Safety in Italy
Jul 15th, 2015, 12:37 PM
#21
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<Beggars are the same the world over>
Yes, but believe it or not, some people have never encountered them where they live, and so their shock is genuine. Saying those people shouldn't travel is the height of, well, stupidity, frankly. How do you learn about the world if you don't start somewhere?
We went to Rome with some friends who were very naive travelers, and so many things shocked them, from beggars, to the fact that everyone did not in fact speak English (as they had been told), to the appalling pushing and shoving on the metro, and so on. But they had a great time, too, and the negative shocks did not outweigh the positive ones.
As for losing valuables, the point, for me, is that losing my phone would be a major inconvenience; that's the worry, not the cost of the thing. Silly to say you should never bring anything with you that matters to you.
Yes, but believe it or not, some people have never encountered them where they live, and so their shock is genuine. Saying those people shouldn't travel is the height of, well, stupidity, frankly. How do you learn about the world if you don't start somewhere?
We went to Rome with some friends who were very naive travelers, and so many things shocked them, from beggars, to the fact that everyone did not in fact speak English (as they had been told), to the appalling pushing and shoving on the metro, and so on. But they had a great time, too, and the negative shocks did not outweigh the positive ones.
As for losing valuables, the point, for me, is that losing my phone would be a major inconvenience; that's the worry, not the cost of the thing. Silly to say you should never bring anything with you that matters to you.
Jul 15th, 2015, 08:00 PM
#23
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Peter S, I was thinking the same thing! We tourists are wearing our disposable clothing while earnestly attempting to attract no attention whatsoever, while the beauties of Milan and Rome and Paris are, well, being beautiful!
Jul 16th, 2015, 04:45 AM
#25
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In my experience, retired older people in Italy may experience economic difficulties, often severe, but will be ashamed of going begging. They are much more likely to address parishes and charities that will help them more discretely.
After that, there is quote of genuine beggars and clochards that you simply have to live with. You may consider it as a social mystery, but there are some people that simply will end conducting this life.
After that, there is a quote of professional beggars. A well organized beggar may make out something like 100 euros per day, that is much more than an average humble worker. - How do you know? Just ask to shops around that are asked to change coins into bills. - I could point to a gentleman in Florence that spends his life begging and living in a room from a parish church. In his home country (not in eastern Europe), he owns an apartment and pays a lady to keep it in order while he is away. He is away since ten years, now.
After that, there is also a racket of beggars. Some of them are imported by the busload from eastern countries, mainly Romania, and sent to streets - some willing, maybe some less than willing.
After that, there is quote of genuine beggars and clochards that you simply have to live with. You may consider it as a social mystery, but there are some people that simply will end conducting this life.
After that, there is a quote of professional beggars. A well organized beggar may make out something like 100 euros per day, that is much more than an average humble worker. - How do you know? Just ask to shops around that are asked to change coins into bills. - I could point to a gentleman in Florence that spends his life begging and living in a room from a parish church. In his home country (not in eastern Europe), he owns an apartment and pays a lady to keep it in order while he is away. He is away since ten years, now.
After that, there is also a racket of beggars. Some of them are imported by the busload from eastern countries, mainly Romania, and sent to streets - some willing, maybe some less than willing.
Jul 16th, 2015, 05:27 AM
#26
One should ALWAYS have their daily cash and cards stashed somewhere where pickpockets cannot reach them. I also highly advise to keep a separate pouch with just 20-30 euros max to take out when buying bus tickets, gelati, etc. Always be aware of those around you in crowds, especially in the cities.
If a beggar becomes too aggressive, just tell him to go away.
The above advice is for travellers anywhere in the world.
Italy is lovely. Be street smart and have a great time.
If a beggar becomes too aggressive, just tell him to go away.
The above advice is for travellers anywhere in the world.
Italy is lovely. Be street smart and have a great time.
