There is never any guaranteed way of avoiding trouble when you are travelling abroad but there is one simple rule that will help.

 

When in crowded or known dodgy areas dress down.

If you don’t look as if you might have plenty of money on you and you are not flashing jewellery or a bulging wallet then potential thieves will look for someone who is. When in Rio de Janeiro my wife even left her wedding ring in the hotel safe - the first time she had ever taken it off her finger - but it meant we could go out and about even in the early hours of the morning without getting troubled.

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When  travelling abroad the be alert and observant, and report any unattended items or suspicious activity by individuals to the local police or appropriate authorities. You can call 112 to contact the emergency services in any EU country.