travel tip: how not to get scammed
Leaving Rome was a wee bit on the traumatic side. Not only because I felt so comfortable there (my hostel was outstanding, the people I met were even more outstanding), but because I was headed for Napoli. And I had not been hearing good things. My guidebook said that Napoli was a wonderful, spirited city, but issued strong warnings about pickpockets and personal safety - and that was the nicest thing I had been told.
When I tell you that someone I met at the hostel prayed for me before I left, I’m not joking in the least. It only made me more nervous. I mean, if you have to call in God, the situation is pretty serious. But by the time the train pulled into the station, I had made a decision. I was not going to be intimidated. I’d survived Tangiers - one of the most frightening and alien situations of my life. And so with my money was tucked safely away in my money belt, my backpack was all locked up tight, and a map of where I was going, I climbed off the train and dove into to the chaos of Napoli.
And it was wonderful. Yes, the area around the train station is dangerous. There is no doubt of that. But in a pickpocket sort of way. Not in a violence against strangers kind of way. But a few tips that will get you out of any train station and help you feel comfortable in any city:
Know where you’re headed. Or look like you do. Study your map en route so that when you arrive, getting your bearings doesn’t take a great deal of effort.
Blend in. Dressing like the locals - even if you’re obviously weighed down by baggage - will go a long way to keeping you off the robber’s radar. This means no sneakers, no windbreakers (gah) and if you can, trade your jeans for a pair of comfy dark-colored slacks.
Don’t gape. I have found it very helpful to appear slightly pissed off at all times, like I’m late and a little irritated. The over-eager tourist makes a very easy target for scams.
I once asked my husband why he thought we didn’t get harrassed/pickpocketed when we backpacked through Europe. He told me I went around with a serious “Don’t mess with me face”. I realized that I did do that.
It worked in China, too. Like you said, look serious, slightly pissed off, and sure of your destination. if I was unsure, I walked strongly and confidently to the next “safe-ish” looking place where I could duck in and check my map (maintaining my “don’t mess” face, natch).
I loved Napoli and went there/through it at least 9 times during my time studying abroad. I could not agree with your points better.
I was often teased by the other students for “dressing up” or walking around with angry face, but I was the only one who didn’t get solicited or have someone try to take my stuff.
I also couldn’t agree more with knowing where you’re going in a new place. That goes for the moment you arrive in a country and onwards to each new city. I keep a shorthand list in my purse of addresses/phone numbers and quickie directions instead of my full map. Works great!
I _definately_ agree! We practised those principles while living in France, and never were bothered, except once: and we had some relatives visiting us. One more that I would add: talk quietly. And, whatever you do, never talk about the people around you. So many times, American tourists would board a train and start talking loudly about everyone. Everyone understood them!