Europe Safety Tips: Avoiding Scammers and Thieves
It can be a little scary to travel to another country, because often tourists are the target of thieves and other unsavory characters. These people will be targeting European tourists who are unsuspecting at the airport, in the subway, in restaurants and anywhere else you may be going on your vacation. You do not have to fall victim to any of the thugs’ tactics, however, as long as you follow these Europe safety tips throughout your European Vacation.
How to Have a Safe Trip to Europe
From the moment you step off the plane in Europe, you can become a target of scammers, thieves and con artists, especially if everything about you screams “Tourist!” As soon as you land in Europe, make sure to keep all of your important personal belongings, such as your passport, money and other identifying documents, tight to your body. It is highly recommended that for travel safety in Europe, tourists wear a money belt. This not very fashionable, yet very functional belt is a small pouch that fastens around your waist. You usually wear this over your shirt, with your pants or skirt covering it. You can also wear it flipped around, so that the pouch is in the back. This will easily hold everything of value and keep it safe from roving hands and prying eyes when you are at the airport or shopping throughout Europe.
Airline safety is also very important. Once you are at the airport in Europe, keep a close eye on all of your bags. It is best to travel as light as possible and to not bring any valuables, such as expensive jewelry, in your luggage. Dress modestly (leave your firs at home!) to avoid looking like a rich tourist. Keep a vigilant eye on all of your things and make sure your money and passport are carefully tucked in your money belt. When hailing a taxi or taking a bus to your hotel, make sure that you have your money ready and do not fumble around with your belt, as this can leave you vulnerable to a thief.
All travelers to Europe need to be aware of potential scams that people use to take advantage of tourists. Be wary of anyone who offers to “help” you or offer you some sort of discount for a good or service. Avoid being led away to another place by a stranger, as you could end up in a scary place that will be hard to get away from. When riding the subway, never have any valuables in your pockets and pay close attention to the people around you. Be very cautious while out and about in another country; most people are not out to harm you, but the few bad seeds out there should be looked out for carefully.
Another important note to make before traveling so that you can have a safe trip to Europe without any bumps is to make photocopies of all important documents. Make sure to bring one set of the copies with you and leave the other set at home with a trusted family member. This can help you to avoid some headaches later.
If you are the victim of a crime while traveling in Europe, call the police and file a report. Then head to the embassy for help in replacing important documents and possibly getting a cash loan. You can stay safe in Europe, just be vigilant and prepared.
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