Great post. I know some who have been robbed, even watches/necklaces/rings ripped from them (when in a car/taxi, keep windows up at stop signs, red lights, speed bumps, curbside vendors, etc.). Personally, I’ve been “encouraged” to “donate” to street persons (thus always have a few loss dollars so you don’t pull your wallet out – same trick in LA/NYC). also have walked/run quickly to a safe location as we were being followed. In addition to your recommendations, aside from the obvious (being with others, knowing where you, aware without looking scared), here are the other measures I do / tell others: No watch/jewelry (phone has time), if possible back pockets w/buttons (i.e. cargo shorts), shirt never tucked in, hanging over pockets (avoids advertising, also they don’t know if pockets w/buttons or if you have a pocket knife, etc.). I use a small wallet, leave all but one credit card at hotel/hostel, and as you noted, keep in front pocket with the other holding the phone. I don't put my hands in pockets for defensive reasons but check often. I split cash between front pocket and under the sole of my sneakers/shoes (with the rest at hotel/safe if possible). Also have small dollar/currency denominations. take photos of Passport, Drivers License download to cloud, paper copies of both at hotel/hostel (also bring my expired Passport). If bags/camera case, they will cut the strap, thus strap and hold like a baby. Finally, if possible, get a name of someone important/known where you are which even if you can’t speak the language, you just ask for that person (this is better for islands as larger places my have factions). As you know better than many of us given your travels, it depends on where you go and to adjust accordingly. This year we are off to Cartagena and surroundings.
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wow.. theses rules and regulation sure makes me want to abort my planned honeymoon in Paris...
For Paris, just carry around a Baguette (;
Thanks for taking the time to reply! I agree with you completely and have many of the backup photographs of passports, etc. I am actually off to Cartagena on Monday for a week or so. I will let you know what its like