Question:
is barcelona safe when it comes to muggeers?

Choices:
no, i was mugged just last week when i was with my mum on my birthday. i was shocked when these 3 black men jumped us from behind, they grabbed both our bags from around us by breaking the straps

 

I hope this is just an isolated case. I'm sorry for you and your mom. =(

I was mugged on 11/05/08 by a team of organised females. I walked along Las Ramblas during the evening when I was surrounded by a group of 8 females, all speaking in Spanish and crowding around me. I then felt a hand in my pocket and before I could stop them all my cash had been stolen. It all happened in about 5-10 seconds. They immediately surrounded my mate and tried the same on him. He was more aggressive in his defence and they left empty handed but ripped his shirt. This was in the middle of a crowded street. We tried our best to report it to a Policeman who was yards away at the time and he refused to take any details at all. He pointed us up the road and told us to report it there before driving off. needless to say, there was no-one in the direction he pointed to report it to. Since returning I have discovered a number of friends who have experienced similar events. Be very careful in Barcelona. Apparently, the Cathedral has gangs of people waiting to pick pocket you as well, look out for them! We didn't get to go as we cut the trip short due to this incident.

I live in Barcelona and work quite near Las Ramblas - only last week I had to direct a fellow English couple to the nearest Police Station as the male had his wallet stolen. The only thing I can say is be alert and keep your eyes open. Don't make yourself "too touristy" with cameras dangling round your neck and bags everywhere. one good trick is to buy yourself a Spanish newspaper.

Also, watch out on Las Ramblas there are many "live" statues which people gather round and take photos of. You're a sitting duck if you don't keep hold of your belongings here.