Pickpocket schemes to avoid while traveling
In a shell game on a Berlin street, who wins? Not you. Credit: Rick Steves
The Louvre is Europe's oldest, biggest, greatest and second-most-crowded museum (after the Vatican). It is home to Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, Michelangelo statues and paintings by the greatest artists from the Renaissance to the Romantics. Lately it is also home to groups of pickpockets. It got so bad that in April the museum staff walked out in protest. The Louvre had to close for a day, and the management finally beefed up police patrols.
Europe is a surprisingly creative place when it comes to petty thievery and travel scams. Tourists, especially Americans, are easy targets. Be on guard -- even at church. St. Mark 's Basilica in Venice attracts tourists and pickpockets alike. Loaded down with valuables, jet-lagged and bumbling around in a strange new environment, we stick out like jeweled thumbs.
But scams can be avoided. Smart travelers are less likely to be victims, so be aware of these travel scams:
And the list goes on and on. Scams can be easy to avoid if you recognize them and stay aware. Wear a money belt to protect yourself against pickpockets, and leave your fancy bling at home. Above all, enjoy your trip. Don't travel fearfully -- travel smartly.
