Loyola University Chicago

The Tourist, A Thief's Dream

Although Rome is not known for dangerous crime, tourists often become victims of petty crime. Most of these crimes occur in crowded areas such as flea markets, buses, subways and tourist sites. The Roman Forum and Colosseum are the favorites for thieves because of the large number of tourists carrying cash and cameras. In the first nine months of 1993, there were 2,458 petty thefts in Rome.

Rome's No. 64 bus, often jammed with people, runs from the main train station to the Vatican and is notorious for pickpockets. Lisa Franzia, Katie Lillevand and Cheri Blatter, Loyola Rome Center students, were unaware of the reputation of the No. 64, but found out quickly after a Roman citizen warned them of a man trying to get into their bags. Franzia found her fanny pack unzipped. Nothing was taken but she said she felt "violated, scared and angry." Taking advantage of crowded spaces, thieves rifle through belongings unnoticed.

Resident Assistant Ana Kaahanui, recalls an incident last spring where a group of men threw a white substance on a student walking down the street, and immediately came to her aid, helping her to remove her bag and coat so she could clean up the mess. They then ran off with her bag. This type of practice is common for gypsies who use a diversion to distract the tourist. Gypsy children will do this by playing games, selling newspapers or begging. Mothers will also use their babies to draw people's attention away from their valuables.

Simply looking less like a tourist can help. If you look as if you know what you're doing, you're less likely to be a victim. Katie Lillevand said, "We definitely stuck out; I was mad at myself for being so clueless." On her next trip into the city, she stashed her camera and maps into one simple bag. She walked confidently with a destination in mind. If you're lost or confused, walk purposefully into a shop or bar and check your map inside. Look confident and always be aware of your surroundings and the people around you.

Invest in small padlocks or luggage locks to keep bags safe. It's a good idea to wear a money pouch. Any money or important documents should be kept in a pouch hidden underneath clothing. Visible wallets or purses are an advertisement that you are carrying money. It is common for thieves to walk by or ride by on a motorcycle and snatch a purse or camera from a tourist's shoulder. Always wear these items across your body, making them harder to snatch.

Thieves should be no reason to worry you or ruin your time in Rome, simply be alert to what is going on around you.