Gypsies in italy...?

Question

Im going to Italy in a few weeks and ive been told some crazy stories about what they will do to try and steal your luggage. I was told that they even throw a baby at you so you drop your stuff to catch it so they can then grap your stuff and run for it which sounds crazy, I mean what if you dont catch the baby? I find it hard to believe some of the things I have heard but Im still a little bit freaked out and I know I will be paranoid the whole time and it will ruin the trip for me. So do I have any thing to be worried about? Thanks in advice I feel kinda silly asking but I just want to make sure :)

Answer 1

Depending where you are going in Italy, you may have problems with crime and not only with the gypsies.  If you are in Rome and a couple of other cities including those in Sicily, you should always be on the lookout.  Other places in Italy don't have those problems and you can walk around without incident.  It's good to have an Italian friend with you if you can.  

Answer 2

Oh my God!

I was born and raised in Rome and I've been living here for 27 years; and I've never felt like I needed to carry a gun with me, when going out... Ok, there are gipsies. I am one of those who think that they should be chased away as soon as possible, but this is what I call exagerating!!! You have to pay attention on public transportation because there are many pickpockets, you have to avoid sone dangerous areas by night, like the railway station for instance; because you might be robbed, you will surely meet lots of gipsy children begging in the streeets, you should avoid to wear big and bright jewels unless you're going to a party, but please don't let fear ruin your journey 'cause there's no reason!

Answer 3

Yes, there are gypsies (Roma) in Itlay that are known to try and pickpocket people, especially American tourists.  Someone in my tour was almost pickpocketed when his Italian born wife came over and chased them away.  They often have young children distract someone while another child or woman swoops in to steal the wallet. Italians are getting fed up with the problem and are trying to crack down on them.

http://www.gypsygirlpress.net/gypsynews/...

Answer 4

you might be safe...seems like hundreds were just arrested...

http://www.citizensugar.com/1632484

http://moderndaycrusaders.blogspot.com/

read this one...it's about the babies..

http://www.digitaljournal.com/article/24...

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2008/may...

http://aw2w.blogspot.com/2008/07/dangero...