Unexpected Destinations: These 10 Cities Have the Highest Rates of Tourist Theft
- By Niels Kruse
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Tourists are frequently targeted for robbery in these urban areas - Top Ten Cities Frequently Targeted for Tourist Robberies
Beware the illusion of safety. Some cities may appear idyllic and welcoming, but they can harbor hidden dangers. Take, for instance, Istanbul, a bustling metropolis frequented by millions of tourists yearly and boasting a relatively low crime rate. Fortunately, Istanbul lands last in a tourist theft ranking of 25 popular European cities. That's good news, as it means fewer travelers fall victim to thieves in this 15-million-populated metropolis.
Bask in Peace in Mallorca
An analysis by the accommodation platform Paul Camper reveals that 25 popular European tourist hotspots are susceptible to theft risks. Places like Istanbul, Zurich, and Palma de Mallorca are included in this study. The researchers considered various factors, such as bag and car thefts, to calculate the actual number of tourists being robbed annually.
The arch-nemesis of Istanbul snugs itself 2000 kilometers northwest: Milan – especially in its vicinity to the famous Duomo. According to Paul Camper's data, about every 162nd tourist in Milan falls prey to pickpockets. The Milan police record over 21,500 instances of pickpocketing each year.
London Unveiled: A Hotbed of Theft
London, too, finds itself on the list of more dangerous destinations. Be wary in Westminster and at Camden Market, as thieves lurk nearby. One in 367 tourists is robbed here. Mallorca's visitors, though, can rest easy. In Palma, roughly one in 1600 tourists becomes a victim of theft.
Shield Yourself from Theft
- Steer clear of unwanted attention and gifts. It's a trick to divert your attention so you can lose track of your belongings.
- Opt for bags with lockable zippers.
- Never leave bags and valuables unattended. Not even at cafes or beaches.
- Choose secured parking spots. Either guarded or well-lit areas.
- Employ anti-theft devices. A neglected vehicle is an open invitation to thieves.
For cars, France is considered the riskiest country. There, vehicles are stolen at a rate of about 242 cases per 100,000 inhabitants. Switzerland follows closely behind with 217 cases, and Italy with 213 cases.
Sources: Paul Camper, Swiss Foreign Ministry Further Reading Off-the-Beaten-Path European Destinations Worth Exploring Top Autumn Hiking Destinations in Germany Quirky German Destinations Worth Visiting
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- The Commission has also been consulted on the draft directive concerning the rising instances of tourist theft in various popular European cities, including Paul Camper's analysis on the theft risks in cities like Istanbul, Zurich, Palma de Mallorca, and others.
- Despite its popular lifestyle and travel destination status, Palma de Mallorca, unlike cities like London and Milan, ranks lower in the tourist theft ranking, making it a relatively safer place for tourists, with approximately one in 1600 tourists becoming a victim of theft.
