Safety in Spain?
 

We are considering a trip to Spain, but all the tour books talk about problems with muggings and robberies of tourists, particularly in Madrid and Barcelona. We have read not to leave anything in a parked rental car, and that purse snatching is a huge problem. We are experienced travelers who have been all over Europe and Asia with no difficulty. Can anybody comment on safety in Spain for your person and possessions?

If you are experienced travelers, you should have no problems in Spain.As in any major city in the world, never leave anything of possible value to thieves in clear sight in a parked car.
Armed robberies or muggings are virtually non existant.
Pickpocketing and purse snatchings do occur but not to tourists who keep aware of their surroundings. Also common sense dictates that you shouldn't carry a lot of money, documents, etc. in easily accessable spots on your person while walking around in any city.

I agree with travelerone. I was in Madrid this summer - our hotel was in the crowded area between Sol, Callao and Gran Via, supposedly a prime pickpocketing area because of the dense crowds, and never even really worried about my wallet (which was in my front pocket). If U look like you're conscious of what's going on around you and not like a gawking tourist, you'll be fine.

I was in Madrid last week and was Pickpocketed at the Flea Market known as the El Rastro. I had most of my money and credit cards in my money belt but kept some spending money in my front pocket. I was set up by one guy pretending to drop a handful of coins in front of me which made me stop. He grabbed my foot to keep me still and when I had my attention on him and pushed him to the ground, the second person picked my pocket. I am a person who is very aware of his surroundings but, being from America, I had not encountered such a situation before. Beware in places where people are in close proximity.

Hi all,

I have found that closing my pockets with safety pins helps.

ira, have you ever felt someone attempting to pick your pocket and thus the safety pins stopped the thief, or just never been pickpocketed and so assume that the safety pins are a deterrent?

Crime is rampant in Spain. I was attacked in Madrid late at night by two young punks. They followed me from a bar and must have thought I had had too much to drink and was an easy target. I punched one in the face, kicked the other one and then ran like hell. I must have invited the attack by walking down a dark, deserted street as a shortcut to my hotel. Never again. Drinking, dark streets and Spain don't mix.