Introduction

As for any foreign traveler, the best way to enjoy the beauty of Barcelona is by having knowledge of places where you feel safe walking. In general Barcelona is quite safe but like any other large city tourists should avoid walking around some neighborhoods as these areas are considered dangerous or potential for pick pocketing. In this Barcelona survival kit, we will outline some places to stay clear of in this splendid city to give ourselves a vacation without a hitch.

Barri Gòtic (Gothic Quarter)

The Gothic Quarter is possibly Barcelona’s most famous and traditional neighborhoods that have winding and narrow alleys and beautiful little plazas. As much as it is safe for use throughout the day, it should be noted that after dark extra vigilance is needed especially when venturing deeper into some of the covered and ill lit corridors. Begging and pick pocketing is usually witnessed in thick end crowds, therefore, avoid flashy items in regions with many people.

El Raval

El Raval which is near Barri Gothic has been a focus of some of the most important regeneration processes in recent years. Many areas today are multicultural and youthful like this district, but it still contains areas that perhaps are more vulnerable to pick pocketing. Some of the districts and parks are quite deserted, so use common sense while strolling through the city at night, it is better to walk with a company or be accompanied by a local, or at least carry a lamp.

La Barceloneta

La Barceloneta is a young and popular seashore area famous for its fishermen’s quarter, shrimps corner and cocktails corner. Although, most tourists like visiting the spots of the city, one should always be cautious, particularly when taking a walk at the beach or the marina. Be wary of anyone offering and approaching you with services or goods, swim near others, do not leave personal belonging unattended on the beach or in the water.

El Raval

Barri Gotic’s neighbor El Raval has also been steadily overhauled in recent years. Of course it is different now – multifacial, multicultural but it may still have the areas which are more likely to be exposed to small-time thuggery. However, do not wonder in some of the less crowded streets or in the parks at night and it is still advisable to avoid walking at night in areas which have poor lighting.

Las Ramblas

Las Ramblas, is one of the most popular street of Barcelona along with being a very active commercial area of the city. Despite being among the top attractions, it is also one of the most favorite areas for the pickpockets because of the New Year flood of tourists. Stay aware of what is going on around you, never let your bags out of arms length and do not get distracted by musicians or people coming up and talking to you.

Suggestions relating to safety in Barcelona

Now that you are aware of some areas to avoid in Barcelona, here are some general safety tips to keep in mind during your visit:

• Secure your property and do not possess valuable items at any one time.
• It is advisable to carry your documents and cash in a money belt or better still in a neck pouch.
• If you have to travel at night by public transport, avoid using public taxi’s instead go for licensed taxi’s or using Uber or the Cabify.
• Be wary of strangers who act friendly, or strange, who approach you with stories or offers that sound all to good to be true.
• In the evening or at night, and especially, do not walk in the deserted or dim-lit places alone.
• Avoid high risk districts and avoid poorly lit streets and alleys.
• When utilising the ATMs be sure and do not allow your pin to be seen by anybody in case it gets to be stolen.
• It is advised that you buy a travel insurance policy that includes theft and your property.

Conclusion

If one has knowledge of the no-go zones in Barcelona and has encompassed some precordial safety measures, then he or she can take a pleasant tour around this remarkable city. And one more thing – don’t forget to be watchful and use your brain all the time when you are traveling, and concerning this, you are welcome to use this information as a kind of guide in your trip. Safe travels!