Hi Nicki, only three weeks ago you helped me online, answering my blue rate questions. Now that I am in Buenos Aires - having collected some of the money I saved through WU - and being happy to be here, I thought I would look you up and there you are: affected and hurt by this horrible experience. You look vulnarable and saddened. I am so sorry Nicki. Good that you posted this honest content. In the few days I have been here, I find that both the beauty and the poverty reveal themselves very raw. You are safe, you have someone to support you. You were also robbed and shocked. Let all that sink in. Don't rush. I think only content that matches the reality of the maker, has meaning. I am happy to be a guest here in Argentina, and moved by the friendliness of the people that have helped me out so patiently. But I am also a little shaky when walking away from a WU with a pack of cash, and confronted by contrasts seeing children surviving by climbing in and out of garbage containers. Nicki, you helped me prepare for my 10 week stay in BA. I enjoyed and learned from your videos. I hope you will slowly rediscover your obvious sensitivity for the beautiful things. Spring of 2022 is coming. Only once. Take it all in. Best wishes Nicki, take good care of yourself.
Hi Lucia, thank you so much for your kind words. And also THANK YOU so much for buying me a coffee. It was so kind of you. All the things you say are true. I really appreciate your support, and I hope you have a lovely time in BA!
Hi Nicki, by watching your videos, I know you are no longer in Argentina. I can perfectly understand the frustration and helplessness of loosing an I phone. Had it been in the US, that phone would have been recovered. Our entire lives is in our cell: our contacts, all our doctors informations and more. You followed the intuition of your heart and grabbed your bag. Remember that these guys are professionals. Thats what they do for a living. I know this will stay with you for a while. At least, some of your content was posted on instagram and you will still have some of your memories, as well as these wonderful videos on RUclips. We live in a wicked world. One day all this wickedness is going to disappear . Psalm 37:34
About 6 months ago I beat up a guy and sent him to the hospital in Mexico City for trying to snatch my phone out of my hands. He made several mistakes but the biggest mistake was getting too close to someone with a lot of experince in jiu jitsu. Normally I wouldn't fight someone trying to rob me and would just give them whatever they want because my life, and their life, is worth more to me than anything I would ever be carrying on me. This happened so fast and I've trained in jiu jitsu at least 1500-2000 hours(also roughly 500 hours or so in Muay Thai including 3 months in Thailand) in the past decade; it was just a natural reaction. If he had demanded the phone or I would have had any time to think I would have almost for sure just given it to him but since he grabbed for it and really fast like a snake bitting someone, it was just pure reaction.
My profound condolences! Your experience parallels mine in Medellin Colombia entering the Metro. What a hassle losing a phone. And your policia experience matches mine in Playa del Carmen. Absolutely NO help from the TOURIST police. My love for Mexico took a huge hit. I was very soured. You're terrific!
Thank you so much, Jeff. I’m really sorry that happened to you as well. It’s such a traumatic experience. It definitely changes your perspective on a place. For me it really took away my sense of security and comfort.
I hadn’t realized it happened in a restaurant. I’m terribly sorry but also glad it’s now been a while and I’m sure you’ll feel better with each passing day. What’s important is that you’re safe and have learned something new about the city.
Thanks Gringster. Yes, it happened at a restaurant. That is one of the reasons I had my guard down a bit more. It was a really peaceful and calm moment right before it happened, so it was a super shock. I am feeling a bit better each day. Thank you!
I'm so sorry you had to experience that! And you have really educated me and helped me to pay attention, so thank you! Also, please give yourself grace as we can't comprehend those kids' lives and what they do there is rampant in many places and has gone on for centuries. It doesn't minimize your shock of being violated; it exposes the mindset of the thieves. I love your channel - I've been considering Portugal for the past several months, and just two days ago started researching Argentina and found your great channel. Take heart, you have helped at least one retired woman from America who wants to live in a gorgeous climate, a fabulously beautiful city/area in peace, and contentment while living on a limited budget. Back to watching your videos! 🌷🙂
I'm argentinian, and I got my phone snatched from my hands TWICE. First of: this is never your fault. I understand that we should be aware of our surroundings and belongins, but getting robbed or mugged isn't our fault. Of course, we learn our lesson, we try to be more aware next time, but these guys, they always find a new way to do it. The best things to do about this, if this happens to anyone, is just getting online and loggin off or remotely deletting all apps from your phone so they can't do any more damage. Consider it completely lost right away, and move on. I'm glad you still love our city and country!!
Thank you so much, Eva! It is just such an awful feeling when that happens. I'm sorry it happened to you twice! You're right- those guys are total professionals. They will always find a way! I definitely did those things you mentioned to avoid further damage!
I know it’s been a while since this was uploaded, but I’m new to your channel and I’m so sorry this happened to you! What an absolute nightmare. People often tend to minimize thefts as being inconsequential, nonviolent, casual occurrences, but they’re actually incredibly violating and scary experiences. And the fact that you got SPAT on and had to chase them down yourself without the help of the authorities 🤦🏻♀️ My jaw was dropped throughout your entire retelling. I think as the years pass, it’ll just become one of those wild stories you tell at dinner parties, but I’m sure it’s still pretty fresh and traumatizing as of now. If anything, thank you for spreading awareness so we can all be a bit more alert 🙏🏼
Thank you so much, I genuinely appreciate this comment. So many people get really mad at me here on RUclips for expressing how I feel and how traumatizing it was. People actually love hating me for this. They judge based on their assumption of how it might feel IF it happened to them, not based on experience. So I really truly appreciate your kindness and empathy in this situation 💕
Dear Nicki, I feel very sorry for you! It’s not “just” a phone. It’s your phone and like you said, had many parts of your life in it. Sending lots of love from Canada ❤️ (I was born in Brazil, I know the feeling you just described. It’s the worst!!!)
Wow. That's crazy that it happened at a restaurant. I am in San Telmo now and hyper aware every time I pull it out to check for direction. Your videos have helped me immensely. Thanks so much. The worst is the violation of something being stolen right out of your hand. I was robbed in a bathroom stall in Grand Central Station in New York when I was 17. I was on my way to an internship in Chinatown and it was my 1st day. I normally wouldn't have used those bathrooms, as GCT was super sketch in those days late 80's, but I had to go as I still had another 30 min subway ride. I saw the hand come under the door and was so shocked as we were playing tug-war for what seemed like a really long time. I had rope burns on my hands. I couldn't even scream. They got my purse and I ran out of the stall with my pants still down running after a hand. I didn't have much in the purse, but that feeling of being violated stays with you. Thankfully I had a token for the subway in my pocket but was mortified explaining to the group my situation as I was the only one from"upstate NY." I am 50 now and can laugh about it but for awhile the city I loved looked very different. The kids in my internship and commuting for those few months taught me so much about being aware and how blessed that I have so much.I have an iPhone as well and it's crazy how attached the world has become to these devices. I love them sooooo much but the world did still go on without them. Sometimes I can't remember how.
Oh wow, what a scary and intense situation, especially at 17! It’s true that we are so overly attached to our phones! I hope you will enjoy your stay in BA! San Telmo is a great neighborhood! :)
Thank you for the video. As a South American, I recommend never running behind a robber or fighting back. Any material thing it's not worth getting stabbed or shot. South America is a great place, but these things happen. Thank you again for sharing.
One time my car got stolen in Vegas and I went to the police station, they told me I can't file a police report because the crime happened in a different county, which was only 2 blocks away. Stupid same everywhere.
I am so sorry to hear that this happened to you. I am coming to Buenos Aires in 3 weeks and have had these stories before so I went out and purchased a cheap phone to use for travel. I've seen a lot of recent RUclips videos with people just walking around with their phones in their hands and thought maybe the YT vloggers were just making a bigger deal out of it than it really is. Thank you for telling me it's real. I will keep it put away safely whenever I am out.
Hi Betty, I think that was a great idea. You'll feel less worried walking around the city. But I'm sure you'll still really enjoy BA. Have a great trip! :)
ugh, so sorry that happened to you, Nicki... we had a similar experience here in Mexico with my husband's fanny pack/man purse that was snatched off the back of his chair when we were dining (lesson learned!) that had his entire wallet, car & house keys, cash, all the things... It is such a violation. We are going to get those phone cases that you recommend for our upcoming trip, thank you for taking the time and courage to post this and share with others, so they too can be informed and empowered. I became a carbon monoxide alarm advocate of sorts after my husband was severely poisoned and almost lost his life, so know firsthand how tough it is to recount a traumatic experience, but when it has the benefit of paying it forward to protect others, it is well worth it in my opinion.
It’s really a trauma when something is taken from you. It takes away the sense that we have control over these things and often we don’t. Your advice is terrific though because the more deterrents you use the more it helps. In my childhood in NYC though we were always coached to just allow thieves to take items because it wasn’t worth our lives. It’s different when you’re a child though because you don’t have that level of pressure and responsibility. But I’ve dealt with theft in the US and other countries. My experience here has been very mixed. Not unlike what you experienced in Bs As. The attitude has mostly been don’t expect to ever see your things again. I didn’t have info like you did in terms of exactly where the object was-maybe that would have made a difference. In city precincts I don’t think so but maybe in some small towns where I’ve lived. Not sure. It such a shame that it’s taken away the joy you experienced in BA, that’s really the greatest theft of all finally. And btw not just a theft but how pd’s responded has impacted how I felt about various places. Because if you don’t feel relaxed and safe you can’t feel happy. Thank you so much for sharing your experience, because I think it will help me and others in our travels. I wish you’d have had a better resolution.
Hi Hudson. Thank you so much for your comment and your kind words. You're absolutely right. The biggest theft of all was my sense of security and love for the city. Things are getting better each day, I just find I'm much more paranoid. It is also so exhausting to constantly feel vigilant. I really appreciate your comment, thank you.
Nicki, very sorry that this happened to you. Thanks for sharing what happened and your thoughts. I hope it doesn't sour Buenos Aires for you too much - this really could happen almost anywhere. When you are traveling and living life, it is impossible to remain vigilant 100% of the time, so don't beat yourself up too much. A couple things we do to help reduce the risks: 1. We have Pacsafe retractable cable locks and use this to lock our daypacks to a chair when dining (or your purse!), 2. We get new phones every ~2 years and bring both on our trips. The old one gets the local sim and is allowed to leave the accommodations; the new one is "grounded" and has to stay in the accommodations. All our apps are on both phones with our base country sim available for emergencies. Hope you are doing better.
I completely agree. It could absolutely happen anywhere, and it does. I had my camera stolen on New Years in Vietnam, my ipod stolen in Guatemala, etc. The difference here is that it is the first time it was so aggressive and confrontational. Snatched right from my hands. That was the difference for me. With the other items, I was sad. But this experience felt so much more traumatic. Thank you so much for your kind words of support. And those are also great suggestions. I hope other people will read your comment and get some good ideas!
@@NickiPostsTravelStuff I can only imagine how much more visceral that must have been - much more personal. BTW, I think you did a great job of describing what happened, including the aftermath. I was expecting an interesting but routine cell theft video, but you had way too much drama! We'll be even more vigilant than we usually try to be when we head down in a couple months. Take care.
@@w_w_whitey Definitely much more personal! But thank you for your comment and your encouragement. There was definitely a lot of drama! hahaha I really think you'll be fine while you're here! Just be vigilant, especially in La Boca!
Amen David , i 100% recommend the same , always assume you are going to loose it someday If you have banking apps and/or your SIM card linked to your main bank account from home country , or anything critical , this should be separated from the phone you use for daily life in the streets (of course it doesnt protect from burglary but reduce the annoyance) . If you move to new country then use less expensive , not super attractive phone , you can also get it insured (but read the insurance policy carefully before purchase) with a local sim card In some countries , even as tourist you can go back to operator and buy new sim card with same phone number , and you can also give the IMEI of your device to get it added into a database , either your mobile operator or country wide, and it will be blocked (of course its not 100% bulletproof solution but it will reduce the risk of the new owner enjoying life with your phone) Do not leave any sensitive data on your daily life phone and always ensure your data is synchronized/backed up somewhere so you can easily retrieve it Enable features such as find my phone , sim card pin , remote wipe and so on .... Of course no need to explain about credentials , so do not save passwords to something critical on this daily life phone Basically always ask yourself a simple question = if i'm gonna loose this phone tomorrow , is there anything essential needed i need to backup or retrieve or delete before ?? if the answer is yes then you havent finished your work
Same thing happened to me in July 2022. I felt true PTSD from it. We were at the bus station, sitting far away from the station, waiting for a bus. A kid rode by on a bicycle and snatched my phone. I'm coming back next week, and I have bought a lanyard that will cross my body while I use the phone. Yes, the love disappears.... So sad. They couldn't use my phone anyway because they couldn't get in it without passwords. Why do they even want iPhones?
I’m so sorry that happened. You definitely understand the trauma I’m talking about. I agree! Why do they even want iPhones? They are locked out and can’t get access to them. What’s the point?!
Hi Nicki, I just discovered you, and I'm watching this video. I'm so sorry to hear what you have been through. I'm from Argentina but moved to the USA over twenty years ago. I'm sad but unsurprised to hear that the police did nothing to help. They are absolutely useless and corrupt. Nothing has changed. I plan to visit Argentina next December, so my daughter can see where my husband and I lived before we moved to the United States. Your videos are of great help; even though all my family lives there, I love to learn from your experience and valuable tips. I hope you recover from this horrible experience and enjoy life over there. Blessings
Hi Lidia! I'm so glad you found me, so nice to hear from you! :) Also, I really appreciate your support. It was such a traumatic event when it happened, but now several months later, I'm feeling much better, thank you so much! :) I hope you and your family have the best time visiting Argentina again!
@Nicki Posts Travel Stuff Hi Nicki!! What a wonderful surprise to see your reply. Thank you so much for taking the time. After I wrote the message, I saw your video about you leaving Argentina. It was so sad to learn, but I don't blame you, I know exactly what it is to feel alone in a country that is not yours and away from your family. I hope you're doing good and feeling well 💗 If you ever visit Utah, please let me know!
I am so sorry this happened to you Nicki. It reminds me of when I was on the phone in a grocery store asking my partner what ice cream he wanted, and while that was happening, someone pick-pocketed my backpack purse and took my wallet. I turned around and saw the thief holding my wallet. Any reaction I thought I would have done, I didn't do because I was frozen in disbelief. Even today, almost two years later, I still think about it when I am in a store. I hope you soon feel a deeper sense of peace and safety. Healing energy to you my friend!
I'm so sorry that happened to you, Jackie. That sounds awful as well. It's so brazen to do that in broad daylight. You just never know how you'll react until it happens to you. Thank you so much for your kind words!
@@NickiPostsTravelStuff One time my car got stolen in Vegas and I went to the police station, they told me I can't file a police report because the crime happened in a different county, which was only 2 blocks away. Stupid same everywhere.
LEO are NOTHING but "sheriff of Nottingham" cartoon characters; tax collectors. Worthless human beings of the second laziest UNION membership in the USA. EVERYONE knows the laziest.
I'm so sorry this happened. We are all so attached to our phones and carry huge amounts of valuable information. Often not having any back up for so the contacts ect. But this scenario could happen anywhere. In the US the police would do nothing as well. I'm not sure if they would bother in any country.
I'm so sorry this happened to you! I'm thinking about traveling to BA in 4-5 mo and so appreciate you sharing your story. I'm very careful (okay, a little paranoid) but I can see this exact thing happening to me! I would caution about wearing a phone case around your neck. An ambitious thief might get aggressive and cause significant injury
I agree, around the neck is probably not the best idea. But getting a case that went around my wrist definitely made me feel safer. Thank you so much for your support. Unfortunately this kind of thing is becoming common in BA, but as long as you keep your phone in your pocket on the street, you should be fine! :)
Sadly, crime seems to be going up everywhere post-pandemic. I have been very lucky not to have had any problems in almost 2 years in Latin America, but this is definitely not a problem unique to BA. I read so much about crime in Colombia that I kept a death grip on my bag at all times. Nothing happened, but for sure it makes it harder to just relax and enjoy a place. I had a phone stolen from me in a bar in Berlin many years ago...not an IPhone, just a crappy one, but really - crime happens everywhere. The US isn't safe either, you have drug addicts and homeless attacking random people on the street etc. I have heard that La Boca is a bit sketchy in general...maybe it's a hot spot because they know there are a lot of tourists? I know it really sucks, but it is a big city issue in general, not a problem specific to BA.
Hi La Llarona- you're absolutely right that crime happens anywhere and everywhere, especially with an increase post-pandemic. I fully agree with you, and certainly never believed it was unique to BA. It just happened to me in BA, so I'm sharing my experience here. I'm sorry you got your phone stolen in Berlin. I've had other things stolen in all my years of travel, this was just the most aggressive, confrontational, and traumatic experience with it so far, and hopefully ever. Thank you so much for watching, and for your comment. :)
The feeling you are experiencing is the result of your transition from a tourist to a resident of Buenos Aires! You won't see them walking around town happy as shit, they can't get out, you can!
I'm so sorry this happened to you. I just returned from a week in BA and a week in Rosario. Your site helped me A LOT! Western Union! I cant believe you chased these guys down with your boyfriend. We went to Boca our last morning in BA and it felt sketchy. I am channeling you positive energy. Dont lose your positive attitude. Everyone there has to deal with this stuff. We had dinner with my friends family in Rosario and all 14 had been robbed, including children and a retired woman in a wheelchair. Please keep up the great work:)
Thank you so much for your support, Tom. I’m really happy to hear that my videos were helpful on your trip! I can’t believe everyone experienced that like that. It’s so disappointing!!
Nicki, I'm new to the channel and really love your videos. We are planning to head to BA next month and have learned so much useful and practical stuff from your videos. Thank you for making such detailed, practical videos (public transit and WU were so helpful). When I saw that you had "survived" for 30 days without a phone, I had to search out this video as I, too, am involuntarily without my iPhone...though in Sao Paulo. Watching your video really struck a chord with me as almost exactly the same thing happened to me just a few weeks ago. The only difference was that I was standing on a street corner and the thief was on a bicycle...so no chase. Apart from that the same feelings, the violation, the anger with myself for letting it happen, the total uselessness of the police (I didn't even get a file number or make a report and waited over 6 hours before trying a more pro-active approach) and the frustration of knowing exactly where my iPhone was yet not being able to do anything about it. In the end the phone was useless to anyone trying to use it. It can't be unlocked or used without either my code or face and I immediately marked is as "lost" and then set to erase. I had no physical SIM (which, according to police is what the crooks want, simply putting it in a new phone that they can open gets them access to any info on the card). I will be getting the travel/theft Applecare and a second case (the one I had on was special for attaching macro and wide angle lenses) but it really wasn't in my budget. :( I had only been here 2 days out of a month when this happened and I struggle trying not to let that experience colour my feelings on this city (though this is very hard). Unfortunately, I have to wait for almost 5 months before I can get a new one (thank goodness for iCloud backups) but fortunately, the hubby's phone is still available for the necessities. Good luck, know you are not alone in your feelings and processing and keep on posting such awesome videos.
Jennifer, I am SO SORRY that happened to you. It is such an awful feeling. As I was reading your response, I kept nodding in agreement. I know exactly how you feel and it really is hard not to let such a negative experience affect you. Especially in the beginning. I was super paranoid and sad after it happened. I'm glad that you have your husband who has access to all the important info, but I know how hard it can be to not have a phone. Good luck with the rest of your trip. Hopefully it can only go UP from here! :)
Sorry that happened to you, I can’t even imagine going through that, I LIVE ON MY CELL, literally I DO! My peace of mind is that my cc covers theft , hopefully will never have to use it
Thank you, Fauzan. I'm not sure if it was brave or not! haha My mind just went totally blank and I was operating on full adrenaline! 😅 Thank you for your support.
So sorry to hear this happened! :( Your reaction is so relatable...I definitely would have wanted to throw the glass at the guy too!!! We lived in Costa Rica for awhile and the general law was that it wasn't a crime if the item stolen was under around $750 (basically an iphone). BUT I do think the Latin countries get a bad rap for lazy/ineffective police. The US is actually pretty similar!!! We had someone try to break into our house in the US and when the police came, they found the person on the street next to us. They had a little chat with her and then she drove off in HER car. It was so frustrating!!! I learned that unless the police actually see the crime, they can't really do anything at least not immediately.
Hi Kelsea, I'm so sorry that happened to you. That is such an awful experience as well. It is so frustrating to feel like nothing can be done, or that nothing was done. Thank you so much for your support.
YES !! YOU'RE RIGHT !! I just posted my comment & edited it two ,three times as I started remembering more interesting experiences & incidents related to this kind of frustrating situation !! Some actually got their phones back !! My sis & our old hair dresser ! If you're interested, please read it ! Lol. Police here in the U.S.won't do much ,either !! They have to catch 'em in an act !! You are correct ! 💜🥁🐉🎤🎶💞
@@NickiPostsTravelStuff Anyway hope this doesn't make you lose your love of Argentina. That was my longwinded way of saying that :) sorry again this happened in a place you love sooooo much!
My original comment was removed immediately (for referencing a website maybe?), but here it is, altered: I have been using this item you can find by using the keywords "neck lanyard strap case" on a website that ends in "bay," which wraps around a phone from all four sides and can be looped around your hand or your belt. I wish I could have suggested this earlier. P.S. If you're travelling, better have a clone phone (restored from your main phone).
Hi Erivanci, I think you're right- the comment was probably removed for having a link, so spammers are always posting links... Thank you for your great suggestions! :)
La boca is a beautiful but hard place, been there 3 times and always have my guard up but is so beautiful and meet beautiful people too. By the way I got my phone stole like that in Brixton England, so is happens in every place
I'm so sorry you had to go through that. I could feel your pain through your voice and expression in your video. It broke my heart. I have had many similar experiences to yours living in Argentina, my home country. This country could be lovely at times but situations like this suck the joy right out of you. On a trip to Buenos Aires, a few years ago, my wallet was picked from my jacket pocket! I needed my DNI to take my flight back home! (I live in the south) I had to spend a ton of money to get an express passport so that I could take that plane. On another occasion in my hometown, Neuquén, I was chased and physically assaulted by "moto chorros" (two teenage boys on a motorcycle). It's a dangerous country and once traumatic experiences like these happen to you, you experience PTSD. I couldn't go out in the streets alone after dark, I panicked whenever I saw two people on a motorcycle. I had to see a therapist to work on these issues. I still remember how I felt and that happened to me almost a decade ago. The situation is getting worse and worse. The bad economic situation doesn't help. The reason why the police does nothing is because they are overworked and underpaid. They are not going to risk their safety. I am not trying to justify their actions but I can understand them in a way. Last time I visited BA, (less than a month ago), I felt really stressed out. I kept checking that my wallet and my phone were fine in my inside jacket pockets. It was difficult for me to enjoy the city. Everything looked grey and joyless. Too many homeless people sleeping on the sidewalks. I can't be happy seeing so much suffering and poverty. I was relieved to be back home even though my hometown is no safety paradise either. Argentina is in a bad place right now. I have lost hope that things will ever change. It saddens me but I can't help having such a gloomy perspective on life here. It's been like this for me my whole life. I wish you all the best. I hope you recover soon! Take care! Big hug from Patagonia.
Hi Andrea! Thank you for your comment. I'm so sorry that you had similar experiences. It is just the most awful feeling. Like you, I start to feel paranoid when I'm out in public, and I'm constantly checking for my phone and wallet. It's an awful way to live to feel constantly stressed and paranoid everywhere you go. Getting physically assaulted by two motochorros sounds so awful, and I'm really sorry you had to go through that. I would absolutely have PTSD from that. I'm glad you're getting some help because that is so traumatic. I completely understand what you're saying about the police. It's true. Low pay and over work definitely leads to corruption, or even just indifference. Thank you so much for your kind words, and I hope thins will get better for you too! :)
@@lucasmanso1 Police officers are not well paid, at least not in my hometown. Corruption might exist anywhere in the world. I wouldn't know. I've no idea how it is in New York. I only lived there for ten months twenty years ago. I didn't stay long enough to have a bad experience with the police. I honestly couldn't care less about the police...
When my car was stolen, in the United States, the experience was very similar....I had to do all the work to get it back...Police did not help, at all...I think that the police are much more interested in solving heinous crimes and phones and cars have no meaning. The experience will never leave you...
I am sorry. A big Minnesota hug to you 🤗 I can only imagine all of the aftermath of something like this. Let the words of anyone trying to tell you how to feel or think or act, fall on deaf ears. You know you’ll be fine, but that doesn’t mean you won’t feel all sorts of other things first!!
Thank you, Mara. I so appreciate your comment. You just never know how you'll feel or react until it happens to you. I'm already a very sensitive person, so I definitely felt a LOT of things when this happened. Hug accepted and received! Thank you so much! :)
Your comment makes me think of some of the lyrics from one of my favorite Jewel songs. 🎶 “I’m sensitive and I’d like to stay that way🎶 Stay a sensitive soul…the world needs you. ❤
@@marabarsness9559 Thank you so much. I totally know that song and have always related! haha It's funny because my senior quote in high school was from that same Jewel song: "I'd rather see the world from another angle." Thank you so much for your kind words, Mara! xo
La Boca is a very touristy place but outside those few nice blocks are people living in poberty. In its majority its a very poor and old neighborhood. Im from Bs As and i always feel more insecure in touristy places 'cause thieves are known to hunt in those areas. Most times they would just snacth your phone or your wallet or whatever you have in your hands so at least i dont worry about bieng shot or anything worse.
And about the police... I dont know. I've had my phone stolen a few times and since i have insurance on it i always go to the police and although they never retrieved my phone they always took my report. And with the police report i can activate my insurance and get a new phone directly or they'd give me the money for me to buy a new one.
You're right- I think they are mostly opportunists who steal, but fortunately didn't use guns or knives. The funny thing is that earlier in the day, I was walking around La Boca in the non-touristy parts and thinking it wasn't so bad as everyone says. I felt really safe. So then later I was eating lunch in a restaurant, in what felt like a really peaceful place, and then it happened. I let my guard down for just a few minutes, and BAM! But if I ever go back to La Boca, I will absolutely just stick around El Caminito and then leave!
@@gabydq That's a great point. Even though the police don't actually do anything to get the stolen item back, it is necessary to have the police report in order to activate the insurance!
I had a bag full of important things including keys taken from inside my workplace that really hits your trust a lot. I think Buenos Aires is a lot more dangerous in that regard compared to Melbourne Australia
That’s awful! I’m so sorry that happened to you. I completely understand that feeling of breaking trust. Did that happen to you in Melbourne? You just have to be super aware of your surroundings in BA, which can be exhausting. I love the city but you have to constantly look around you, and double check for your things every few seconds.
@@NickiPostsTravelStuff the best likely conclusion that I came up with was that a contractor working with solar panels at the warehouse as he was leaving just happen to walk past that particular area by chance which was very rare. The contractors normally never entered the warehouse but this time he must have entered by chance stole the bag and snuck off home. I know none of the normal employees or cleaners saw anything so this was a fast brazen theft.
Every big city has its glitches. I recently visited Buenos Aires and nothing happened to me. I went to Mexico City and something awful happened to me in an uber when the driver changed the route. That doesnt mean I would not go to Mexico City again. Just be careful
It’s hard for me to answer. It was a stressful situation. A nephew and I took an uber to a football tryout and since the start of the trip, the uber driver was acting suspiciously. He changed route and took us to a police portable cabin in the middle of nowhere where he told a policeman that we were acting weird. One police officer pointed a gun at us and searched our backpack and found my nephew’s football equipment. We managed to get out of there by calling another uber. My advice would be, if you see that the uber driver asks to many questions and acts suspiciously cancel the trip from the start.
Theft is a degree of violation of personhood. These days we put so much of ourselves into the phone that we feel greatly violated. I travel with two phones and backup everything. One time up near Oran a man stole my camera and drove off in his truck. Just then came a policeman on a bicycle I thought to myself he could call the police and stop the truck I know what it looks like. He wrote down some information then he began peddling in the direction of the truck saying "I will catch him" and the sun was setting as his bicycle squeaked and squeaked and squeaked as he rode off into the sunset.
Even if it was about a year ago, I feel sorry that your phone was stolen at a restaurant, a time when one is expecting to relax and enjoy a meal. After that experience, I would feel the same about the country, and especially if the police gave me the runaround and no care attitude that caused unnecessary further delays. It’s hurtful when one trusts and has high expectations of a country, only to be let down by its people and corrupt system. And it only takes one traumatic experience to destroy a dream.
Nicki this is such a 💩situation. So sorry you were violated like that. With the tracker we were hoping you'd be and to get it back. Thanks for sharing about the phone cases, didn't know ones with strings existed. The new phone will probably be amazing!
Hi Will and Katy! Thank you, it was such a difficult experience. I also hoped I would get it back! haha So close yet so far. It's such a crazy feeling knowing EXACTLY where it is, seeing it in the kids hands, seeing them counting the money they got from stealing your phone, but not being able to do anything about it!
Hey sorry you had to go through this. Now with that being said, one of the reasons I want to go to Argentina is because Argentina seems much safer then Medellin, Colombia, a place where I spent a month at. Of all my friends who have spent at least a year in the city all of them have either been robbed without a gun or been robbed with a gun. I know things like these do happen in Argentina, but I feel like it's WAY more likely to happen to you in Medellin.
Hi Monte! Thanks so much for your support. I have never been to Medellin so I can't compare with first hand experience, though if I'm honest, I've been hearing a lot of negative stories coming out of Medellin this past year. I've heard of robbings at knife point, which sound WAY more traumatic than my experience. These kinds of things do happen in Argentina, but I do still think it is a safe place. I think your phone can get stolen in any country in the entire world. Honestly in Argentina, there were very FEW moments I ever felt scared or nervous. And I only started to feel that way AFTER my robbery. I do believe that overall, BA is quite safe. Just keep your phone in your pocket! :)
@@NickiPostsTravelStuff When travelling to less safe countries (not living), it's a good idea to have a second phone that you're not afraid to loose. It might be your worthless old phone, or the old phone of a friend. Don't install too many personal things like bank apps, still try to make robbing you as difficult as possible, but keep that mindset that if threatened, just give it away. I always do that when in Latin America! Perhaps you might feel this is overkill in Argentina (as opposed to Colombia), but they have tried to rob me in BA during my short stay there and I have seen the result of a robbery at knifepoint after sundown in Mendoza (2 middle-aged people had their legs cut up with a knife around the pockets). I don't feel Argentina is that much safer than other countries in the region. Regards from Poland!
This kind of situation happens to locals a lot, too. It happened to me in the subte, years ago. Luckily you didn't get hurt. I totally understand your rage, but at some point one must give up and move on.
It is futile to expect the Argentinian police to do anything, no matter what the crime is. And I am Argentinian . The police has always been corrupt. I recommend buying insurance for your phone before you travel there, or anywhere for that matter, and have a back up of all you info. I have a purse/ phone , it goes across my chest. You don’t need to take the phone out to use it.
Absolutely, Sue! Though I wouldn't be able to speak much higher about the police in the US either tbh! Insurance is definitely important, and I wish I had it before. But I have it NOW!! :) It sounds like you have the perfect carrying case!
You can lock the Apple ID and make it in usable. Also, if you have a travel insurance you just file the police report to the insurance company and they will compensate the loss. It is tremendously annoying behaviour .
hahaha yeah- I think similarly. If I'm going to travel as much as I do, it's bound to happen at some point. And it has. This is just the most traumatic experience of them all, which is why it affected me the most. With my other things stolen over the years, I was sad, but it didn't affect me in the same way.
A really good lesson. Thanks. This kind of situation can never happen in Korea or in Japan. I thought Argentina is much safer than Brazil or Columbia, Mexico.
Thanks Peacejoy! :) I agree it would very unlikely happen in Korea or Japan. I lived in Korea for 4 years and always felt super safe. If you lose your phone, they will call your friends and help you to get it back. I could leave my laptop and go to the bathroom in a cafe and it would still be there when I came back. I wouldn't necessarily compare the safety to the entire countries of Mexico, Brazil, Colombia... a lot has to do with certain cities, neighborhoods and situations and other factors.
@@NickiPostsTravelStuff Thanks. I am a Korean living in Toronto area. I have thought Argentina can be a good place to escape the cold weather in the winter of Canada and to escape the sizzling heat in the summer for cooler places. But still I think Argentina is relatively safe country in South America. Have safe trips all the time. Security and Health are the most important issues during the travel. God Bless.
@@peacejoy675 Super cool that you're from Korea, which city? I lived in Busan. I absolutely think Argentina is a great place to come during the hot TO months. You'll love it here. Buenos Aires can be hectic, but so are a lot of big cities. But there are also a ton of other really nice cities in Argentina. Thousands of people come to Buenos Aires every day and don't have a problem. Just be extra cautious with your phone in public, but it's more likely that you will be totally safe! :)
@@NickiPostsTravelStuffMany Thanks. Born in Chonju, I lived in Ulsan, Busan, mostly in Seoul. In Busan our Apt was overlooking the sea. Then we lived in Toronto area in Canada over 23 years. When I was in Seoul, I used to have some business with a company in Argentina and I still see the chances for the business of the products ex Argentina but I would rather think about the sightseeing and rest this time. American airlines are cheap but I think they are quoting the fare in US Dollars. not in Canadian Dollars.
@@peacejoy675 I love Busan. I lived in Jangsan, so while not exactly overlooking the sea, very close! Wow you've been in TO for long. I think it's a good idea to just think about rest and sightseeing this time! :)
From the majority of your videos, I can see that your overall experience in Argentina is quite positive. I am considering a 1-2 month trip within the next year, and I am trying to get as much information as I possibly can prior to me making the leap and heading over there. Stories like this are a bit disheartening and discouraging, but despite your experience with this, would you still consider visiting and living in Buenos Aires temporarily as a tourist still something someone can do safely? If so, what are some other tips you'd recommend to avoid something like this occurring? What areas do you think are the best to be safe?
@@NickiPostsTravelStuff Thank you for letting me know! A trip like this requires quite a bit of planning, so I'm getting as much information beforehand to ensure I have a safe and successful trip. One thing I am still unsure of is finding housing. If it's a 6-8 week trip, would Airbnb be the best option or should I consider some other option? I would plan on staying 2-3 weeks in Mendoza, Cordoba, and Buenos Aires.
Think about what is going on with the thievery going on in the USA, and the police is not doing anything. Also, here in Finland, if you are in a car accident and you call the police they ask if there are human injury, if not they will not come. The cost is just too big. Actually this video is extremely good as an learning tutorial for all travellers. Thank you.
So frustrating listening to this unfortunate event you experienced in B.A. The police in BA aren’t well paid and on top of that they noticed you weren’t a local and so they didn’t care as much is how I see it…. Very unfortunate. We were in B.A. in 2014 and it felt some what safe even walking at night downtown. Has it gotten worse as far as crime goes in 2023?
I doubt having your phone connected to you via a ring on your finger would deter a snatch theft. More likely is that you would end up with a potentially serious ring avulsion injury.
I am sorry for the horrible details you've been through, especially the mental and psychological ones , it's truly hurt and painful to be in such situation, I thank God that you are save physically. But, Nicki I disagree with your reaction when it comes to chase the shitty thieve alone on the street and have the intention to use physical force to reclaim your phone. I know you said that you put everything in it, including 6 months rent and other personal important things. I know the phycological level at that time was out of control but you've could hurt yourself seriously, they could use knife or gun to settle the situation in case it get escalate. and what you've done you throw a piece of glass on them !!!! and not only that you went with your boyfriend searching in The snake's den! Nicki these types of shitty animals have nothing to lose and they live on crime , beside you personally experienced the shitty police interaction, the shitty thieves know how police is corrupted ! so they have no fear. imagine yourself encountered with shitty thieves know the police is corrupted , so what stops them from use the knife or guns to solve their street problems ? your physical safety should be your ultimate priority. remember they have nothing to lose .... even if you get some gadgets for your phone but it still a chance to face knife or gun, I believe to choose "wisely" the location and time when plan to go somewhere. second thing I nicely recommend you to have cheap phone for daily use and expensive one for serious things like bank account or personal stuff, in this case if you faced shitty thieves hand over the cheap one and that's it. Again I thank God for your physical safety.
I have been maybe 30 times to Buenos Aires, never cared for it, for me it is just a boring city. In the summer time the Portenos who have money leave the city and go to Uruguay or Brazil because they dont even have a decent beach. By the way, B. Aires is NOT a safe city, I know several people who were robbed at gun point there. It might be now a good place to shop for leather products and to eat high quality steaks for very little cash.
Lamento mucho lo que te ha ocurrido! Por favor no pierdas el amor por mi país. Hay gente perversa pero creo que la mayoría no somos así. La policía es otro tema. Un tema muy malo, por cierto. Abrazo fuerte para vos!
Your videos were super helpful when I traveled to BA solo for a month in November. Somehow I missed this one then, but glad I did. There should be a disclaimer stating, " do NOT do anything I did in this video!" Starting with going outside of tourist zone in LA Boca, having your bag on table, chasing after thieves, having bf go find them, not having a back up... 🤦♀️
I can feel the trauma and frustration from your face. Truly sorry to hear but not surprised given the what Argentina used to be vs what’s going on now. I will defer my trip there for now since there so many safe country I can spent the tour dollars since the government and police seems so incompetent. Thanks for sharing. Take care!
Don’t carry your backpac😂k on your back, the thieves will follow you and discretely open your backpack as you are walking, I saw a thief jump up and grab a lady’s purse through the open window on a bus as it stopped at a red light. My wallet was stolen on the subway, the thieves work in pairs. I started to keep my money and credit card in my sock, not in my pant pockets. Because of the economy, theft is a cottage industry, the police are useless, they think tourist as are wealthy and can afford to be parted from their pesos. The police may not be paid enough for them to go out of their way to protect the tourist as.
I think the trauma would be much less if you used a $200 Android phone. Where I live, only foreigners carry iPhones and those things have a target on them. Our lifestyles are very different, and I don't normally even take my phone with me when I leave the house, but I also have a "bait phone" that I carry just so I don't disappoint a thief and anger him. His disappointment will come later when he realizes that what he stole is worthless.
Yeah I definitely think you're right. The thing is, I need my phone to film and take photos and create content. I need a good quality phone for that. So it's a double edged sword.
@@NickiPostsTravelStuff I have an Argentine friend (lives in Tigre) whom I talk to every couple of weeks or so. As the person above he has a cheap phone just for this reason.
I'm really sorry that this happened to you but let me be clear about the police part because you clearly don't know how the law system works in the country. The police have two ways of getting involve in a crime, such as being present when the crime is taking place, or being involve after a report (denuncia) is filled. The thing is that a police officer cannot legally chase someone that they didnt see it, and i mean in person, committing a crime, so they would not go after a suspect not even if you mark them in a map like you did, not because they don't want to work, it just that they cannot do that without an order from a judge or a prosecutor's office. This is when the report (denuncia) is useful cause is a legal paper that is redirected to a prosecutor's office, when they get the report they will order the next procedures that the police must do in order to conduct the so call ''investigation'', and probably would allow them to get the video evidence and all that things (You giving the map position of the phone is not a legal evidence, because it must be first legalice by stating it in a denuncia, that's why the denuncia is the key to initiate the police involvement). Is a really failure system, cause it takes a lot of time to get a final result, extreme inefficient but that's how it works., and is not the police fault. If they do what you ask them, like going to the part of the city and enter the store to get the phone and all that, they probably would face charges for not doing the correct procedure. All action that the police take must be inform to a judge or prosecutor's office, and they are the ones that can allow the police to irrupt into a store.
Lamentablemente es común que pasen esas cosas en la zona porque hay muchos extranjeros y no conocen como se maneja esa gente... Argentinos haciendo quedar mal a argentina también es usual jaja
Do you watch the local news? What you are telling is just too little for what is happening with the rest of the people. You weren't shot. You can rebuy your phone over and over again.
So because I wasn’t shot I’m not allowed to feel something or have any emotions about it? Thanks for letting me know that there is a sliding scale of allowable emotions.
@@NickiPostsTravelStuff do you feel argentinian? Or I may speak to you like a tourist? If you are argentinian, you will understand my point of view. Of course those mother fuckers should be hanged. And you should not feel unsafe in your own country (🇦🇷) but this place is in the shit. Really deep. And what I don't like about your video is that you talk like we all are not suffering from the same and worse. Of course, if I am talking to a tourist, then I will fully understand. But why don't you get more involved? Why don't you vote here in Argentina for a right left hard hand party (for me , the best is Patricia Bullrich). Getting the citizenship is really easy. Strive with us or leave. We don't want rich argentinian people whining about an expensive cellphone. I watch your naive videos and it's like you don't have any sense of this place being a disaster. Most argentinian live under the poverty line. A 1000 USD cellphone is like a dream. Why don't you go to the local news (Cronica, canal 26) to talk about the useless police that we have? You will ashame them. You can make the difference because we the argentinians want to flatter everyone in the world.
I wonder if you asked the police beforehand if you would had caught the criminal selling your phone & they'd arrest 'em as that would had helped them to catch the guy IN THE ACT !?? That might had made some difference ? I don't think police in the U.S.would had done much more ,though !! My sister got robbed by her movers ( me,too ! ) & she called the police ( Beverly Hills )while her movers were still working helping her ,they didn't even search them as they had to catch 'em in the act !! So,they left w/ o doing nothing !! It's a petty theft( stealing a cell phone ) & too many happen everyday ,they don't wanna do anything ,but taking reports ! I am adding more here ! This one is funny ! My sis went back to Japan 5 years ago ,or so to perform live music performances there & she forgot her phone at a restaurant in Tokyo ( she suspected Chinese gangs were running the place ) & she went back there right away , but they told her they never saw her phone . She had her friend who worked in the entertainment business ( who used to be ...sort of a yakuza = Japanese mafia ) called the place ,that was it ,she got her phone back !! Lol. You should had reported the incident to your phone company/ BANKS / CREDIT CARD companies immediately & had 'em stopped / locked all !! Sorry to hear/ watch this .Thank God you didn't get hurt !! Neither your guy ! Actually ,( forgot to mention )my old hairdresser had called a theif who stole his cellphone here in L.A. & bought it back at much cheaper price than originally offered !! But,I don't recommend this as it's still very risky ! It was a long time ago ! But,he really did get his back by buying it !! He is Japanese ( I am ,too ! ),I couldn't believe it !! 💜🥁🐉🎤🎶✈️💞
You know it's funny because we actually did call the police when we saw the guys selling my phone but they were really rude to us on the phone and blew us off. We told them that we could see them with my phone and they said they were coming but of course they never came. There were also no police around on the street to ask for help. We looked around. That's amazing your sister got her phone back! What a story! Luckily with Apple, you can completely erase your phone from a distance. So I did that as soon as I realized I was never getting it back. Thanks for watching and commenting, Spark! :)
@@NickiPostsTravelStuff Oh...that's bad & that sucks !! Disappointing 😞 & very frustrating !!Oh ,yes ! My sister's phone is an Apple smartphone, too,so ,she told me that ! Technology has come very very far !! I am way behind high tech things still...! Lol. Yes ,I was very intrigued/ amazed by my sister's & our ex hairdressers stories ! Both of them terrified the thieves & they were thugs & possibly Chinese gangs !! But,those Japanese guys turned out to be scarier than 'em !! LOL You're so welcome !! And thank you so much for your reply & those ( I watched about 7 videos of yours tonight !! Lol.) very informative videos !! I am currently planning our future trip to Argentina. It's been in my bucket list for many years ! 👍👍💜🥁🐉🎤🎶✈️💞
This happens in London every day, even though I'm commenting a year later, it's still relevant. The city did not betray you, that's stupid thing to say.
The phone let's say 1000 dollars but in states in other countries perhaps 15 hundreds.. Hehehe r u taking 15 bills of 100 dollars each & flashing around on the street.. Hehehe just saying i don't think so.. That's what others see... Hehehe not the phone.. We were crazy when young did stupid shit.. Hehehe now same guys best surgeons & doctors... Perhaps in 10 years u meet the guy when u will need some medical attention.. Hehehe who knows it's life.. Which guy didn't take from u for being stupid & chase him.. Could easily end up like that.. Cheers nice videos...
If you’re planning to come to Argentina, watch this first: ruclips.net/video/fqUXJBiibAY/видео.html
Hi Nicki, only three weeks ago you helped me online, answering my blue rate questions. Now that I am in Buenos Aires - having collected some of the money I saved through WU - and being happy to be here, I thought I would look you up and there you are: affected and hurt by this horrible experience. You look vulnarable and saddened. I am so sorry Nicki. Good that you posted this honest content. In the few days I have been here, I find that both the beauty and the poverty reveal themselves very raw. You are safe, you have someone to support you. You were also robbed and shocked. Let all that sink in. Don't rush. I think only content that matches the reality of the maker, has meaning. I am happy to be a guest here in Argentina, and moved by the friendliness of the people that have helped me out so patiently. But I am also a little shaky when walking away from a WU with a pack of cash, and confronted by contrasts seeing children surviving by climbing in and out of garbage containers. Nicki, you helped me prepare for my 10 week stay in BA. I enjoyed and learned from your videos. I hope you will slowly rediscover your obvious sensitivity for the beautiful things. Spring of 2022 is coming. Only once. Take it all in. Best wishes Nicki, take good care of yourself.
Hi Lucia, thank you so much for your kind words. And also THANK YOU so much for buying me a coffee. It was so kind of you. All the things you say are true. I really appreciate your support, and I hope you have a lovely time in BA!
Hi Nicki, by watching your videos, I know you are no longer in Argentina. I can perfectly understand the frustration and helplessness of loosing an I phone. Had it been in the US, that phone would have been recovered. Our entire lives is in our cell: our contacts, all our doctors informations and more. You followed the intuition of your heart and grabbed your bag. Remember that these guys are professionals. Thats what they do for a living. I know this will stay with you for a while. At least, some of your content was posted on instagram and you will still have some of your memories, as well as these wonderful videos on RUclips. We live in a wicked world. One day all this wickedness is going to disappear . Psalm 37:34
About 6 months ago I beat up a guy and sent him to the hospital in Mexico City for trying to snatch my phone out of my hands. He made several mistakes but the biggest mistake was getting too close to someone with a lot of experince in jiu jitsu. Normally I wouldn't fight someone trying to rob me and would just give them whatever they want because my life, and their life, is worth more to me than anything I would ever be carrying on me. This happened so fast and I've trained in jiu jitsu at least 1500-2000 hours(also roughly 500 hours or so in Muay Thai including 3 months in Thailand) in the past decade; it was just a natural reaction. If he had demanded the phone or I would have had any time to think I would have almost for sure just given it to him but since he grabbed for it and really fast like a snake bitting someone, it was just pure reaction.
My profound condolences! Your experience parallels mine in Medellin Colombia entering the Metro. What a hassle losing a phone. And your policia experience matches mine in Playa del Carmen. Absolutely NO help from the TOURIST police. My love for Mexico took a huge hit. I was very soured. You're terrific!
Thank you so much, Jeff. I’m really sorry that happened to you as well. It’s such a traumatic experience. It definitely changes your perspective on a place. For me it really took away my sense of security and comfort.
I hadn’t realized it happened in a restaurant. I’m terribly sorry but also glad it’s now been a while and I’m sure you’ll feel better with each passing day. What’s important is that you’re safe and have learned something new about the city.
Thanks Gringster. Yes, it happened at a restaurant. That is one of the reasons I had my guard down a bit more. It was a really peaceful and calm moment right before it happened, so it was a super shock. I am feeling a bit better each day. Thank you!
I'm so sorry you had to experience that! And you have really educated me and helped me to pay attention, so thank you! Also, please give yourself grace as we can't comprehend those kids' lives and what they do there is rampant in many places and has gone on for centuries. It doesn't minimize your shock of being violated; it exposes the mindset of the thieves. I love your channel - I've been considering Portugal for the past several months, and just two days ago started researching Argentina and found your great channel. Take heart, you have helped at least one retired woman from America who wants to live in a gorgeous climate, a fabulously beautiful city/area in peace, and contentment while living on a limited budget. Back to watching your videos! 🌷🙂
I'm argentinian, and I got my phone snatched from my hands TWICE. First of: this is never your fault. I understand that we should be aware of our surroundings and belongins, but getting robbed or mugged isn't our fault. Of course, we learn our lesson, we try to be more aware next time, but these guys, they always find a new way to do it.
The best things to do about this, if this happens to anyone, is just getting online and loggin off or remotely deletting all apps from your phone so they can't do any more damage. Consider it completely lost right away, and move on.
I'm glad you still love our city and country!!
Thank you so much, Eva! It is just such an awful feeling when that happens. I'm sorry it happened to you twice! You're right- those guys are total professionals. They will always find a way! I definitely did those things you mentioned to avoid further damage!
I know it’s been a while since this was uploaded, but I’m new to your channel and I’m so sorry this happened to you! What an absolute nightmare. People often tend to minimize thefts as being inconsequential, nonviolent, casual occurrences, but they’re actually incredibly violating and scary experiences. And the fact that you got SPAT on and had to chase them down yourself without the help of the authorities 🤦🏻♀️ My jaw was dropped throughout your entire retelling.
I think as the years pass, it’ll just become one of those wild stories you tell at dinner parties, but I’m sure it’s still pretty fresh and traumatizing as of now. If anything, thank you for spreading awareness so we can all be a bit more alert 🙏🏼
Thank you so much, I genuinely appreciate this comment. So many people get really mad at me here on RUclips for expressing how I feel and how traumatizing it was. People actually love hating me for this. They judge based on their assumption of how it might feel IF it happened to them, not based on experience. So I really truly appreciate your kindness and empathy in this situation 💕
Dear Nicki, I feel very sorry for you! It’s not “just” a phone. It’s your phone and like you said, had many parts of your life in it. Sending lots of love from Canada ❤️
(I was born in Brazil, I know the feeling you just described. It’s the worst!!!)
Thank you so much ❤️
Wow. That's crazy that it happened at a restaurant. I am in San Telmo now and hyper aware every time I pull it out to check for direction. Your videos have helped me immensely. Thanks so much. The worst is the violation of something being stolen right out of your hand. I was robbed in a bathroom stall in Grand Central Station in New York when I was 17. I was on my way to an internship in Chinatown and it was my 1st day. I normally wouldn't have used those bathrooms, as GCT was super sketch in those days late 80's, but I had to go as I still had another 30 min subway ride. I saw the hand come under the door and was so shocked as we were playing tug-war for what seemed like a really long time. I had rope burns on my hands. I couldn't even scream. They got my purse and I ran out of the stall with my pants still down running after a hand. I didn't have much in the purse, but that feeling of being violated stays with you. Thankfully I had a token for the subway in my pocket but was mortified explaining to the group my situation as I was the only one from"upstate NY." I am 50 now and can laugh about it but for awhile the city I loved looked very different. The kids in my internship and commuting for those few months taught me so much about being aware and how blessed that I have so much.I have an iPhone as well and it's crazy how attached the world has become to these devices. I love them sooooo much but the world did still go on without them. Sometimes I can't remember how.
Oh wow, what a scary and intense situation, especially at 17! It’s true that we are so overly attached to our phones! I hope you will enjoy your stay in BA! San Telmo is a great neighborhood! :)
Thank you for the video. As a South American, I recommend never running behind a robber or fighting back. Any material thing it's not worth getting stabbed or shot. South America is a great place, but these things happen. Thank you again for sharing.
That’s right!
One time my car got stolen in Vegas and I went to the police station, they told me I can't file a police report because the crime happened in a different county, which was only 2 blocks away. Stupid same everywhere.
I am so sorry to hear that this happened to you. I am coming to Buenos Aires in 3 weeks and have had these stories before so I went out and purchased a cheap phone to use for travel. I've seen a lot of recent RUclips videos with people just walking around with their phones in their hands and thought maybe the YT vloggers were just making a bigger deal out of it than it really is. Thank you for telling me it's real. I will keep it put away safely whenever I am out.
Hi Betty, I think that was a great idea. You'll feel less worried walking around the city. But I'm sure you'll still really enjoy BA. Have a great trip! :)
ugh, so sorry that happened to you, Nicki... we had a similar experience here in Mexico with my husband's fanny pack/man purse that was snatched off the back of his chair when we were dining (lesson learned!) that had his entire wallet, car & house keys, cash, all the things... It is such a violation. We are going to get those phone cases that you recommend for our upcoming trip, thank you for taking the time and courage to post this and share with others, so they too can be informed and empowered. I became a carbon monoxide alarm advocate of sorts after my husband was severely poisoned and almost lost his life, so know firsthand how tough it is to recount a traumatic experience, but when it has the benefit of paying it forward to protect others, it is well worth it in my opinion.
It’s really a trauma when something is taken from you. It takes away the sense that we have control over these things and often we don’t. Your advice is terrific though because the more deterrents you use the more it helps.
In my childhood in NYC though we were always coached to just allow thieves to take items because it wasn’t worth our lives. It’s different when you’re a child though because you don’t have that level of pressure and responsibility.
But I’ve dealt with theft in the US and other countries.
My experience here has been very mixed. Not unlike what you experienced in Bs As. The attitude has mostly been don’t expect to ever see your things again. I didn’t have info like you did in terms of exactly where the object was-maybe that would have made a difference. In city precincts I don’t think so but maybe in some small towns where I’ve lived. Not sure.
It such a shame that it’s taken away the joy you experienced in BA, that’s really the greatest theft of all finally.
And btw not just a theft but how pd’s responded has impacted how I felt about various places. Because if you don’t feel relaxed and safe you can’t feel happy.
Thank you so much for sharing your experience, because I think it will help me and others in our travels.
I wish you’d have had a better resolution.
Hi Hudson. Thank you so much for your comment and your kind words. You're absolutely right. The biggest theft of all was my sense of security and love for the city. Things are getting better each day, I just find I'm much more paranoid. It is also so exhausting to constantly feel vigilant. I really appreciate your comment, thank you.
Nicki thanks for this video. Well headed advice. I’m sorry for your trauma and loss. I appreciate your video. Be well. ❤
Nicki, very sorry that this happened to you. Thanks for sharing what happened and your thoughts. I hope it doesn't sour Buenos Aires for you too much - this really could happen almost anywhere. When you are traveling and living life, it is impossible to remain vigilant 100% of the time, so don't beat yourself up too much. A couple things we do to help reduce the risks: 1. We have Pacsafe retractable cable locks and use this to lock our daypacks to a chair when dining (or your purse!), 2. We get new phones every ~2 years and bring both on our trips. The old one gets the local sim and is allowed to leave the accommodations; the new one is "grounded" and has to stay in the accommodations. All our apps are on both phones with our base country sim available for emergencies. Hope you are doing better.
I completely agree. It could absolutely happen anywhere, and it does. I had my camera stolen on New Years in Vietnam, my ipod stolen in Guatemala, etc. The difference here is that it is the first time it was so aggressive and confrontational. Snatched right from my hands. That was the difference for me. With the other items, I was sad. But this experience felt so much more traumatic. Thank you so much for your kind words of support. And those are also great suggestions. I hope other people will read your comment and get some good ideas!
@@NickiPostsTravelStuff I can only imagine how much more visceral that must have been - much more personal. BTW, I think you did a great job of describing what happened, including the aftermath. I was expecting an interesting but routine cell theft video, but you had way too much drama! We'll be even more vigilant than we usually try to be when we head down in a couple months. Take care.
@@w_w_whitey Definitely much more personal! But thank you for your comment and your encouragement. There was definitely a lot of drama! hahaha I really think you'll be fine while you're here! Just be vigilant, especially in La Boca!
Amen David , i 100% recommend the same , always assume you are going to loose it someday
If you have banking apps and/or your SIM card linked to your main bank account from home country , or anything critical , this should be separated from the phone you use for daily life in the streets (of course it doesnt protect from burglary but reduce the annoyance) .
If you move to new country then use less expensive , not super attractive phone , you can also get it insured (but read the insurance policy carefully before purchase) with a local sim card
In some countries , even as tourist you can go back to operator and buy new sim card with same phone number , and you can also give the IMEI of your device to get it added into a database , either your mobile operator or country wide, and it will be blocked (of course its not 100% bulletproof solution but it will reduce the risk of the new owner enjoying life with your phone)
Do not leave any sensitive data on your daily life phone and always ensure your data is synchronized/backed up somewhere so you can easily retrieve it
Enable features such as find my phone , sim card pin , remote wipe and so on ....
Of course no need to explain about credentials , so do not save passwords to something critical on this daily life phone
Basically always ask yourself a simple question = if i'm gonna loose this phone tomorrow , is there anything essential needed i need to backup or retrieve or delete before ?? if the answer is yes then you havent finished your work
Same thing happened to me in July 2022. I felt true PTSD from it. We were at the bus station, sitting far away from the station, waiting for a bus. A kid rode by on a bicycle and snatched my phone. I'm coming back next week, and I have bought a lanyard that will cross my body while I use the phone. Yes, the love disappears.... So sad. They couldn't use my phone anyway because they couldn't get in it without passwords. Why do they even want iPhones?
I’m so sorry that happened. You definitely understand the trauma I’m talking about. I agree! Why do they even want iPhones? They are locked out and can’t get access to them. What’s the point?!
Hi Nicki, I just discovered you, and I'm watching this video. I'm so sorry to hear what you have been through. I'm from Argentina but moved to the USA over twenty years ago. I'm sad but unsurprised to hear that the police did nothing to help. They are absolutely useless and corrupt. Nothing has changed.
I plan to visit Argentina next December, so my daughter can see where my husband and I lived before we moved to the United States. Your videos are of great help; even though all my family lives there, I love to learn from your experience and valuable tips.
I hope you recover from this horrible experience and enjoy life over there.
Blessings
Hi Lidia! I'm so glad you found me, so nice to hear from you! :) Also, I really appreciate your support. It was such a traumatic event when it happened, but now several months later, I'm feeling much better, thank you so much! :) I hope you and your family have the best time visiting Argentina again!
@Nicki Posts Travel Stuff Hi Nicki!! What a wonderful surprise to see your reply. Thank you so much for taking the time. After I wrote the message, I saw your video about you leaving Argentina. It was so sad to learn, but I don't blame you, I know exactly what it is to feel alone in a country that is not yours and away from your family. I hope you're doing good and feeling well 💗 If you ever visit Utah, please let me know!
I am so sorry this happened to you Nicki. It reminds me of when I was on the phone in a grocery store asking my partner what ice cream he wanted, and while that was happening, someone pick-pocketed my backpack purse and took my wallet. I turned around and saw the thief holding my wallet. Any reaction I thought I would have done, I didn't do because I was frozen in disbelief. Even today, almost two years later, I still think about it when I am in a store. I hope you soon feel a deeper sense of peace and safety. Healing energy to you my friend!
I'm so sorry that happened to you, Jackie. That sounds awful as well. It's so brazen to do that in broad daylight. You just never know how you'll react until it happens to you. Thank you so much for your kind words!
good take on the police here, you are right. The one and only time I got back something that was stolen from me was by my own hands.
It’s unfortunate! 😭 But glad you got your stuff back!
Same in the US, reported my phone stolen and the cops just brushed it off.
I can imagine! 😭
@@NickiPostsTravelStuff One time my car got stolen in Vegas and I went to the police station, they told me I can't file a police report because the crime happened in a different county, which was only 2 blocks away. Stupid same everywhere.
LEO are NOTHING but "sheriff of Nottingham" cartoon characters; tax collectors. Worthless human beings of the second laziest UNION membership in the USA. EVERYONE knows the laziest.
I'm so sorry this happened. We are all so attached to our phones and carry huge amounts of valuable information. Often not having any back up for so the contacts ect.
But this scenario could happen anywhere. In the US the police would do nothing as well. I'm not sure if they would bother in any country.
I'm so sorry this happened to you! I'm thinking about traveling to BA in 4-5 mo and so appreciate you sharing your story. I'm very careful (okay, a little paranoid) but I can see this exact thing happening to me! I would caution about wearing a phone case around your neck. An ambitious thief might get aggressive and cause significant injury
I agree, around the neck is probably not the best idea. But getting a case that went around my wrist definitely made me feel safer. Thank you so much for your support. Unfortunately this kind of thing is becoming common in BA, but as long as you keep your phone in your pocket on the street, you should be fine! :)
Sadly, crime seems to be going up everywhere post-pandemic. I have been very lucky not to have had any problems in almost 2 years in Latin America, but this is definitely not a problem unique to BA. I read so much about crime in Colombia that I kept a death grip on my bag at all times. Nothing happened, but for sure it makes it harder to just relax and enjoy a place. I had a phone stolen from me in a bar in Berlin many years ago...not an IPhone, just a crappy one, but really - crime happens everywhere. The US isn't safe either, you have drug addicts and homeless attacking random people on the street etc. I have heard that La Boca is a bit sketchy in general...maybe it's a hot spot because they know there are a lot of tourists? I know it really sucks, but it is a big city issue in general, not a problem specific to BA.
Hi La Llarona- you're absolutely right that crime happens anywhere and everywhere, especially with an increase post-pandemic. I fully agree with you, and certainly never believed it was unique to BA. It just happened to me in BA, so I'm sharing my experience here. I'm sorry you got your phone stolen in Berlin. I've had other things stolen in all my years of travel, this was just the most aggressive, confrontational, and traumatic experience with it so far, and hopefully ever. Thank you so much for watching, and for your comment. :)
The feeling you are experiencing is the result of your transition from a tourist to a resident of Buenos Aires! You won't see them walking around town happy as shit, they can't get out, you can!
Exactly. She has just had her eyes opened after living in her American bubble for years.
I'm so sorry this happened to you. I just returned from a week in BA and a week in Rosario. Your site helped me A LOT! Western Union!
I cant believe you chased these guys down with your boyfriend. We went to Boca our last morning in BA and it felt sketchy. I am channeling you positive energy.
Dont lose your positive attitude. Everyone there has to deal with this stuff. We had dinner with my friends family in Rosario and all 14 had been robbed, including children and a retired woman in a wheelchair. Please keep up the great work:)
Thank you so much for your support, Tom. I’m really happy to hear that my videos were helpful on your trip! I can’t believe everyone experienced that like that. It’s so disappointing!!
Nicki, I'm new to the channel and really love your videos. We are planning to head to BA next month and have learned so much useful and practical stuff from your videos. Thank you for making such detailed, practical videos (public transit and WU were so helpful).
When I saw that you had "survived" for 30 days without a phone, I had to search out this video as I, too, am involuntarily without my iPhone...though in Sao Paulo. Watching your video really struck a chord with me as almost exactly the same thing happened to me just a few weeks ago. The only difference was that I was standing on a street corner and the thief was on a bicycle...so no chase. Apart from that the same feelings, the violation, the anger with myself for letting it happen, the total uselessness of the police (I didn't even get a file number or make a report and waited over 6 hours before trying a more pro-active approach) and the frustration of knowing exactly where my iPhone was yet not being able to do anything about it. In the end the phone was useless to anyone trying to use it. It can't be unlocked or used without either my code or face and I immediately marked is as "lost" and then set to erase. I had no physical SIM (which, according to police is what the crooks want, simply putting it in a new phone that they can open gets them access to any info on the card). I will be getting the travel/theft Applecare and a second case (the one I had on was special for attaching macro and wide angle lenses) but it really wasn't in my budget. :( I had only been here 2 days out of a month when this happened and I struggle trying not to let that experience colour my feelings on this city (though this is very hard). Unfortunately, I have to wait for almost 5 months before I can get a new one (thank goodness for iCloud backups) but fortunately, the hubby's phone is still available for the necessities.
Good luck, know you are not alone in your feelings and processing and keep on posting such awesome videos.
Jennifer, I am SO SORRY that happened to you. It is such an awful feeling. As I was reading your response, I kept nodding in agreement. I know exactly how you feel and it really is hard not to let such a negative experience affect you. Especially in the beginning. I was super paranoid and sad after it happened. I'm glad that you have your husband who has access to all the important info, but I know how hard it can be to not have a phone. Good luck with the rest of your trip. Hopefully it can only go UP from here! :)
Sorry that happened to you, I can’t even imagine going through that, I LIVE ON MY CELL, literally I DO! My peace of mind is that my cc covers theft , hopefully will never have to use it
You we're really brave to run after the phone thief . It's so sad the police did not do anything.
Thank you, Fauzan. I'm not sure if it was brave or not! haha My mind just went totally blank and I was operating on full adrenaline! 😅 Thank you for your support.
Horrible 😢 sorry this happened to you. I am just glad you are safe.
Thank you so much. It was a hard thing to go through!
So sorry to hear this happened! :( Your reaction is so relatable...I definitely would have wanted to throw the glass at the guy too!!! We lived in Costa Rica for awhile and the general law was that it wasn't a crime if the item stolen was under around $750 (basically an iphone). BUT I do think the Latin countries get a bad rap for lazy/ineffective police. The US is actually pretty similar!!! We had someone try to break into our house in the US and when the police came, they found the person on the street next to us. They had a little chat with her and then she drove off in HER car. It was so frustrating!!! I learned that unless the police actually see the crime, they can't really do anything at least not immediately.
Hi Kelsea, I'm so sorry that happened to you. That is such an awful experience as well. It is so frustrating to feel like nothing can be done, or that nothing was done. Thank you so much for your support.
YES !! YOU'RE RIGHT !! I just posted my comment & edited it two ,three times as I started remembering more interesting experiences & incidents related to this kind of frustrating situation !! Some actually got their phones back !! My sis & our old hair dresser ! If you're interested, please read it ! Lol. Police here in the U.S.won't do much ,either !! They have to catch 'em in an act !! You are correct ! 💜🥁🐉🎤🎶💞
@@NickiPostsTravelStuff Anyway hope this doesn't make you lose your love of Argentina. That was my longwinded way of saying that :) sorry again this happened in a place you love sooooo much!
@@kmichaelcjp Thank you xo
We love you Nicki ❤❤❤❤❤
My original comment was removed immediately (for referencing a website maybe?), but here it is, altered: I have been using this item you can find by using the keywords "neck lanyard strap case" on a website that ends in "bay," which wraps around a phone from all four sides and can be looped around your hand or your belt. I wish I could have suggested this earlier.
P.S. If you're travelling, better have a clone phone (restored from your main phone).
Hi Erivanci, I think you're right- the comment was probably removed for having a link, so spammers are always posting links... Thank you for your great suggestions! :)
La boca is a beautiful but hard place, been there 3 times and always have my guard up but is so beautiful and meet beautiful people too. By the way I got my phone stole like that in Brixton England, so is happens in every place
I'm so sorry you had to go through that. I could feel your pain through your voice and expression in your video. It broke my heart. I have had many similar experiences to yours living in Argentina, my home country. This country could be lovely at times but situations like this suck the joy right out of you. On a trip to Buenos Aires, a few years ago, my wallet was picked from my jacket pocket! I needed my DNI to take my flight back home! (I live in the south) I had to spend a ton of money to get an express passport so that I could take that plane.
On another occasion in my hometown, Neuquén, I was chased and physically assaulted by "moto chorros" (two teenage boys on a motorcycle). It's a dangerous country and once traumatic experiences like these happen to you, you experience PTSD. I couldn't go out in the streets alone after dark, I panicked whenever I saw two people on a motorcycle. I had to see a therapist to work on these issues. I still remember how I felt and that happened to me almost a decade ago. The situation is getting worse and worse. The bad economic situation doesn't help. The reason why the police does nothing is because they are overworked and underpaid. They are not going to risk their safety. I am not trying to justify their actions but I can understand them in a way.
Last time I visited BA, (less than a month ago), I felt really stressed out. I kept checking that my wallet and my phone were fine in my inside jacket pockets. It was difficult for me to enjoy the city. Everything looked grey and joyless. Too many homeless people sleeping on the sidewalks. I can't be happy seeing so much suffering and poverty. I was relieved to be back home even though my hometown is no safety paradise either. Argentina is in a bad place right now. I have lost hope that things will ever change. It saddens me but I can't help having such a gloomy perspective on life here. It's been like this for me my whole life.
I wish you all the best. I hope you recover soon! Take care! Big hug from Patagonia.
Hi Andrea! Thank you for your comment. I'm so sorry that you had similar experiences. It is just the most awful feeling. Like you, I start to feel paranoid when I'm out in public, and I'm constantly checking for my phone and wallet. It's an awful way to live to feel constantly stressed and paranoid everywhere you go.
Getting physically assaulted by two motochorros sounds so awful, and I'm really sorry you had to go through that. I would absolutely have PTSD from that. I'm glad you're getting some help because that is so traumatic.
I completely understand what you're saying about the police. It's true. Low pay and over work definitely leads to corruption, or even just indifference.
Thank you so much for your kind words, and I hope thins will get better for you too! :)
@@lucasmanso1 No place in the world is a perfect paradise and I am allowed to talk about my experience. My opinion is as valid as yours.
@@lucasmanso1 Police officers are not well paid, at least not in my hometown. Corruption might exist anywhere in the world. I wouldn't know. I've no idea how it is in New York. I only lived there for ten months twenty years ago. I didn't stay long enough to have a bad experience with the police. I honestly couldn't care less about the police...
police anywhere and everywhere cant do anything, this would be the exact same in Canada
Yeah it's unfortunate!! :(
He is a helper. He has helped you to remind that there is still a real world out there.
I'm sad for you we all live sad situations but the end we passed now heard that
Thanks Shukri! :)
When my car was stolen, in the United States, the experience was very similar....I had to do all the work to get it back...Police did not help, at all...I think that the police are much more interested in solving heinous crimes and phones and cars have no meaning. The experience will never leave you...
Absolutely. It will never leave you. I'm so sorry you got your car stolen. That is awful. Did you manage to get your car back?
I am sorry. A big Minnesota hug to you 🤗 I can only imagine all of the aftermath of something like this. Let the words of anyone trying to tell you how to feel or think or act, fall on deaf ears. You know you’ll be fine, but that doesn’t mean you won’t feel all sorts of other things first!!
Thank you, Mara. I so appreciate your comment. You just never know how you'll feel or react until it happens to you. I'm already a very sensitive person, so I definitely felt a LOT of things when this happened. Hug accepted and received! Thank you so much! :)
Your comment makes me think of some of the lyrics from one of my favorite Jewel songs. 🎶 “I’m sensitive and I’d like to stay that way🎶 Stay a sensitive soul…the world needs you. ❤
@@marabarsness9559 Thank you so much. I totally know that song and have always related! haha It's funny because my senior quote in high school was from that same Jewel song: "I'd rather see the world from another angle." Thank you so much for your kind words, Mara! xo
La Boca is a very touristy place but outside those few nice blocks are people living in poberty. In its majority its a very poor and old neighborhood. Im from Bs As and i always feel more insecure in touristy places 'cause thieves are known to hunt in those areas. Most times they would just snacth your phone or your wallet or whatever you have in your hands so at least i dont worry about bieng shot or anything worse.
And about the police... I dont know. I've had my phone stolen a few times and since i have insurance on it i always go to the police and although they never retrieved my phone they always took my report. And with the police report i can activate my insurance and get a new phone directly or they'd give me the money for me to buy a new one.
You're right- I think they are mostly opportunists who steal, but fortunately didn't use guns or knives. The funny thing is that earlier in the day, I was walking around La Boca in the non-touristy parts and thinking it wasn't so bad as everyone says. I felt really safe. So then later I was eating lunch in a restaurant, in what felt like a really peaceful place, and then it happened. I let my guard down for just a few minutes, and BAM! But if I ever go back to La Boca, I will absolutely just stick around El Caminito and then leave!
@@gabydq That's a great point. Even though the police don't actually do anything to get the stolen item back, it is necessary to have the police report in order to activate the insurance!
What a horrible experience! Very sorry to hear it. Hearing about this and similar incidents has made me think twice about vising BA I must admit.
I had a bag full of important things including keys taken from inside my workplace that really hits your trust a lot. I think Buenos Aires is a lot more dangerous in that regard compared to Melbourne Australia
That’s awful! I’m so sorry that happened to you. I completely understand that feeling of breaking trust. Did that happen to you in Melbourne? You just have to be super aware of your surroundings in BA, which can be exhausting. I love the city but you have to constantly look around you, and double check for your things every few seconds.
@@NickiPostsTravelStuff the best likely conclusion that I came up with was that a contractor working with solar panels at the warehouse as he was leaving just happen to walk past that particular area by chance which was very rare. The contractors normally never entered the warehouse but this time he must have entered by chance stole the bag and snuck off home. I know none of the normal employees or cleaners saw anything so this was a fast brazen theft.
@@TheManuel012009 Aw man, that is super frustrating and disappointing. I'm so sorry that happened to you!
Every big city has its glitches. I recently visited Buenos Aires and nothing happened to me. I went to Mexico City and something awful happened to me in an uber when the driver changed the route. That doesnt mean I would not go to Mexico City again. Just be careful
Yup, you’re exactly right! Sorry to hear about the CDMX situation, that sounds scary!
How did you escape from the Uber situation? That sounds awful. I'll be in CDMX soon, so it would be great to hear your advice for those taking Ubers.
It’s hard for me to answer. It was a stressful situation. A nephew and I took an uber to a football tryout and since the start of the trip, the uber driver was acting suspiciously. He changed route and took us to a police portable cabin in the middle of nowhere where he told a policeman that we were acting weird. One police officer pointed a gun at us and searched our backpack and found my nephew’s football equipment. We managed to get out of there by calling another uber. My advice would be, if you see that the uber driver asks to many questions and acts suspiciously cancel the trip from the start.
It’s much better to stay in safe neighborhoods in the city. Do not visit sketchy parts of the city.
Please don't go to La Boca! Locals don't go there, so you shouldn't.
Haha a little too late for me!
Theft is a degree of violation of personhood. These days we put so much of ourselves into the phone that we feel greatly violated.
I travel with two phones and backup everything.
One time up near Oran a man stole my camera and drove off in his truck. Just then came a policeman on a bicycle I thought to myself he could call the police and stop the truck I know what it looks like. He wrote down some information then he began peddling in the direction of the truck saying "I will catch him" and the sun was setting as his bicycle squeaked and squeaked and squeaked as he rode off into the sunset.
Absolutely! Especially when it’s so confrontational. I’m so sorry about your camera. That sounds so awful (but also am almost comical scene😅).
Sorry about this awful experience. Horrible
Thank you so much, David. It really was awful.
Even if it was about a year ago, I feel sorry that your phone was stolen at a restaurant, a time when one is expecting to relax and enjoy a meal. After that experience, I would feel the same about the country, and especially if the police gave me the runaround and no care attitude that caused unnecessary further delays. It’s hurtful when one trusts and has high expectations of a country, only to be let down by its people and corrupt system. And it only takes one traumatic experience to destroy a dream.
Nicki this is such a 💩situation. So sorry you were violated like that. With the tracker we were hoping you'd be and to get it back. Thanks for sharing about the phone cases, didn't know ones with strings existed. The new phone will probably be amazing!
Hi Will and Katy! Thank you, it was such a difficult experience. I also hoped I would get it back! haha So close yet so far. It's such a crazy feeling knowing EXACTLY where it is, seeing it in the kids hands, seeing them counting the money they got from stealing your phone, but not being able to do anything about it!
@@NickiPostsTravelStuff 😔
Hey sorry you had to go through this. Now with that being said, one of the reasons I want to go to Argentina is because Argentina seems much safer then Medellin, Colombia, a place where I spent a month at. Of all my friends who have spent at least a year in the city all of them have either been robbed without a gun or been robbed with a gun. I know things like these do happen in Argentina, but I feel like it's WAY more likely to happen to you in Medellin.
Hi Monte! Thanks so much for your support. I have never been to Medellin so I can't compare with first hand experience, though if I'm honest, I've been hearing a lot of negative stories coming out of Medellin this past year. I've heard of robbings at knife point, which sound WAY more traumatic than my experience. These kinds of things do happen in Argentina, but I do still think it is a safe place. I think your phone can get stolen in any country in the entire world. Honestly in Argentina, there were very FEW moments I ever felt scared or nervous. And I only started to feel that way AFTER my robbery. I do believe that overall, BA is quite safe. Just keep your phone in your pocket! :)
@@NickiPostsTravelStuff When travelling to less safe countries (not living), it's a good idea to have a second phone that you're not afraid to loose. It might be your worthless old phone, or the old phone of a friend. Don't install too many personal things like bank apps, still try to make robbing you as difficult as possible, but keep that mindset that if threatened, just give it away. I always do that when in Latin America!
Perhaps you might feel this is overkill in Argentina (as opposed to Colombia), but they have tried to rob me in BA during my short stay there and I have seen the result of a robbery at knifepoint after sundown in Mendoza (2 middle-aged people had their legs cut up with a knife around the pockets). I don't feel Argentina is that much safer than other countries in the region.
Regards from Poland!
Hello nicki goodmoorning ...iam new friend from indonesia .thank you so much for sharing your vidio .
i hope stay connected
Have a nice day
This kind of situation happens to locals a lot, too. It happened to me in the subte, years ago. Luckily you didn't get hurt. I totally understand your rage, but at some point one must give up and move on.
Yup you’re exactly right. It’s hard but it’s the only way. I’m really sorry that happened to you too!
It is futile to expect the Argentinian police to do anything, no matter what the crime is. And I am Argentinian . The police has always been corrupt. I recommend buying insurance for your phone before you travel there, or anywhere for that matter, and have a back up of all you info. I have a purse/ phone , it goes across my chest. You don’t need to take the phone out to use it.
Absolutely, Sue! Though I wouldn't be able to speak much higher about the police in the US either tbh! Insurance is definitely important, and I wish I had it before. But I have it NOW!! :) It sounds like you have the perfect carrying case!
came to Sydney darling that's why I left Argentina (Buenos Aires)
You can lock the Apple ID and make it in usable. Also, if you have a travel insurance you just file the police report to the insurance company and they will compensate the loss.
It is tremendously annoying behaviour .
How do you lock the Apple ID? Thanks!
This sucks, I’ve had a a few things nicked over the years. I try to think of it as travel tax
hahaha yeah- I think similarly. If I'm going to travel as much as I do, it's bound to happen at some point. And it has. This is just the most traumatic experience of them all, which is why it affected me the most. With my other things stolen over the years, I was sad, but it didn't affect me in the same way.
The police, and the government...useless.
Haha basically
A really good lesson. Thanks. This kind of situation can never happen in Korea or in Japan. I thought Argentina is much safer than Brazil or Columbia, Mexico.
Thanks Peacejoy! :) I agree it would very unlikely happen in Korea or Japan. I lived in Korea for 4 years and always felt super safe. If you lose your phone, they will call your friends and help you to get it back. I could leave my laptop and go to the bathroom in a cafe and it would still be there when I came back. I wouldn't necessarily compare the safety to the entire countries of Mexico, Brazil, Colombia... a lot has to do with certain cities, neighborhoods and situations and other factors.
@@NickiPostsTravelStuff Thanks. I am a Korean living in Toronto area. I have thought Argentina can be a good place to escape the cold weather in the winter of Canada and to escape the sizzling heat in the summer for cooler places. But still I think Argentina is relatively safe country in South America. Have safe trips all the time. Security and Health are the most important issues during the travel. God Bless.
@@peacejoy675 Super cool that you're from Korea, which city? I lived in Busan. I absolutely think Argentina is a great place to come during the hot TO months. You'll love it here. Buenos Aires can be hectic, but so are a lot of big cities. But there are also a ton of other really nice cities in Argentina. Thousands of people come to Buenos Aires every day and don't have a problem. Just be extra cautious with your phone in public, but it's more likely that you will be totally safe! :)
@@NickiPostsTravelStuffMany Thanks. Born in Chonju, I lived in Ulsan, Busan, mostly in Seoul. In Busan our Apt was overlooking the sea. Then we lived in Toronto area in Canada over 23 years. When I was in Seoul, I used to have some business with a company in Argentina and I still see the chances for the business of the products ex Argentina but I would rather think about the sightseeing and rest this time. American airlines are cheap but I think they are quoting the fare in US Dollars. not in Canadian Dollars.
@@peacejoy675 I love Busan. I lived in Jangsan, so while not exactly overlooking the sea, very close! Wow you've been in TO for long. I think it's a good idea to just think about rest and sightseeing this time! :)
Europe is Europe my darling! I am from Croatia (small country on Balkan) and here we dont have any problems with those things! God bless Europe!!!
You should go to the prosecutor office if the police didn't acting.
I just want to get over it now. I don’t have the emotional space for that.
From the majority of your videos, I can see that your overall experience in Argentina is quite positive. I am considering a 1-2 month trip within the next year, and I am trying to get as much information as I possibly can prior to me making the leap and heading over there. Stories like this are a bit disheartening and discouraging, but despite your experience with this, would you still consider visiting and living in Buenos Aires temporarily as a tourist still something someone can do safely? If so, what are some other tips you'd recommend to avoid something like this occurring? What areas do you think are the best to be safe?
Yes, I would still 100% recommend it! Try Palermo, Belgrano, Nuñez, Recoleta. Main thing is just don't take your phone out in public if you can.
@@NickiPostsTravelStuff Thank you for letting me know! A trip like this requires quite a bit of planning, so I'm getting as much information beforehand to ensure I have a safe and successful trip. One thing I am still unsure of is finding housing. If it's a 6-8 week trip, would Airbnb be the best option or should I consider some other option? I would plan on staying 2-3 weeks in Mendoza, Cordoba, and Buenos Aires.
All people where waiting to do report that there phone was stolen
Just saw a Livestreamer get their phone yoinked live on stream yesterday in Buenos aires villa 31😂
Think about what is going on with the thievery going on in the USA, and the police is not doing anything. Also, here in Finland, if you are in a car accident and you call the police they ask if there are human injury, if not they will not come. The cost is just too big.
Actually this video is extremely good as an learning tutorial for all travellers. Thank you.
Is it true that pepper spray is legal in Argentina?
I actually have no clue! 🤷🏼♀️
buy a new phone..... I live in the states ..it happens here aswell
That's reality in argentina, you should investigate before go is gotten worse.
That’s too bad!
What that suck I'm BA right now
So frustrating listening to this unfortunate event you experienced in B.A. The police in BA aren’t well paid and on top of that they noticed you weren’t a local and so they didn’t care as much is how I see it…. Very unfortunate. We were in B.A. in 2014 and it felt some what safe even walking at night downtown. Has it gotten worse as far as crime goes in 2023?
I was almost going to say welcome to Guyana, but this is Argentina
Haha I would love to visit Guyana. Is it similar or something?
I doubt having your phone connected to you via a ring on your finger would deter a snatch theft. More likely is that you would end up with a potentially serious ring avulsion injury.
on no 😟
"This could never happen to ME" She's so above everyone else...super special you need to have situational awareness lady
I am sorry for the horrible details you've been through, especially the mental and psychological ones , it's truly hurt and painful to be in such situation, I thank God that you are save physically. But, Nicki I disagree with your reaction when it comes to chase the shitty thieve alone on the street and have the intention to use physical force to reclaim your phone. I know you said that you put everything in it, including 6 months rent and other personal important things. I know the phycological level at that time was out of control but you've could hurt yourself seriously, they could use knife or gun to settle the situation in case it get escalate. and what you've done you throw a piece of glass on them !!!! and not only that you went with your boyfriend searching in The snake's den! Nicki these types of shitty animals have nothing to lose and they live on crime , beside you personally experienced the shitty police interaction, the shitty thieves know how police is corrupted ! so they have no fear. imagine yourself encountered with shitty thieves know the police is corrupted , so what stops them from use the knife or guns to solve their street problems ? your physical safety should be your ultimate priority. remember they have nothing to lose .... even if you get some gadgets for your phone but it still a chance to face knife or gun, I believe to choose "wisely" the location and time when plan to go somewhere. second thing I nicely recommend you to have cheap phone for daily use and expensive one for serious things like bank account or personal stuff, in this case if you faced shitty thieves hand over the cheap one and that's it. Again I thank God for your physical safety.
Thanks Freedom. I’m glad I’m safe too. It was just a reaction to run after them. You never know what you’ll do until it happens to you.
Nicki, tenés desactivado el traductor!
Stresss dont go to Argentina,
You need the US embassador to talk to a national minister to resolve it.
But... it is not Argentina, it is the same everywhere in Latinamerica.
hahahah that sounds very complicated! :)
It is... but not so much when you have the right contacts
@@javierwa haha true but i don’t😅
I have been maybe 30 times to Buenos Aires, never cared for it, for me it is just a boring city. In the summer time the Portenos who have money leave the city and go to Uruguay or Brazil because they dont even have a decent beach. By the way, B. Aires is NOT a safe city, I know several people who were robbed at gun point there. It might be now a good place to shop for leather products and to eat high quality steaks for very little cash.
So there many robbery in ba what blog at
bloc*
At least this is good content!
Haha true! I got a video out of it!😅
@@NickiPostsTravelStuff and honestly its one of the things I would be worried. Would be really cool to get more safety tips from locals.
Very sad. Evil people are everywhere, but fortunately they are a minority.
Definitely! :)
Lamento mucho lo que te ha ocurrido! Por favor no pierdas el amor por mi país. Hay gente perversa pero creo que la mayoría no somos así.
La policía es otro tema. Un tema muy malo, por cierto.
Abrazo fuerte para vos!
Gracias Patricia 😘
Your videos were super helpful when I traveled to BA solo for a month in November. Somehow I missed this one then, but glad I did. There should be a disclaimer stating, " do NOT do anything I did in this video!"
Starting with going outside of tourist zone in LA Boca, having your bag on table, chasing after thieves, having bf go find them, not having a back up... 🤦♀️
I can feel the trauma and frustration from your face. Truly sorry to hear but not surprised given the what Argentina used to be vs what’s going on now. I will defer my trip there for now since there so many safe country I can spent the tour dollars since the government and police seems so incompetent. Thanks for sharing. Take care!
I’m sorry to hear that Jewel! There are so many great things here too! I hope you’ll eventually change your mind and come down!
Perhaps you should not have a phone.
The police are the same everywhere
Don’t carry your backpac😂k on your back, the thieves will follow you and discretely open your backpack as you are walking, I saw a thief jump up and grab a lady’s purse through the open window on a bus as it stopped at a red light. My wallet was stolen on the subway, the thieves work in pairs. I started to keep my money and credit card in my sock, not in my pant pockets. Because of the economy, theft is a cottage industry, the police are useless, they think tourist as are wealthy and can afford to be parted from their pesos. The police may not be paid enough for them to go out of their way to protect the tourist as.
I think you're right GB! How unfortunate for the woman, though I have heared several stories like that!
I think the trauma would be much less if you used a $200 Android phone. Where I live, only foreigners carry iPhones and those things have a target on them. Our lifestyles are very different, and I don't normally even take my phone with me when I leave the house, but I also have a "bait phone" that I carry just so I don't disappoint a thief and anger him. His disappointment will come later when he realizes that what he stole is worthless.
Yeah I definitely think you're right. The thing is, I need my phone to film and take photos and create content. I need a good quality phone for that. So it's a double edged sword.
@@NickiPostsTravelStuff I have an Argentine friend (lives in Tigre) whom I talk to every couple of weeks or so. As the person above he has a cheap phone just for this reason.
Argentina need sharia law in their country. You would not see anyone taking other's belonging at all!!
Yikes lol
omg
Yeah 😭
Walk it off kid
I'm really sorry that this happened to you but let me be clear about the police part because you clearly don't know how the law system works in the country. The police have two ways of getting involve in a crime, such as being present when the crime is taking place, or being involve after a report (denuncia) is filled. The thing is that a police officer cannot legally chase someone that they didnt see it, and i mean in person, committing a crime, so they would not go after a suspect not even if you mark them in a map like you did, not because they don't want to work, it just that they cannot do that without an order from a judge or a prosecutor's office. This is when the report (denuncia) is useful cause is a legal paper that is redirected to a prosecutor's office, when they get the report they will order the next procedures that the police must do in order to conduct the so call ''investigation'', and probably would allow them to get the video evidence and all that things (You giving the map position of the phone is not a legal evidence, because it must be first legalice by stating it in a denuncia, that's why the denuncia is the key to initiate the police involvement). Is a really failure system, cause it takes a lot of time to get a final result, extreme inefficient but that's how it works., and is not the police fault. If they do what you ask them, like going to the part of the city and enter the store to get the phone and all that, they probably would face charges for not doing the correct procedure. All action that the police take must be inform to a judge or prosecutor's office, and they are the ones that can allow the police to irrupt into a store.
Lamentablemente es común que pasen esas cosas en la zona porque hay muchos extranjeros y no conocen como se maneja esa gente... Argentinos haciendo quedar mal a argentina también es usual jaja
Lamentablemente es común si 😭
forget the police and go to your local priest.. the church is more powerful and more active than you think
Thanks but I’m not interested in church
@Nicki Posts Travel Stuff
You don't have to be, is just the priest has more clout than the police
Do you watch the local news? What you are telling is just too little for what is happening with the rest of the people. You weren't shot. You can rebuy your phone over and over again.
So because I wasn’t shot I’m not allowed to feel something or have any emotions about it? Thanks for letting me know that there is a sliding scale of allowable emotions.
@@NickiPostsTravelStuff do you feel argentinian? Or I may speak to you like a tourist? If you are argentinian, you will understand my point of view. Of course those mother fuckers should be hanged. And you should not feel unsafe in your own country (🇦🇷) but this place is in the shit. Really deep. And what I don't like about your video is that you talk like we all are not suffering from the same and worse. Of course, if I am talking to a tourist, then I will fully understand. But why don't you get more involved? Why don't you vote here in Argentina for a right left hard hand party (for me , the best is Patricia Bullrich). Getting the citizenship is really easy. Strive with us or leave. We don't want rich argentinian people whining about an expensive cellphone. I watch your naive videos and it's like you don't have any sense of this place being a disaster. Most argentinian live under the poverty line. A 1000 USD cellphone is like a dream. Why don't you go to the local news (Cronica, canal 26) to talk about the useless police that we have? You will ashame them. You can make the difference because we the argentinians want to flatter everyone in the world.
I wonder if you asked the police beforehand if you would had caught the criminal selling your phone & they'd arrest 'em as that would had helped them to catch the guy IN THE ACT !?? That might had made some difference ? I don't think police in the U.S.would had done much more ,though !! My sister got robbed by her movers ( me,too ! ) & she called the police ( Beverly Hills )while her movers were still working helping her ,they didn't even search them as they had to catch 'em in the act !! So,they left w/ o doing nothing !! It's a petty theft( stealing a cell phone ) & too many happen everyday ,they don't wanna do anything ,but taking reports ! I am adding more here ! This one is funny ! My sis went back to Japan 5 years ago ,or so to perform live music performances there & she forgot her phone at a restaurant in Tokyo ( she suspected Chinese gangs were running the place ) & she went back there right away , but they told her they never saw her phone . She had her friend who worked in the entertainment business ( who used to be ...sort of a yakuza = Japanese mafia ) called the place ,that was it ,she got her phone back !! Lol.
You should had reported the incident to your phone company/ BANKS / CREDIT CARD companies immediately & had 'em stopped / locked all !! Sorry to hear/ watch this .Thank God you didn't get hurt !! Neither your guy ! Actually ,( forgot to mention )my old hairdresser had called a theif who stole his cellphone here in L.A. & bought it back at much cheaper price than originally offered !! But,I don't recommend this as it's still very risky ! It was a long time ago ! But,he really did get his back by buying it !! He is Japanese ( I am ,too ! ),I couldn't believe it !! 💜🥁🐉🎤🎶✈️💞
You know it's funny because we actually did call the police when we saw the guys selling my phone but they were really rude to us on the phone and blew us off. We told them that we could see them with my phone and they said they were coming but of course they never came. There were also no police around on the street to ask for help. We looked around.
That's amazing your sister got her phone back! What a story!
Luckily with Apple, you can completely erase your phone from a distance. So I did that as soon as I realized I was never getting it back.
Thanks for watching and commenting, Spark! :)
@@NickiPostsTravelStuff Oh...that's bad & that sucks !! Disappointing 😞 & very frustrating !!Oh ,yes ! My sister's phone is an Apple smartphone, too,so ,she told me that ! Technology has come very very far !! I am way behind high tech things still...! Lol. Yes ,I was very intrigued/ amazed by my sister's & our ex hairdressers stories ! Both of them terrified the thieves & they were thugs & possibly Chinese gangs !! But,those Japanese guys turned out to be scarier than 'em !! LOL You're so welcome !! And thank you so much for your reply & those ( I watched about 7 videos of yours tonight !! Lol.) very informative videos !! I am currently planning our future trip to Argentina. It's been in my bucket list for many years ! 👍👍💜🥁🐉🎤🎶✈️💞
@@spark_6710 Aw thank you so much for watching all the videos! I hope they'll be helpful for your future trip!! :)
Oh yes !! Thanks !! I am your new subscriber ! Thanks so much for those videos & replies !! Much appreciated ! 👍👍💜🥁🐉🎤🎶✈️💞
@@spark_6710 thank you so much!!! :)
This happens in London every day, even though I'm commenting a year later, it's still relevant.
The city did not betray you, that's stupid thing to say.
The phone let's say 1000 dollars but in states in other countries perhaps 15 hundreds.. Hehehe r u taking 15 bills of 100 dollars each & flashing around on the street.. Hehehe just saying i don't think so.. That's what others see... Hehehe not the phone.. We were crazy when young did stupid shit.. Hehehe now same guys best surgeons & doctors... Perhaps in 10 years u meet the guy when u will need some medical attention.. Hehehe who knows it's life.. Which guy didn't take from u for being stupid & chase him.. Could easily end up like that.. Cheers nice videos...