Damned Thieves!
We cannot stress enough that you must be careful with your belongings--especially wallets, purses, cameras, and cell phones. The following information is the result of much experience living in Sevilla. Trust us, you will have a much better time if you take our advice.
Tips to avoid trouble
Sevilla is a very safe city, except for a surprising amount of petty theft. The rule of thumb is if you leave something unattended, it is gone.
1. Be aware of your belongings at all times. Especially when you go out at night. If you set down your cell phone or camera phone for a second, there is a good chance you will not see it again.
2. Do not carry your passport with you (unless traveling out of the country). A photocopy in your wallet should be more than enough.
3. You might want to invest in travel insurance. A good travel insurance plan may come in handy in case of theft or sickness.
4. Know your credit card insurance policy. If your cards are stolen or lost, you may not have to cancel right away. It may be better to wait a day to see if it turns up to avoid the hassle of having a new card sent from your home country. Most credit card companies allow you to refuse fraudulent charges.
5. Be careful down by the river late at night. Groups of young punks hang out to drink and look for reasons to mess with people. While they look like scrawny little kids, they travel in large numbers.
6. Girls should not walk home alone late at night. Spending a few euros on a cab ride is a cheap and safe option. If you must walk, have a male friend accompany you.
7. Also be careful (girls especially) jogging or walking in parks or down by the river at night, dusk, or during siesta. It is best to avoid areas with few people.
8. We repeat: Keep an eye on your belongings. You will be amazed at how just a moment of distraction could mean losing a cell phone or a camera.
If something is stolen or you need the police dial 112. For emergency services information click here.
Scams to watch out for in Sevilla
Friendly gypsy women offer you a sprig of rosemary and a palm reading for free. Before you know
it, they drop the smile and demand 10€ for services rendered. They love getting the tourists with
this one. Just say no.
Mo-ped thieves will pull the old snatch and run as they drive-by. Just walk with your belongings
away from the street. If they do catch hold...just let go.
Bag snatchers cruise bars and restaurants looking to lift purses. Do not leave your bags by your
feet! Keep them in sight.
Be careful with distractions. They often approach you with a map and ask for directions. While
they keep you occupied they (or a buddy) sneak away your belongings.