Tourists heading to Paris for the Olympics and Paralympics this summer have been warned to protect themselves and their valuables from pickpockets.
Quotezone’s European pickpocketing index revealed France has one of the highest pickpocketing rates in Europe.
The research showed hundreds of people have complained about their valuables being stolen when visiting iconic tourist attractions in France.
Aside from Italy, France has the highest pickpocketing rate in Europe’s most popular tourist hotspots.
With more than 15 million tourists expected to flock to Paris for the Games, travel insurance experts at Quotezone have provided some pointers on how to stay safe.
The Eiffel Tower has the highest pickpocketing rates, so tourists should be extra vigilant if planning to visit the iconic monument during their trip.
Other popular tourist spots like the Arc de Triomphe and the Cathédrale Notre-Dame will also bring in larger crowds than usual, making them convenient places for criminals to target unsuspecting holidaymakers.
Pickpockets can move more inconspicuously at these popular spots and snatch purses, wallets, phones, jewellery and other valuables, often without victims even noticing.
Travelling between hotspots can also be dangerous, recently Metro lines have started to make announcements warning travellers to stay vigilant and protect possessions from potential pickpockets onboard.
The pickpockets can work by themselves or use an accomplice for distraction, so tourists need to be on their guard. There are precautions individuals can take to protect themselves and deter thieves.
Non-essentials such as jewellery and extra cash should be left in a safe at the hotel and tourists should keep their credit cards, phones, cameras, and wallets zipped up and visible, if they have to carry them into these areas.
It’s recommended to use a cross-body bag and wear it on the front of their body in large crowds, sealed inner pockets are also a good option.
Travellers can also buy wallets or purses with RFID blockers, for protection against digital pickpockets, who can use nearby devices to scan your bank card details.
Important paperwork, such as passports, visas or vaccination documents should be left locked in a safe if possible – travellers should also make copies and hide them elsewhere just in case.
Tourists should not only be vigilant when moving in crowds, but it’s also important to keep belongings close when sitting down in a restaurant or bar, or using public transport.
When withdrawing money from an ATM, it’s crucial not to engage in conversations with strangers and make sure to protect the PIN number. Also be aware of any suspicious additions to the machine and try to use ones located inside the bank branch for extra security.
Additionally, ensuring comprehensive travel insurance coverage can provide peace of mind in case of any unfortunate incidents.
Make sure to take out the policy at the same time as making the booking and add any extras that could be needed such as gadget insurance or personal cash compensation because often these don’t come as standard.
CEO and travel insurance expert at Quotezone, Greg Wilson said: “Paris is one of the most famous cities in the world and in high demand year after year as a must-see tourist destination.
“This summer will be incredibly popular, as millions of tourists are expected to visit Paris for the Olympics and Paralympics – unfortunately this also makes it a hotspot for pickpocketing, so travellers need to be aware.
“With the extra surge in tourists, pickpockets will be on the lookout for unsuspecting travellers to target, so its important people take extra precautions to protect themselves so they can enjoy the festivities.
“We are warning tourists to be aware of the potential hazards that come with travelling abroad, especially around popular sightseeing spots in the city like the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre Museum.
“It’s crucial for tourists to always be aware of their surroundings, keep their belongings secure, and consider investing in anti-theft accessories such as money belts or cross-body bags.
“To minimise losses, it’s best to map out your routes and travel plans before you set off each day and carry as little of value as possible – leaving extra cash, key documentation, expensive jewellery and electronics behind at the accommodation.
“Those travelling to see the Olympics should also familiarise themselves with their travel insurance to check what is and isn’t covered and consider adding gadget travel insurance if they’re travelling with expensive electronics or cameras or using specialist products such as backpacker travel insurance.
“Remember to also get a police report for the loss or theft of an item if you’ve been pickpocketed, as this will help support the insurance claim.”
Quotezone can help travellers compare travel insurance and find savings, for those travelling to the Olympics from Northern Ireland, CompareNI.com can help.
