Safety Tips

Spain and Argentina have low violent crime rates, but, as in all cities, petty theft is a reality in Seville, Alicante, and Córdoba. It is important for you to take some simple precautions. 

To avoid being labeled as a typical American tourist, and therefore more susceptible to petty theft, there are a few rules you should follow. Most are basic common sense.

• Don't leave your belongings unattended—no wallets placed on bars, no purses left at your table, nothing placed on the ground next to you. Don’t leave your jackets on the back of chairs. If you enter clubs, the only safe place to leave your jacket is a coatroom service. If you stash it anywhere else, it might not be there when you come back.
  

• Don’t speak English loudly in the streets. This can easily attract pickpockets and scam artists, and could get you in even more trouble late at night—especially if you are in a less safe area of a city.
  

• Don’t walk by yourself at night. Night time is when many thieves will try to target tourists who are heading back to their hotels. Either walk with a friend or take a taxi any time you are out late.
  

• Don’t wear clothes that will instantly identify you as an American tourist. Pay attention to what locals wear and adjust your wardrobe to more closely match.
  

• Don’t invite thieves by wearing expensive jewelry or by carrying cameras, cell phones, or electronic music players. Backpacks and purses are often targeted, especially in crowded areas. Wear your backpack on your front and make sure valuables are not packed in easily accessible places. Sling your purse from one shoulder to the other side and hold your belongings close to you.
  

• Don’t hang out in places where lots of Americans congregate. This doesn’t mean Spanish Studies Abroad, just more touristy spots like the Hard Rock Cafe, or McDonald’s.