Buenos Aires: Strategies: Tips: Safety: Watch Off

Safety: Watch Off

Violent crime in B.A. is not as frequent as it is in Rio. However, tourists are a prime target and particularly those wearing nice watches. Advice from an Argentine friend: Leave your watch and jewelry at home and buy a Swatch in the airport. The Alvear hotel staff has even been known to check the wrists of their patrons as they head out the door and recommended that they leave their Rolexes in a safe. Unfortunately, a number of friends who have not been warned or failed to heed the warning, have had their watches snatched off of them in daylight on the nicest avenues. It’s always wise not to carry your passports with you but just a credit card and some cash. Be especially alert in the La Boca area, where pickpockets and muggers are more brazen than in the rest of the city.