PETTY THEFT & SOLO TRAVEL

One of the good channel to catch pickpockets 🪝 😁 (10/10)

https://youtu.be/lxc-pARZ7u8?si=-Kusq7q7c31o9923

When i meet pickpocket. Can I say pickpocket on a MRT or when they block me, can I shout " hey! " ( 21 January 2026 )

Yes — both are OK, and shouting is actually the right move 👍
Your safety comes first.

Here’s what to do clearly and confidently if you suspect a pickpocket, especially on MRT / metro:

✅ What you CAN shout (short & effective)

• “HEY!” (loud + sharp — draws attention immediately)

• “STOP!”

• “THIEF!” (very effective in Europe)

• “PICKPOCKET!” (people understand this word internationally)

👉 Loud public attention is the #1 thing pickpockets hate. They rely on silence and confusion.

🚨 If they block you or surround you

• Raise your voice immediately

• Say “MOVE!” or “LET ME PASS!”

• Step toward open space / staff / other passengers

• Keep one hand protecting your bag

❌ What NOT to do

• Don’t argue quietly

• Don’t chase them

• Don’t try to physically grab them (can be dangerous)

🧠 Extra smart moves (especially as a solo female traveler)

• Make eye contact and look alert (they prefer distracted people)

• Keep your bag in front of your body

• If near MRT doors, step out and re-enter another carriage

And yes — shouting “HEY!” is totally acceptable culturally.
In Europe, people would rather see someone “a bit loud” than silent and harmed.

BARCELONA THEFT

https://youtu.be/RSQlcywoE28?si=G9A5bA6D9js7SM4I

🚇 Milan Metro: WORST vs SAFER

❌ WORST (extra alert mode)

These aren’t “dangerous” — just pickpocket-friendly.

Lines:

• M1 (Red line) – Duomo, Cadorna, Centrale connections

• M2 (Green line) – Centrale, Garibaldi

• M3 (Yellow line) – Duomo, Centrale FS

Situations:

• Rush hour (7–9 AM, 5–7 PM)

• Train doors closing (classic moment)

• Escalators & stairways

• People “helping” with luggage

What to do here:

• Bag in front

• One hand on zipper

• Phone away while doors open

• Backpack → wear on chest

---

✅ SAFER (still aware, but calmer)

• M5 (Purple line) – newer, cleaner, less tourist chaos

• Late morning & early afternoon

• End cars (slightly calmer than middle)

---

🎒 BEST BAG TYPE (this matters a lot)

🥇 #1 Best: Small–medium crossbody bag

Your ideal specs:

• Worn across the chest

• Zippered top (not flap-only)

• Slim profile (not bulky)

• Strap NOT chain-only (fabric/leather is better)

Bonus points:

• Anti-theft zipper pull

• Interior pocket for phone/passport

This bag says: “I travel. I’m not confused.”

---

🥈 #2 Good: Anti-theft backpack (only if needed)

Use only if:

• You carry water/jacket/camera

Rules:

• Zippers facing inward

• Wear on front in metro

• Don’t access it while standing in crowds

---

❌ Skip these in Milan

• Tote bags (open top)

• Shoulder bags hanging on one side

• Backpacks worn normally in metro

• Bags with outer open pockets

---

👜 What I’d personally recommend for you

Based on how thoughtful and observant you are:

• Elegant crossbody (leather or structured fabric)

• Neutral color (black, beige, taupe)

• Not screaming “tourist”

• Size just enough for phone, card, lip balm, power bank

You’ll look polished, not paranoid.

---

One Milan-specific trick (locals do this)

When metro doors open:

• step slightly aside

• let others rush

• enter last

Pickpockets work in the rush — not the pause.🤍

Tips in Italy (10/10)

https://youtu.be/gkFRfuU4p7g?si=Kc-xtXPrkVjxT1Cw

🔊 I’ll rank them for you from most alert → least alert, and tell you where and how.

---

1️⃣ Milan — HIGH alert

This is the only place on your list where you really need “big city mode.”

Where to be most careful:

• Milano Centrale station

• Metro (especially rush hours)

• Duomo area

• Trams

What to do:

• Crossbody bag in front, zipped

• Backpack → front in metro

• Phone out only when stopped, not walking

• Extra alert if someone bumps or distracts you

Vibe:
Busy, rushed, tourist-heavy = perfect for pickpockets.

---

2️⃣ Nice — Medium–High alert

Not dangerous, but very opportunistic.

Where:

• Promenade des Anglais (crowds)

• Old Town (Vieux Nice)

• Trams and beach area

What to do:

• Same rules as Milan, but you can relax a bit

• Don’t leave bag on beach or café chair

• Watch phones near the sea (easy snatch)

Vibe:
Relaxed city, relaxed tourists = opportunity.

---

3️⃣ Como — Medium alert

Calm, beautiful, but tourists let their guard down.

Where:

• Ferry docks

• Train station

• Lakefront crowds

What to do:

• Bag stays with you during photos

• Sit with bag in front at cafés

• No need to be tense walking around

Vibe:
Soft target moments, not aggressive theft.

---

4️⃣ Monaco — Low alert

Very safe, very controlled.

Why:

• Heavy surveillance

• Wealthy environment

• High police presence

Still do this:

• Normal awareness

• Don’t leave phone unattended

Vibe:
Clean, orderly, almost boringly safe.

---

5️⃣ Lugano — LOWEST alert

One of the safest on your route.

Why:

• Swiss culture = orderly

• Smaller crowds

• Fewer pickpocket networks

What to do:

• Standard awareness only

• Enjoy the calm

Vibe:
You can breathe here 😌

---

Quick cheat sheet 🧠

City	Alert level
Milan	🔴 High
Nice	🟠 Medium–High
Como	🟡 Medium
Monaco	🟢 Low
Lugano	🟢 Very Low

---

yes — don’t separate from your bag.
But let me soften this so it doesn’t feel stressful, because it’s about position, not paranoia. 🤍

---

When taking pictures 📸

❌ What NOT to do

• Put your bag on the ground behind you

• Hang it on a chair or fence

• Leave it on a bench “just for a second”

• Put phone + bag down together while posing

Those “2–3 seconds” are exactly what pickpockets use.

---

✅ What TO do (easy + natural)

• Crossbody bag stays on, pulled to the front

• Zip fully closed

• One hand lightly touching the bag while you shoot

• If backpack → wear it on the front in crowded areas

Think of it like Indonesia:
You wouldn’t put your phone on the café table near the street — same logic.

---

Smart photo-taking habits (Europe mode)

These make you look normal, not paranoid:

• Step slightly to the side (away from foot traffic)

• Take 2–3 quick shots, move on

• Check photos after you walk away

• If with someone → one shoots, one watches bags

---

Special situations

Cafés & restaurants

• Bag strap around your leg or chair

• Or keep it on your lap

• Never hanging loose on the back of a chair

Museums / landmarks

• Safer, but still keep bag zipped & in front

• Crowds = higher risk, not the building itself

---

The mindset shift (important)

You’re not being “too careful.”
You’re just not giving free access.

Pickpockets don’t chase people.
They take what’s already offered.🌱

Indonesia and Europe have very different “theft cultures.” 👇

---

1. Indonesia vs Europe: the style of theft

🇮🇩 Indonesia

• Theft is often direct & physical

• Examples:

  • motorbike snatching (HP, tas)

  • forceful bag grabbing

  • intimidation

• You usually feel it immediately

• Happens more in:

  • quiet streets

  • at night

  • when alone or distracted

➡️ It’s more about opportunity + physical access

---

🇪🇺 Europe

• Theft is silent, psychological, and fast

• You often don’t feel anything

• Happens in:

  • crowded places

  • daytime

  • tourist zones

• Thieves rely on:

  • distraction

  • teamwork

  • confusion

➡️ It’s more about distraction + crowd dynamics

---

2. Which is more dangerous?

Indonesia feels scarier.
Europe feels more shocking.

Why?

• In Indonesia, you expect risk → you’re alert

• In Europe, people look “safe & polite” → you relax → that’s when theft happens

But in reality:

• Violence is rarer in Europe

• Loss is usually small (phone, wallet)

• Serious harm is uncommon

---

3. Who adapts better?

Honestly? Indonesians adapt very well in Europe.

You already:

• hold your bag close

• scan surroundings

• don’t trust strangers too easily

• know what “feels off”

Many Europeans get pickpocketed because they grew up too relaxed.

You? You already have street instincts.

---

4. If you can survive Indonesia…

…you can handle Europe.

Just switch the rule:

• Indonesia → watch the street

• Europe → watch the crowd

That’s it.

---

5. One mindset shift (important)

In Europe:
❌ “Is this person dangerous?”
✅ “Why is this person distracting me?”

If someone:

• bumps you

• asks weird questions

• creates drama (spilled drink, dropped paper)
  → Check your bag immediately

---

Final reassurance

You are not naive.
You’re not helpless.
You’re not a “perfect target.”

You’re a well-traveled, observant woman — that’s already your shield.🤍

IMMIGRATION CONCERN

It’s true that immigration and visa officers may sometimes treat young solo female travelers differently, though not necessarily unkindly. There are several reasons this could happen, and it can vary from case to case. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Concerns About Safety and Vulnerability

• Immigration officers might sometimes be extra cautious with young solo female travelers because they assume that traveling alone might pose personal safety risks. They may ask more questions to assess whether you have the necessary support systems in place for your travels, as well as your ability to navigate and handle any challenges that arise.

• Some countries, including the U.S., have a history of concerns about human trafficking or exploitation, and as such, officers may be extra vigilant when it comes to young women traveling alone.

2. Stereotyping and Bias

• Unfortunately, gender bias and stereotyping can play a role in how some immigration officers treat women. This may manifest as more scrutiny, assumptions about motives, or questioning about how a young woman will afford to travel alone, whether she has sufficient ties to her home country, and whether she poses a risk of overstaying her visa.

• Some officers may assume that young women traveling alone are more likely to be in the U.S. for tourism or other less serious reasons, which can lead to a feeling of being judged or treated unfairly.

3. Visa Types and Purpose of Visit

• Certain types of visas (like tourist visas or student visas) often require proof of strong ties to your home country to ensure you won’t overstay your visit. Immigration officers may question young solo female travelers more intensely because they perceive a potential lack of strong ties—meaning they may worry about your returning to your home country after your trip.

• If you're traveling for work or business, your visa application might be scrutinized more closely because they may assume that young women have a higher chance of being denied or not following proper regulations.

4. Increased Scrutiny for First-Time Travelers

• If you’re traveling to the U.S. (or any country) for the first time, first-time travelers are often more heavily scrutinized, regardless of gender. This is especially true for visa holders from countries where there might be a higher risk of overstaying or immigration violations. This extra scrutiny can feel like unkind treatment, but it’s often just procedural.

5. Emotional Reaction

• Unfortunately, sometimes officers might act out of their own personal biases or frustrations. If they’ve dealt with many challenging or suspicious cases that day, it could influence their mood and the way they interact with travelers.

---

How to Address This:

• Prepare thoroughly: Be clear and confident about your travel plans, including your itinerary, financial support, and reasons for returning to your home country. Show your ties to Indonesia, like employment, family, or business commitments, which can help alleviate any concerns about overstaying.

• Be respectful and patient: While it can be frustrating, maintaining calm and respectful communication is key. Immigration officers are doing their job, and staying composed can help you navigate tough questions.

• Provide additional documentation: If you're concerned about being treated differently, consider bringing along extra documentation that supports your case, like proof of accommodation, return flight bookings, or an invitation letter if you're visiting friends or family.

Should You Be Concerned?

It’s not a universal experience, and not all immigration officers will treat you unkindly. Many are very professional and understanding. However, if you feel that you’re being unfairly treated or discriminated against, you have the right to request to speak with a supervisor or file a complaint with the immigration agency.

Have you experienced this before, or are you just anticipating it for your upcoming travels?

SHOULD I USE ENGLISH or LOCAL LANGUAGES?

Many reported online. Especially if they are from Indonesia.. Hongkong isn't friendly. Rude..

My first question ❓ ⁉️ what language do you use? Mandarin? They say yes Mandarin.

Well, because you speak 🙊 🗣️ Mandarin. Hahaha 🤣. Most people will think you come from mainland China. 

Well I speak 🙊 🗣️ in English and they treat me very good. When a restaurant is full 🌕 🌝, a waitress ask people who has finished eating to go and give the the place to me. Even say " bye bye and smile to me ". They assume I am from Western country Haha 😆 

How about KOREA? I heard it's racist too. Well, here's the formula :

Speak English when visiting Asian countries that look up to Western world 🌎 ( Hongkong, Korea). They will treat you more kindly 👍👍👍

Speak Japanese 🍙 🍡 when visiting Japan..

Speak the local languages when visiting developing countries ( Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia). If you speak English, you'll get "dollar price " 😆= which means expensive 

Use your brain 🧠 and tricks to decide and what language to use..

Special for East Asia 🌏 especially Korea :

Colorism and racism can be issues in South Korea, particularly toward Southeast Asians and people with darker skin tones. Many Koreans associate lighter skin with beauty and higher social status, a belief deeply rooted in historical and cultural factors. This can sometimes result in biases against people with darker skin, including Southeast Asians.  

Some Southeast Asians, especially workers from countries like the Philippines, Vietnam, and Indonesia, have reported discrimination in workplaces, dating, and daily interactions. There have been cases where Southeast Asians were stereotyped as lower-class laborers, and some have faced difficulties in renting apartments or getting service in certain places.  

That said, not all Koreans hold these views. Younger generations and more globally aware individuals tend to be more open-minded and accepting. Also, how you are treated might depend on factors like how you present yourself, the social circles you engage in, and the places you visit.  

===> Use English! 😉 

MY EXPERIENCES ABROAD

Actually I have never travelled alone abroad.. We usually book 📕📚📔and manage our own because we like visiting spots that most people don't. Hidden gems.. It's true that even book a ticket🎟 and visa thing can be costy with travel ✈️️agent! 

But I consider to use them in the case like this :

☀️ Korea 🇰🇷visa 900k IDR. But I have to come to jakarta and stay a night at least will cost me 1,2 m = total 2,1 million IDR just to travel alone. While through agent tour travel.. The price is 1,5 m IDR. 

I PREFER TO BOOK A DRIVER AND A TOUR 

I like travelling with a person. Don't like staying alone 😞 I would rather book 📚 📖 a private driver 😕 Haha 😆 🤣 

Yes, that can help strengthen your visa application! If you book a **driver, travel agent, or guided tours**, it shows that your trip is well-organized and planned, which makes you look like a genuine tourist rather than someone trying to overstay.  

### **How to Use This in Your Visa Application:**  

✔ **Book a tour package or driver service** in advance and keep the receipts/emails as proof.  

✔ **Mention in your application/interview** that you’ve arranged transportation and assistance to make your trip smoother.  

✔ **Prepare a detailed itinerary** with hotel bookings, planned activities, and return flight confirmation.  

✔ **If possible, get a letter from the travel agent or driver** confirming their service.  

This helps because many solo female travelers face more scrutiny, and having a structured plan reassures the visa officer that you're a genuine tourist.  

ALTERNATIVE BESIDES COUCHSURFING 

BeWelcome.org → Mirip Couchsurfing, tapi gratis tanpa biaya keanggotaan

Trustroots.org → Komunitas traveler yang menawarkan tumpangan gratis

TOURS

In San Francisco and Las Vegas... Use GetYourGuide 

It's a formal and can be showed to the embassy. Because it has fees. . 

1. **Traveling Alone and Embassy Concerns:** Traveling solo as a female is generally not an issue for the U.S. embassy. As long as your visa application is complete and you can demonstrate your travel intentions and financial capacity, traveling alone should not be a problem. Security during your trip can be managed with proper planning and precautions.

2. **Finding a Travel Buddy or Traveling Solo:**  

   - **Finding a Travel Buddy:** You could join travel groups or use platforms like Meetup, Facebook travel groups, or apps like Bumble BFF to connect with potential travel companions. Look for travel forums specifically for people visiting the U.S.  

   - **Traveling Independently:** Solo travel can be empowering and offers more flexibility. To ensure safety:  

     - Research safe neighborhoods and accommodations.  

     - Share your itinerary with trusted friends or family.  

     - Use public transport apps and stay connected online for navigation.  

     - Opt for group tours at your destination for company and safety.  

Would you like suggestions on how to structure your solo trip or tips on meeting travel buddies?

TRAVEL BUDDIES 😀😉

### Tips for Structuring Your Solo Trip  

1. **Choose Safe and Popular Destinations:**  

   Opt for cities known to be traveler-friendly, such as New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles, or Chicago. Research their safety levels and avoid high-crime areas.  

2. **Plan an Itinerary:**  

   - Decide your must-visit attractions and plan activities for each day.  

   - Mix solo explorations with guided tours to socialize and feel secure.  

3. **Book Safe Accommodations:**  

   - Look for hostels, hotels, or Airbnb stays with high ratings and reviews.  

   - Consider accommodations that cater to solo female travelers.  

4. **Use Reliable Transport:**  

   - Rely on ride-sharing apps like Uber or Lyft for short distances.  

   - Learn about public transport systems for cost-effective travel.  

   - Avoid walking alone late at night, especially in unfamiliar areas.  

5. **Pack Smartly:**  

   - Carry minimal valuables and use anti-theft bags.  

   - Keep copies of important documents (passport, visa) in different locations.  

6. **Stay Connected:**  

   - Use international SIM cards or eSIMs for consistent internet access.  

   - Share your live location with family or friends through apps like WhatsApp or Find My.  

---

### Tips for Finding a Travel Buddy  

1. **Join Travel Communities:**  

   - Check out platforms like Couchsurfing, TravelBuddy, or Tourlina (designed for female travelers).  

   - Facebook groups like *Girls Love Travel* or *Female Solo Travelers* can be helpful.  

2. **Attend Local Meetups:**  

   Upon arrival, consider joining city tours or group activities to meet fellow travelers.  

3. **Use Trusted Forums:**  

   - Post your travel plans on Reddit communities like r/TravelPartners or r/SoloTravel.  

   - Be specific about your travel dates, budget, and interests.  

4. **Travel With a Purpose:**  

   - Join programs like volunteering, cultural exchange, or educational workshops. These often attract solo travelers.  

5. **Screen Carefully:**  

   - Vet your travel buddy by discussing travel styles, budgets, and interests in advance.  

   - Video call before finalizing any plans to gauge comfort levels.  

Would you like me to help you explore specific platforms for connecting with travel buddies or create a sample itinerary?

PLATFORMS 😀 📑 

Here’s more about the platforms you can use to find travel buddies or make connections during your trip:

---

### 1. **Couchsurfing**  ;; I have to pay and people gave rating 1 star ✨ 

   **Website/ App:** [Couchsurfing](https://www.couchsurfing.com)  

   - **What it Offers:**  

     Couchsurfing is a global community of travelers where you can find locals willing to host you for free or meet up for coffee and tours. It’s ideal for connecting with people who know your destination well.  

   - **How to Use:**  

     - Create a profile with details about yourself and your travel plans.  

     - Search for hosts or events in the city you’re visiting.  

     - Send personalized requests to connect with locals or fellow travelers.  

   - **Safety Tips:**  

     - Read host reviews and select well-rated profiles.  

     - Use the "Hangouts" feature to meet others nearby for group activities.  

---

### 2. **TravelBuddy**  :: website isn't private.. and it seems from India. I am not sure it works globally?

   **Website/ App:** [TravelBuddy](https://www.travel-buddy.com)  

   - **What it Offers:**  

     TravelBuddy is a platform to find travel companions globally based on destination, date, and interests. It connects you with people who want to travel to the same place at the same time.  

   - **How to Use:**  

     - Register and set up a travel plan (destination, dates, budget).  

     - Browse profiles of other travelers with similar plans.  

     - Chat with them directly through the app to coordinate trips.  

   - **Key Features:**  

     - Local buddies who can guide you.  

     - Option to create group plans with multiple people.  

---

### 3. **Tourlina** (Designed for Female Travelers)  

   **Website/ App:** [Tourlina](https://www.tourlina.com)  

   - **What it Offers:**  

     Tourlina is a travel app exclusively for women, making it safer and more comfortable for solo female travelers to find travel partners.  

   - **How to Use:**  

     - Sign up and complete a verification process to ensure security.  

     - Enter your travel destination, dates, and preferences.  

     - Swipe to find and match with other women with similar travel interests.  

   - **Safety Features:**  

     - Matches only verified users.  

     - Messaging is allowed only when both parties agree to connect.  

---

### Recommendations for Usage  

1. **Build a Detailed Profile:** Include interests, travel style (luxury or budget), and any important preferences.  

2. **Communicate Clearly:** Set expectations about expenses, activities, and responsibilities.  

3. **Meet in Public:** Arrange to meet your buddy in a safe, public place first before traveling together.  

Would you like guidance on setting up a profile on any of these platforms? Or perhaps you’d like suggestions on a safe U.S. itinerary?

IS IT SAFE, COUCHSURFING

While CouchSurfing is designed as a platform for cultural exchange and community building, it is not immune to misuse. There have been occasional reports of inappropriate behavior, scams, or even criminal activities, including potential links to human trafficking. However, these cases are rare compared to the vast number of positive experiences shared by users. Here’s what you should consider to stay safe:

1. Be Vigilant and Do Research

• Read Reviews and Profiles: Only stay with well-reviewed and verified hosts. Pay close attention to negative feedback or missing details.
• Check Identity Verification: Look for profiles with verified IDs and references from other travelers.
• Avoid New or Inactive Accounts: These might be less trustworthy.

2. Communicate Clearly

• Set Expectations: Clarify arrangements and boundaries beforehand.
• Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, don’t proceed.

3. Share Your Plans

• Inform Someone: Share your host's details, location, and plans with a trusted friend or family member.
• Use Tracking Apps: Consider apps like Life360 or Find My Friends for safety.

4. Prioritize Female-Only Hosts (if applicable)

Some women prefer staying with female hosts to feel safer. CouchSurfing has filters to help with this.

5. Stay in Public Spaces Initially

Meet in a public place first to gauge comfort levels before agreeing to stay at their home.

If you ever feel uncomfortable or unsafe, trust your instincts and leave. Always prioritize your security and well-being over social or financial pressures.