Wearing a cross body bag, wear something over it like a sweater, a shirt, a shawl or jacket. Don't wear it on the outside of your clothing. If someone's gonna slash the strap from behind you,they're not gonna be able to see that you're wearing one until they're right in front of you. So if the Crossbody bags hidden underneath another layer of clothing you reduce the risk of being slashed on the strap
Yeah you’re right I’ve been thinking about doing that the next time I go to Europe. Luckily, so far nothing has happened (knock on wood) but that is definitely a good idea to put it under another layer of clothing either a light sweater or a jacket etc.
Not everybody has a slash proof Crossbody bag. Even if they do you still want to reduce the risk of thieves who slash and grab making a deterrent. In any context it will be a safety reduction wearing it that way@@JayandSarah
@@GrumpyKitten375 I understand. My point is, if you are going to spend any time in some of these European cities, you should buy a slash resistant locking crossbody bag. You can get them in a range of budgets and it's all cheaper than losing your stuff in a foreign country. We have one from the brand "Pacsafe" and one from "Travelon". Both are exceptional and very theft deterrent.
My resting **** face has helped me so many times I don’t mind it anymore lol. I simply don’t acknowledge anyone approaching me in a big city. They never have good intentions.
Most of what you say is true for any big city in Europe. I have personally witnessed the "helpful person" at Termini Station scam. A few years ago, my daughter and I were taking the train from Rome to Naples. Termini is a beehive of humanity. I told my daughter that while waiting for the train we were going to stand with our backs against the wall and the luggage immediately in front of us. I noticed a nefarious looking guy standing looking up at the departure board. Some innocent tourists would come by and look at the board in a confused manner. This guy would immediately start up a conversation as if to help them out. Now I didn't personally witness him steal anything, but sometimes these folks work in pairs. What amazed me is that people would engage with someone who looked so obviously shady. One scam you did not cover is the gypsy cab driver scam. Never get into anything but an official Roman taxi. Roman cab drivers are great as long as you stick with the official, licensed drivers.
Great advice. Felt like a safe city but just keep your witts about you. I wore a front man bag and was safe. The thieves stand out most times as you will notice everyone is facing the attraction or looking at menus etc. Best city ive ever visited.
I spent a month in Rome last year, and absolutely loved it! So much to see and do, just wandering around without a plan is fun. Don’t forget to go to the sea while you’re there. It’s not far away on the metro and local train (take the B line metro to Pyramide, then change to the local train on the upper level of the station, and get off at Lido Centro). I saw some of these scams while I was there, but I was very conscious and aware all the time. You may also see singers on the local trains, or people asking for money. I saw both, but said “no, grazie”, and was mostly left alone.
one tip I found out after having g a slightly scary experience at the metro station was you can buy metro tickets from news stands so you don’t have to stand in the station trying to figure it out ❤
There was a woman in my group at the Vatican, had a necklace taken off her neck and none of us even saw it happen. Never EVER wear expensive jewelry when you travel. They are slick!! I also grew up near NYC, so I'm kind of used to being aware. I took your advice when I went to Rome. It was very helpful! Thank you!
My grandmother got pickpocketed most likely on a bus in Rome, and my mother nearly got picked outside the Vatican museum. If someone with what looks like a child approaches you begging, make sure they keep their distance
Also: Don’t eat or drink very close to the attractions, because it can be very expensive. I think I noticed like 7 euro for 1/3 of a pint. Walk some streets behind and get better food and better prices.
I got robbed in Rome inside the train, they got my wallet inside my bag, and then when u go to the police station there’s a million people on line with the same issue and they dont really care, they re used to….
There's really nothing they can do. All your really there for us to report it for insurance purposes. Having said that, I think the police should have a greater presence in tourist hot spots.
My husband had his phone stolen from an outside cafe table last June in London. He went inside to use the restroom. My niece and I were approached by guy “selling” newspaper right over our table. I was trying to shoo him away. We didn’t even realize the phone had been stolen till my husband returned and asked where it was. Filed police report with London police and they could care less. You could tell it happens all the time. So my husband lost a $1200 phone and had to go buy a new one since we had just arrived. I kid you not, 2 weeks later in Barcelona with my girlfriends, again at outside cafe. I had warned them both about leaving phone on table. Some guy approaches with selling newspaper over the table, and right away I yell “You’re phone!!” & luckily she grabbed it just in time. All the local Spanish people including waiters starting yelling at him to get the hell out of there. They told us it was a scam. I will NEVER leave my cell phone on a table even while eating/drinking cause you are talking and just too distracted.
@@JayandSarah I was in Rome last week and everytime I had my phone out, I would always grip it super tightly because of that. also funny story, my girlfriend actually lost her phone in a museum and someone actually left it at the ticket office at the front. What a miracle.
You definitely have to keep your wits about you anywhere in the world. The thieves and scammers could not care less if you dropped dead the next day. All they want is money or to sell on something they have stolen.
A local friend in Rome suggested when someone is offering water or flowers or petition, just ignore and walk fast, do not acknowledge - be by saying no or gesturing no, they will get aggressive and follow. if they follow, just walk fast because according to her they have 'territories' and when they go beyond that, they stop. Pickpockets are becoming brazen and aggressive - to the point locals are also being targeted as well. And policemen are no help and sometimes they are complicit as well. If only locals, officers start becoming pro-active, this issue can lessen (it is impossible to stop).
My mother had a man give her a rose. He said it was free. My stepfather offered money, but, then, he said it wasn't enough, so my mother dropped it and stepped on it. The man got upset!
Ive been Rome twice, my advice is just have a great time, keep your valuables close, and dont let all this scare you, i was approached twice in my whole time, no conversation just keep walking away, you will love it !!
21st Feb 24 I was attacked by three group of pickpockets in a single day 1st. I was buying metro ticket @roma termini a girl came and stopped me and started telling me that this machine is not working for cards so use cash only, she wanted to see how much cash m I holding
Rome is a theme park. Hordes of tourists, souvenir shops and extorted prices around the main sites. Don't go to Rome if you are looking to relax. Having said all that - all the sites are EPIC. Just want people to know what they are in for....
@@Sbock86 You are not talking about Disneyland, but about one of the oldest cities in the world and unique in terms of culture and history. If you believe that when traveling around the world everything is cheap, it's just an illusion. To say that they are all dear is inaccurate, you have to move around and see for yourself what is extremely expensive (like the restaurants very close to the monuments) or those with lower prices (the trattorias where you eat well and at reasonable prices). 30 km from Rome there is Ostia, a seaside city where you can relax as much as you want
@@alexp8764 I understand that it is one of the oldest cities in the world. I'm talking about my experience of being surrounded by tourists at certain sites and extortion happening around those sites. Same thing. Go to a theme park and you are surrounded by people and tourists and extorted food prices. I'm not saying I didn't enjoy it - I'm just providing an example of a place with a similar vibe.
The „hand bag from the back of the chair“-move happened to us in Athens 2022. We were a group of like 6 or so with 3 on each side of the Table, nobody noticed it when it happened.
I’m currently in Rome. One thing that happened to me is that at the Pantheon a black African man said to me “where are you from” I answered the US and he said he had a brother and sister from two different states. Then he gave me a bracelet for free and then asked me for money for it after I put it on. I actually handed it back to him and said I have no money. It shook me up. It was my first time I didn’t recognize at first that it was a scam but I did recognize as it went on. Today another black African guy can up to me and tried to do the same thing but I said I got to go and he walked away upset. Let me just say I have nothing against black African men. I’ve met plenty of black African men that are good decent people and I’m sure there are plenty more out there and it just happened that two different black African guys came up to me and were overly friendly. I share this to warn other people about the scam I encountered in Rome yesterday and today.
My son has just come back from a short break to Rome. He said scammers are everywhere, the bracelet and flower sellers and people just harassing you. He also had a negative vibe and felt unwelcome from the locals which is ironic considering that tourists pour millions into the country...
And millions of tourists pour into the country too. No wonder the Italians are tired of it. Yes the Money is great but with a capital ‘B’! And who wouldn’t get fed up with it.
Another one is where an 'artist' has his paintings/pictures layed out on the floor and puts one down in front of you as you walk by, standing on it, you have then 'ruined' it by stepping on it so must now pay for it. Just walk on.
Great accomplishment for Roma; we was there last November and were a wonderful city, plenty of history and surprises. Unfortunately, those simple safety rules must be applied to any big city where you going as a tourist like London, Paris, New York City, etc. Unfortunately. That's today's world reality.
Some more valuable advice from Walters World 🌎 👌🏿. I did come across a 'Gladiator' when I was in Rome but he didn't ask for money when he asked if I wanted a photo. I came across the petition scam when I was in Paris. What gave it away was that they asked for my debit/bank card details so I didn't sign anything.
We just returned from Rome yesterday and we saw many of the scams you mentioned. The bracelet guys were most annoying and always in your face. We were also asked to sign petitions for various causes. We had cross-body sling bags that we had under our jackets. Our credit cards were in an RFID blocking wallet inside of the sling bag. The credit card was never used since you can pay for everything using your phone.
I had a bag slashed to bits in Rome, 2005. They got nothing because my money and anything valuable was in the back pocket. My bag was a mess. I learned the hard way what to do.
Yep, witnessed some of these first-hand on a HS choir trip in 2008. A few people got caught in the "free bracelet" scam, and the people sorting purses and assorted nonsense were everywhere. I remember watching one of my friends buy a rose for his girlfriend from one of those people...before the seller immediately bailed and started running the second the transaction was over, but not fast enough, because then we got to watch them get arrested. Fun times!
I would say nowadays you can simply skip wallet theft by simply letting it in you hotel room safe. You can then go around and pay with your phone, I managed to do just that last September in Rome, even if the city has a reputation of not accepting card payments (it definitely got better in the last two years). I would say the same about the backpack, but I was traveling alone, so it is maybe more difficult to go around without one if you’re a family with kids.
I'm going to Rome for the first time in a few months. I am thankful for these videos. I plan to just blend in and not carry anything on my person of value while out and about.
Good luck blending in. I was there in Feb and found it impossible to. Definitely recommend getting a tom toc shoulder bag or something similar. Rome is amazingly epic, just make sure you know what you're in for. Rome is a theme park - its full of tourists that are looking at all the same sites you want to see and extorted food prices all around those sites. If you are after a relaxing time then Rome ain't it. If you are after epic history and sightseeing then you're in the right spot. Just be prepared for the hordes, the rubbish and the graffiti.
I went to Rome in October. Two times I felt scammed were at the Collisuem and at the Trevi fountain. Exiting the Collisuem we saw an "artist" supposedly hand painting some art so we bought two portraits thinking they were his originals lol. Come to see all over Rome were the exact same paintings. Still got a fair price and they are nice pieces, but just came off as scummy/scammy. Second, at the Trevi fountain you had a bunch of men with Poloriod cameras around their necks asking if you wanted a picture. One guy offered to take us a picture with our phones then transitioned to ask us if we wanted to take one with the Polaroid camera for 10 euros. We said ok to help him out but when he handed us the picture we realized absolutely nothing was visible in the background so it was a such poor quality photo that we felt scammed. A lady next to us came up to us after and also localized her distaste for what she got.
Front pocket wallet didn’t help my dad on the metro. Packed train, young woman gets on, starts fiddling with my fingers on the metal pole I was holding onto (later found out with my sons fingers as well), maybe to distract, then when other tourists were getting off, she blocked their way using force, until they got angry and shoved her, at which point she fell back into my dad. Everyone else got off, then just as the doors were about to close, she rolled off the train onto the platform. He realised it was missing at the next stop. Seems like they take advantage of packed trains.
My bag was slashed by a woman with an “Ink Pen” that turned out to have a scalpel on the other end. The train was packed and there was a man behind my husband who attempted to put his hand in my husband back pocket as a diversion as she was slashing away. She got nothing as all my money and valuables were in the back pocket of the bag. Travelon bag for us.
I haven't been to Rome but been to London where theft is high. My advice is to keep all your stuff on your person not in a bag but in front pockets. And keep your hands on your pocket to be extra safe in busy areas
I’m a Black American and have been to Rome twice. When the Africans there see other Black tourists, they will approach in a friendly manner, “Hey brother!” They try to get close to show that you have the same skin color, and then try to engage you into some small talk, where they will either ask for money or try to sell you something. If you decline, some will try to guilt trip you into thinking that it’s your obligation to “help” them. Some will even try to give you one of their trinkets, saying it’s their custom to give “a friend” a gift. If you take it, they expect money.
We have been scammed twice: 1) in Rome, African men forced their free “friendship” bracelets on us, then demanded 10 euros for their craftsmanship. 2) In Morocco, we were offered free camel sittings for a photo, then once mounted were led on a short walk that we protested. They then demanded 20 euros for us to dismount their camel.
Just a heads up, I was there in February and it was really busy, so can't imagine what it's going to be like in July. If you like the vibe of a theme park with tonnes of people and extorted food prices it kind of has that feel. Lots of graffiti and trash as well. If you are just going for the sights I recommend it for that style of trip. If you are going for a relax and sight seeing trip - see the sights and then get outta there because Rome is anything but relaxing. You generally speaking are either a tourist or an Italian that is either fed up with tourists or trying to rip off a tourist. Rome is amazing for the epicness of the sites, but, it has its problems too :)
In July, dawn is expected to be at around 5:45am. Sleep early, get up an hour before sunrise and head straight out to the famous open attractions. You should have mostly empty streets for a couple of hours and very few people at the attractions. At peak hours with streets jam-packed with people, best to visit lesser known museums and attractions. Trevi Fountain area is perpetually busy, even before 6am but you may find it quite empty on a rainy night after 10pm. Have a great trip.
Rick Steves advocates this. Along with a note (in several languages) that says something along the lines of “dear thief, sorry this has so little money. Re-evaluate your career choices.”
For a long time, as Chanel prices have risen, I no longer thought I could afford it. I think I would be happy to have a kislux as a travel bag that I don't have to take care of. By the way, I'm sure no one would have a hard time telling the difference. Thanks for the comparison.
Don't rely on the hotel safe at all. Get a travel safe they are small portable an extremely effective. Hundred percent of fifths typically occur from safes due to the hotel staff having the master code for all the hotel safes.
Omg!!! as much as I have traveled, I never knew to think about that. I’ve utilized the hotel safes and luckily no problems yet but now you’re making me rethink it. Thank you for the tip. I’m gonna search for a travel safe now.
@@counterfit5 exactly, and the universal code for some safes is very well known if you look on the Internet it’s shared so if they can’t get in with the staff code, they try it the manufactures code. I always trusted hotel safe but until my friend got robbed, forget it I won’t take that risk any longer.
Unless you speak some Italian. It is always better to take official taxis from taxi stands (no flagging down), or have them come to pick you up from your hotel (when your concierge calls them , it wont be a scam).
We were in Rome, Florence and Venice last May, the only things we saw were the bracelet scam and a lady with her dog at Termini station. Keep your purse, wallet close and zippered up! The vacation was fantastic, book a tour for the collosseum and Roman Forum. For the train station, sometimes the trains get delayed or changed, just get on the car you are booked for and pick a seat. Check your email for any change if the train is delayed.Loved Venice!
I was just in Rome and the African bracelet scam was by far the most common. I'd always engage with them just because I thought it was entertaining but I never even touched the bracelets.
My sister, her friend, and I were at the top of the Spanish steps and this man approached them and said “ciao bella” and then gave them a rose. He then turned to me and asked for a small coin. I said I didn’t have any money so he took the roses out of their hands and went up to another woman.
I encountered the mustard scam in Madrid back in 1992. Fortunately I followed my gut. I knew something wasn’t right when a person said they would wipe it off my backpack for me. Another person showed up too, and I told them both to bug off and leave me alone. I then was able to get away.
Just returned from Italy Tuesday. Very nice vacation except last 2 days in Rome. Get robbed in Rome subway trying to get on train. Avoid crowded area on public transportation , it’s best opportunity to steal your stuff. They are working in groups and watching tourists where they keep valet when buying tickets. They got my valet from front packet of my jeans when getting on train. Didn’t feel nothing, lost cash, credit cards and documents. We were lucky to have passports in different place. Police didn’t care too much. I think it’s very common problem, bad advertising for Italy. My wife told me never again Italy. Avoid crowded areas and watch your back.!!!
Speaking of the bracelet scam I seen them in NYC during the holiday season dressed as Buddhist monks. One of them tried to put one on my wrist but I quickly moved it away
There was a young guy who was helping everyone to buy metro tickets in Roma Termini, the only trick was that he was getting the ticket with his credit and you could pay him cash. Ticket was valid for 3 days and didn't have any problem but still can't figure out whether he was just a nice guy or there is hidden secret there. I have only two possible scenario, credit card was stolen or he was just doing that to widtraw money from his own credit.
It's a scary world out there. How sad is it that we can't travel without thinking we should gorilla glue everything to our shirt with 3 other shirts and a jacket over all that? Makes me just want to stay home. And I'm off to Europe in April... On high alert.
@@matteagle42 It was fabulous. I wasn't scared at all and had no reason to be. I was very aware of my surroundings at all times and made sure to stay in safe areas but out of large crowds. It was surprisingly easy. I think sometimes these kinds of videos, although really helpful, can end up making people more nervous than necessary. Especially if you watch as many as I did. I have a lot less fear now that I went (it's been a while) and am looking forward to the next one once I save up the money. (which will take about 3 years. 🤣😳
Yesterday my grandson and his gf were being hounded by scammers around the Colesseo, he said the phrase I'd taught him that day, vai via (go away) cut them off mid sentence and they left them alone.
Was in Rome and Florence and not much issues but Venice almost got me twice (I’m here now) - coming from the train station i was offered help to take my bags (I initially thought they were the taxi) but they were literally just offering to take my luggage TO a taxi which was literally 30 ft away. Yesterday someone offered me the bracelet and he was talking o me asking me where I was from (as he was black), he put the bracelet on me and offered to give me one for my bf or husband or child then stated he’s leaving tomorrow bk to senegal and needs help for his newborn son I gave bk and told him he told me these were free and I quickly walked away. I also did have a person at rome termini approach me to help me at the ticket station but i realized he didnt have on a uniform and kept it moving. I did keep euros in change on me though to leave something for street performers, which I’ve so far only seen in Rome. Some of them are so talented
Another one is the guy painting a picture. Sitting with some paint and a bunch of “finished paintings “. Uou can bug them for 5 euros in the souvenir store. But it looks like it’s an original. It’s not. Now there are painters but many are fakes.
We just got back from Rome yesterday and those "artists" all sell the same exact prints and they have some paints and a brush to make you think that they actually painted them. It's laughable.
When I was in Rome, I had a guy come up to me and just randomly grab my wrist and start tying a rope of sewing thread around it. In his thick Italian accent he said something like “I give you two. One for good luck and one for good love. You give me what you want”. I wanted to give him something, but it just so happened that at the time we met, I was out taking a walk around the block by myself while all of my bags and money were with my mom, who at that time was about a 15-minute walk away. We went back and forth for a good couple of minutes like “I’m sorry, I really don’t have anything to give you”. “Eh come on man, anything, 5 cent, 10 cent, anything”. Ultimately he gave up and walked away, shoulders slouched, looking defeated. And he seemed really nice and friendly, and I was only 14 so I was still pretty naive and innocent. I felt so bad, and for the next 2 months, whenever I looked at my wrist I felt a bit melancholy and sad. Even today, 12 years later, it’s still a bit of a somber memory
The "free bracelet" guys tried to get me but I told them off. Then my dad ended up falling for it after I walked away, but the guys peddling it saw me running back over and I think they got scared and let him have it before asking for money LOL. He's got a cool new free bracelet now to remind him of his time in Rome!
watch out for Taxi drivers if you just approach them when not at the taxi stand. They will ask for cash only and not use their meter and just come up with a much larger amount than you expect. Always get a taxi at a stand or, even better, through the taxi app, which is so easy to use and gives you the price before you get in.
My experience is that sometimes rogue drivers will first tell you that a card payment is ok but later it's not and they drive you to the closest ATM. Also some drivers don't even turn on the meter, which is illegal unless it's a regulated fixed price or mutually agreed. Two of the best ways to combat getting scammed by a taxi driver is as you said using an app. The other is obviously using a well known taxi company. Finally, speak only Italian if you can. Although, this may not work if don't sound local enough.
I had the "found ring" scam pulled on me but I was not buying it for a second. She left me curing at me. I told a dear friend the story and when she was in Paris some other It pulled on her. Remembering my story she didn't all for it either and she thanked me for it.
New subscriber! As a seasoned solo traveler (for work), I found you through your food vids. I'm a pretty careful/alert person and have managed to avoid getting scammed/robbed so far (i.e. light packer, zipper locks, phone on a crossbody strap, preloaded/saved map links that I listen to through an earbud so I'm not obvious as a tourist when walking somewhere...etc.), but I'm heading to Venice/Rome very soon with some old college friends... and their elderly parents (first time traveling out of the US for all of them)... and their kids (both under 8). 😱 My paranoia is on high for them, and you better bet I sent them an email on basic safety plus a link to your previous Italy Scam video. They found it very helpful! 🤞
A friend of my wife was offered help when she was trying to get bus tickets from the machine. The scammer just got a ticket worth 1 trip instead of 50 euros he was given
Guy who tries to help tourists to buy a ticket in Roma Termini is still there. I knew how to buy my ticket to the airport but he jumped in and pressed all thr buttons so fast and then asked for help to buy a coffee. I gave him 1 euro and it was nothing for me but imagine how many times he gets money for a coffee from tourists.
The photo thing I've heard your best option is IF you want them to pose, find out how much they are asking for first before you snap any photos. Now if it's just you casually shooting and they walk into your photo or pose on their own without you asking, then that's on them and I just walk away if they make a big deal about it. Actually ran into something similar in NYC but I got mad at the guy and told him I did NOT want him my photo, hence the reason I was waiting to take a picture of something (not a person) and he stormed off. One tip I found about traveling and public transport is figure the stuff out before you even get to the country if you can. There are many videos on youtube that show you how to use the kiosks and which tickets to buy (And which not to) for almost all major tourist destinations, and that is "free" and you don't have to worry about being harassed, although you can subscribe to the person's channel i I guess as a means of thanking them for the effort, but they won't be standing there demanding you tip them. So use Google and TH-cam to figure this stuff out before you go so when you get there, you know what trains to take and how to get your tickets. Otherwise, if you don't, find an employee of the public transport or train/bus system and ask them. One scam I have seen in many countries is the taxi scam, where the driver may overcharge you or demand more money than you agreed to or something of that nature. I would only use a taxi if I didn't have any bags, because if you have a dispute with the driver, they could hold your bag in the trunk as ransom until you pay them the inflated price, hence the reason I won't use taxies unless I don't have a bag in the trunk at least, because it's easier to just get out and leave if you do'n't have a bag (in the trunk at least). But also negotiate your taxi fare before you even get in. That is number one. If you want to use a taxi I would use a reputable service though if you need to get from the airport to the city for example (although most major cities like Rome and Paris) have public transport that goes from the airport to the city or the main train station for which you can then get to the city.
If you have paid for a package in your home country, all inclusive, don't fall for the 'tourist tax' request as you check out from the hotel - you've already paid it !
Had the bracelet guys by the Colosseum approach me trying to give me a "Free" bracelet. I said no thank you nicely 3 times, He got pushy and I finally told him off. He took the hint and left me alone.
@@paulkoza8652. One walked up to me as my husband snapped a photo of me. Well, that was it! He was screaming at us to pay him. We walked off. I didn’t care if he yelled or not.
Be careful when you are parking your car nearby lean tower in Pisa. There are some people who will try to help you finding some parking spot, and in the end, they will ask some money from you. Just walk away when they do that.
You advised travelers to leave passports in our hotel and use a copy or scan of it to keep when going out. What if certain places of visit require orginal passports?
Seen so many people fall for the - walk up and hand the woman a rose scam. Falls under your "freebie" section. Trust me - you are beautiful, but random people aren't going to give you a free rose because of how beautiful you are. That free rose will cost you 20EU minimum
From my experience In Italy you have to carry identification with you, such as the passport. When I was in Rome I was also stopped and asked for it once.
@@IrishAnnie it's the law in most of the EU, citizen or not. In practice you'll probably get away if you can just prove your identity at least to some extent. I don't always carry an id but I'm a resident and the police can easily check my data anyway. The most common reason you might get stopped is illegal immigrant control. I suppose the police receives a tip and go check some trains or busses. I have very rarely seen this in Central Italy though, it's more common at the borders.
Wearing a cross body bag, wear something over it like a sweater, a shirt, a shawl or jacket. Don't wear it on the outside of your clothing. If someone's gonna slash the strap from behind you,they're not gonna be able to see that you're wearing one until they're right in front of you. So if the Crossbody bags hidden underneath another layer of clothing you reduce the risk of being slashed on the strap
Yeah you’re right I’ve been thinking about doing that the next time I go to Europe. Luckily, so far nothing has happened (knock on wood) but that is definitely a good idea to put it under another layer of clothing either a light sweater or a jacket etc.
There are slash proof crossbody bags
Not everybody has a slash proof Crossbody bag. Even if they do you still want to reduce the risk of thieves who slash and grab making a deterrent. In any context it will be a safety reduction wearing it that way@@JayandSarah
@@GrumpyKitten375 I understand. My point is, if you are going to spend any time in some of these European cities, you should buy a slash resistant locking crossbody bag. You can get them in a range of budgets and it's all cheaper than losing your stuff in a foreign country. We have one from the brand "Pacsafe" and one from "Travelon". Both are exceptional and very theft deterrent.
My m travelon bag has stainless steel mesh. Cannot be cut. All zippers have locks. My husband is going to carry one.
My resting **** face has helped me so many times I don’t mind it anymore lol. I simply don’t acknowledge anyone approaching me in a big city. They never have good intentions.
This is the absolute truth.
It's sad. In my city, I helped tourists many times. Criminals ruining relationships between people...
Exactly.
Most of what you say is true for any big city in Europe. I have personally witnessed the "helpful person" at Termini Station scam. A few years ago, my daughter and I were taking the train from Rome to Naples. Termini is a beehive of humanity. I told my daughter that while waiting for the train we were going to stand with our backs against the wall and the luggage immediately in front of us. I noticed a nefarious looking guy standing looking up at the departure board. Some innocent tourists would come by and look at the board in a confused manner. This guy would immediately start up a conversation as if to help them out. Now I didn't personally witness him steal anything, but sometimes these folks work in pairs. What amazed me is that people would engage with someone who looked so obviously shady.
One scam you did not cover is the gypsy cab driver scam. Never get into anything but an official Roman taxi. Roman cab drivers are great as long as you stick with the official, licensed drivers.
Great advice. Felt like a safe city but just keep your witts about you. I wore a front man bag and was safe. The thieves stand out most times as you will notice everyone is facing the attraction or looking at menus etc.
Best city ive ever visited.
I spent a month in Rome last year, and absolutely loved it! So much to see and do, just wandering around without a plan is fun. Don’t forget to go to the sea while you’re there. It’s not far away on the metro and local train (take the B line metro to Pyramide, then change to the local train on the upper level of the station, and get off at Lido Centro). I saw some of these scams while I was there, but I was very conscious and aware all the time. You may also see singers on the local trains, or people asking for money. I saw both, but said “no, grazie”, and was mostly left alone.
one tip I found out after having g a slightly scary experience at the metro station was you can buy metro tickets from news stands so you don’t have to stand in the station trying to figure it out ❤
Good tip! Thank you!
Is there an upcharge for purchasing at news stands?
@@MichaelPNW1982 there isn't, it's a very normal way to buy tickets because the metro doesn't go everywhere and you can't buy a ticket on the bus
There was a woman in my group at the Vatican, had a necklace taken off her neck and none of us even saw it happen. Never EVER wear expensive jewelry when you travel. They are slick!! I also grew up near NYC, so I'm kind of used to being aware. I took your advice when I went to Rome. It was very helpful! Thank you!
Some of the really good ones will even be able to steal wrist watches right off your wrist.
@@jort93z Now that one I've never heard of, but I guess anything is possible.
@@CarolynEHSI've seen people demonstrate it.
And some luxury brands have changed their straps to make them harder to take off for this purpose.
My grandmother got pickpocketed most likely on a bus in Rome, and my mother nearly got picked outside the Vatican museum. If someone with what looks like a child approaches you begging, make sure they keep their distance
A necklace! Wow! That's ballsy!
Also: Don’t eat or drink very close to the attractions, because it can be very expensive. I think I noticed like 7 euro for 1/3 of a pint. Walk some streets behind and get better food and better prices.
Also, tasteless garbage. Eat local and don't fall for the glitzy gelato places
I got robbed in Rome inside the train, they got my wallet inside my bag, and then when u go to the police station there’s a million people on line with the same issue and they dont really care, they re used to….
There's really nothing they can do. All your really there for us to report it for insurance purposes. Having said that, I think the police should have a greater presence in tourist hot spots.
@@vickikay54same. I just wish OP and the others weren’t robbed.
Yep I got pickpocketed getting on a Metro train at Rome Termini, didn't bother with the police though as I knew it would be a pointless waste of time.
Headed to Rome next week. Thanks for the warning. Love your channel.
How’d it go? My family is thinking about going in September. 5 adults and 1 kid(7yr). Any info is helpful
My husband had his phone stolen from an outside cafe table last June in London. He went inside to use the restroom. My niece and I were approached by guy “selling” newspaper right over our table. I was trying to shoo him away. We didn’t even realize the phone had been stolen till my husband returned and asked where it was. Filed police report with London police and they could care less. You could tell it happens all the time. So my husband lost a $1200 phone and had to go buy a new one since we had just arrived.
I kid you not, 2 weeks later in Barcelona with my girlfriends, again at outside cafe. I had warned them both about leaving phone on table. Some guy approaches with selling newspaper over the table, and right away I yell “You’re phone!!” & luckily she grabbed it just in time. All the local Spanish people including waiters starting yelling at him to get the hell out of there. They told us it was a scam. I will NEVER leave my cell phone on a table even while eating/drinking cause you are talking and just too distracted.
Even if you are using your phone people try to swipe them. You need to be hyper vigilant.
That's right, the problem of fraud or deception, it's not just Rome, the problem is all the big European capitals
@@JayandSarah I was in Rome last week and everytime I had my phone out, I would always grip it super tightly because of that.
also funny story, my girlfriend actually lost her phone in a museum and someone actually left it at the ticket office at the front. What a miracle.
This is really good information to know before taking a family to Italy on a vacation. I’ve been sending them videos, but the comments are gold.
You definitely have to keep your wits about you anywhere in the world. The thieves and scammers could not care less if you dropped dead the next day. All they want is money or to sell on something they have stolen.
A local friend in Rome suggested when someone is offering water or flowers or petition, just ignore and walk fast, do not acknowledge - be by saying no or gesturing no, they will get aggressive and follow. if they follow, just walk fast because according to her they have 'territories' and when they go beyond that, they stop. Pickpockets are becoming brazen and aggressive - to the point locals are also being targeted as well. And policemen are no help and sometimes they are complicit as well. If only locals, officers start becoming pro-active, this issue can lessen (it is impossible to stop).
I've started doing this. Don't talk, just keep moving. Pretend you don't understand.
Great video and advise. BTW, the designers stores are a scam too. 😂
Yeah, but the foolish tourists eat them up. Fools and their money are easily parted.
We are going this summer. Thank you!!!
I only use a phone case with a wrist strap. Prevents it from getting grabbed from your hand (and from you accidentally dropping it)
My mother had a man give her a rose. He said it was free. My stepfather offered money, but, then, he said it wasn't enough, so my mother dropped it and stepped on it. The man got upset!
Yeah, we saw that one.
Badass af. BTW they are in France & Greece.
Brilliant
Ur mother not the fact she was getting taken advantage of
Oh I said brilliant
Thank you for bringing back the background sound in the city, I really love it
Just be alert wherever you go in the world.
What’s the name of the dessert @ 3:31?
I found out from some ladies in Venice it’s panna cotta
Rose scams are most annoying!
The petition scam happens every where you go around the world, except North Korea and Antarctica
🏆 Excellent points/reminders, thanks a bunch Mark! 🙌
Ive been Rome twice, my advice is just have a great time, keep your valuables close, and dont let all this scare you, i was approached twice in my whole time, no conversation just keep walking away, you will love it !!
Taking a bunch of notes cuz im headed here in the summer with my family!
Don't be polite, be aggressive when moving out of metro or bus don't let anyone stop u, they operate in a group
21st Feb 24 I was attacked by three group of pickpockets in a single day
1st. I was buying metro ticket @roma termini a girl came and stopped me and started telling me that this machine is not working for cards so use cash only, she wanted to see how much cash m I holding
Rome is a theme park. Hordes of tourists, souvenir shops and extorted prices around the main sites. Don't go to Rome if you are looking to relax. Having said all that - all the sites are EPIC. Just want people to know what they are in for....
@@Sbock86 You are not talking about Disneyland, but about one of the oldest cities in the world and unique in terms of culture and history. If you believe that when traveling around the world everything is cheap, it's just an illusion. To say that they are all dear is inaccurate,
you have to move around and see for yourself what is extremely expensive (like the restaurants very close to the monuments) or those with lower prices (the trattorias where you eat well and at reasonable prices). 30 km from Rome there is Ostia, a seaside city where you can relax as much as you want
@@alexp8764 I understand that it is one of the oldest cities in the world. I'm talking about my experience of being surrounded by tourists at certain sites and extortion happening around those sites. Same thing. Go to a theme park and you are surrounded by people and tourists and extorted food prices.
I'm not saying I didn't enjoy it - I'm just providing an example of a place with a similar vibe.
The „hand bag from the back of the chair“-move happened to us in Athens 2022. We were a group of like 6 or so with 3 on each side of the Table, nobody noticed it when it happened.
My purse is always crossbody and it sits on my lap. ALWAYS.
I’m currently in Rome. One thing that happened to me is that at the Pantheon a black African man said to me “where are you from” I answered the US and he said he had a brother and sister from two different states. Then he gave me a bracelet for free and then asked me for money for it after I put it on. I actually handed it back to him and said I have no money. It shook me up. It was my first time I didn’t recognize at first that it was a scam but I did recognize as it went on. Today another black African guy can up to me and tried to do the same thing but I said I got to go and he walked away upset. Let me just say I have nothing against black African men. I’ve met plenty of black African men that are good decent people and I’m sure there are plenty more out there and it just happened that two different black African guys came up to me and were overly friendly. I share this to warn other people about the scam I encountered in Rome yesterday and today.
I wish I had seen your video before I visited Rome for the last two weeks. Thanks
Hey Mark, awesome video and great tips
Even Rick Steves got pickpocketed on the Rome Metro. Good advice here!
My son has just come back from a short break to Rome. He said scammers are everywhere, the bracelet and flower sellers and people just harassing you. He also had a negative vibe and felt unwelcome from the locals which is ironic considering that tourists pour millions into the country...
And millions of tourists pour into the country too. No wonder the Italians are tired of it. Yes the Money is great but with a capital ‘B’! And who wouldn’t get fed up with it.
Another one is where an 'artist' has his paintings/pictures layed out on the floor and puts one down in front of you as you walk by, standing on it, you have then 'ruined' it by stepping on it so must now pay for it. Just walk on.
This is so important, thank you. Love your woosh sound effect too!
Great accomplishment for Roma; we was there last November and were a wonderful city, plenty of history and surprises. Unfortunately, those simple safety rules must be applied to any big city where you going as a tourist like London, Paris, New York City, etc. Unfortunately. That's today's world reality.
Los Angeles must be very honest, never heard of anyone getting pick pocketed and I've lived here for twenty years.
My advice , keep with you only camera, cash for a day only, card u wont need it if you have already pre-booked everything
Some more valuable advice from Walters World 🌎 👌🏿. I did come across a 'Gladiator' when I was in Rome but he didn't ask for money when he asked if I wanted a photo.
I came across the petition scam when I was in Paris. What gave it away was that they asked for my debit/bank card details so I didn't sign anything.
We just returned from Rome yesterday and we saw many of the scams you mentioned. The bracelet guys were most annoying and always in your face. We were also asked to sign petitions for various causes. We had cross-body sling bags that we had under our jackets. Our credit cards were in an RFID blocking wallet inside of the sling bag. The credit card was never used since you can pay for everything using your phone.
I had a bag slashed to bits in Rome, 2005. They got nothing because my money and anything valuable was in the back pocket. My bag was a mess. I learned the hard way what to do.
Yep, witnessed some of these first-hand on a HS choir trip in 2008. A few people got caught in the "free bracelet" scam, and the people sorting purses and assorted nonsense were everywhere. I remember watching one of my friends buy a rose for his girlfriend from one of those people...before the seller immediately bailed and started running the second the transaction was over, but not fast enough, because then we got to watch them get arrested. Fun times!
I would say nowadays you can simply skip wallet theft by simply letting it in you hotel room safe. You can then go around and pay with your phone, I managed to do just that last September in Rome, even if the city has a reputation of not accepting card payments (it definitely got better in the last two years).
I would say the same about the backpack, but I was traveling alone, so it is maybe more difficult to go around without one if you’re a family with kids.
I'm going to Rome for the first time in a few months. I am thankful for these videos. I plan to just blend in and not carry anything on my person of value while out and about.
You will have a great time!
Good luck blending in. I was there in Feb and found it impossible to. Definitely recommend getting a tom toc shoulder bag or something similar.
Rome is amazingly epic, just make sure you know what you're in for. Rome is a theme park - its full of tourists that are looking at all the same sites you want to see and extorted food prices all around those sites. If you are after a relaxing time then Rome ain't it. If you are after epic history and sightseeing then you're in the right spot. Just be prepared for the hordes, the rubbish and the graffiti.
We’re returning this July after 20 years. Still the same scammers……watch out.
@@IrishAnnie I will be sure to be extra careful
You will not be able to blend in. But it's nice here
I went to Rome in October. Two times I felt scammed were at the Collisuem and at the Trevi fountain. Exiting the Collisuem we saw an "artist" supposedly hand painting some art so we bought two portraits thinking they were his originals lol. Come to see all over Rome were the exact same paintings. Still got a fair price and they are nice pieces, but just came off as scummy/scammy. Second, at the Trevi fountain you had a bunch of men with Poloriod cameras around their necks asking if you wanted a picture. One guy offered to take us a picture with our phones then transitioned to ask us if we wanted to take one with the Polaroid camera for 10 euros. We said ok to help him out but when he handed us the picture we realized absolutely nothing was visible in the background so it was a such poor quality photo that we felt scammed. A lady next to us came up to us after and also localized her distaste for what she got.
I bought a Metrosafe LS200 Econyl anti-theft shoulder bag. I hope it's a good purchase for my trip this fall .
Front pocket wallet didn’t help my dad on the metro. Packed train, young woman gets on, starts fiddling with my fingers on the metal pole I was holding onto (later found out with my sons fingers as well), maybe to distract, then when other tourists were getting off, she blocked their way using force, until they got angry and shoved her, at which point she fell back into my dad. Everyone else got off, then just as the doors were about to close, she rolled off the train onto the platform. He realised it was missing at the next stop. Seems like they take advantage of packed trains.
My bag was slashed by a woman with an “Ink Pen” that turned out to have a scalpel on the other end. The train was packed and there was a man behind my husband who attempted to put his hand in my husband back pocket as a diversion as she was slashing away. She got nothing as all my money and valuables were in the back pocket of the bag. Travelon bag for us.
I haven't been to Rome but been to London where theft is high. My advice is to keep all your stuff on your person not in a bag but in front pockets. And keep your hands on your pocket to be extra safe in busy areas
Thank you , Mark
My mom got her bag stolen from right behind her on the chair…even when you think you are so careful
Thanks for sharing. I just booked a trip for May.
same
I am more worried about the fake police scam and how to deal with it?
I’m a Black American and have been to Rome twice. When the Africans there see other Black tourists, they will approach in a friendly manner, “Hey brother!” They try to get close to show that you have the same skin color, and then try to engage you into some small talk, where they will either ask for money or try to sell you something. If you decline, some will try to guilt trip you into thinking that it’s your obligation to “help” them. Some will even try to give you one of their trinkets, saying it’s their custom to give “a friend” a gift. If you take it, they expect money.
I had to reject one of those African bracelets today
We have been scammed twice: 1) in Rome, African men forced their free “friendship” bracelets on us, then demanded 10 euros for their craftsmanship. 2) In Morocco, we were offered free camel sittings for a photo, then once mounted were led on a short walk that we protested. They then demanded 20 euros for us to dismount their camel.
That’s incredible!!!! The old camel trick. I have never heard of anything so crazy!
Thank you for the tips I’m going to Rome in July !😊
Just a heads up, I was there in February and it was really busy, so can't imagine what it's going to be like in July. If you like the vibe of a theme park with tonnes of people and extorted food prices it kind of has that feel. Lots of graffiti and trash as well.
If you are just going for the sights I recommend it for that style of trip. If you are going for a relax and sight seeing trip - see the sights and then get outta there because Rome is anything but relaxing. You generally speaking are either a tourist or an Italian that is either fed up with tourists or trying to rip off a tourist.
Rome is amazing for the epicness of the sites, but, it has its problems too :)
In July, dawn is expected to be at around 5:45am. Sleep early, get up an hour before sunrise and head straight out to the famous open attractions. You should have mostly empty streets for a couple of hours and very few people at the attractions. At peak hours with streets jam-packed with people, best to visit lesser known museums and attractions. Trevi Fountain area is perpetually busy, even before 6am but you may find it quite empty on a rainy night after 10pm. Have a great trip.
Anyone ever try putting a spare wallet in your back pocket filled with Monopoly money and have that pocket picked?
I've done catchup on tampons :)
Rick Steves advocates this. Along with a note (in several languages) that says something along the lines of “dear thief, sorry this has so little money. Re-evaluate your career choices.”
A cheap dummy wallet isn't a bad idea. I had thought about giving out some worthless bogus money to beggars though.
@@vagabondabbie. Hilarious!!!!
Had this same idea for my Buenos Aires trip.
thank you!
For a long time, as Chanel prices have risen, I no longer thought I could afford it. I think I would be happy to have a kislux as a travel bag that I don't have to take care of. By the way, I'm sure no one would have a hard time telling the difference. Thanks for the comparison.
gr8 info buddy taking the family there in july you the mna cheers it all helps
Don't rely on the hotel safe at all. Get a travel safe they are small portable an extremely effective. Hundred percent of fifths typically occur from safes due to the hotel staff having the master code for all the hotel safes.
Omg!!! as much as I have traveled, I never knew to think about that. I’ve utilized the hotel safes and luckily no problems yet but now you’re making me rethink it. Thank you for the tip. I’m gonna search for a travel safe now.
Even if staff doesn't have the code, it's unlikely that the manufacturer's code has been reset on it
@@counterfit5 exactly, and the universal code for some safes is very well known if you look on the Internet it’s shared so if they can’t get in with the staff code, they try it the manufactures code. I always trusted hotel safe but until my friend got robbed, forget it I won’t take that risk any longer.
@@Cindypisces. Well, you usually have to key in your own code which they don’t have.
The place in Rome where you are most likely (sure) to be robbed is in a *taxi.* 😅
Yeah, we figured that out pretty quickly when it took us less time to walk to the train station than it did for our taxi to get to our hotel
Unless you speak some Italian. It is always better to take official taxis from taxi stands (no flagging down), or have them come to pick you up from your hotel (when your concierge calls them , it wont be a scam).
Good stuff man thank you.
We were in Rome, Florence and Venice last May, the only things we saw were the bracelet scam and a lady with her dog at Termini station.
Keep your purse, wallet close and zippered up! The vacation was fantastic, book a tour for the collosseum and Roman Forum. For the train station, sometimes the trains get delayed or changed, just get on the car you are booked for and pick a seat. Check your email for any change if the train is delayed.Loved Venice!
Thank you for your tips. I’ll be there in November
I was just in Rome and the African bracelet scam was by far the most common. I'd always engage with them just because I thought it was entertaining but I never even touched the bracelets.
My sister, her friend, and I were at the top of the Spanish steps and this man approached them and said “ciao bella” and then gave them a rose. He then turned to me and asked for a small coin. I said I didn’t have any money so he took the roses out of their hands and went up to another woman.
I encountered the mustard scam in Madrid back in 1992. Fortunately I followed my gut. I knew something wasn’t right when a person said they would wipe it off my backpack for me. Another person showed up too, and I told them both to bug off and leave me alone. I then was able to get away.
Just returned from Italy Tuesday. Very nice vacation except last 2 days in Rome. Get robbed in Rome subway trying to get on train.
Avoid crowded area on public transportation , it’s best opportunity to steal your stuff. They are working in groups and watching tourists where they keep valet when buying tickets.
They got my valet from front packet of my jeans when getting on train. Didn’t feel nothing, lost cash, credit cards and documents.
We were lucky to have passports in different place.
Police didn’t care too much. I think it’s very common problem, bad advertising for Italy.
My wife told me never again Italy.
Avoid crowded areas and watch your back.!!!
Thanks
Speaking of the bracelet scam I seen them in NYC during the holiday season dressed as Buddhist monks. One of them tried to put one on my wrist but I quickly moved it away
Danke, sehr hilfreich 👍
There was a young guy who was helping everyone to buy metro tickets in Roma Termini, the only trick was that he was getting the ticket with his credit and you could pay him cash. Ticket was valid for 3 days and didn't have any problem but still can't figure out whether he was just a nice guy or there is hidden secret there. I have only two possible scenario, credit card was stolen or he was just doing that to widtraw money from his own credit.
It's a scary world out there. How sad is it that we can't travel without thinking we should gorilla glue everything to our shirt with 3 other shirts and a jacket over all that? Makes me just want to stay home. And I'm off to Europe in April... On high alert.
You'll be fine. Just be sensible, not paranoid.
Best thing you can do is constantly making eye contact with people around you. Most likely the scammers will pass you by for the oblivious ones.
How's your trip so far ?
@@matteagle42 It was fabulous. I wasn't scared at all and had no reason to be. I was very aware of my surroundings at all times and made sure to stay in safe areas but out of large crowds. It was surprisingly easy. I think sometimes these kinds of videos, although really helpful, can end up making people more nervous than necessary. Especially if you watch as many as I did. I have a lot less fear now that I went (it's been a while) and am looking forward to the next one once I save up the money. (which will take about 3 years. 🤣😳
I've fallen for the "freebie" scams a couple of times. I've found it hard to get away from them. They get aggressive & persistent.
Yesterday my grandson and his gf were being hounded by scammers around the Colesseo, he said the phrase I'd taught him that day, vai via (go away) cut them off mid sentence and they left them alone.
Was in Rome and Florence and not much issues but Venice almost got me twice (I’m here now) - coming from the train station i was offered help to take my bags (I initially thought they were the taxi) but they were literally just offering to take my luggage TO a taxi which was literally 30 ft away. Yesterday someone offered me the bracelet and he was talking o me asking me where I was from (as he was black), he put the bracelet on me and offered to give me one for my bf or husband or child then stated he’s leaving tomorrow bk to senegal and needs help for his newborn son I gave bk and told him he told me these were free and I quickly walked away. I also did have a person at rome termini approach me to help me at the ticket station but i realized he didnt have on a uniform and kept it moving. I did keep euros in change on me though to leave something for street performers, which I’ve so far only seen in Rome. Some of them are so talented
Another one is the guy painting a picture. Sitting with some paint and a bunch of “finished paintings “. Uou can bug them for 5 euros in the souvenir store. But it looks like it’s an original. It’s not. Now there are painters but many are fakes.
We just got back from Rome yesterday and those "artists" all sell the same exact prints and they have some paints and a brush to make you think that they actually painted them. It's laughable.
When I was in Rome, I had a guy come up to me and just randomly grab my wrist and start tying a rope of sewing thread around it. In his thick Italian accent he said something like “I give you two. One for good luck and one for good love. You give me what you want”. I wanted to give him something, but it just so happened that at the time we met, I was out taking a walk around the block by myself while all of my bags and money were with my mom, who at that time was about a 15-minute walk away. We went back and forth for a good couple of minutes like “I’m sorry, I really don’t have anything to give you”. “Eh come on man, anything, 5 cent, 10 cent, anything”. Ultimately he gave up and walked away, shoulders slouched, looking defeated. And he seemed really nice and friendly, and I was only 14 so I was still pretty naive and innocent. I felt so bad, and for the next 2 months, whenever I looked at my wrist I felt a bit melancholy and sad. Even today, 12 years later, it’s still a bit of a somber memory
Pickpockets are everywhere not just Rome, even in your backyard
The "free bracelet" guys tried to get me but I told them off. Then my dad ended up falling for it after I walked away, but the guys peddling it saw me running back over and I think they got scared and let him have it before asking for money LOL. He's got a cool new free bracelet now to remind him of his time in Rome!
watch out for Taxi drivers if you just approach them when not at the taxi stand. They will ask for cash only and not use their meter and just come up with a much larger amount than you expect. Always get a taxi at a stand or, even better, through the taxi app, which is so easy to use and gives you the price before you get in.
My experience is that sometimes rogue drivers will first tell you that a card payment is ok but later it's not and they drive you to the closest ATM. Also some drivers don't even turn on the meter, which is illegal unless it's a regulated fixed price or mutually agreed.
Two of the best ways to combat getting scammed by a taxi driver is as you said using an app. The other is obviously using a well known taxi company. Finally, speak only Italian if you can. Although, this may not work if don't sound local enough.
I had the "found ring" scam pulled on me but I was not buying it for a second. She left me curing at me. I told a dear friend the story and when she was in Paris some other It pulled on her. Remembering my story she didn't all for it either and she thanked me for it.
New subscriber! As a seasoned solo traveler (for work), I found you through your food vids. I'm a pretty careful/alert person and have managed to avoid getting scammed/robbed so far (i.e. light packer, zipper locks, phone on a crossbody strap, preloaded/saved map links that I listen to through an earbud so I'm not obvious as a tourist when walking somewhere...etc.), but I'm heading to Venice/Rome very soon with some old college friends... and their elderly parents (first time traveling out of the US for all of them)... and their kids (both under 8). 😱 My paranoia is on high for them, and you better bet I sent them an email on basic safety plus a link to your previous Italy Scam video. They found it very helpful! 🤞
The person with the petition clipboard is using the clipboard as a shield & can get into your purse
A friend of my wife was offered help when she was trying to get bus tickets from the machine. The scammer just got a ticket worth 1 trip instead of 50 euros he was given
Exactly the same thing happened to me in Paris ☹️
Guy who tries to help tourists to buy a ticket in Roma Termini is still there. I knew how to buy my ticket to the airport but he jumped in and pressed all thr buttons so fast and then asked for help to buy a coffee. I gave him 1 euro and it was nothing for me but imagine how many times he gets money for a coffee from tourists.
The photo thing I've heard your best option is IF you want them to pose, find out how much they are asking for first before you snap any photos. Now if it's just you casually shooting and they walk into your photo or pose on their own without you asking, then that's on them and I just walk away if they make a big deal about it. Actually ran into something similar in NYC but I got mad at the guy and told him I did NOT want him my photo, hence the reason I was waiting to take a picture of something (not a person) and he stormed off.
One tip I found about traveling and public transport is figure the stuff out before you even get to the country if you can. There are many videos on youtube that show you how to use the kiosks and which tickets to buy (And which not to) for almost all major tourist destinations, and that is "free" and you don't have to worry about being harassed, although you can subscribe to the person's channel i I guess as a means of thanking them for the effort, but they won't be standing there demanding you tip them. So use Google and TH-cam to figure this stuff out before you go so when you get there, you know what trains to take and how to get your tickets. Otherwise, if you don't, find an employee of the public transport or train/bus system and ask them.
One scam I have seen in many countries is the taxi scam, where the driver may overcharge you or demand more money than you agreed to or something of that nature. I would only use a taxi if I didn't have any bags, because if you have a dispute with the driver, they could hold your bag in the trunk as ransom until you pay them the inflated price, hence the reason I won't use taxies unless I don't have a bag in the trunk at least, because it's easier to just get out and leave if you do'n't have a bag (in the trunk at least). But also negotiate your taxi fare before you even get in. That is number one. If you want to use a taxi I would use a reputable service though if you need to get from the airport to the city for example (although most major cities like Rome and Paris) have public transport that goes from the airport to the city or the main train station for which you can then get to the city.
Going there in May w my wife, child and mother in law
What about the Cup and Ball Scam and guessing where the ball is to gamble or lose money. Found in Paris, Las Vegas and maybe Rome.
Have not seen it in Rome
Never seen in Rome. Perhaps it's too time consuming and risky. It's certainly illegal in Italy, regardless of whether it's honest or not.
If you have paid for a package in your home country, all inclusive, don't fall for the 'tourist tax' request as you check out from the hotel - you've already paid it !
Had the bracelet guys by the Colosseum approach me trying to give me a "Free" bracelet. I said no thank you nicely 3 times, He got pushy and I finally told him off. He took the hint and left me alone.
The gladiator guy got me 😂 he was super nice and funny I knew what he doing but he was super cool
I think the city has cracked down on them because they became so aggressive that they were scaring the tourists.
@@paulkoza8652. One walked up to me as my husband snapped a photo of me. Well, that was it! He was screaming at us to pay him. We walked off. I didn’t care if he yelled or not.
Be careful when you are parking your car nearby lean tower in Pisa. There are some people who will try to help you finding some parking spot, and in the end, they will ask some money from you. Just walk away when they do that.
Is it safe to keep valuable in the hotel safes in Rome, Venice & Florence?
I know you say to do that, but just wondering 🤔
going to rome next june
You advised travelers to leave passports in our hotel and use a copy or scan of it to keep when going out. What if certain places of visit require orginal passports?
Which ones do?
No one will ask for it.
I was caught with the petition scam on the Spanish Steps.
Had the guy who gives you a “free gift” which was a trinket. He then left only to come back and ask for money. Give it back to them and say no.
When scammers or annoying beach vendors or taxi drivers try to talk to me, I just answer in my native language (Lithuanian), problem solved.
Seen so many people fall for the - walk up and hand the woman a rose scam. Falls under your "freebie" section.
Trust me - you are beautiful, but random people aren't going to give you a free rose because of how beautiful you are. That free rose will cost you 20EU minimum
From my experience In Italy you have to carry identification with you, such as the passport. When I was in Rome I was also stopped and asked for it once.
Why?
@@IrishAnnie it's the law in most of the EU, citizen or not. In practice you'll probably get away if you can just prove your identity at least to some extent. I don't always carry an id but I'm a resident and the police can easily check my data anyway.
The most common reason you might get stopped is illegal immigrant control. I suppose the police receives a tip and go check some trains or busses. I have very rarely seen this in Central Italy though, it's more common at the borders.
@@hbp_ I will carry my driver’s license but, no passport.
I always have my bag sitting next to me. That way I can keep an eye on her
those darn Gladiators taking 25 Euros for a photo you took!
Thank you for telling us very bad people doing this kind of pick pocket not afraid this kind of work it’s horrible 😮