I don’t want to be an alarmist but the last two days in Buenos Aires I have personally witnessed two incidents of robbery. Both were of the grab-and-run variety. On Sunday I saw someone have her digital camera taken right out of her hands while she was taking a photo. Last night at the corner of Corrientes and Av 9 de Julio, right by the Obelisk, a tourist was robbed of his wallet. The thief stuck his hand in the guy’s front pocket and then dashed off in the other direction.

Living in Buenos Aires, I still feel like this is a relatively safe city…as much as any other large city. However, seeing these two incidents back-to-back made me wonder if there was an increase in these types of crimes in Buenos Aires. Of course, it´s very difficult to know that since most of the crimes go unreported. And, unfortunately, the police do not seem too interested in stopping this activity or taking reports about it. So, just a little reminder for travelers to be cautious about their valuables. Thieves act quickly, when you least expect it. Don’t be paranoid but be do be aware of your surroundings at all time.