Rome is all about the savoring the sights, the sounds, the people, the culture, the architecture, and of course, the food! But sadly, because of so many tourists, many dangers can strike when you least expect it to sour your trip.
Follow these 10 safety tips to keep you and your traveling companion’s safe while in Rome…
1. Beware of Pickpocketing
Beware of pickpockets on public transit and in crowded areas where people are packed in closely.
2. Don’t Act Like a Tourist
Reduce your risk of being a victim of a pickpocket by keeping the fact that you’re a tourist under wraps—meaning don’t become distracted when studying maps, taking pictures, or carrying large amounts of cash and personal belongings.
3. Leave Extra Cash Behind
Take only what you need and leave your personals and extra cash locked up at the hotel and carry only the cash you need in a money belt that’s tucked away on your person.
4. Lock Up Your Valuables
Use a purse or bag with zippers and a secure handle or a money belt if traveling with extra cash and personal documents.
5. Keep Hold of Purses/Wallets
Keep a firm hand on your purse or wallet on the subway or in crowded areas.
6. Stay Cool
If you visit Rome during the summer, temperatures can soar above 30-degress Celsius or 86-degrees Fahrenheit so bringing a bottle of water is important to stay cool and hydrated.
7. Be Wardrobe Smart
Rome is full of ruins and old sites that provide tripping and falling hazards. For this reason, wear comfortable, flat walking shoes.
8. Walk Carefully
When exploring ruins try to be aware of where you are walking and always ensure secure footing so you don’t fall or sprain your ankle.
9. Ignore Unwanted Attention
Women traveling alone in Rome need to be ready for unwanted and sometimes aggressive male attention. Although it’s hardly ever dangerous, you will get whistled at and called out to on the streets. The best way to divert it is by ignoring it.
10. Speak Up
Getting groped is common, particularly for lone women travelers, on the Metro and several buses. To avoid it, steer clear of cramped spaces and if you are groped react forcefully and loudly with a phrase like, “vai via” (or “go away”).
