I am visiting Italy in April with my wife on our honeymoon. We're traveling through Tuscany and then spending a few days in Rome before flying out of Naples. We're not spending significant time in Naples, just the night before our AM flight.

We were told by a friend that my wife should not bring her engagement ring on our vacation at all, as the risk of it being stolen or taken is too great. My wife and I have both traveled in Italy and Europe, and are aware of the need to be aware of your surroundings and careful, but our friend's recommendation seems a little too much.... or is it?

Any thoughts would be great! Thanks.

IMO, it will be OK to wear the ring in question. The need to be aware of your surroundings is always true, but thieves who specialize in jewelry are more likely on the lookout for things like Rolex watches, Gold and /or jeweled necklaces and bracelets, which are easier to remove than a ring. Enjoy your honeymoon!

I guess it depends on the ring but when we went last April for our anniversary, I not only wore my engagement ring but the new anniversary band my husband has just given me.

I never felt uncomfortable!

We went to Jamaica for our honeymoon 12 years ago and I remember people telling us the same thing. It was fine. However, if there is a problem with the way it fit leave it at home. One man lost his ring while we were diving but I don't think you will be doing that in Italy.

Enjoy!

For what it's worth - I hate to be a nay-sayer, but when we were on the train late last summer from Rome to Naples, fellow travelers (from Italy) advised my wife and my friend's wife to remove their jewelry before entering the Naples train station. They did not say don't bring your jewelry, but that there was no need to display it and potentially encourage theft/mugging.

KC

Jhm - Having witnessed a lady 'relieved' of her necklace - and the distress it caused - I'd advise against wearing anything of value ...

Steve

As you can see, there is a range of opinions here!
Steve_James has a good point based on what he saw.
On the other hand, my experience is different.
I have spent several full days in Naples walking around on my own. I did wear a ring, but no other jewelry, no watch and just a pair of cheap earrings.
I didn't have any problems. I was careful to stay aware of everything around me though, as I always am, because I travel solo often.