Barcelona is the capital of Catalonia in Spain, a city that is cheerful and engaging for millions of tourists from all over the world. The people of Barcelona has fine qualities that make tourists and other visitors appreciate their city in different ways. However, as with any tourist attraction, there are certain things that everybody knows should be avoided to minimize unforeseen dangers to the tourist. In this article you will discover what not to do in Barcelona.
1. Pickpockets
It is rather sad however that the city has become synonymous with pick pocketing. The entire tourist areas are prone to the thieves but it is specifically noticeable within the areas such as Las Ramblas and Sagrada Familia. To avoid becoming a victim, always be vigilant and take the following precautions:
- All your items ought to be stored as close to the body as possible.
- External pockets and bags should not be used to carry valuable articles.
- You should invest your money into an anti-theft backpack or bag that has room for small pockets and zippers concealed inside them.
- Do not show off items such as flashy wristwatches, rings, necklaces or other glare inducing trinkets.
- Steer clear of diversions like people telling you to turn left or right, or those people who want to assist you.
2. Overpriced Restaurants
Many people associate Barcelona with food so there are areas of town that make restaurants overpriced to cater to tourists. To avoid overpaying for a mediocre meal, follow these tips:
- Learn about restaurants in that area prior to your visit by using Internet sources.
- Get off the main strip and then look for where the locals actually dine.
- Search for “Menu del Dia” which are meals during lunch hour or a choice of pre-set meals cheap burger restaurants preferable those with ‘Menu del Dia’ or lunch specials, the price will be fixed.
- You can opt to ask people you meet on the streets or even the staff working in the local hotel for more advises.
3. Scams and Fake Tickets
Fraudsters are seen all over especially where there are many tourists . Barcelona is no exception. Here are some common scams to watch out for:
- Do not patronize unauthorized ticket hawkers on the streets.
- Avoid people with cheap tickets selling touring tickets.
- There is no way you will ask people to produce their documents or other items claiming to be the police.
- Tour operators and ticket vendors who can be trusted should be used.
4. Unlicensed Taxis
When hiring a taxi when in Barcelona it is wise to hire licensed forms of transport in order to dodge cases of fare drops or fake taxis. Follow these guidelines:
- Wave your hand at a green light on the roof of the taxi; that means it is available for hire.
- First of all, check if the taxi car has a lighted official number on body.
- Put pressure on the driver to switch to the meter.
- Taxis that have not marked licences should not be hired.
5. Peddlers of Contrabands
It is advisable to avoid movements around one’s vicinity especially by street vendors who perpetuate carrying fake products and banned substances. You can find yourself on the wrong side of the law when you buy or hire the services of these vendors. I personally suggest you don’t pay attention to them and just simply go about your business as usual.
6. High level of noise in reception places
Unfortunately, some of the most visited places in Barcelona can be quite loud and even at their loudest during the high season. This means, you can go to these areas when they are not as popular or else, you can find some other tamer area to visit.
Conclusion
A little information goes a long way towards avoiding such mishaps thus if you are planning to visit Barcelona, then be prepared for an amazing experience. Restrict yourself to those much niches and be careful with pickpocketers, never measure restaurant’s price by its proximity to the area, beware of scams and fake tickets, avoid colored taxis, do not buy goods from people who can be arrested for selling them, and visit crowded places out of popular times. To fully take advantage of what this city has to offer, just follow these recommendations and enjoy your stay.
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