I read some of these posts before we left for Italy last month, and was worried that things had deteriorated since our last trip. Now that I am back, I am amazed at these posts. We travel quite a bit, and have never, repeat, never, had a problem. In Rome, last month, each of our three kids had a wallet, one carried a video cam, I carried a purse and a camera, and we sometimes had a backpack. Boy, did we look like tourists! And we never were approached by anyone, never got ripped off, no pickpockets, never felt threatened, etc. <BR> <BR>The same goes for France, and our trips to Greece and Turkey, and around North America. We keep on hearing about the skillful pickpockets, but have yet to meet up! <BR> <BR>I wonder if it is an issue of demeanor. We are comfortable traveling in strange places, and usually feel in control of our environment. Perhaps pickpockets target people who appear to be momentarily uncertain, I don't know. <BR> <BR>One interesting thing about the gypsies in Rome. We passed an "old lady" in rags laying on the ground in the rain with her face mostly covered, and a basket next to her for contributions, and my eldest son felt sorry for her and threw a coin in. We went across the street to a cafe and sat down to watch her for a while. The rain became heavier, the crowds thinned, and she got up leave. Looking closely, we could tell that either she was a young woman dressed up for the occasion, or even a young man! <BR> <BR>

I think it's a shame that someone would be dissuaded from traveling to Europe due to postings on this site. There's nothing wrong with exchanging information regarding simple steps that can be taken to avoid being a victim, but it is irresponsible to speak of "pickpocketers out in full force" and make it seem like it's impossible to visit Europe and not become a victim of a crime. <BR> <BR>John's right. The vast majority of visitors have no problems. True, the stories of those who do become (or come close to becoming) victims can be quite scary. Let's just keep it in perspective - most smart travelers have no problems. <BR> <BR>I'd be very interested to see some official (reputable) numbers on tourist theft and compare that to the total number of tourists. Anyone have access to this info?

I used to wonder at the warnings re. thieves but no more. <BR> <BR>In my last 2 trips I have encountered gypsies who tried to rob me. <BR> <BR>In Frankfurt a lady distracted me while her daughter went around behind me. Luckily a policeman chased them away. <BR> <BR>In Paris a man tried to squeeze in behind me while going through a metro turn-stile. I pushed him back and gave him a glare before he got anything. <BR> <BR>In both cases, I was lucky. But I could just as well have been robbed. <BR> <BR>I am aware that I am a target if I am in a big city. Although my guard is always up it doesn't diminish the enjoyment of my trip, because I am aware of the dangers that surround me.