Cruise passengers told to ‘stay far, far away’ from these six European cities

Cruise passengers have been advised to steer clear of six European cities due to safety concerns, according to travel expert Gary Bembridge. Bembridge emphasised that not all ports are safe for tourists, even when the cruise ship docks there. He highlighted that some of the Mediterranean’s popular ports pose safety risks, particularly with pickpockets targeting tourists. These cities include Barcelona in Spain, Rome and Livorno in Italy, which acts as the gateway to Pisa and Florence, as well as Athens in Greece. Bembridge, speaking on his Tips for Travel YouTube Channel, described the crime in these areas as typical “big city crimes”, such as pickpocketing and theft. He advised travellers to exercise caution, as incidents of theft have been reported by cruise passengers in each of these cities.

In Barcelona, Bembridge warned that tourists are most vulnerable to pickpocketing along La Rambla, a bustling street known for street performances and a variety of shops and restaurants. He recounted incidents of pickpocketing during a recent cruise to Rome, where tourists fell victim at separate locations in the Italian capital. Similarly, in Athens, one of Bembridge’s followers lost her passport to a pickpocket on public transport, causing disruption to her planned cruise. Travellers heading to Livorno, often used as a portal to Florence and Pisa, were cautioned to be vigilant when exploring larger tourist cities. Bembridge advised travellers to check travel advisories for each port, opt for organised excursions for added safety, and keep details of the local port agent for assistance in case of emergencies.

In conclusion, tourists embarking on cruises to popular European cities should be mindful of safety risks and take necessary precautions to ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience. Prior research, staying alert to surroundings, and adhering to expert advice can help mitigate potential risks and ensure a memorable cruise vacation.