[cessna152towser]

The trouble is that we northern Europeans tend to be open, friendly and generous and therefore seen as a soft target. After being robbed twice, I was followed into a cafe by a beggar to whom I had already refused money. He stood over us at the table and refused to go until he was given some money. I refused to give him anything and the cafe owner eventually came over and helped get him off the premises. Then a group of four holidaymakers (I think they were Dutch or Scandinavian) sitting at the next table turned on me and accused me of being mean in refusing to give him a few euros!

[Jerry]

It's too bad you can't enjoy a holiday without being robbed. I would suggest purchasing a Stillwater nylon cargo sporran. Keep your money and other valuables in the top pocket. Bring both zippers to one side and then lock them together with something similar to these.

http://www.amazon.com/Lewis-N-Clark-.../dp/B000SKWPSW

They won't stop a determined thief, but they would discourage someone like the "bird crap man."
You could also do something as simple as tying the two zippers together with twine or something.

[Phil]

I remember when I was there a lot of down and outs (I have changed the description to mollify the sensitivity of the Mods) used to follow you into bars etc. trying to sell dodgy watches and CD's so nothing much has changed there then. I did enjoy Fuengirola but don't think I will be rushing back there after your experiences. Having been brought up in Glasgow I am fairly used to beggars (usually winos) trying to sponge off you in the street. Being polite never worked and it was only when you told them to **** Off! that they seemed to understand. Mind you the ones on the way to Buchanan Street Bus station were sometimes a bit scary - gorillas with scarred faces. I sometimes relented and gave them change. Cowardice I suppose.

[Macman]

Congratulations to you and Ann on your anniversary! It looks like you had a good time regardless.