Dirt Cheap Barcelona

No matter where you are traveling, it is always important to keep into consideration the safety of yourself, along with anyone that you might be with. Barcelona is a magnificent area with loads of great tourist spots to visit. This is exactly why the not-so-nice people tend to be more concentrated here.

The most important key to keeping yourself safe is to try to not attract attention. There are always the tourists who travel down the street with their maps out trying to pinpoint where the heck they are, and where they want to go. During this process, they have ample bags left unguarded or even unopened. This is the worst possible thing you could do. If possible, try obtaining a GPS, or something discrete because it is much less obvious to crooks. They are on the look-out for the easy “prey”.

If you are traveling to Barcelona, I’m sure you know what Las Ramblas is. This is a huge tourist spot during the day and even into the night. It is not recommended, however, to roam Las Ramblas in the nighttime. The most abundant source of crooks? Prostitutes. Prostitutes line all up and down Las Ramblas during the night, and typically double-up as a pickpockets as well. They will sometimes work in teams to try to get whatever items they want from you. To prevent them from pick pocketing you, the best thing to do is keep your distance. Don’t let them pull you in close, or lock arms with you. If this happens, and you do get pick pocketed, it is not recommended that you try to retrieve your item. They will typically quickly hand off the item to another person for safety, that way they can claim they don’t have anything.

If a thief attempts to approach you, there are a few things that you should do. The first, and most important, is to just keep walking. Whatever you do, don’t stop to talk to them. Keep saying “no”, and walk quickly. It is also advised that you do not make eye contact, because they can see this as a sign of weakness.

Another key thought to keep in mind at all times, is to always know where your valuables are, and always keep them protected. A really good way to keep everything in a safe place is a fanny-pack. These are great because you can always keep them in front of you and in your sight. They are a lot harder for thieves to break into and steal your items. No matter what it is, you must keep an eye on it.

Barcelona is a rather safe place, but wherever you may go, there will be thieves and crooks. So always be aware of your surroundings. Do not ever take your eyes off of your items, and never ever talk to strangers. Don’t be too worried though, because during the day Barcelona is a great spot to be, and you will have a lot of fun. Be safe, and have fun!

Our suggestions for value for money accommodation:
Rialto Hotel - Central hotel in the Gothic Quarter.
Pere IV - Contemporary in Gracia. Close to centre.
Transit - Excellent budget hotel. Clean and w/ decent rooms.
Something else? Try these BCN searches: Alpha | Hotels | Hostels

 

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