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While waiting for my train connection in Bologna, a man approaches me and began and to harass me. Even though he spoke Italian, a language I didn't understand, it's still obvious he is trying to get money from me.
I walked quickly to escape him, and luckily I did. However, luck wasn't on my side because he soon found me again.
Prime Target in a Train Station in Italy
I mean, I can't really go too far because I am waiting for my train that is going to Rimini, Italy. He begins to talk to me again. I suppose I look like a prime target.
I am traveling alone with two big backpacks on me. One of my bags has locks on it, clearly indicating I have valuables inside.
When I first entered Italy, the country clearly looks like it's going through tough economical times and I suppose that's why a lot of people turned to begging or committing crime to make a living.
Regardless, this overweight man continues to talk to me in an attempt to get money from me. I keep repeating to him "no dinero" and he kept replying back with "si dinero".
He was telling me that he needs money for the train and he wants me to give him that money so he can buy train tickets. I was firm and kept telling him "no dinero".
A Peace Offering of... a Banana?
However, he was persistent and wouldn't leave unless I give him something. Finally...he points at my banana.
I had two bananas on me as my snack for my train ride. I was more than happy to give him one of them just to get him to leave me alone.
As he was walking away, his accomplices suddenly appear from hiding behind pillars and other areas where they were concealed. It looks like they were getting ready to ambush me or other unsuspecting tourists who tries to get away from the man who was talking to me.
I couldn't believe how organize these train criminals are in Italy.
Thankfully, I gave him that banana instead of walking away again because who knows what they would have done to me if I fell for their trap.
Italy is definitely a sketchy country nowadays and it's important to look as poor as possible when taking the trains to avoid being targeted by these scoundrels that hangout in the train station.
At a later date, I was back in the Bologna train station again and I saw more gangs of these criminals hanging about trying to stop tourist (including myself) in an attempt to trap them into giving them money. Do be careful when you travel in Italy and make sure you keep your money and valuables hidden at all times.
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