Is that REALLY an old crippled lady? and other Rome, Italy Warning Or Danger Tips

Next time you're about to give your hard-earned cash to that elderly woman with the pathetically twisted body who is begging near one of the major sites or churches in Rome (usually the Forum, Coliseum or Campidoglio) -- take another look.

Hmmm. Notice that she is bent over, so low that you can't see her face. Notice that her face is completely covered. Take another look at the hand accepting the donation (if it isn't covered by a worn glove). It looks younger than mine!

If you want to pay for a street performance, go ahead!

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While Rome is generally much safer than American cities, there are many skillful pickpockets about.

Many people who will tell you that they didn't have a problem with pickpockets or other scam artists during their visit to Rome. I'm sure they didn't. But do 100 per cent of tourists have to be ripped off before you believe there's a threat?

Obviously, you could ignore advice about keeping your money and credit cards in a safe place, and not have a problem. But.....

On a recent trip to Rome, and our last morning there, we heard an American couple tell their tale of woe at breakfast. They took the crowded Metro, and before the husband knew what happened to him, pickpockets had taken his wallet out of his pants pocket, took the $400 in it, and put the wallet back in his pocket! Later, on the same train, two other con artists tried the same thing!

Just that morning, the couple had discussed whether or not he should use the money belt.

It's the same old story; you never think it could happen to you. So, bring your money belt and use it!

Here's a photo of the one I use. It's very thin and comfortable (the part that touches your skin feels great even in hot sticky weather). I put most of my money, my credit cards and bank card in it, and it's virtually invisible under my clothes.

If you carry a purse, best to shorten the strap and hold it UNDER your arm. (You'll see most Italian woman walking with their purse this way.) Keep all zippers closed and in front.

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Sometimes there are gypsies aggressively begging in or near the train station, on subways, etc. You need to pay attention if they are around, but don't worry obsessively. Most of the time, especially on my last few visits, I don't see them and am not bothered by them.

However, it can happen. It is especially disturbing if a young woman carrying a baby accosts you.

A good strategy is to say, "Vai via!", (vye VEE-ah!) It means simply "Go away" but they'll be surprised that you said it!

Polizia! (poh-leet-TSEE-ah!) - which means "Police!" - is another good word.

Also, it pays to be suspicious of anyone who offers to help you if you haven't asked for any help. This is especially true around train stations. Do NOT let anyone take your ticket to "help" you find your train. As my VT friend and Rome guru, Bill McCalpin, says, just put on your New York face and New York attitude.

Italians in tourist towns see so many tourists, it is possible, but unlikely they will try to help you unsolicited. Often, only a con artist is there to "help."

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