Violent Theft

This is much less common in Europe than in the United States, and niay even be less prevalent than in Canada. One of the saddest experiences of my life was returning to the States from a long trip, getting on to the Boston metro system, and feeling a prickling sense °f unease that I hadn’t felt anywhere in Europe, Russia, or the Middle East. Street crime does happen, however, and all the nor-mal precautions apply in Europe. Trust your instincts. If a situation such as walking down a street, walking past a group of men, etc, just doesn’t feel right, turn around and walk the other way. Be particularly wary around train stations and red-light districts, and it’s always smart to ask in the local tourist office if there are any local areas that are unsafe. ATMst at home and abroad, are a place to visit during the day or with a friend if you must go at night. On the plus side, muggers armed with handguns, UZIs, and AK-47s are not a major problem in Europe: Los Angeles has more handgun murders in a month than London does in a year.

One final word: if confronted by a punk with a knife, let alone a gun, don’t play Rambo. Give the worthless puke what he wants as quickly as possible, and don’t end up in a hospital over a camera or a few dollars. Any police officer in any country will advise you to do the same.