Should you decide to visit Nice, France some of the concerns that you are likely to have include the safety of the city. The same as with any travel destination it is important to take certain precautions and to be aware of possible risks. In this article, you will find out more about the safety prospects of Nice as well as useful advices on how to travel without any incident.
Identifying the Safety Picture in Nice
Nice is normally seen as a safe destination for tourists. It is safer than many other metropolitan areas in the country of France. However, like any other famous travel destination, there are several risks which tourists need to be warned about.
1. Petty Theft
Perhaps, one of the biggest concerns that the tourists might face in Nice is pick pocketing. Tourist places, bus, and train are some of the areas which you can experience pickpocketing at the beach. In order to maintain your safety level, you should also stay vigilant regarding your belongings and it is not recommended to take much value with you.
Do not carry your wallet or phone in a back pocket and it is recommended to use an anti theft bag or money belt. It is also good to photocopy your documents such and keep them in a different place as the original ones such as your passport.
2. Scams and Touts
As in any other tourist area, there will be con artists and peddlers out in Nice. Such people may con you into parting with your cash or make you pay through your nose for what you would have otherwise bought freely. Always avoid people who offer anything to do with you at first sight, for those are the most common scam artists.
Visitors should hire a recognized company or web to book for their tours, lodges, and transport. Before making a decision, it is advisable to search for credible service providers, and also, it can be helpful to read other people’s experience at the site.
Staying Safe in Nice
1. Stay Vigilant
In Nice, there’re numerous issues that should be taken into account while moving around the city. Stay alert in environment, when walking around crowded places and streets or while using public transport. Walking alone late at night in areas with low visibility or with little traffic should be discouraged. If you feel unsafe, probably some people around you make you feel uncomfortable, you better take a taxi or use any public transport than walking.
2. Use Reliable Transportation
Nice boasts of efficient public transport means, which include buses and trams. Use these chances of transport when you are moving around the city especially if you are new in the area.
In case you hire a car, you should ensure that you have information on the road Map and laws of France. Do not attempt to drive a car for you might just realize that traffic in Nice is rather crazy especially during summer.
3. Stay Informed
Before your travel it’s wise to familiarize with the current safety climate in that area of Nice you plan to visit. Before travelling always seek information from your country’s government or from news channels about any hazards that may exist.
Think about joining STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program) of the U.S. Department of State or another program in your country. These programs can offer you important safety update and help in any safety risk occurrence for the course.
4. The first step the visitors should take is respect the customs and laws of the county they are visiting.
Having respect for the customs and laws is very paramount when one is in any foreign country he visits. Learn as much about Nice’s etiquette and culture so that if you do find yourself in a hotel during the time of a certain kind of celebration make sure you dress appropriately.
In addition to this, be conscious of the laws and regulations of the land a that you operate from. For instance, under French law, it is prohibited for people to consume alcohol with the open and public space with the exception of licensed areas such as restaurant and café.
Final Thoughts
every place can promise that citizens and tourists will not fall victims to some or other type of crime, however, as for Nice, France, it is possible to state that this city is rather safe for tourists and travelers. If you are careful, keep your guard up and take necessary precautions you should be able to enjoy your time here in this beautiful city worry free.
Do not forget to keep an eye on your belongings at ALL time and also to be wary of any scammers out there, but also to follow the customs and laws of the country you are visiting. By ensuring that you are prepared for what you are likely to meet out there and knowing the best places to visit, your vacation in Nice will be fun and incident free.
