Out of sight, out of luck

The letter about crime problems in Barcelona (May ’08, pg. 58) brought back an interesting (and embarrassing) memory from when I was there in September ’07, traveling alone and independently.

I almost memorize Rick Steves’ guidebooks before going to any city, since they always give me the info I need. He writes that you are more likely to be targeted for theft on the Ramblas in Barcelona than anywhere else in Europe. If you see people doing distracting things, you should put your hands in your pockets before someone else does.

On my first morning in Barcelona, while waiting for the first walking tour to leave from the tourist information center at Place de Catalunya, I was sitting on the Ramblas having a cup of coffee and a muffin. Now, I would like to blame the following on jet lag, because it sounds better than stupidity.

I put my day bag by my feet. And, yes, there were people “doing distracting things.” When I looked down, the bag was gone. I knew instantly what had happened! I considered looking for it but knew that that was futile.

Fortunately, I actually do sometimes pay attention to Rick, and I always keep the critical documents (passport, credit cards, money) in my money belt. I did lose my camera, prescription sunglasses, guidebooks and metro pass.

I had two choices: let this incident ruin my vacation or decide to buy a new bag and go on. Of course, I did the latter. However, I did learn a good lesson, and my friends now know that I am not a flawless traveler.

NORMA JENKINS

Ft. Lauderdale, FL