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internet cafe

We travelled to Barcelona this summer, watch out for the internet cafes! My handbag including all my valuables was stolen when I placed it on the floor next to me. It was grabbed from the otherside of the station where we were sitting. After a long night in the police station I learned others had their backpacks stolen. One thief distracts while the other grabs. They are professionals, very slick and very fast.

Posted by
32173 posts

Bonnie, thanks for the warning. Barcelona especially has had a bad reputation in the past, and it seems this hasn't changed.

Posted by
2744 posts

It's not just Barcelona. I have seen signs warning of crime like this in internet cafes in Paris and London amoung other places.

While this is a hard lesson for Bonnie, it does serve as a reminder to the rest of us. Do NOT put your valuables on the floor at an internet cafe and/or resturant! Secure that thing!

Posted by
683 posts

It isnt Barcelona or any other city or country that is a problem.It is THIEVES-- found everywhere in large numbers. Just dont do as the poster did and leave your valuables where they can be snatched away.

Posted by
808 posts

When in internet cafes, I'd rather wait a little longer for a terminal by the wall not near the entrance or exit. I like to sit with my backpack on my front with the straps over my shoulders and the strap buckled. Or if I have a bag of some sort I put the handles through my leg and dangle it from my lap, between my thighs. I try to plan my visit for the early morning when it is not so busy. If I'm with a travel partner we take turns, one guards and the other surfs. If I'm alone I make sure to keep my head up from time to time to be aware of my surroundings. Remember, thieves watch, so watch out!
If you can access a Public library, sometimes they let you use their Internet for free. Worth checking into if it's not too far out of your way. Often quieter, too.
Also, some hotels offer free access to the net for guests if you join their rewards program. Or some Airlines offer free net to members of rewards programs also. Not sure who, but I have seen this in my travels. It never hurts to ask!