Police and Border Patrols

If, for whatever reason, you manage to attract the attention of the local law enforcement authority, innocent or not, do not cop an attitude, raise your voice, or act indignant. Police, like everyone else, respond to courtesy and don’t like rude people. The difference with the police is that they can do something about rude people, and you probably won’t like it when they do. A smile and a cooperative attitude will work wonders. It is particularly important to remember this when dealing with the Spanish Guardia Civil (the guys with the leather hats), and especially any member of the French police force. If you get indignant (”You can’t treat me this way - I’m an American”) you’re asking for trouble. This is especially the case if] alcohol is involved.

Also, realize that, in the relatively law-abiding societies of Europe, what is considered a nothing offense in the United States or Australia may attract police attention. Once, on my way to the train station in Copenhagen, two policemen in a car pulled over and gave me a stern lecture on the evils of jaywalking. Not likely in New York or Kings Cross.