Choice Blog

Pick-pocketed in Provence

Ten minutes into our lovely family holiday cruising through Burgundy and Provence and my wallet had been stolen by a despicable, albeit clever, thief.

Although, I would like to wring his or her neck I know I could have prevented the theft or at least made it much less painful.

We left our cruise ship for a short morning walking tour around Avignon so I didn't need much cash or any debit cards. But I didn't leave them in the room's safe.

I didn't need my driving licence, National Trust membership card, senior bus pass, AA card, book of UK stamps or most of the other items that I can't even remember re in the wallet. But I didn't leave them safely back at home.

The wallet was expertly removed from a zipped up man bag worm at my side. My camera case was also nicked, but fortunately the camera was on my wrist at the time. The bag had clever security toggle but I hadn't used it.

I was able to cancel the cards quickly and my wife had some of her cash and her own debit card.

But having to make all the calls to get replacements for those items left me kicking myself for being complacent and ignoring the rules for travelling abroad. My wife's look echoed my own self-criticism but she was diplomatic enough to not voice it.

Anyway, with a bit of cash gone, a lot of hassle to come plus dented pride I waved goodbye to Avignon nursing G&T and resolved to be more careful next time.

Have you had a similar experience? What do you think of this article? 

To keep up to date with all the latest from Choice, or if you have something you want to share with our team, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, Instagram and YouTube