Madrid is a popular tourist destinations, and has a strong reputation for pickpockets and petty crimes against tourist. In my last trip to Madrid / Spain 10 years ago, I recall we witnessed a number of snatch thefts. We noticed dodgy characters observing us, trying to see if they could pick out valuables, while another group of Singaporeans on a similar trip, reported having their pockets picked twice.
I believe we had a combination of luck and street smart. So here are some tips for keeping yourself safe in Madrid.
1. Be street smart - Always try to be aware of your surroundings, and the people around you.
2. Valuables - keep your valuables safe using special money pouches that are easily available in travel shops. Bulkier items such can be kept safe in pouches or backpacks
3. Secure your belongings - If you have to put your belongings down - secure it to a chair or something heavy. If you are carrying it on public transport like the Metro, try to position your bag to the wall of the train
5. Dress down - dressing down portrays that you are a budget traveler, and lowers the likelihood of being targeted.
6. Stop Flashing - keep your jewelery, branded goods and luxury items at home. Wearing such items immediately puts you as a target.
7. Avoid talking to strangers - this is going to be tough in WYD, but generally, it has been warned, that these thugs work in groups and they try to distract you by asking you for directions, while another picks your belogings
8. Cash & Documents - You will likely be traveling with large amounts of cash. Take what you will likely need for the day and leave the rest in the hotel safe with your passport and 1 credit card. In case you are mugged, you will have your travel documents, cash and a credit card to rely on.
9. Take out only what you need - Empty your wallet before the trip and only bring what you need. Each day bring enough cash for the day in your travel pouch. Only put in your wallet what you will need for the next few hours e.g. EUR 40. Keep your daily amount safe in your travel pouch
10. Avoid lonely roads - The authorities are quite aware of such crimes against tourist and normally have a heavy police presence both in uniform and plain clothes patrolling popular tourist areas. However lonely allies are often overlooked
11. Police - there have been cases where these thugs impersonate plain clothes police and ask you to follow them. They will take you to a quiet place where their companions are waiting for you. If you are stopped by the police, only follow a uniform officer if asked. Otherwise insist of dealing with the plain clothes police office in a public area. It is better off to be hauled to the police station then suffering the trauma of being mugged.
Pilgrims, these are general tips that hopefully will help you. They however DO NOT guarantee your safety while traveling. Trust your instincts and be street smart. I myself, despite telling you these tips will still be vulnerable to the various tricks these thugs can be up to .
Be Safe !
No comments:
Post a Comment