Is this normal in Rome? I’ve not had these experiences in other parts of Europe…How can I enjoy my stay?
I’ve been traveling around Europe and just came from Madrid, where everything was great. People were friendly, prices matched what I was told, and nothing felt sketchy.
I landed in Rome today and within a few hours:
- Had a €9 Freenow ride turn into €22 because the driver went the “wrong way”, Freenow refunded the difference when I contacted them.
- Someone tried reaching into my back pocket near the Colosseum, I expected this so didn’t have anything in my pockets…But didn’t expect it to happen within hours of landing.
- Had someone spit on my leg in the street for seemingly no reason
- We were waiting in line at an art print store and a lady pushed herself in between us and the other person so she could skip the line
- We went to a connivence store and realized when we got back he charged us £20 for 3 bags of £5 snacks
On the plus side…we had a good experience at the restaurant we went to, but these other experiences overshadow the positives.
It feels like everyone is trying to scam here. Is it seriously this bad in Rome?? Or am I just having unusually bad luck on day one? I’ve not had these experiences in other parts of Europe. I’d really like to find a way to enjoy my time here and not feel constantly on guard.