In most European countries, violent crime is rare. However, the frequency of pickpocket incidents, purse and baggage snatching and thefts from rental cars may surprise many Americans — too often, after they’ve become the victims.
In France alone last summer, about 700 Americans lost out to pickpockets and purse snatchers. Another 400 or so lost their passports, though not necessarily to thieves.
The U.S. Embassy in France has issued some specific cautions to Americans traveling in that country:
Watch out for gangs of thieves who work the rail link between Charles de Gaulle Airport and downtown Paris; they steal luggage.
Beware of pickpockets and purse snatchers in the main subway that connects Paris attractions such as the Arc de Triomphe, Champs Elysees, the Louvre and the Bastille.
Don’t leave cash, credit cards or wallets on cashier counters during a sales transaction in major Paris department stores and malls; thieves will swipe them from the counter.
Cars waiting at stoplights have been robbed by thieves on motorcycles; the Nice-Antibes-Cannes corridor in Southern France is a common spot. Pedestrians also fall victim to purse snatchers on motorcycles.
Such incidents are by no means confined to France. It’s a good idea to take these warnings seriously wherever your travels take you. Some general caution from the U.S. Embassy in France:
Carry limited cash and credit cards.
Leave passports and other personal documents in a hotel safe.
