Before I went to Paris a few years ago, I read about a scam that gypsy youths were perpetuating. It involves a gold ring that a young man finds on the ground in front of you. He picks it up and asks if you dropped it. When you reply in the negative he looks inside the ring and points out a mark that proves that it is real gold. The engaging young man offers to sell it to you for a much higher price than he very recently paid for it. Forewarned is forearmed. When a “lost” ring was found at my feet, more than once, I laughed and shook my head no.

While visiting Ephesus in the southern part of Turkey, we stayed in a small town called Selçuk, known for its nesting storks, rugs and the Bascilica of St. John. After dinner our first evening we strolled over to the ruins of the Bascilica. It had closed for the evening, but a “helpful”man standing nearby told us he worked there and would be glad to sneak us in and show us around. I had been told by the owner of the inn to beware of this man. He was known for sneaking people in, getting them lost and then demanding money to show them out. We politely declined. He then showed us some antique coins he’d found and offered to sell them. It’s almost always illegal to take antiquities out of any country, even if they had been antiques.

I have felt safer in any city in Europe than in large cities in America. Violent crime is very rare. Always keep an eye on your money and on those around you, though. Pay attention when money is counted back to you, and try to use as small a bill as you can when paying. Leave your expensive jewelry at home, but also leave your fear behind. Enjoy!