So you are busy taking photos and looking at things like these two folks above. It is easy to have someone pick your pocket. While this photo was taken in Rome, I have plenty from Paris, Amsterdam, London etc. We just get caught up in the moment.
But, let's say you are in a small town in South America where gangs with guns are everywhere. You would like to know that, right?
The United States State Department has a Smart Traveler Program. I belong to it. I can look up a country or area and find out what is going on. How safe is it?
Nowhere in the world should you flash lots of money or wear a Rolex to the grocery store. Be smart. But, are there areas in Paris that might be dangerous at night? The locals know them like you know the ones in your home town. The State Department will help you plan.
Last year we went nowhere in Johannesburg without a driver. We felt safe - I live near several big cities - but we were warned not to go alone. In fact, our hotel provided security for us in and outside the hotel.
Look up the program even if you never use it. I just got a warning about a beautiful beach in Mexico that suggests that I not go. I get to choose based on the information.
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