once we were back and once they knew it was real, they got scared and knew right away to give our money back. It showed everything in the cameras that we weren’t there for hours and the cleaner was the one who stole the money. They still told us not to mention the hotel to anyone and they’d let us checkout without paying for our 1 week stay as a payback (it was almost the same amount so we let it slide). Also, there was a safe but we didn’t think that anyone would go through our luggages but at least now we know. Stay safe wherever you go. Keep in mind that thieves are everywhere not just in Paris.
My gosh, reading this makes me feel nervous going to Europe
When at a hotel, you have to remember that any number of hotel staff can open your room door with a master key card. Then they can go through your luggage when you are out enjoying your trip. Why would you ever leave valuables just sitting in your luggage? The hotel staff is made up of people you don't know, most of whom are working for relatively low pay. The only safe place, relatively speaking, for your valuables, passports, I.D., credit cards and cash is on your body. It cost under $20 to buy a flat belt pack, which has zippered compartments, which you can then carry INSIDE THE WAISTLINE OF YOUR PANTS with a thin and comfortable belt. Thieves can't see a belt pack worn inside the pants, so they won't try to pick it. Even if they knew you had one, they would have to overpower you and take your pants off to get the pack away from you.
Did you lock your luggage?
When we arrived at our next destination I noticed a skirt was missing from my luggage. Obviously a cleaner in our Parisian hotel, as it had been too cold to wear it in Paris. It was new, too. I was quite upset but decided that the cleaner probably needed it more than I did.
@@battledome64good recommendation! I was going to put a fake "$15" price sticker on my perfume (a 1oz size, so maybe believable) to keep it safe, but I'm just going to lock it up instead.
Great advice!
My wife and I used to go to Paris nearly every year for several years. In 2011, I made a decoy wallet and put it in my back pocket. It was an old wallet of mine that I stuffed fat with flyers for strip clubs in Las Vegas. I then took the electronics from a speaking greeting card (the cards that have a funny voice greeting when you open them). It said "Hey baby, do you want a piece of this?".
We had spent several days roaming around Paris with the wallet in my back pocket. On our final morning, I commented to my wife that I was a bit disappointed that nobody had stolen it from my back pocket yet. That day we were at the Philippe Auguste Metro station and it was crowded. I walked my way to the turnstile which suddenly locked on me. The man in line behind me bumped into the back of me and I didn't think much of it. When we returned to our apartment in Saint Martin, I suddenly realized that the decoy wallet was gone! We had a good laugh about it and imagined the pick pocketer's expression when he opened it up.
That's funny! My wife and I are going to Paris in September (2024) and I thought of doing something similar, or perhaps constructing a booby trapped wallet for any would be pick pockets.
Plan on taking lots of precautions. Just hoping things don't get ugly. I'm fully capable of physical confrontation, but the stories I've read about pick pockets getting angry when you do, has me a little concerned. I guess it's best to just hold up your hand and say "Non Merci" and be on your way.
@@WHJeffB they tend to prey on tourists who are not situationally aware. If you look like you’re alert and aware, they’ll pick on weaker targets.
In my incident. I was not alert with the decoy wallet in my back pocket. But I always carry my cash and credit cards in a small pouch under my jeans so you’d have to reach your hands inside my pants if you want to get to them. Not ideal unless you want your fingers broken.
@@WHJeffBIts a terrible country
@@samuelguimaraes2885No, what's terrible are those parasites that the government is not keeping in jail and not giving stiff fines.😡🤬 To stay away from streets. People have no freedom!
@@maggiecalderon490 its right government must put in jail these bandits
About 40 years ago, 3 of us (males) on the Ponte San Angelo bridge in Rome were surrounded by about a dozen kids and a 45ish woman. We were all experienced travelers and immediately went tactical. Our wallets were in our front pockets and the kids pressed asking for money. We all shouted NO, swung our arms around and made faux kicks. One of us (ex cop) felt a hand, he grabbed it (the woman) and had her on the ground flat on her back in half a second. The kids ran and we shouted GET LOST. She got up on her own and fled.
You know it's allowed to punch as well. I would. Kids or not. They're scumbags no matter the age. Hopefully it'll teach them a lesson. And no way they'd ever involve the cops haha.
Be aware and be ready to react.
Sometungsten, I also heard that whenever you feel you're in this sort of situation, try to scream from the top of your lungs " POLICE " !!!!!! They say it is the magic word.
There is definitely something to be said for 'squaring up' on these folks and not looking afraid. Thankfully my only untoward experience to date was a random (possibly homeless) man rushing me from behind to squeeze through a subway gate with me in Barcelona. I didn't confront him; I just kept it moving into the station at an accelerated pace.
@@moladiver6817 Except you're not. In Italy, you're not allowed to punch a child, no matter what you wish to be true.
I've been to Paris numerous times, and thankfully, I have not been targeted -- at least not that I was aware of. I'm too much of a New Yorker and never let my guard down. I leave the expensive stuff at home, wear minimal jewelry, don't carry gadgets or electronics, never, ever carry backpacks , and always keep my suitcase locked when I leave the hotel room. I never put money in my pockets, keep most cash concealed on my body, with the minimum that I'll need for the day in my purse. I usually wear a cross-body bag and put my jacket on over it. I carry only essentials, and I hold the bag in my arms when I board the train or am in crowds rather than let it dangle. I carry a cloth tote bag as well with a folding umbrella and water bottle and to stash any small purchases. I also move further inside the trains or try to find a seat. I NEVER hang my bag anywhere, like on the back of a chair and always keep it in my lap in a restaurant, zipped up and still tethered to me. I ignore anyone who tries to stop me or get my attention and will often just push right past them. Same thing with anyone who stops in the middle of the sidewalk or top of a staircase disrupting the flow of traffic. I know this may sound harsh, but I am always mindful that these kinds of bottlenecks are created by design to entrap potential victims.
I does sound harsh... always on your guard...any room for enjoyment in being in Paris?
I hear you. I’m always on my guard -wherever I am -it’s exhausting. My area has high crime. I’m moving to a small town of 2,400 -I think it will help.
@@bharris9824 Almost certainly.
@@larrykinglkanywhere...be vigilant of your surroundings at all times.
Thanks, your tips are really good. However I am feeling very lucky to be from a safe part of the world where I don’t have to worry about these things!
I read of a great tip also. In Europe you sometimes come to an area where there is a sign saying “watch out for pickpockets” which I legit. But the habit (I’ve done this) for many when they read that sigh is to feel in their pocket where they have valuables/cash/credit cards. So pickpocket apparently wait around those areas, and many of us pretty much tell them exactly where we have our valuables!
Handy to know. If someone had a decoy wallet with a booby trap inside it that would be the perfect way to catch the scammers out. haha
@@sandrashane677I have dreamt of that fantasy.
Great tips. I'm a solo traveller in my 60's and quite often get approached by seemingly benevolent people who want to "help" me. But I'm experienced and I'm not afraid to say "no thanks" I'll even rehearse this phrase in whatever language I need. My day-backpack only contains clothing and a water bottle. All my valuables are in a reliable slash-proof, tamper-proof across the body bag with special locking devices that makes it a pain to open but I have the peace of mind knowing that pickpockets will struggle with it. My pockets contain nothing of value. The main thing is to be situationally aware, don't flash money or valuables either. A great traveller told me once that "Paranoia is the ultimate state of awareness." Just know that while you're out enjoying your holiday, someone is certainly watching you in tourist areas. My attention isn't on my phone either, but sometimes I have to consult Google maps to find my route which makes me a target so I use tactical glances on my phone navigation App, no volume to attract attention, and keep scanning as I move through crowds. It's all become second nature to me now,
I'm 64, have always been very paranoid about pickpockets and robbers when in foreign cities, and consequently I have never been pickpocketed or robbed.
As a dutch woman often traveling alone, I have been aware of pickpockets in Amsterdam and had several near-miss experiences in Rome, Amsterdam and Paris. THE NUMBER ONE TIP - I carry a crossbody PACSAFE handbag. Impossible to get in. And NOTHING of value in any pockets. And I am aware of scooters, motorbikes approaching while walking and will stand back when I hear them coming. Been traveling for many years and nothing happened. And of-course, wearing a backpack (purse or bigger) on your back screams: "I'm a naive tourist" Yes, be aware of your surroundings, always. Good tips in this video.
"wearing a backpack (purse or bigger) on your back screams: "I'm a naive tourist""
Somehow I read that as "I carry a crossbow" which for sure would deter the wannabe pickpockets ^^
I think wearing a backpack in front of you screams "I'm a tourist, who has something valuable in their backpack" much more. When in a crowd and it might inconvenience other people, or when I'm really worried I wear it in my hand like a bag. Of course it won't help if someone wants to rob you really bad, but it's another story.
I taught in Rome for a year and I carried my backpack on my back - until I was standing on the corner waiting to cross the street in Florence (which has a lot of pickpockets in the summer)- some Americans told me a man was trying to unzip my bag! He was quite good - he had made progress and I had not felt a thing! I then removed it from my back.
Another situation: as noted in the video, you want to avoid crowded situations because you may not be able to move if you are pinned in (pick pockets often work w a partner or group). This happened to one of my students on a crowded bus in Rome known to target travelers: pickpockets surrounded him, pinned his arms down by standing too close and emptied his bag. He couldn’t move his arms so he couldn’t stop them!
But - don’t get paranoid. Just be alert and think it through. For example:
- don’t put valuables in your backpack (I put a jacket if it looks like the weather might change; inexpensive souvenir or snack to take back to room)
-Wear a money belt under your clothing.
-put a small amount of money in a pocket to make a cheap purchase: enough for a subway ticket or an ice cream
@@bettinaceciliasilveira5773
We must face reality and avoid backpacks. I am used to travel alone too. Be safe and enjoy!
Thank you for this video. We watched this video before our trip from US to Paris in early June. The tips provided were super useful. We (2 kids and 2 adults) got off the Eurostar at Gare Du Nord, bought metro tickets and headed towards one of the metro entrances for our hotel. As I was helping our younger child navigate the ticket turnstile, a guy slipped his hand into my pocket and put his hand on my wallet. My child by that time had made it to the other side to my wife. I immediately sensed the hand in my pocket but was in motion to make it to the other side of the turnstile. So I stopped midway through the turnstile, the gate slammed on me but I grabbed my pocket and guy's hand so tightly that he let go off the wallet in the pocket and acted as if he has was just making his way past the turnstiles. He also had an accomplice in the adjacent aisle who was there for cover. Both guys seemed like african immigrants and were mum when I confronted them on the other side. While we were shocked at how close we were to losing the wallet and all the trip cash, ids, cards etc, we were thankful for this video and its tips and to the Lord Jesus for protecting us from such a loss. Overall, we enjoyed the rest of the Paris trip and we are thankful for videos in this channel. Thank you Antoine and Colleen.
thanks for sharing, inside money belt next time
Did we need to know that they were African immigrants??
@@prettybrwneyez7757of course, because it’s usually them ;)
@prettybrwneyez7757 only reason they probs mention is that most pickpockets tend to be Romani gypsies. OP is probably saying pickpockets can look like anyone.
Can you buy metro tickets online and avoid going to the ticket machines? I’m traveling to Paris Gare du Nord from Amsterdam in a couple of weeks. This will be my first trip to France.
Thank you Antoine and Colleen! Unfortunately, My wife and I were targeted on our very first day on our first trip to Paris in March. Arriving at Gare Du Nord from Eurostar, due to the strike action we decided to take Metro to our hotel. Looking back, we felt we were targeted at the ticket kiosk as the same person who helped my wife scan her ticket then followed us into the train car. He did work with an accomplice as the 2nd person attempted to swipe my wallet. I did grab him and began screaming at him and pinned him against the door to block his escape. The 1st guy ran and then I let the 2nd guy go when I discovered he did not get my wallet. Thank you for your videos as we so appreciate your insight. We are looking forward to our return in December.
I BET it's wasn't a native Frenchman either...
The same thing happened to us first day in Paris, 11 April. My husband was robbed from his back pack at Gare de Nord
oh wow, sorry that happened to you two. I'm going to Paris in two days and I was considering in taking the metro due to the ongoing strike. However, since I'm traveling with my mom who tends to not pay attention to her surroundings, I think I'm gonna just book a taxi or uber from the airport to our accommodation instead.
@@jenphan8674
If i undestand, you'll arrive to Paris the 1st may ? I don't know in you country but, in France, it is a holiday bank.
You're right, better to call a uber from airport to your hotel. So you will not arrive to Gare du Nord Station where there is a lot of problem with pickpockets (and because of the jetlag you could be less attention).
Even if there is strike in the streets, the subway is ok.
Hope you will spend a good time in France ! Welcome !
The ticket kiosks at Gare du Nord are favorites of Romanian pickpockets. Usually in small groups of 2 to 4 young individuals, incl girls. They operate there almost every day. They are often caught but are seldom jailed or deported due to various regulatory loopholes.
As a security pro I can confirm that this is solid info. I would add that there are bags and clothing (pacsafe & clothing arts are examples I trust) specifically designed to thwart pickpocketing and they are certainly worth a look to protect your valuables. Inside the waistband money belts are also worth considering.
👍
I visited Paris with my brother in June 2019 (Paris Air Show). In addition to keeping close to each other, vigilant, and suspicious of strangers, we also kept nothing in our pockets. Or general luggage (water, clothes, sunscreen, pamphlets) was zipped in our backpacks, while all valuables were zipped in a fanny pack against our abdomen underneath our shirts (the buckle was also covered). It's not fashionable, but we didn't care.
There is a reformed American pickpocket that became a consultant and lecturer. He liked to relieve pickpockets of their stolen items undetected and return them to the owner. There is a documentary program - probably somewhere on TH-cam now - that follows him on a trip to Europe where he identifies a pickpocket team looking for a mark. They start a conversation that quickly becomes a brag fest.showing off their tricks. The American guy gets so excited, he demonstrate his special trick to remove a man's belt to score a money belt. His wife had to point out to him later that by showing off he'd just helped the pickpockets become even more successful. Great job Mr Security consultant!
@@Jones4Leather The classic magician revealing trick mechanics onstage problem, priceless. 🙄
My husband and I have wallets with chains attached to us and our mobiles on lanyards. We’ve been told seeing chains is a deterrent. Is that true?
I have never been a victim of Parisian pickpockets (yet). Even though I work in Paris for about 20 years, and I even lived in Paris for several years.
But I witnessed such situations twice. But both of them were somehow different from those you describe in the video.
Once the guys were acting in the RER train. And they were quite agressive, so it makes sense to call them robbers, not pickpockets. It's happened late in the night and the train was quite empty - just 7 passengers for the whole RER car. Three guys entered our car at one of the stations and for some reason they walked along the car from one end to another. At the next station two guys tried to grab bags from two Chinese tourists and one Englishman who were sitting near the car's doors. And the third guy was holding doors in the same time so the train could not departure. Finally I and other two passengers went to help victims, so robbers jumped out of the car (as far as I remember, they succeeded to steal one bag).
Another case happened several years ago on the metro platform of the line 10. A boy 10-11 years old tried to pick in an old lady's bag. And another boy around 15 years old (so still he was a minor, and even if got caught by police they could not really prosecute him) was kind of guarding the little one walking a couple of meteres away. When they saw me entering the platform and they saw I stare at them, they quickly disappeared from there.
Been living in Paris forever, and pickpockets got me twice.
First time was at the airport. A girl approached me and my brother, asking to sign a petition. We were focused on it, where we heard a man yelling and and the girl ran away. I turned to see that my backpack had been opened. But nothing was taken, because I only carried a phone charger and a water bottle.
Second time was at a random asian coffee (in Paris). I spent an hour there talking with a girl. When I went my way, I noticed that my wallet was missing all my cash, and my credit card. The thief sat behind me and managed to pick my wallet from my vest, empty it then replace it. He did so right in front of a security camera. The police never caught him (looks like they didn't even try).
Well done for helping those people. If there were more people like you in the world it would be a much better place.
Well yeah robbery is a different category.
Great video. Decades ago, I was a victim of no.8, in Brussels.
My tips: 1) Take your back pack off and carry it between your legs when riding the metro or bus or buying a ticket. Having a big pack on your back is not only a risk of being pick pocketed, but it annoying as hell for your fellow passengers when you turn and bump them in the face.
2) No smartphone or reading material while on the Metro. Head up and just look at people. Pick pockets and drug dealers just hate when people they are stared at. Even the kids know when they are being watched.
Lol stare at people
I use the Brussels metro and bus service many times. I rarely take my phone out, keep watching people around me. thanks for the tips
When you put your backpack on the floor, secure it by putting your leg inside the straps so they can't get your bag without you noticing it....
You really nailed this! Without scaring the daylights out of us! I'm an airline crew member and come to Paris often. I wish I could share this with my passengers. They always ask about safety. I do remind them about their cell phones - easily stolen bc Americans can be pretty free and easy with their cell phone attentiveness. Thanks!
i alway use an older travel phone for direction massaging because there are cases of grab and go…. watch out people. Parisienne now need couple more years to retire. lol
Don't act like a victim.... don't just avoid pickpockers..... that only emboldens them
I can understand why women would rather just avoid them..... but for all the real Men out there:
Lure the pickpocketer with a fake phone/wallet attached to you by fishline..........1 foot is perfect for fishline length.... you immediately feel the tug and turn around BOOM punch the guy in the face or put him in a chokehold......... if you do this---- you are SAVING other people's lives by stamping out the crooks........ I've done this 3 times.... caught 3 pickpocketers and BEAT THEIR ASSES TO A PULP
And guess what? Pickpocketing is no longer a thing in that city.....easy peezy
When you fight back, its amazing......... theives decide its NOT WORTH IT anymore............... however IF YOU DON'T beat them up...... they have AN INCENTIVE to steal more
@@tremblence dont even dare to use violence against pivk pocket, thief, you will be charged even may be labelled a racist !
@Gordon Gekko Thats why I carry a knife and don't go near crowds
But I agree, sometimes a quick knockout and running to safety is the best option
Just make sure to shout "PICKPOCKET THEIF!!" so everyone knows why you punched and ran..... or else, you might get chased down and people will stand by and watch
By shouting "PICKPOCKET THEIF!", bystanders should know to help you, and not the thieves..... The trick is be social and say hello to many people--- more likely they will come to your aid
If the thief is armed and brandishes a weapon during a robbery/pickpocketing..... you are justified in using deadly force against them..... but the "justice system" might try to imprison YOU rather than the criminal, so at that point its MORALLY CORRECT to use deadly force and flee or else you might be wrongly imprisoned
@@tremblence or, instead of risking getting arrested for assault : mind you, in Paris, there are often security agents in touristic areas or main stations, police patrols or military ( for Vigipirate). If anything, defend yourself, for sure, hold onto him and yell for an agent or help to come.
Same goes for the other guy telling people to carry a knife. Don't risk ruining you trip getting arrested for dumb reasons when it could be avoided. Look up what's legal to carry and use in public spaces, and what's not. Don't make any unnecessary use of violence that will be turned against you...
Just got home from a trip to France, Germany & Austria. I watched a LOT of your videos before going and loved everything about them. Thank you for all your hard work and useful information about so many things we would encounter. I truly don't even know how you do such a great job of making your videos with all the chaos that goes on in these places, but they are so appreciated! We only had one instance when I and a friend were surrounded by 3 young males - one who had suddenly pushed his way in front of us to get on the metro in Paris while the other 2 pushed us from behind. Not realizing at this point that they were likely pickpockets, my friend called the one out by telling him his pushing was rude and I made eye contact with him and continued to stare at him. When one of the other males beckoned the pusher to switch places with him, it finally dawned on us they were pickpockets. Our suspicions were confirmed by an older gentleman, from Paris, who informed my friend that they were indeed pickpockets. We held on to our bags tightly and they young males exited at the next stop. Thankful they didn't get a thing from us but a scolding and a cold stare! Again, thank you for your great work!!!
Sorry that happened. Glad it worked out.
Damn Europeans are passive!
@@deihorus7927 What a stupid remark!
Few years ago I was a victim of pickpocket on the train to the airport to depart Paris. Loaded down with backpacks and “helped” onto a crowded train. Within seconds my wallet was gone and metro pass in front jean pocket was gone. Never felt anything. Made a police report at next stop. Later, sitting at airport gate I started getting notices from credit card co of unauthorized purchases. Folks, this really does happen and the tips in this video are spot on!
I am a Parisian, each time I want to help tourists who look like they are lost they suddenly freak out, start screaming or running like crazy… you guys should make videos on “how to speak to tourists without scaring them”
They watch too many alarming vlogs on YT...
10 conseils pour traverser la rue à Paris
Comment éviter les vieilles dames à Paris
10 façons de ne pas se mêler à la foule à Paris
10 façons d'éviter les contacts avec les "locaux"
Comment s'asseoir à table : nos 10 conseils
10 façons de ne pas se faire arnaquer dans les toilettes publiques à Paris...
😅😅😅
@@LesFrenchiesTravel Bravo Antoine pour le commentaire... vous m'avez tué 😆😂
@@LesFrenchiesTravel Brilliant reply Antoine 🎯 Bravo.
@@LesFrenchiesTravel la où il n’a pas tort c’est qu’à force de publier ce genre de vidéo, les interactions entre les touristes et les parisiens sont froides. On a cree climat de terreur pour les touristes.
Great video, helping people feel comfortable, not scared. We are on our final day in Paris and have used the Metro and walking everywhere (including Chez Bartolo today - thanks for the pizza tip!) We had 2 teens approach to ask a question about a train interruption after leaving the Eiffel Tower - could be they thought we were local, could have been a target, but either way, confidence and preparation ensured a smooth interaction and even allowed me to practise my terrible French!
I’ve just gotten back from Paris and watched a few of your videos which are all super helpful. From buying tickets as well as being aware of pickpockets. Happy to report that I didn’t have any unfortunate incidents and absolutely love the city and its people. I will 100% come back again. And I absolutely agree that Parisians are happy to help as long as you approach them politely and ask kindly. J’adore Paris. Thank you for all your helpful videos Les Frenchies
A must when on travel in a foreign country: Move around as much as possible. Walk, turn, twist, look up, down, backward, jump up, sideways-whatever-just don’t stop moving. Being a constantly moving target drives thieves nuts and these moves cut down the possibility of anyone trying to corner you. Three teen boys and a lady tried this with me in Europe and I outsmarted these fools.😈
Gd workouts 😆😂
Well done. That's the spirit. Stay safe.
In your own country as well.
I just had a vision of Steve Martin, wild and crazy guy!
My husband got pickpocketed in Barcelona in 2015, exactly how you described. Two women came beside him on the metro /subway while he hung on to the pole. One had a raincoat over their arm. Close to the stop, they pushed up against him while the one with the raincoat removed something from my husband's back pocket. My son and I had taken steps to have our back up against the metro/subway car and any over shoulder bag in front of us, while being vigilent who was standing near us.
Luckily, we had gone over the many scenarios of possible theieves while in Europe, so we had already divided our spending money into daily allowances and divided that amount between the three of us, each into our own money belts.
So all the theives got away with was our itinerary. Lol. But it was a good lesson. You are right when those two woman quickly exited, a man also joined them. Group of three.
But in Barcelona is normal .I'm from that City , and over the lasts decades has become in a city with no law. Greetings from Barcelona and be careful.
who puts things in the back pocket?? It's like a sign: "rob me!"
@@andretavares5424it’s really common in the states because pickpocketing is pretty much non-existent. Guys will put their wallets there often.
I have seen a group of 5 women enter a train in Barcelona. At a sort of command they all put a coat over their arms and entered. The one who picks your pocket generally passes the loot to on of the team immediately. So if you caught one just to late, you have no proof.
Last place on Earth I'm interested in visiting probably is France. Well unless I was doing a WWii tour
Thanks for taking the time make this video for all.
I've travelled to places where everyone I spoke to warned me about pick-pockets, and I've also been regularly to cities that are far more dangerous those in Europe, but Paris is the only city I've been to where I've actually seen pick-pockets and thieves at work. Now I'm always prepared, and but still found a lot helpful tips in this video.
Years ago, I was stalked by a gang of kids in Amsterdam. Had to yell hard at them.
Too many people . The earth is full.
We were almost victims in Milan metro, but luckily, I was alert and saw my wife purse opened and the wallet was almost out. I remember now and based on your advice, pretty much violated all these advices. We were obvious targets, with branded shopping bags ready for predators to strike. Not anymore. Never use the the metro after a busy shopping day, especially when buying branded items.
Also, try not to dress like a tourist. I always wear long pants Ange, a casual jacket or sweater, kind of looking like I lived in the area, or nondescript. Never wear shorts or sneakers, or T-shirts. And if it wasn’t feeling right, or I was tired, I always took a taxi and avoided the subways.
😂😂😂😂
Back in 2019 my younger sister and I had caught the last train of the night back to our hostel in Paris. We were chatting away in english and after a couple of stops a man got on behind us then walked up and stood DIRECTLY in front of us in an almost empty car… thankfully we have decent situational awareness and picked up on that weirdness. As soon as the doors opened at the next stop, he tried to snatch my sister’s phone out of her hand and bolt out the open door. My sister probably looked like an easy target because she’s thin, but she’s a ballerina and ALL muscle. Anyway I stuck my foot out to trip him as she kicked him full force in his shin/knee, we both yelled ‘NO’ in his face and he stumbled off the train empty handed. A bunch of concerned faces peered back at us from the next car, she called out “it’s okay, I won” and some people quietly applauded.
Some of my travel tips:
- Don’t sit right next to the doors
- Choose the more crowded metro cars at night
- Put your phone away
- Use a bumbag worn cross-body, thinner purse straps can be cut
- Use your best ‘resting bitch face’ when looking up directions or navigating so you don’t look confused or lost
- Walk like you know where you’re going, even if you don’t
- ALWAYS PRACTICE SITUATIONAL AWARENESS
- Don’t skip leg day
🤣 Don't skip leg day!!! (best advice evah!!!)
Excellent advice. The only time I have encountered problems of this kind was when my travel companion who had not done her homework was distracted while she was loudly telling me off for being "paranoid". Needless to say that my friend learned the hard way that my concerns were justified.
I had my wallet stolen on the metro (having just boarded at Montparnasse) and was left with no cash or cards. I was travelling to CDG to get a flight early the following morning to Washington DC so ended up unable to go, a complete nightmare. I've lived most of my life in London so always considered myself relatively streetwise but obviously not enough. It was evening, i was tired after a long train journey and just wasn't alert enough to the risk. I wish I'd seen this video just before going as it would have reminded me to take more care.
To your tips I''d also add that it's good to split your cash and cards so if the worst does happen, you still have some options for money.
Bonjour. I watched a number of your videos before my wife and I went to Paris. You were a huge help on security, eating and the metro.Merci.
Great to hear!
This video is spot on. Happened to me traveling by Metro from the airport to my hotel. I thought I was prepared, wrong. Traveling with my wife daughter, SIL and 3 year old grandson. Without a doubt we stuck out as vacationers for sure. We were followed in and I was forced into staying at the doorway. It was packed and as we began to travel I was literally being thrown around and I thought this typical rush hour travel in the Metro. My wallet had $20 bucks and 2 CC’s was zipped in my soccer pant front pocket, my cellphone in the other. After a few stops the train emptied a bit and I was relieved until I noticed my wallet was gone, luckily they didn’t get my phone. I used my phone to lock my credit cards. I was mad at myself because I thought I was prepared. The rest of my family were fine because they were deeper in the train away from the door. I did file a report at Parisian police station.
Rene, I bet you never heard a word from the cops. It is their indifference which encourages these sub-humans to carry on ruining innocent people's lives.
2 CC's??? Is that 2 cubic centimetres?
@@martinraxyzCC is credit card
@@031elizabeth793 Ah! Thanks!
This video is spot on! I was recently the victim of pickpockets and I currently live here. I was with my 2 daughters. A group of young girls (14-15 yrs old) rushed onto the train before the doors closed. They started asking us directions to get to the Eiffel Tour to distract us. One of the girls opened my purse and took my wallet while one was distracting me with questions-textbook scenario and I fell for it. My daughter said she saw these girls walking the platform before the train arrived. It was line 1 train. I’m sure they heard us speaking English and targeted us. Many of these groups are Eastern European teenagers. Don’t talk to anyone on the metro, shake your head no or shrug your shoulders. I notified the RATP and filed a police report. Also when I carry a backpack I put a small luggage type combination lock on the main compartment zipper. As they say in the video, stay off your phone and be vigilant.
Do you know geographical directions? Those children are from southern Europe, not eastern. Eastern Europe is Poland, proudly, or Lithuania. These are white, christian people with money to spend and not beggers or thieves.. Nobody from Poland will be steatling your poor purse, damn it.
@@CabrioDriving You forgot to mention the other East European countries.
@@valsblueforrest2961 They don't steal as well.
@@CabrioDriving Yes, Romanians and Albanians do. Romania is Eastern Europe
Gypsies@@tomtom8786
My mother was picked pocketed from her purse on the escalators in Paris at the train station. They took her wallet and her address book. I was with her this day and I felt the horror, dispar and panic my mother had knowing she was in major trouble.
These people need to be stopped and put in jail for over 10 to 15 years. The laws need to be enforced. The victim shouldn’t be the only one suffering. Politicians and law enforcement need to be held accountable like they hold us normal people accountable. They know who they are without a doubt but choose not to do anything about it. It’s time we as a people make a change because these politicians and law enforcement do not care at all about you. It can’t be just people blowing whistles and shouting ‘pickpocket pickpocket’ and chasing and shaming them. This doesn’t work. More drastic measures need to be taken. Not tomorrow but today.
This is great advice not just for Paris but for other European cities where there are tourist attractions! I was with a group of women in London and we decided to go to Harrahs to shop. It was very crowded and one of the women had her wallet stolen from her handbag. She didn’t realize it until she got back to the hotel. Barcelona is another city where there are pickpockets in the tourist areas. Thank you for all you do to make these videos! They are always so informative!
Not only European countries.
it is so true. the worst probably Rome. even the hotel staff was pickpocketed when I was there 3 years ago. lol
Indeed, they can be applied everywhere..
Whilst I of course appreciate that you are posting this video to help others which is awesome, I am surprised that, as experienced travellers, you both don’t use an anti-theft back pack. Having everything safely locked away in a bag that is slash proof, lockable and theft proof would make your travels so much less stressful and easier. Many of the risks you discussed in this video can be avoided by simply using an anti theft backpack! Cheers from Australia.
Great tip! Im a parisian and last week two attackers slashed the handles of my handbag to steal it... no more Keys, Phone, crédit cards... unfortunately you have to be extra cautious these days. I wish à safe travel to everyone
1:42 pacsafe make brilliant anti-theft backbags. They have reinforced chain straps you cant slash. I have them. Very secure.
@@piamadison5539 thanks for thé tip
Amazon, Here I come!
@@alliebelle3298 happy shopping!
As a French I should add one piece of advice: if you have a piece of luggage to the train station in Paris, take a cab, you'll get right to the place and save headaches and risks. The point with pick-pockets is they want you to put your attention into something else when they do what they want to do. If you have some money or valuable things put them in your suitcase and remove them when in a quiet place. Otherwise a bunch of good advice in this clip, the one of people bothering when getting out is cery relevant.
That's how they got to me - they blocked the door.
I regretted not paying for a taxi.
As a Londoner who visits Paris a couple of times a year using Eurostar, my tip would be to know where you are going when you get to Paris. Don't carry a map in your hands, walk confidently and if you do get lost and need to look at a map go into a coffee shop or bar and sit in a corner with a drink and plan where you are going next. Try to look like a local, my husband speaks quite good French and the first thing we do when we leave our apartment in the morning is to go and buy a copy of Le Monde which he carries in his hand. So far that's worked for us.
Another place to be very careful in is Lisbon. The past few years it has become horrendous for pickpockets.
Thank you for all your videos we really do appreciate your advice x
I’m smart to these guys. Once in NYC. I put a huge rat trap sitting flat in my trench coat pocket. Sure enough… a guy behind me and took the bait. He got what he was looking for. Four broken fingers made my day !…
Ah, NYC. I travelled from Disneyworld to NYC, so my guard was lower in the glow of that friendly place. When we arrived, the bus dropped us off, there was a man there helping people off the bus, looking like an employee. For some reason I needed to change a $100 bill and he offered to change it. I lost that bill.
Fantastic 😂
Thank you! Well done. Maybe I should do the same.
Doubt that story. How do you carry a trap around without setting it off.
@@1949cr it only works on rats
I live in Paris and unfortunately, the part on the childreen/teens is very true. I haven't seen many issues with pick pockets but every time I did, they were involved (often putting their arms in people's bags while the rest of the group is being loud/childish). They're small and that makes it easy for them
Also, be careful of bag-snatchers. Keep shoulder bags tight or crossed over your body. I lived in London for 5 years and was fine, but my daughter was mugged outside a London station when a guy pushed her on the ground and run off with her bag. Luckily, she wasn't hurt and her phone and keys were in an inside jacket pocket. Replacing bank cards and ID was a real pain, though.
Paris Law Enforcement are too busy and have no time to fight this kind of crime..? I’m a resident of Toronto Canada never heard same crime like Pickpocketing happening here.
@@phuxuankingthey do and they are in civilian clothes in those main metro stations with more in uniforms watching the platforms on video from the train offices in the same station. They can only see the platform and won’t necessarily catch everything. Also when they catch the pickpockets, they have to let them go if the victim won’t press charges. Tourists mostly just want to go on with their holiday and refuse to press charges, that’s one of the reasons pickpockets target them. Also, the reason they don’t want to get caught is that on the rare occasion that someone presses charges they will be arrested etc. They know the police is never far away, that’s why they want to do everything quietly…
@@annea5781 That’s why..nice to know the real circumstances,that means no way to stop them.Tourism will be hurt..Sorry for Paris and Parisiens .Thanks.
@@phuxuanking some police officers in civilian clothes actually know some of them and when they can will hop on a train with them either to discreetly keep them from doing anything if possible or basically physically shove them out of the train, with their victims along, on the next platform and force them to give back the belongings and try to convince the victims to press charges…
If I may, I'd like to add to this.
Biggest advice I can give is never let your guard down. You’ll never, ever be immune from theft. We’ve lived in Paris for 15-years. I got pickpocketed early on and my nephew a few years ago. So, we thought we were more aware, but a few months ago my husband got pickpocketed on the metro.
Here’s the new pick-pocket scam on the metro. You see a train come, in our case the line 12 (a non-tourist train), looked empty by the door entrance. As we stepped in and doors were about to close a bunch of kids (Roma’s) swarmed us, pretending to get off, cause a commotion ensued, but I pushed through to the other side of train. My husband was not so lucky and got pinned up against the door. He instinctively held onto his wallet, in the zippered portion of his sling bag. However, his phone was in the front of his bag with just a flap, they got his phone. I looked at him, and said, ‘THEY GOT ME’
Ironically, as soon as they swarmed us we knew instinctively to get off, but we got pinned in.
I was lucky because I had a shoulder theft-proof/slash-proof bag (pacsafe) which I keep a mini lock on, zipper-to-zipper.
I made my husband a believer, and now he has a theft proof bag. There are different brands, but I add an extra precaution by adding a lock, and it’s slashed proof. In Rome, someone tried to slash my bag. In Barcelona, they know the brand so stay away.
Be paranoid folks, and not just in Paris, but any major European city.
As an aside, do not wear expensive jewelry on the metro. Last week a friend was wearing a diamond necklace, 3 girls ripped it off him. Fortunately for him, the diamond fell in his shirt and he had his shirt tucked in. They got the chain, but not the diamond.
Another aside, we saw a group of teenage picpockets on line 1, we reported it to the guichet, we waited for police to show up so we could identify them. Police never came, guichet asked, so what are you waiting for? My point is, pickpockets are endemic so nothing really happens, sad....
I've said it before, that paranoia is way better than losing your stuff or having to deal with the police (which can do nothing at that point). Assume it CAN happen to you. Make yourself too much trouble for a thief to deal with.
Why was he flaunting his diamonds 😇😆😂
@@queva3062 why travel, why buy shoes, why live. Why work, just pickpocket.
@@sadhbhdelahunt well, you walk but walking with both eyes close and knowing you're not at your familiar surrounding?🙄
what brand did you use for the bag?
I have had the amazing opportunity with my career to travel around the world and have lived in many major cities. This is really good advice. Never let your guard down, always have your back against the wall if possible or sitting down where you are in full view of all your important belongings.
Backpack, on the floor, zipped up and hard for others to reach inside. Never wear your backpack on your back while on the metro, getting on or off. It should always be in your hands, in control.
Use a money belt if you carry cash, otherwise, one back up credit card in your belt and use touch and pay on your phone for everything else.
Always know where your phone is.
If you only have 1 thing to keep safe (your phone) then there's very little risk of you losing it. Everything else, non valuables should be in your backpack.
If in emergency, you should be able to drop your backpack and get home without it.
I wish no one is ever scammed or ever pick pocketed. Such a horrible thing to happen to you.
Every traveler needs to see this video as you've given excellent tips! I'm a solo traveler to Paris, every year (except pandemic). While I've never been pickpocketed, I know it may be luck, of course. First, I don't carry an obvious "American" travel nylon purse, nor a designer purse plastered with logos. I carry a leather purse with an inside zipper pocket. In that interior zipped pocket, I carry a slim wallet with my ID, one credit card, one ATM card, my insurance card, paper Euros, a copy of my passport. If someone reached into my purse, they'd likely pull out my little pouch with lip balm, etc. I carry my purse crossbody on the streets and in the metro. My iPhone is in a Bandolier brand case, separate crossbody. I put the phone in the back slip pocket of my purse for easy access, but it's on a separate strap. My Navigo card fits in a slot on the back of the case. At night, I wear the phone case (with an attachable pouch for my apartment key and my ID) beneath my outer layer. I carry a little coin purse for coin Euros. It clips to the outside of my purse (or phone case), so I never open my purse when I need to grab a few coins. If someone wants to steal my coins, it's never more than a few Euros. So far, no problems. I have a "city" style backpack that looks like what a business person would carry to the office. It has no access on the back, except a slip pocket that I never use. The zipper is at the very top of the bag, but with big rings on the zipper, I could latch it if I had anything valuable in it. I use it as my personal item on the plane, but in Paris, I use it for gathering groceries or taking on picnics. Again, my phone is in a separate crossbody case, so I can keep my hands on it. I've felt vulnerable when leaving a market with shopping bags loading me down. I put my filled shopping bag inside my backpack and feel less a target as I go back to my apartment. It's also easier to carry that backpack up flights of stairs. We do what we can, but as you said, it takes only a few seconds of letting one's guard down and never feeling the theft.
I appreciate the specific details on how you manage the necessities. We (family of 4) will be visiting Paris this summer and the fear of being pickpocketed has been nagging me. I know it’s common in big cities all over the world so not specific to Paris. Your description on how you keep safe has assuaged my concerns.
@@joannefowler391 I've been going yearly since 2008. Since my husband died, I've been going solo. I feel safe in Paris and will soon be back for a full month, so enjoy your time, but remain aware. With four of you, you can watch for each other. I think Les Frenchies covered this in another video, but always use an ATM that's inside a bank, rather than on the street. You'll have to press a button for the door to open to go inside. I've seen kids (girls and boys) swarm people at ATMs on the street. Since I've been so often, I don't go to the usual tourist places unless there's a special exhibit I want to see. I do travel on Line 1 quite often, though. Enjoy Paris! It's a fantastic city. Watch all the Les Frenchies videos -- I do, and I know Paris. My expat friends living in Paris also watch their videos.
We have always done the same but my nylon purse is small and fits under my coat. I have undies with zip pockets also inside zip pockets. But. , three large men holding your arms isn’t going to help. I called pax wussies for not helping. They all stared at their phones. I am 69 but fit and come from a state where most people would pull out a gun. I just slapped them with my bag full of books. Thugs.
@@joannefowler391 best not to carry a purse at all. I just took my son last son (single mom and tern son Trip) I used a neck wallet. Basically a small cross body bag but it's close to u and u can tighten or loosen it as u please
Splendid advice! My son watched this video (I showed it to him for my own peace of mind) before he left the US to study abroad this summer in London. The program coordinator added a 3 day trip to Paris, where the students were free to come and go, explore, as they wanted. My son remembered this video, followed the tips, and did what Antoine did regarding where to stand on the metro which helped. He had a great time in Paris. Thank you both for all you do!
@@LesFrenchiesTravel Luckily he followed your tips in London too. I think initially he thought I was being an overly-worried Mom (I'm widowed and he's my only child), but he knows people on his trip who were confronted by strangers using the same scenarios you mentioned in this video. I can't help but wonder if you probably saw him at some point in Paris, shared a metro, etc. I realize it's a big city with a lot of people, but it's an interesting thought.
I too was extremely careful when I was an Aussie backpacker in Europe. (20 years ago!) it was when I was living in London that I made the mistake of withdrawing a largish amount of cash from an atm at Victoria station and then heading to a cafe where my handbag was stolen. ( I had my foot through strap but chair was knocked and i shuffled chair to let robber get past). It’s funny how when u start living day to day life ur a little less careful- if I’d still thought of myself as a traveller I would have been using my money belt.
Thank you for a great video...My husband, myself and our kids were scammed at the ticket booth, gentleman approached looking very legit wih a badge around his neck as though he worked there and since there wasnt an attendant sitting behind the glass at the ticketing booth we decided to accept the kind strangers help....well, to make a long story short. He sold us a one way ticket but accepted payment for a roundtrip. Be aware at the ticketing booth, people offering help does not always have good intentions.
Great video. I’ve been living in France for almost 20 years, never had any issues until a month ago at Gare d’Austerlitz. 4 Eastern European girls tried to rob me, using the tactics you mentioned, fortunately they had been surveilled by 3 undercover police men who saved my back. The girls were between 11 and 14, they failed in their attempt, they got caught. No expression whatsoever on their faces, dead eyes. I could not even get mad, because they are groomed for this, not succeeding will probably be punished. And their choice is either this or becoming a sex slave. It’s the adults behind this that I would see get caught the most.
@@LesFrenchiesTravel According to the cops the Serbian mob was behind this, and they are nothing to joke about.
And here, dear viewer, we get to see another example of the successful brainwashing trend of generalizing the thieving gypsies as Eastern Europeans.
It's a tried and proven way of avoiding being called racist while smearing a dark stain on the predominantly Caucasian nations in Eastern Europe who bear no responsibility for the gypsy minority who distinct themselves like night and day in their way of life to the majority of the Eastern European population.
These girls will breed the next generation of thieves don t worry.
How did you figure out that the girls were Eastern EUROPEAN??? Did they have little passport pictures on their heads? Or, May you mean they were gypsy or Albanian, i.e. non-European ethnicity? What is a disgusting arrogance! If they were Slavic, remember: Slavic are the LARGEST European race and only true white race.
What did I just read? Wild
I fell a victim a coupe of years ago as a girl solo traveller when I just arrived in Paris.
One guy tried talking to me on a metro asking me for directions. I told him I don't know but he was persistant and folowed me when i changed trains. At that point I felt anxious and was constantly checking my pocket if I still have my wallet. And at one moment it was gone. I confronted the guy followed him off the train, security got him but he didn't have my wallet. It was his friend who actually stole.
I was left alone in a foreign city without an id, credit card or any money. I definietly have learned my lesson
I know how you felt, been there myself -- an expensive experience, I must say.
Yes, don't visit Paris.
I know it doesn't help now, but the instant you felt anxious, that's when you should have FIRMLY said, "Back off!" I'm sorry that happened to you.
Same.. was it a great amount of money?
I got pickpocketed in the Madrid metro years ago. I had my wallet in a waist pouch, the train was packed and I felt something, looked down and saw my wallet dropping to the floor. The guy just in front of me (a well dressed not young adult that I would have never suspected of being a pickpocketer) said "You dropped your wallet", to which I sarcastically replied, "Yes, sure" while picking my wallet up. The guy started to over act his victim role shouting how I dared accusing him of being a thieve after being reckless with my own wallet. It is amazing how the guy opened the waist pouch zipper, took the wallet out, opened the wallet and took the money without me not noticing until the end. Oh, by the way, "the money" was 1 Argentine peso, 1 US dollar, 1 Spain's Peseta (that was before the Euro), 1 Israeli Shekel, and 1 Egyptian Pound that I was collecting, because the real money was in an inside pocket in my jacket.
Antoine and Colleen give extremely helpful advice! Speaking first- hand, follow it!
One experience: train from 3rd Arrondissement to 7th was overlapping shoulder to shoulder. Held personals close and kept eyes on others. All of the sudden people yelled, “WHOA, WHOA, WHOA”. Four feet in front of me a gentleman was aggressively trying to pickpocket. The whoa, whoa, whoa, stopped him and passengers rallied together. STAY ALERT! I’ve seen many people wearing a book bag who are staring at their phone and make easy targets for someone to access their bags from behind. Keep your bags zipped! Keep your bag in front of you! Les Frenchies mention this. Don’t take this advice lightly.
What I’m using and recommend: I’m using the Travelon anti-theft purse. Highly recommend for its durability and zipper latch.
We’ve been here one week and overall felt safe. But it’s a city and it’s imperative to stay vigilant. Don’t let your kids wonder from you and don’t take your eyes off your belongings.
Have fun! Be safe! We are having a blast! Thanks in part to Les Frenchies superb tips!
Much love to all, especially Les Frenchies. ❤️
A lot of this same advice for avoiding pickpockets on the Metro (*any* metro, really), also applies to when you're on the major tourist boulevards or even checking into your hotel, especially if the lobby is busy. Pickpockets and bag thieves work in teams there, too.
Doesn't happen in Sydney
Never heard of any pickpockets on the metro in Osaka...
100% accurate! It’s exactly the same here in Rome. Especially on line B, the route from Termini train station to Colosseo.
There is a group of 5 sometimes 10 girls, dressed normally, with tote bags, carrying a jacket on their arm (to cover while they’re stealing), some of them pretending to be pregnant (more space to hide stuff). Please don’t expect pickpockets to be beggars or weirdly dressed people: they want to go unnoticed!
Airlines should show your video on the plane as “after-landing safety instruction“ for our cities 😂
This is such a good segment. I live in NYC and pickpocket crimes surprisingly are not as common compare to the major cities in Europe. I made a mistake of letting my guard down when I took the bus Barcelona. It all happened so fast I barely noticed my wallet missing until I got off the bus. Needless to say I’ve been extra cautious since. That was almost a decade ago and I’m sure these type of crimes are much more sophisticated nowadays. We’re headed to Paris this summer so thanks for the reminder. 😊
@@LesFrenchiesTravel pickpocket is very common in paris. Just a French mindset and morals.
Why do you assume that it's more common in Europe? Is America exceptional?😅
@@kk-rp6yw many of them are from eastern europe
I live in Barcelona & yes, at one time, my thick gym bag was sliced in a crowded bus. Apparently the bus driver knows who are they, as they travel the same routes. Barcelona is full of them just like in Rome & Paris -- they're from the eastern europe.
The main reason why:
People who try to pickpocket in NYC will ended up stabbed to death or curbstomped to death
WE DON'T PLAY GAMES.
As a person who is living in Japan for the past 3 years we tend to get so relaxed. Even if we lose an AirPod in the train there is a high chance that we will get it back. Also we have been to Switzerland but didn’t face this problem 😢 The sad part is that you have worked so much throughout the year to fund a happy trip, saved and spent quite some money to buy travel gadgets and it gets spoiled because of this. This has happened to 3 of our acquaintances and it scares me a lot to visit these beautiful cities 😢
That is one of the things I love about Japan. It's such a lovely, trusting culture.
Don’t be afraid just be situationally aware. Pickpockets are trying go unnoticed and if you keep an eye on people, they will avoid you more than someone who is not paying attention. Also avoid groups of kids with or without adults trying to do petitions and the like. Safe travels! 😊
During my 2019 European trip, Paris is my first trip and was told by tour manager that Paris is famous for pickpocket so he gave us some tips how to avoid those pickpocket people.
Japan is insane. My mom left her purse and diary (full of contact details) on a public telephone booth in Tokyo.
She realised too late when we were taking the train back home. She went the morning after and the purse was still on the telephone - untouched, despite the queue of people
buy a extremly slim fanny pack and wear it under your tshirt.
When arriving in Paris by train, I went to buy a subway pass, and a man approached me telling me he had some unused tickets to sell to me, he tried to lure me down a dark side tunnel, when I refused to follow him he grew angry and cursed at me. So much for being helpful.
NEVER buy tickets from anyone who isn't behind the glass counter in the station.
Also, beware of people offering to help you with machines. They often switch your day pass for a single ride ticket.
Another pro tip: don't look like someone who's worth pickpocketing. One of my coworkers once described my look as "homeless chic." I'm from New Orleans, one of the most crime-ridden and dangerous cities in the US (which is really saying something), and in my 54 years I've never had any trouble. Muggers probably tell each other "No, we should give _him_ some money."
@@LesFrenchiesTravel You think that's funny, one night in 2016 I was sitting on the front steps of a house off of Bourbon St just having a cigarette and minding my own business, and this drunk college kid walks up to me and gives me five bucks! I thought at first he was a friend of my cousin's and he just wanted to shake hands. My family still ribs me about that one.
“homeless chic” huh? 🤡
You get strong arm or armed tobbery in new orleans, pickpocket would be the last criminal id be worried about there. you act like poor people dont get robbed in new orleans because of looks😂
@@antcantcook960 Well, 55 years now and never a problem fwiw. But you do realize I was speaking largely in jest and not making a thesis statement, right? Learn to read a room, bruh.
😂😂😂
😂😂😂😂😂
Great video and tips!! I was not a victim of pick pockets but I seen it take place right in front of me. I didn’t see it covered in your video so maybe this will help someone. As my wife and I got down to the bottom of the stairs from the street level, there was many ticket checking machines. An older lady had put her ticket in and as she went to walk through, a man ran up and as she made it past the gate arm, he slid his fingers in her purse and took her phone and backed out. 1) she had no idea of what just happened (yes I felt bad but I also didn’t know who this guy was working with and didn’t wNt to put myself in harms way) and 2) once she was past the gate arm, she was stuck on that other side and the guy was free on the this side. It took literally 3 seconds. Hope this helps someone out there or that you can include it in a video.
@@LesFrenchiesTravel maybe share with travel agents in tourists country of origin.
Was in Las Vegas a while back and saw a sidewalk sign warning tourists about pickpockets. Then saw a news report that the signs were placed there by the pickpockets, who just stand off to the side and watch tourists who see the sign, then instinctively touch where they keep their wallet or valuables. The signs may as well say “Show me where you keep your money”.
This is one of the best Paris pickpocket videos I’ve seen and I’ve searched for them all. The comments here also share a lot of informative information as well.
As someone who has been pickpocketed in Paris... all great info! My experience wasn't on the Metro. It was my last day of a 2 week stay and I was headed back to the Louvre one last time. I went through one of the archways towards an interior courtyard area and there was a big group of people going through at the same time. Three little girls surrounded me, touching all over my arms and back and saying things in French to me that I couldn't understand. I had a bag in my hands and couldn't get my hands in my pockets right away. I did get them into my pockets quickly but not quickly enough. They had my phone that fast. As soon as they did, they dispersed. I didn't realize it was 3 girls at first. I turned around and cornered the two girls that I saw and yelled at them, demanded to see inside their pockets and empty purses. They yelled back at me that I was crazy. Then I realized there was a third girl and she was already a block away and across a wide busy street. She's the one who had my phone. On the brighter side... good and kind people exist literally everywhere. A tourist and a couple Parisians had seen me yelling and stopped to see if they could help and/or comfort me. Sucked to lose my iPhone like that but I still remember the kindness of those people.
Also, I have been to Paris again since that trip, no issues. I've been to several other major cities in Europe as well and no problems. I was just unlucky that one time.
SO TRUE. I got pick pocked in a crowded place in New Zealand. My brand new camera from my bag has been pick pocketed. It really ruins my day. It good that the zipper from the inside pocket is quite hard to zip open & ive noticed that that too has been opened half. My money was saved. Thanks to YSL bag for using a zipper like that in their inside pocket.
👍
sorry to hear this, try using a Pacsafe cut and theft proof bag
I have lived in Paris for almost 4 years now and haven't been pickpocted before and hopefully never. Some comments said act like you live here and dress same. That's true. 1) Parisians don't wear too many overly bright colours or designs. Sometimes when you do, it just tells everyone that you don't live here. 2) I always have a fighting face on in the metro. You would think I could beat you up in a heartbeat.😅 3) For a handbag with a front opening flap, i face the flap towards my body. For bags with zips without a flap covering it, I face the handle of the zip towards my body and consciously look at it every other second. 3) Sometimes Parisians have headphones on in the metro. It can be another trick to know when your phone is missing. If your music stops playing suddenly, you can quickly look around you.
Years ago I was in Paris on business, and whilst going through the ticket barrier on to a platform. I felt a hand going into my right hand trouser pocket (my wallet was in my jacket). I put my hand in the pocket and pulled out the hand and bent the fingers back hard enough to feel them break. I was through the barrier, and the pickpocket was the other side, screaming. When I looked round and saw it was a teenage girl. There was a station man on the platform who nearly pissed himself laughing.
Some great tips and advice. I particularly liked the bits about distraction being a key part of pickpocketing. 'Parisiens won't offer to help you unless you ask' - the same is true of London ;)
I'm sorry but that's not really true, especially re London. I'm a Londoner, and having good knowledge of my city, as well as having worked for many years in tourism, I am now in my seventies and always happy to offer help to those who look lost. During the London Olympics in 2012, London was so very friendly and with many volunteers, many locals wanting to welcome visitors. Very sadly, the current international tensions and crimes have created suspicions of all 'others', including of innocent well-meaning locals. It is depressing that good intentions with an innocent offer of help, are often now rejected with a hostile stare!
Thanks Les Frenchies! Another tip is to wear your cross-body bag underneath any jacket/coat and wear your bag no lower than waist level, such that your arm rests on top of your bag if you're crossing your arms or holding onto the pole.
I did that my last trip and had nothing in my pockets. My husband use a sling bag in front of him. I have to say that we actually felt safer in Paris metro than in NY or London.
This is exactly what I do everytime!
I put my sling under my outer layer and if I do hold anything out of it, it’s straight into my jacket pocket WITH my hand on it at all times. They’d have to pry it out of my hand if they want it.
A man I met from Manchester told me of a good counter measure he used on the London Underground. He put his collection of fish hooks in various pockets and rode the circle line for a day. He never told me if he caught more there or at his local quarry. He just smiled.
This is such great advice, thanks
This seems not very safe for the owner himself.
Actually I saw this "trick" in a British movie at least 40 years ago. And the movie itself may have been even older, I don't remember the name or if it was in the theatre or on tv.
All of this is excellent advice. I had a 25-yo Barcelonan try to dip my front left trouser pocket, but I caught him in the act. Yes, he was working with at least two others on the platform. Waiting to board, one pushed me out of his way as a distraction, but it failed. I'm sure there was another to whom he would have handed off the goods, leaving himself "clean as a whistle." He was very nicely dressed too, so you can't judge a book by its cover! This was near Sagrada Familia, BTW.
It's not just Paris. We were in St Petersburg, recently, and the hotel had maybe 20 guests, daily, who reported being pick-pocketed. Everything from 'accidental' bumps to being singed with cigarettes as distractions. A number of people on my tour were robbed within about 10 mins of each other, on the same block, and our tour guide was really angry with us because he'd given us very detailed instructions on what to look for and to avoid. The following day, he admitted that he'd been at a bus stop on his phone (complaining to a fellow tour guide about the stupidity of tourists) when someone asked him for directions. It was only when he went to use his travel pass, on the bus, that he realised he'd been robbed! It can happen to anyone. Having said that, I've travelled as a solo woman for over 30 years and have never had any bother. Maybe I look poor 😁
To the people who are upset by my recollection, please know that I really loved visiting Russia, and the people in St Petersburg were unfailingly kind and funny in day-to-day interactions. It's just that, as in any major city, theft is a reality. I live in London and Covent Garden is a pick-pocketing nightmare.
What were his detailed instructions?
It's too bad after all that history of theft travelers didn't stop carrying the valuables! Hotel safes are a good way to protect your things --I divide my things between me and the hotel safe; if I'm robbed it's likely only 1/2 my valuables.
@@adorablegodzilla5628 everything in this video is the list of things to watch for ... and don't go out with anything you can't live without.
What a lie about St Petersburg
@@michaelvojkovic671 Yes, because Russians would NEVER behave in ANY manner considered Criminal. Oh ,wait 🤔........
As an expat living in Europe and having to travel to Paris many times a year for work I appreciate the information in this video. However I have either seen or been the victim of pick pockets 90% of my visits. It is far more prevalent than you mentioned, and no matter how savvy you are it still happens, especially if you are a single traveler with no one watching your back!
They have targets, distracted people, looking lost, tourists
That’s wild
Lol, not to victim blame but if it happens to you on 90% of your visits, it might have something to do with you as well.
It didn't happen on 90% of my visits, I can tell you that much and I bet it's not happening to Parisians every third day either.
These pickpockets are even operating at the airport!!! First time coming to Paris and literally as soon as i exited arrivals and entered the lift an attempt was made on me. Thanks to all these awareness on YT, i managed to realize and get out of situation without loss. Thank you. Major European cities really should do something about this. Left me shell shocked.
We didn’t have any issues while in Paris but some of that was because I watched an earlier video you did & it made me sensitive to the possibility. We employed several of your suggestions & kept our eyes opened. As always, thank you for your concern!
This is exactly why I came back to Japan so I don't have to worry about any of this. Many people sleep in train. I have lost smartphone and wallet on train before and they all came back to me eventually... One less thing to worry in your daily life makes your QOL better and better.
A country with strong social trust is a peaceful place to live. I've heard that Sweden is similar. A family member visited there a few months ago and it amazed him that people would leave expensive bicycles unlocked on the sidewalk while they shopped--sometimes for hours--and they were never touched.
Complete opposite of the US. If you leave anything of value outside of your home, even in suburban areas, it's gone the minute you take your eyes off of it.
Heaven help you if you leave your home to go on a vacation. When you come back, squatters have broken into your home & it takes thousands of dollars in lawyer fees & court costs, and several months to get them out of your now-destroyed home.
And petty thieves don't usually bother with pickpocketing. They jump you from behind & knock you down or sucker-punch you to take your property.
In broad daylight in public areas with people around....who stand there and watch because they're afraid to get involved.
It wasn't always like this, but it sure is now.
I know a woman who disappeared in Japan. Gone seems without a trace
The only pickpockets I ever encountered in Paris were gypsy kids near the Louvre. They operated in groups of three all of different ages. They would come up to someone, put a piece of cardboard at their chest level to distract them, and the other two would go through the person's pockets.
Thanks Antoine & Coleen! Philippines is known for having problems about pickpockets too. Much as the country has great cities to see with lots of ancient & cool architectures, scammers and pick pockets are all over the place. Their frequent targets- foreign travelers.
@@LesFrenchiesTravel 😅
On a trip to Paris, my hulking son and I were always “situationally aware,” anytime we went to an ATM, ticket machine, subway stations, the Louvre, etc. I am a US Army combat veteran and retiree (34 years, US Army Medical Corps). No one in Paris ever approached us not even within arms length. We later went onto London with all our money intact.
I was visiting Paris about 22 years ago at the age of 19 with my mom. We were separated in a very busy metro station and ended up on two different metro cars. I had my large travel backpack on and a cross body bag. While standing on the train I noticed a man watching me from across the way. He was holding a plastic shopping bag. He moved over to stand next to me. After a minute I looked down and realized his shopping bag was covering my cross body bag so that I couldn’t see the side pocket. I lifted up the corner of his shopping bag and his hand was in the pocket of my bag. Although I only had a disposable camera in there, it shocked me and, without thinking, I forcibly knocked his hand out of the bag. He didn’t react just stood and stared straight ahead. Nobody around me seemed to notice or care. Luckily it was a good outcome and nothing else happened but I’ll never forget it!
Thank you for posting this video. Been traveling around the Iberian peninsula and riding buses, metros and trains with an eye on keeping pickpockets at bay. Today, just about an hr. ago, I had 3 young ladies try to pickpocket me at the Chatelete station, just as the doors opened and we all tried boarding the metro. I had my hands in my pockets all the time. Young lady No.1, taps my right shoulder as we all move into the train. She asked me for something, I immediately felt a small hand slide into my right pocket and I squeezed a young lady No.2 fingers, and she retreated. I did not react quickly enough, as I could have easily cracked her fingers, but i did not see her until I backed off and they too moved as to blend with the crowd. I only realized it happened when other people behind the minors started to call the team out. There was a 3rd person watching and guiding them. I was lucky, but a fellow US family, just next to me, did loose something and the passengers told them to go talk with an attendant upstairs. I went to look for the one that tapped my shoulder and they got off in the next station like in a hurry. Thank you for this public service video.
In Lisbon, I avoided the main crowded street cars- the ones that run up the hills. We have those in SF. We took the one that ran along the river, that was nice and not crowded
A great tip especially for women travelling alone on the metro in the evening. Travel as near to the driver as you can (near the driver's cabin at the heard of the train). If there is something wrong, the driver can be alerted more easily and call the police/help.
If you are a woman traveling alone..... find a MAN who doesn't look sketch (stay away from migrants and non-Europeans) and ask him politely to back you up in the case of a pickpocket
Sounds like too much.... but trust me..... real men out there are happy to help (unless they are wimps)
@@tremblence I’m curious how you’d just assume one is an immigrant or non-European. Do you ask them? Or for their ID? 🤔
Thank you both for taking the time to make these videos. I will be taking my daughter to Europe as a Bucket List Trip April 22 to May 1, 2024. I am a very detailed planner and want to know all I can before I go anywhere. The end of the trip is 2.5 days in Paris. I not only watch this and other video's, I also take notes as well as put those notes in something I call a journey document. I will use these rules you have given for all Europe countries I visit. Many are the same I learned when visiting Europe last year with my wife. Thank you so much and please tell me how I can help you both so you can continue to do what you do.
Just keep watching and have a good time.
The pick pocketing scam in the 1980s would be carried out on the escalators in metro stations near the tourist attraction sites and the usual victims were obviously tourists. What I saw then live was in such a metro station. A group of middle aged tourists from Canada were about to take the escalator up to street level when a group of local Algerian teenagers talking loudly and in a very rash behaviour rushed on to the escalator in front of these unsuspecting Canadians. I was behind on the line with my father and felt uncomfortable (my suspicious Asian mind!) and decided to take the stairs that ran on the side of the escalator and saw the whole modus operandi. As the Algerian teenagers reached almost the top of the escalator one of them dropped his key ring and pretended to pick it up. Every body behind him began to fall on top of him, except for the other Algerian kids because they kept shuffling with their feet on the running escalator, a feat that is almost impossible for a common tourist. The Canadians fell on top of each other while the Algerians got busy robbing them of their cameras, wallets, watches, everything and it happened so fast and was over in seconds. Many tourists got hurt on the escalator. After that I never took a crowded escalator in Paris throughout my stay there.
France is the worst, when it comes to pick pockets and theives that operate under broad daylight with no fear. Even worst than the notorious Belgium train station.
Me and mum were travelling across Europe a few years ago, mainly by train.
We knew about how bad the pick pockets were in Paris.
And i took extreme precautions. Including not having a wallet object on me, distributed cash and credit card sources, never carry backpack on shoulders and lower it down to my foot level for close monitoring. Have my back against wall... etc. So i was ok. My mum wasn't as alert and took a seat at one stage despite my warning against her choice. I had my eyes on her for most of the time. Yet the pick pockets got away stealing her make-up bag, which made her super upset 😜🤣 no money was stolen as we both took extreme caution with this.
But the most scary part of our experience is not in Paris, but in Cannes. Here we were heading towards the Cannes train station. We arrived ahead of time and decided to enjoy lunch and coffee at a Cafe close by. The Cafe wasn't busy, there were a few other customers.
I was observant. There was an event around that i wanted to quickly check out so she stayed enjoying her coffee while i quickly scoot around before returning in a few minutes.
Upon returning, I noticed something strange. The person who sat on the table in front and behind our table ordered nothing and seemed to know each other, judging from the eyesight. All other customers have left. It started with two. Then i noticed the woman called, and a few more arrived. I said to mum that if she noticed that she is being watched. I quietly communicated to mum that these people are about to jump us and they would attempt a daylight grab-n-go type robbery.
The cafe owner also seems to know who these people were and what they were planning, but chose to avoid direct eye contact to cause a scene. But i can tell from her reaction as she serves our table. And she never bothered to take orders from the table behind and in front of ours, which is a red flag to me as this is highly unusual.
They didn't know that mum is a black belt Karate instructor 😂🖤 but we were ready to fight back if this becomes violent. We knew that they won't make a move until we leave the Cafe. So we pretended that we didn't know what was happening and carried on with our meal. I made sure we settled the bill out of prying eyes. The only way we could get out of this tricky situation unharmed is to pull a surprise move that these people didn't expect. And just when they kept their guards down, we suddenly dropped everything we were doing, including the food we were eating, quickly took all our luggage and made a quick dash to the station entrance around 50m away. I made sure my mum was in front and i shielded her physically from the gang that came pursuing us. Yes, sure enough the women and a few men also came chasing us. But we were quicker and had the surprise element in our favour. We just made it into the station behind the police guards equipped with machine guns and would only allow entrance upon the display of our train tickets. Luckily we had the tickets ready. We turned our heads back and saw the frustration on the woman's face as they were blocked by the police, having invested hours of wasted effort planning for their big move. But it was a very close call.
We never went back to France since this incident. Switzerland is a much nicer place to visit and spent time in. France really is over rated in every regards 🇫🇷😂
Yes it is and when the Swiss rob you they don’t do it in groups. They do it alone because they don’t like other people.
Goodness, that is scary. Kudos to you and your mother!
I bet they paid the restaurant owner a commission for him ignoring them and letting them sit there.
Or they could’ve been a violent gang and the restaurant owner had to turn a blind eye out of fear.
You should write a review on that restaurant owners homepage or other review site if there is such a thing saying what a scary place it was.
My mom almost got robbed from behind in Paris. However, a Parisian screamed, and they stopped. They were in a group. Yes, I very much agree that Paris is extremely OVER RATED. I have no reason to go back ever again. I have lost all interest in France, unfortunately. The world isn't safe anymore.
@@Pammellamtu acreditou nesse relato. Me suou fake
@@Pammellamthey’re tipping the waitstaff & owner
I live in Buenos Aires, so I'm used to this kind of things. I just mind my own bussiness trying not to catch attention of anyone and be aware of what happens around me. And I also put locks on the zips of my backpacks.... I went to Paris in 2019 and luckily I had no problems, but for my next trip to Europe I'll get one of those anti theft bags, those are a grat idea!
I have started traveling solo. My strategy is to not bring anything I’m afraid to lose. This includes not packing branded clothing and purses; I wear a less expensive wedding band and pack light in a small backpack. I wear very little makeup. I look around me before taking photos with my phone. I don’t worry about impressing others . Simple. Be polite but keep moving. I rarely feel fear. I often feel unnoticed. Perfect for me!
that’s a good point for all middle aged women! When I’m sightseeing, I pack a comfy sweatshirt, no makeup/jewelry, sneakers, and carry a shopping bag from a local grocery store plus my crossbody bag. Not my favourite look but I’m practically invisible, hopefully looking like an expat running errands on my day off. Invisible isn’t always a bad thing, LOL!
Was in Paris this week Monday-Friday (visited some of your recommended spots like La Jacobine and Richart, was amazing!) and we saw the aftermath of a pickpocket. As we were entering our train after a crowd exited, an older gentleman suddenly exclaimed loudly in French, panicked. Once he had run off the train in persuit of the thief, it was already too late. We kept our things close to us, in zipped pockets with the zipper hook clipped into the bag straps.
The first thing my father told me when I got my first wallet was: never carry it in your back pocket.
That was 60 years ago. Still good advice.
Best tip I can give: don't carry a wallet, period. Keep it locked up in your hotel. Carry one credit card. Every place in Paris, down to food mall shops, small stores, and Starbucks, accepts credit cards. If you absolutely must carry some cash, just put it deep in a front pocket: don't use a wallet. I rode the metro several times during rush hour. Never had a problem because I essentially had nothing to pick. Did carry my phone and used that to take pix. Keep it in a front pocket and keep your hand on it when in crowds.
Great video. A team of child pickpocket team got me while I was with my 9-year-old daughter. They gently pushed their way onto the train and her away from me. Nothing agressive or noticeable. Just normal hustle and bustle on the subway. I was still within arms reach of my daughter over the heads of other children holding her hand. Then came the second distractiion, one of the kids pretended to get hurt with his arm caught in the door. At first I ignored it assuming the doors would reopen and because I was maintaining my focus on my daughter. But when it seemed like the kid might actually be getting hurt the good samaritan in me kicked in. I quickly used one hand to pull the door back and that's when I think they got me. They all immediately got off the train, feigning sympathy for their friend. Now it's a fun memory for my daughter and I, but at the time it was stressful.
Great suggestions, Antoine and Colleen! As a New Yorker, my back is to the wall of the subway station- never standing near the edge of the platform .…ever. We have crazies that will push you on to the tracks ( yes!) and my money is in a front inside pocket of my coat with very little in my wallet. Pickpockets are global! Great tips that also apply in NYC!
Merci!
PS : Never EVER wear a “I ❤️NY “ tee shirt in New York City : wear it when you get home. In NYC that is code for “Rob Me …I’m A Tourist!” ✨👍✨
The code is San Francisco are the people wearing freshly bought hoodies with SF logos. Becuz summers in SF can get very chilly around 4 pm and onward and unprepared tourists forget their winter coats for summer
On point. Also a New Yorker, and growing up became trained to people watch everywhere I go. if I notice anyone staring at me, I raise both my palms like asking "What?" but not in a friendly manner. Being afraid not to be polite makes you a target. If someone seems to be following me on a crowded platform, I abruptly turn around and place my back to the wall. I also say loudly "Are you following me?" if we cross paths again. I also turn around suddenly when walking anywhere to see who's behind me and cross streets if something feels off. Stay safe everyone!
Please advise 1. Are safes in the hotel room considered safe? If so I’d like to leave things like passports in the hotel. 2. Are iPhones the targets for pickpocket too? Thanks.
2. iPhones are stolen all the time
Let me just add one other place to watch out. I was in Paris for the first time last week, and someone attempted to pick my pocket. It was at the Liberte station on M-8. My family and I were tired, and coming home to our Airbnb in the evening. While on the escalator up to the street, I felt a hand go in my pocket. I spun immediately around to see a man had crept right behind me, I didn't notice because my family was in front of me on the way up. He surely followed me from the platform. Luckily, I felt it, turned and confronted him rather loudly..."Is your hand in my pocket? Are you trying to take my wallet?" He shrunk back and at the top of the escalator turned and walked away very fast in the other direction. Thanks for your videos, they were very helpful for our first trip to Paris.
Thanks for the video. It happened to me on the train at Milano train station while I was walking in the crowded isle looking for my seat. However by the grace of God, as the pickpocket got my purse out from my backpack, it fell on a passenger who came after me and handed it back. I think the thief was a young woman from East Europe who got off the train after the incident. Now I have an anti-theft backpack and I keep it very close to me in crowded areas.
They're gypsies coming from Romania
This was very informative. Great job.
I smiled to myself on #8 when you kindly mentioned kids and teens "from Eastern Europe."
I knew exactly what you meant. You were talking about the gypsies.
I lived in Romania for 15 months after marrying my Romanian wife there, and I have plenty of stories about gypsies (plus I worked with some, my wife worked with some, and my wife's sister taught in a gypsy village).
The stories I could tell would shock you (like the 8 year old student of my sister-in-law whose father let her uncle rape her on a regular basis if she didn't get his cigarettes and alcohol on the way home from school).
I'm glad to say I never had one successfully pickpocket me, but I was smart and VERY cautious.
These tips were nearly all things I did while living in Romania.
Thank you for making this video.
😊🙃
I am a parisien, the few tips that work every time are : “nothing valuable in your pockets” “shoulder bag with the bag in front of you(not on the side and your hand on it”… never ever use back bags (unless you wear it in the front with your hand on it)… and don’t act like a tourist! And what you say about team of kids from Eastern Europe (roms) is completely true! And…in the streets be very careful when you talk on cell phone, some people (usely arabes) grab your phone and run… also same at terrasse of coffee shop, don’t leave your phone on the table…those 2 last one are very very commun and they are targeting parisien just as much as tourists.
However, the real “pick pocket artist” will take your watch without you feel anything. Thankfully, those don’t work in the subway!
Great tips! I would like to add that on an escalator, stand with your back on the side to have a good look at people behind you. I live in Denmark and once found a pickpocket behind me opening my purse. I felt him and he did not succeed but he could have taken my wallet easily.
That’s a great tip, thank you! Now I just need someone with me to warn me when to get off the escalator. 🤣
We stayed vigilant during our 6 day stay this week in Paris. One time it was announced over the train pa system that there were pickpockets on board. We didn't see anything. Until, our last evening, today, when we were coming back from Les Deux Magots after a short day of shopping in the Champs Élysées with expensive bags. We had a connection at Michel Ange Auteuil. I noticed there were a group of young ladies staring at us. To be honest, this was also the only day we were too lazy to make any effort not to look like tourists😅. I pointed them out to my wife and said "those are pickpocketers! Watch out!" Anyway, we got off, and they did too. They were kind of wheeling around us as a pack, but I made strong eye contact with them to let them know I knew what they were about. We also walked with purpose and made a beeline for the exit. I think they must've gotten spooked when I spoke to my wife in French and said "fais attention!" And that's when they ran off in another direction toward another exit. But it was wild that they were just kids...
It's like Oliver Twist! Someone grooming them and expecting a quota... Bravo on staying safe.
@@LesFrenchiesTravel it's truly sad. I do want to thank you and other travel TH-camrs for the in-depth tips and tricks on how to travel safely and efficiently. I plan on returning to Paris again in the near future. I had a lovely time. It's a great city with very friendly people (honestly). I will continue to watch you folks and learn more. Merci beaucoup🙏🏽