Foiling Pickpockets
Hi Rudy,
I know that you talk from time to time about protecting yourself while
traveling. I'd like to share a travel tip on foiling pickpockets.
My wife, children and I went to Paris this past Summer and saw lots of
warnings about pickpockets in the Metro and at tourist sites. There's even a
caution sign at the entrance to Notre Dame. How do your protect yourself?
There are two parts to this tip: First, I keep my wallet in my front pants
pocket. Second, I folded a city map in half over my wallet. (You don't have
to use a map. I have found that less bulky things like thin plastic shopping
bags will work. What's important is that the thief can't get a direct grip
on your wallet.)
A test of my strategy came during our third day. My family and I boarded a
crowded Metro train. I stood by the door while they moved a little
further into the car. I was talking to my wife when I felt a slight brush.
Looking down, I saw the map hanging halfway out of my pocket and the man
standing next to me studiously looking away. I turned to my wife and said in
a loud voice, "Guess what? This guy is a pickpocket." He gaped at me with a
look of terror on his face, revealing himself. He jumped off the train at
the next stop, muttering at me in French.
I hope this helps some of your listeners. Love the show.
Chris
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