There are a few geographic areas that may expose you to petty crime more than others. When touring Paris or Marseille, for example, your chances of falling victim to mugging or pick pocketing are greater than when visiting a more rural area.
The reason for this is simple. The sheer size of the city puts both tourists and locals in front people who are likely to commit crime. Indeed, the same could be said about New York City in comparison to a small town in rural America.
To ensure your safety when visiting France, there are few things you’ll want to bear in mind.
If you are a woman, consider purchasing a knapsack type purse that as you are walking, it isn’t exposed to an on-coming bicyclist or walker who can easily snatch it as he happens by. If this doesn’t appeal to you, there are purses that cross over one shoulder and hang about the opposite side of your body. This keeps your arms free at all times.
If you are a man, placing your wallet on the inside front pocket, rather than your back pocket will foil any would be pick pocketer’s day.
Apart from that, given that crime in France tends to be relegated to those that are petty in nature, following these simple suggestions will indeed ensure your safety. The French, after all value eating, drinking and having fun with friends and family above most everything.
