One Simple Question In New Orleans Could Cost You More Than You Think

When we think of the great American cities, New Orleans almost always makes the cut –– and for good reason. After all, The Big Easy has long lingered in the collective imagination for its enticing blend of French, Spanish, and African-American cultures, not to mention its historic, eye-catching architecture, innovative music, and unique, mouth-watering cuisine. There's really no place quite like it in the whole of the U.S., which is why visitors continue to flock there in hopes of getting a taste of the magic that only NOLA can deliver.

That said, like any metropolis in the U.S., New Orleans has its fair share of urban ills, including the kind of petty theft and scams common to most tourist hubs. This means that anyone visiting the birthplace of jazz must be vigilant at all times, which can be difficult in such an otherwise laid-back, festive environment. While there are many ways to protect yourself from street crime — including wearing a unique type of clothing with hidden pockets — it also pays to just keep your eyes open. One thing to especially watch out for in New Orleans is the "shoe scam." If anyone ever approaches and asks about your footwear, just ignore them and keep on walking — or it could cost you.

The "shoe scam" (also called the "sneaker scam") isn't complicated. It usually starts innocently, when a seemingly well-meaning stranger approaches and admires your footwear. They may just compliment your style and ask you where you bought them, followed up by an attempt to shine or clean them. Even if you decline the cleaning, the scammer may try to charge you for the small talk alone.

Another more common variation is the "I bet" version of this type of swindle. They start by claiming they can "bet" you where you "got" your shoes, and sometimes even double-down by saying they can even guess which street you "got" them on too. If you play along, the answer will invariably be something like, "On your feet. On this street." Get it? Because that's where you've currently "got them," not where you purchased them. They'll then demand money because, strictly speaking, they aren't wrong. 

Sometimes, they also come in groups of two or more, so it's important to never engage if you want to avoid trouble. These shoe scams almost always target visitors in busy, tourist-friendly areas such as the French Quarter. Most people usually only fall for the con after a few drinks when their defenses are down, so avoid spending too much time walking around Bourbon Street if you've had one too many.

While travel guru Rick Steves considers New Orleans the most fun city in America, it's also one of the most dangerous. Its violent crime statistics often lead the nation, and while most tourists enjoy their visits without incident, it's not a place to ever let your guard down. However, like any place dealing with issues of public safety, there are ways you can minimize the risk of any bad encounters.

New Orleans is one of the few cities in the U.S. where pickpocketers are a problem, so treat it like you would any major city in Europe (where such theft is common). There are some simple ways to avoid falling victim to this classic crime. It's also a city where muggings and violent theft aren't unknown, so avoid any suspicious-looking people, don't walk down dark or dimly-lit streets, and always try to move in groups at night. Also, never walk with your smartphone in your hand, as snatch-and-grab thieves operate all over. If you're in town for a convention, remove and stash your badge when you're outside of the venue. Make sure to watch your drink in a restaurant or bar and never accept one from a stranger, and if you've been on the booze, always take a taxi, Uber, or Lyft instead of walking back to your hotel. Vacations are only fun if you're also staying safe.