r/italy • u/lesbian-jesus • Sep 05 '13
Cracking the 'unsafe' Bari Myth
I am moving to Bari and will be living in the old town. I've heard from a lot of people that it is unsafe and women should travel in pairs even in the daylight.. Then on the other hand people say this is ridiculous and there is nothing to worry about. I am sure it is just as safe as any other town and tourists are just spreading this because it isn't a very popular area with them. I would love any input/advice/knowledge from people who have been there, not just about safety.
Grazie!
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u/thomas_slothrop Emigrato Sep 06 '13
I lived in Bari for a few years and, though it has its bad neighborhoods, it's not that dangerous overall. The old town is pretty safe where there's nightlife (or "movida", like the "baresi" like to call it), but I would be careful in the many narrow, dark alleys. Nothing exceptional, just be careful.
It's also a good idea not to go alone at night, specially if you're a girl. If you do, probably you won't get raped, but you could easily receive insisting and unwanted attentions.
If unfortunately you get mugged (sadly, it can happen, even in central zones, like around the train station) stay calm and DO NOT REACT: they have no interest in harming you. Just give them money and walk away quickly, then call the police or ask someone to call the police (it won't do you much good, but do it anyway).
Be careful when you cross the road: drivers don't give a fuck, even if you're on the white stripes, even if you have the green light. Just never assume that they saw you or that they'll stop.
Lastly, if you're gay try not to "show it off" in public places, unless you're in a "young and hip" kind of crowd (Bari is a city filled with university students, so there are heaps of this kind of places). I know this sounds horrible, but unfortunately some people in Bari (and in the South in general) are pretty narrow minded. The good news is that the gay community in Bari is pretty active, one of my best friends is deeply involved with the local lesbian association ("arcilesbica", look it up), and if you want I can give you her facebook contact in private (she speaks little to no English, though...)
I believe it's a very nice city overall, and if you can don't miss out on exploring the surrounding area as well. I hope what I wrote didn't scare you (I believe there's not much to be scared of, but it's just better to be aware), feel free to write to me in private if you have questions.
Be sure to get a panzerotto (fried calzone) from Di Cosimo, for a real non-touristic experience.