Prague pickpockets
 

Just returned.My husband was pickpocketed on the tram from Malestrana in Prague,but, fortunately, all was taken was a chewing gum package.He actually felt the guy's hand in his pocket & wanted to smash him out but yelled profanities instead.. BEWARE!!! They work in a threesome.One blocks the exit door with a map as another pretends to give him map advice.As both block your way out the door, a third gets his hand into your pants pocket.What a frightening experience. We were warned prior to the trip, but never thought it would happen to us.

I thought I saw this thread early this morning already, but this one is the only one now.

Anyway, yes, there are pickpockets in Prague as there are around the world. That's just a fact.

And your point being???
Like Franco said, you'd get pickpocketed anywhere, I have friends mugged in New York, pickpocketed in Seatle, Paris, Thailand.... why single out Prague???

Thanks for the warning. Anywhere you go tourists are a target, so it's good to be reminded that we must be aware of our surroundings in any part of the world. The only place I've ever been robbed was in Vancouver, BC. But like you, I didn't lose anything of value. It's a maddening experience, but I am thankful for no real loss.

I felt that I was always an easy target but never did anything about it. I was lucky.

Prior to going to Spain (Madrid flea market) I devised and implement a new strategy.

They are pros and I am not. I can probably not enjoy myself and always be on guard.

In addition to a money belt which I do not access during the day, I put a very small flat zippered pouch (3" x 4" app) hooked onto my belt and slid down the front/side inside of my pants.

In this little flat pouch I kept a credit card, 30-50 Euros and room key.

In my pockets I kept no more than 20 Euros, a map and that's about it.

When using the credit card I pull up the little pouch, use the credit card it slip it back down into my pants. It cannot be access by a pickpocket. Way too tight to get in there.

I can't beat them so don't give them anything of value was my attitude.

It worked in the flea market in Madrid.

I was pickpocketed. I realized it was happening but it happened too fast. A man came over and gave me back my street map and empty sun glasses holder. Not even worth taking so they gave it back.

Just for fun, I tried the loaded mousetrap-in-the-pocket technique during a couple of tram rides in Amsterdam a few months back. Just my luck, I didn't catch anything. Before I go again, I may rig up a mousetrap to an empty wallet. Maybe I'll put a little cheese on it too, that way if I don't get a finger, at least I might get a mouse.

Meanwhile, my valuables (cash, passports, credit cards, etc.) are in a pouch around my neck and under my shirt. Notice I said "pouch," not "pooch." Don't try hanging a dog around your neck.