A Brit who traded the UK for sun-soaked Tenerife has issued a stern warning to fellow holidaymakers heading to the popular winter sun destination.
The Canary Island, a favourite among those seeking some winter sun, may seem like paradise, but tourists are being urged to remain alert.
TikTok user @theknightstrider1, who has called Tenerife home for over a decade, warns of a recurring issue that blights the island every winter season.
Unsurprisingly, the problem is pickpocketing. Unlike mainland Spain, which slows down in winter, Tenerife’s tourist trade thrives, drawing in criminal gangs who “fly in” with the sole intention of pilfering from holidaymakers, treating it as a “full-time job”.
In his video, he explained: “They are very good at it, and they will do pickpocketing. They will steal from cars if you leave stuff inside them, so please do be very careful with your wallets, and stuff like that.”
He went on to say: “If you’re down here, busy, the golden mile area, the Sunday markets, the Tuesday markets, all of that – those busy areas – people bumping into you, just be careful. Just like at home, we do have pickpockets around.
“I normally just take my little wallet out, and I have it in my front pocket. Just be very careful and aware. You’ll be absolutely fine if you are but, unfortunately, so many people switch off, and they have their wallet busting with cash hanging out of their back pocket.”
He warns that pickpockets can be shockingly quick, swooping in for the steal when you’re least expecting it. For those who believe they’re safer behind the wheel, he offers another word of warning – never leave items on display in your car, as these are often targeted.
They’re on the hunt for pricey electronics like cameras and iPads, which should never be left unsecured or in plain view. Recently, he’s heard “more and more” accounts of holidaymakers falling victim.
The video ignited a wave of comments online. One user cheekily remarked: “I genuinely was expecting you to say bring a coat.”
Others fondly recalled their travels, with one posting: “Never had an issue over there. Can’t wait to go back in December.”
However, not everyone is eager to return, as another commented: “I don’t know what is going on in Tenerife. I know it’s not just Tenerife, but the vibe is off. I don’t think I would go back, and I’m not alone in that.”
Another person added their voice to the conversation, saying: “Such a shame. Always come in the winter, but noticed it’s definitely getting worse. Just don’t feel safe in the evening.”
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