I have read several guide books which caution travelers about crime - pickpockets and robbers who stop to help when your tire goes flat (after THEY have put the glass there) and then take your purse, luggage etc. Has anyone had this happen to them or know of instances where it has occurred? We were very nervous in Rome about the same problem and it detracted from our stay there.We carried tickets etc. under our clothes but were constantly wary. This would be our first trip to Madrid, Barcelona, Seville etc. for a two week trip. Know any really good tours - maybe it is safer not to drive. Thanks. Anita

Do not worry! Yes, there is crime in Spain - pickpockets etc. But if you are careful, you will be fine. A good idea is to have 2 wallets in case of mugging - one with say $20 and the other with your cards, travellers cheques etc. Whatever you do, remember to enjoy your holiday and not to worry! <BR>

Try not to let the worry of crime consume you, although I know it is difficult not to. You spend good money to enjoy your vacation so why worry about crime that much? Yes always be cautious, definately. I was in Barcelona & Madrid last year and had heard a lot of horror stories from people. We had no problem personally and we rented a car to drive to Carcassone France. Mainly on the big highways people are realitively safe from road scams.(I would think) I suppose they happen more at the rest stops? I don't know, but we also stopped at rest stops and had no trouble. Don't let it ruin your vaction. Just take precautions and remember that what you have are only possessions and if something should happen they can be replaced. Hope this helps.

Anita, Let me preface this by saying that there is no place on earth I would rather be than Madrid, but one does need to be cautious, especially an American female tourist. I spent 6 months in Spain & was mugged one late night in Madrid. I was very dressed up & was walking alone down Alcala (big street in the heart of Madrid). Two men came behind me & just cut my purse strap off my shoulder. All the theives want there is your money, bodily harm is rare. If you do not visually stick out as a tourist & stick with a buddy during the late hours, you are not worth a thief's time. Madrid as well as the rest of Spain has an abundance of taxis, use them if you are where you should not be late at night. They are safe, inexpensive, & the drivers, friendly. <BR>I did both, rented a car & used the trains. If I were to do it again, the car would not be rented, too much trouble in the big cities to park & the mopeds were scary to share the road with. The rail system is excellent. They have very fast trains which leave from Madrid & probably Barcelona which can cut your travel time in half without missing the scenery. These trains are clean, affordable, & some serve meals. They have medium speed & slow, frequent stopping trains too. The latter will have every type of traveler imaginable, from other Americans to singing gypsies! <BR>I am so envious, have a wonderful & safe time.

<BR>Anita, by all means drive. Just take normal precautions. We were in Spain for the first time this past spring, and we never had any problems or felt particularly uncomfortable. We rented the car in Madrid, turned it in when we reached Lisbon. The only negative part was that they drive so crazy, and parking was difficult sometimes. We've been to Italy several times too and never experienced a problem. Just heed the various bits of advice you'll find on this forum, and have a wonderful trip.

!