Since the older thread has been closed…

There's no doubt that Barcelona is rife with street crime, like pickpocketing, bagsnatching, and mugging. Yes, it is a safe city, as long as you stow your stuff safely and keep physical contact with it. Otherwise, it has more likelihood, compared to many other cities, of disappearing. Let me back that up:

As a researcher of global street crime (and one who loves Barcelona as a destination), I can say that visitors to the city have a higher than average chance of experiencing theft. Sad but true, and documented with examples here: http://bobarno.com/thiefhunters/2008...t-crime-today/

Someone mentioned Rome in the other thread. Rome is pretty high too, but concentrated more on public transportation (Bus 64 is called "the Heaven to Hell Express). Naples is huge in theft and huge on warm welcome (why I call it the City of Hugs and Thugs: http://bobarno.com/thiefhunters/2008...f-pickpockets/ ). And St. Petersburg is another lovely destination where caution is vital: http://bobarno.com/thiefhunters/2008...ets-and-thugs/

I can go on, but I'd rather say that it's wise to learn a few travel-safety basics: dress down, carry only what you need, stow your stuff in body pouches, be alert to "good samaritans," and bring a little dose of skepticism on your trip.