Can I wear earrings in Kenya without risk of someone stealing them?

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Can I wear earrings in Kenya without risk of someone stealing them?

by Visitor

I hesitate to ask this question out of respect for the majority of Kenyans who would not do this, but someone told me I should not wear any earrings from the US because I would be at risk of someone yanking them out of my ears to steal them. Is this true?

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Can I wear earrings in Kenya without risk of someone stealing them?

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Jul 08, 2010

Can I wear earrings in Kenya without risk of someone stealing them?
by: John Lambert

Dear Visitor,

I hope you will have a safe and exciting trip.
Most Kenyan's are easygoing and kind.

Just like in other countries there are people who
will try to take advantage of you.
(There are people in NY and London who will try
to 'snatach' your purse.)

When you go you certainly don't want to go looking like you're the 'talk of the town' or too much like a tourist.

You might apply the same rule that smart people use when buying stocks or gambling.
"Don't risk more than you're willing to lose"
And if it's going to keep you awake at night
leave it at home.

Hope you'll have a wonderful trip
John

Jul 05, 2010

Can I wear earrings in Kenya without risk of someone stealing them?
by: Tropic Tours & Travel

Dear Visitor,

Thanks for your question.

I agree with the comments from Irene, Archie, Cassandra & Arjen - its always good to be careful and avoid walking to non touristic areas within Nairobi.

Safe travelling.

Rgds

Peter.

Jul 04, 2010

earrings
by: Irene O

Dear visitor,

I give my honest opionion about this and from my own experiences when I travelled to Kenya and during my period of living in Kenya.It is not ment to scare you of but to warn you and to avoid incidents.. it will give you a better and safe feelings to keep some advice in mind.

One time I walked in the streets of Nairobi, it was daytime. I walked with a friend. All a sudden she pushed me aside and I was like what are you doing? She pointed at two streetboys. One on my right and one on my left side.. they were planning to snatch my earrings yes.. from my ears...
This is what they mean with snatching the earrings.It can happen to your necklace.. your ring.. be carefull. I didnt wear any golden jewellery anymore when in Kenya on holiday.

In 2008 I had a golden necklace. I did wear it as 'safe places 'meaning in day time Mombasa area but not when going to town..
It was stolen one day but this time by some boys I was taken care of.. They could not resist to steal it cause they actually dont even understand that something can be some of emotional value to someone..

My advice is dont wear anything of value. It is always challenging thieves, streetboys to snatch it from you with violence.
Sure the Kenyans are taken care of the thief but you dont want anyone to be 'hurt 'or go to jail because of your ring, necklace or earrings.

You can easily avoid this by hiding your wallet in such way that they cant steal it.
You dont need your jewellery and honestly it doesnt feel right if you wear them while so many people in Kenya are suffering, that is my opinion. If you want to wear them do it in the hotel with dinner time.. but once outside the hotel.. dont..

Kenya is quite safe. But in the cities where is very crowded you have to be carefull. And definetly avoid certain areas, dont walk alone.

Dont forget that there many people in Kenya living in big poverty. Seeing the tourists with their wealth can create jealouzy and crimes. They have not much to loose..

Just dont do what you cant do either anymore in any big city in any part of the world. Be wise. Dont change money in the street, never give money to anyone in public....

Kenya is a country with friendly warm people. Enjoy your holiday.

Regards
Irene

Jul 04, 2010

Earrings etc
by: Archie [Moderator]

Thankyou for your question and one that is important to those who do not know Kenya.

Any Embassy all over the world would tell you not to be exuberant in diamonds and pearls. If you are travelling to a country that you already know has a problem with security of valuables then you leave them at home.

When it comes to earrings and other ladies adornments then Kenya is up front and one of the leaders in this world of ours. You would not have to search far to find something with great beauty.

I have never heard of earrings being taken from any woman. The only thing I can equate to is this, just be careful where you tread at night time. I think this applies all over the world and you have to be sensible.

Both Cassandra and Arjen are quite astute with advice. There is no doubt that most Kenyans hate to have thieves in their community and will take action immediately to solve it. Arjen is right about the heartbreaking stories that can get you caught up.

My advice to you is this - leave the jewellery at home.

Archie

Jul 04, 2010

Can you in the US?
by: Cassandra Marie

I am from the US and I understand you thought behind asking the question. I just pose the same question to you about the US.

You know when you go to some areas you just don't wear your 2k diamonds in your ears right? The same is with being in Kenya. You can wear earrings just one the ones that will make people think you have money. While traveling in Kenya often I have not felt like I was going to lose something because of what I was wearing. I dress according and only bring things I am ok with being lost or stolen. Even your bags traveling can be a target so just be wise.

It was stated in the other post that most Kenyans do not like criminals....it is true. all of my Kenyan friends are wise and look out for each other and work in their community to help lower crime. If you are going to be with locals you know then ask them what they think. They will tell you the truth and point out when and where you can or you shouldn't dress or bring something.

Yes Kenya is "third world country" but there are not that many things that make it different then parts of the US. Just have fun, be safe, be wise, trust locals you may know, and enjoy Kenya. Kenya is amazing! I am sure you have a great time.

Jul 03, 2010

I've never seen it...
by: Arjen (webmaster)

While it probably happens that a thief snatches expensive sunglasses or purses from tourists and ran, it's not something I hear a lot about. I wouldn't worry about it a lot. And earrings are attachd to your ears, aren't they?

In Kenyan cities you should follow more or less the same rules as in New York City or Los Angeles. Pay attention a bit when you are on the street, don't go with strangers who tell you unbelievable and heartbreaking stories, don't walk alone in dangerous areas alone and after dark, take taxis (they are considered safe always).

You will be safe when you are among people, because I find most Kenyans to hate criminals just as much as anyone else. When you walk somewhere you shouldn't walk, often a Kenyan will come to you and warn you about it.

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Can I wear earrings in Kenya without risk of someone stealing them?

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Can I wear earrings in Kenya without risk of someone stealing them?