I was MUGGED in Porto, Portugal.

In this episode Dave get's robbed outside of the McDonald's in Porto.
Sign up for Dave's Moving to Portugal Complete Guide:
www.daveinportugal.com
Learn Portuguese through the best Online Master Class: www.portuguesewithanita.com/D...

[@daviddittman]

As you said the muggers weren't Portuguese but how amazing that people came running to your aid. That really says so much about the countrty and its people. So I leave this video with more appreciation for Portugal not less.

[@patpeifer7871]

Me too.

[@kingquinn3897]

@@viajarporaipelomundo8509 New Portuguese lol

[@soniasantos6907]

@@viajarporaipelomundo8509 , Ele diz que não eram portugueses ( e que fossem, existem ladrões em todo lado), mas os senhores insistem q eram Pts. Pq?? Estavam lá, assistiram???

[@lesleysmith8300]

Sorry to hear this Dave. I hope you reported them to the Police. Take care and make sure you are with others at that time. 😊

[@pauladuncanadams1750]

True. These days, especially in the US, everyone will record it and do nothing!

[@laurieross]

Recovery note: As someone who has taken multiple face punches in an event, you need to get you nose straightened asap. i waited too long and they were only able to fix it a little bit (surgery) and now my only recourse is having it rebroken/bigger surgery. Please see an ENT. And yes, every place, late at night, can be dangerous. Please take care.

[@maximizemoney5694]

Great advice.

[@robbey300]

Had the same and left it too long so ended up with general anaesthetic and a full sub-mucous resection - SMR. 🙊

[@FXVNDER]

great advice! and i'm very sorry for you and hope you are somewhere safe surrounded by people who will get as upset as I got when I read this and do something about it!

[@shikakapt7565]

I am Portuguese and I hate hearing about this kind of situations but it's good that u show people that even if are in a safe country you need to be aware of everything. Be save

[@LiLBitsDK]

wouldn't exactly call portugal safe... better than some countries, but far worse than real safe countries

[@mariaadelaide765]

@@LiLBitsDK Portugal é 7 país mais seguro do mundo até 3 anos atrás era 3.quais são esses países realmente seguros que você diz ?

[@LiLBitsDK]

@@mariaadelaide765 hahahahaha you think a corrupt goverment gives the right numbers? for feck sake the police don't even write a report in many cases and nothing ever happens when you contact the police unless you grease the right ppl

[@anaritacoelho6689]

@@LiLBitsDK Are you kidding? there are like 6 countries more safe than Portugal. Are you from one of those?

[@LiLBitsDK]

@@anaritacoelho6689that someone "claim" it is a safe country doesn't mean it IS... and yes I am from Denmark, #2 on the list... plenty drugs in the cities with included nasty ppl and you have a high chance of losting your stuff at home if you dare leave your house and the police is useless

[@cilajoao1]

If this ever happens, get into the first bar/restaurant/shop you can find, the owners will never allow any aggression inside and they will call the police for you. So sorry this happened to you, Dave.

[@thesmithsmaf]

I am so sorry to hear this Dave...sending hugs - I appreciate you for your openess and wish you a swift recovery

[@paul_domici]

Glad you posted this video Dave! It's important to share awareness in other countries! Hope you feel better soon!!!

[@davidbarclay1738]

Really sorry this happened to you, and I'm glad those three guys came to your rescue at the right time. Stay safe!

[@donaldgoncalves6841]

I’m Portuguese, living in the states, and of course, it bums me out to hear the story, Dave. I really appreciate how fair and open you were about the experience, and also not trying to exacerbate any tensions amongst different groups. I continue to hope that the authorities in Portugal are able to maintain order, as our beautiful little country becomes more popular as is the trend over the last couple of years. Stay safe wherever you are in the world.

[@Erthellf]

It certainly is, tao bonito! I wish I had discovered it years ago in 1986 when my 2nd cousin married into The Tavares family that immigrated here. The parents became the finest tailors in the whole state!! 🙂 I also have not studied the political environment in Portugal so many years ago. There must have been some strife that urged them to leave 😐

[@kingquinn3897]

Yes. Let's ignore the Elephant in the room!

[@Johnnash001]

He wasn't open! He didn't tell us the Race of the people who did it! I have been to Portugal many times, all the guys selling drugs are illegal Africans! Not Portuguese!

[@izzytoons]

@@kingquinn3897 All crowded cities are like this, especially in quiet areas, especially at night. There are unsafe areas, there are unsafe times. And then there are pickpockets even in crowded, safe areas in the middle of the day. It always requires going to the right places at the right times, and knowing how to protect your valuables. I have traveled a lot in the US and Europe since the eighties, and it has always been like this. Some are better than others, but pretty none are immune. Yes, the poorer neighborhoods tend to be the less safe ones. These can be white, brown, or black neighborhoods. It is gernerally not a matter of race or ethnicity but rather a socioeconomic issue. These communities tend to be more antagonistic toward people with money, more aggressive and violent, and more likely to mug and take your money. Such a person is just as likely to harass a person of their own race or ethnicity if they have entered the wrong territory. It has been like that my entire life. If you go to any travel website, they will give you the same pieces of advice for traveling to metropolitan areas.

[@bringonthedead2]

Sorry to hear you experienced this in my homeland, brother. I hope you recover soon and keep up the great work and motivation!

[@chancexu2163]

Sorry to hear what happened to you, Dave! Be cautious and be safe!

[@TheTiagoMoutinho]

I'm so sorry about this Dave, please dont forget to put ice on it, very important!!! Thanks for sharing this video, i'm going to be aware when i am travelling because i will recall this video.

[@DaveinPortugal]

Thank you 🙏🏻 Lots of ice! Just important to keep your wits everywhere these days

[@BernhardSchwarz-xs8kp]

Now you know it David - you need to buy ice - they will not charge you too much for the ice. But free - it will not be.

[@iolanisjourney4828]

Sorry this happened to you and thanks for the reminder. I just left Porto but still traveling in Portugal. I feel very safe here but I do need to remember to be aware of my surroundings, not just here but anywhere (if I am traveling or back at home). Glad the 3 nice people came to your rescue!

[@BariFromDaBoot]

I hate that happened to you, Dave. Glad to hear you're okay and taking it all in stride. Thanks for sharing your experience and thoughts in an honest and balanced way.

[@dawnevery3996]

I’m sorry this happened to you. I’m glad the other guys came to help you. I’ve been watching your videos in preparation for our visit as we’re leaving for Portugal in a couple of weeks for three weeks and this is a reminder to not let our guard down. Wishing you a speedy recovery.

[@ericwilcox2442]

Ditto for me. My wife and I are going to Portugal in May for three weeks. I won't let my guard down either. My big fear is that I'm bringing a camera bag (backpack) with camera gear and I know it will make me a target.

[@johnmachaqueiro5877]

@@ericwilcox2442 your biggest concern in places like Lisbon and Porto isn't going to be a backpack. Be mindful of your wallet because, sadly pickpockets are the biggest scourge in these cities.

[@izzytoons]

The same rules apply in any major city. Do your research and ask people and identify what areas are safe and stay in them. Stay where other people are, though be careful of pickpockets in those places. Learn how to protect your wallet, smart phone, etc. At night, go and stay where there are other people. If you do drink a lot, walk home in a gang of adults on main streets or get a cab or Uber home, especially if the streets are empty. Call for the car when you are inside with other people, go out when the car arrives. Don't stay out late. I'd say no later than ten. These are just basic rules. I've followed them since the eighties, all over the U.S. and Europe, and I've never come close to a problem. If you follow them, you should be fine and have a great time!

[@kiwish2003]

Another great and informative video Dave as always honest and full of valuable indo. Hope you recover fully soon

[@zhannakryukova8676]

Im glad that you are OK now! Pls, be careful! Thank you for trying to be kind and objective to light this terrible experience for others! Be safe!

[@itsallgoodcraic170]

Sorry to hear about this Dave, hope you rest and heal up soon.. We were in Porto in mid October and also Lisboa , Guimarães, Coimbra, and Evora. Then we went onwards along the coast to Sagres and then to Albufeira .. we didn't run into any trouble there.. we continued through Spain for the month of November and also had no issues.

[@danfrey]

Sorry that happened to you, Dave. Thank you for making the video. Good info to have.

[@chayneconway4691]

Oh, no! 😢. That’s terrible, and sad to hear. Glad that some people came running to your aid. Speedy recovery! ❤️‍🩹

[@luisvieira116]

Hi Dave, love your videos. Wishing you a swift recovery.

[@TheVisionaryVoyager]

Bromano! Ugh this made my heart hurt for you, for Porto and Portugal. I live here in Gaia (by Jardim do Morro) and walk through Aliados and past that McDonalds every week many times...including late at night. Thank you for sharing this incident with us. As someone who has lived here for 1.5 years now (from the USA) I have felt immensely safe here. In fact it took me a long time to realize just how safe I am compared to the USA. I really resonated with what you said about having lived in big cities. I lived in NYC, Chicago, Los Angeles, San Francisco and San Diego and have a certain sense of "street smarts" that perhaps gives me too much confidence here in Porto. Duly noted. For the record, before I came here I found some of your videos on YT and they helped me so much. Little did I know that Portugal would become my home. I am so happy here and wouldn't trade it for anything. That said, I will be walking through Aliados to Cedofeita area tonight and will have you sitting on my shoulder reminding me to keep my NYC street smarts alive. :-)

[@paulacarlesso9001]

Dave, what a scary life lesson! Keep vigilant, but at the same time, don't let this incident affect your confidence to explore and enjoy your surroundings!

[@DanDaniel3791]

Thanks for this open and honest video, stay safe and be careful…

[@lauras8674]

Gosh Dave! So sorry that happened to you! Be safe and be careful!

[@5606_7_da_cp]

Hey, Dave! Unfortunately, I also met drugsellers at Porto, though the situations in which they tried to sell drugs weren't that bad. Hope you recover soon, and best of luck in dealing with these people! Hope to see more of your videos.

[@robinrothstein]

I’m so sorry you had this experience, Dave, but grateful for the PSA. A reminder to us all when traveling to maintain our spidey sense.

[@niloofarexperience]

Sorry to hear that, I hope you’ll get better soon❤

[@starrmama156]

Oh wow, Dave. I’m sorry you went through this. But I loved your take on the situation and that those men came to your aid! I hope you heal quickly. 💙

[@debraemilligan]

So sorry Dave. I'm very grateful 🙏 for the heros that came to your rescue. Thanks for sharing your experience with us. I really love your channel, take good care ❤

[@DaveinPortugal]

Thank you Debra 🙏🏻

[@debraemilligan]

@@DaveinPortugal hey! You're very welcome, nice to hear from you Dave

[@debraemilligan]

Dave, can you file an assault report at the police station? I think stepping up and reporting this will be a legal statement in case others have also been assaulted, etc....or in case you have something else happen. I think it's better to report things like this to the authorities so they're aware too. These thugs need to be arrested or given fines and night in jail or something to be accountable for what they did to you.

[@alexhamilton2710]

Very brave for sharing this Dave, sorry hear this happened to you mate

[@gjrhproducts9770]

Thanks for making the video, sorry this happen to you, but glad you are alright overall

[@tamerabrandon3487]

Wow….so sorry this happened to you Dave 😢. Glad you’re ok and take care ❤❤❤❤

[@apaula2751]

Hi Dave so sorry to hear about your experience and thank you for your honesty, and lovely way you speak about my country like you say this could have happened anywhere but it's always such a shock when it happens i hope your eye recovers soon. Many years ago that Mc Donalds building was a fantastic restaurant called " Imperial " i have many fond memories growing up and going there for lunch with my family and always admiring the large Eagle above the doorway. Looking forward to watching more of your videos thank you sooo much i really appreciate them as i'm sure i speak for all your subcribers😊

[@yourbusinessvalue]

Glad you weren't seriously injured. But a good warning against complacency - there's a big difference between being one of the safer countries in the world and being completely safe.

[@REMPLACEMENT-TV]

western europe is not safe at all anymore

[@BernhardSchwarz-xs8kp]

Tell me one country these days where you can walk after midnight - as a tourist - drunk and aggressive - without running into trouble. It is not if but when.

[@jackbaldwin3649]

Great Video Dave and good reminder! Glad you're alright! Stay safe.

[@sallygasser1898]

I'm so sorry this happened to you. I enjoy your videos. Thank u 4 the video.

[@user-cj9zx1me7b]

Wow...your opening scene is on Rua das Flores in front of the hotel I stayed at...what a beautiful street. I was saying, oh no, I walked there every night on my way somewhere. The lights, the outdoor music, the restaurants, and general sense of being alive, and all that was happening in off season in February last year. I met up with my guide to the Douro River Valley in front of that same MacDonald's. I'm a female solo traveler and I won't let that dissuade me but your honesty reinforces the reality that no one should be too careful. The world is rapidly changing. See Portugal for its beauty and history and the Portuguese people are amazingly kind and welcoming. Just remain aware, take in the beauty, and keep on traveling. Thank you, Dave. I'm happy you came out of this okay.

[@Mi2Pac]

As portuguese and as a long time follower of your great content, It's heartbroken to hear that you had such a sad episode during your stay here in Porto. I'm from the city and I walk around it daily from early in the morning until late at night and I can assure that even though things are WAY better comparing to decades ago, It's also getting worse having in mind the last 5 years. Unfortunately the security is going downhill thanks to the lack of policies related to the uncontrolled immigration coming to Portugal without any major prior criminal check-ups. I really hope you get better Dave, Stay safe!

[@kastrelo]

I have never seen more broken car windows than in Porto. I stayed there for 48h and saw like 2 or 3. It was insane. Clearly robbed.

[@Asturias14]

If you look something like your pfp then no, youre not portuguese.

[@Francedefence]

@BillGaytes All leftists !

[@izzytoons]

There are unsafe areas and times and conditions (empty streets) in most cities. If crime in Proto/Portugal is still below what it was in the past, when immigration was lower, how can it be related solely to immigration? It can't. They say this in the U.S., too, but the statistics never prove that. States with more guns, which tend to be very white, have way more gun injuries and deaths than the ones with fewer guns and more minorities. Trump, for example, calls Mexicans rapists and murderers, even though the rate of rape and murder is no higher than that among white people. Some of these perceptions and judgments are based on people focusing on certain incidences, discussing them endlessly, exaggerating them, and not knowing the statistics, and when they hear the statistics, they refuse to believe them, and they continue to focus on the stories, some of which are just rumors and conspiracy theories. That's a big problem here in the U.S. Again, there are safe and unsafe areas. The unsafe areas tend to be poor neighborhoods, regardless of the race or ethnicity. If the neighborhood is poor, it has a greater chance of being unsafe. Especially at night. Be safe. Another thing, in a lot of these Europen countries where right-wing, anti-immigrant groups are growing, I check the statistics and they generally have few actual immigrants; they continue to be predominantly native. And the crime statistics tend not to be that different. It seems that the problems that exist, however, are blamed on certain immigrants... I know Portugal has had a lot of immigration in recent years, but I thought most of that was digital nomads and retirees, mostly white, because the attractive visas and tax benefits? As for not checking the criminal records of immigrants, yes, you are right, that is going to increase problems. That is bad policy. Funny, because everywhere I look (I am considering retiring abroad), I see a requirement to reveal your criminal history, if you have one. I am surprised Portugal did not adopt this policy, especially when they changed the visa and tax laws to encourage people to immigrate. Hope they change it soon.

[@razlicak]

@@izzytoons not every immigrant is bad, but they are not all good. there are bad seeds everywhere. Also, before you start commenting something you don't understand, please leave you liberal shoes in front of the door. there are tons of bad things happened in US that have absolutely nothing to do with Trump, but with Biden policy. You might be for open boarder, but in reality is a VERY bad policy/idea.

[@marjoriehall9984]

Thanks for your honesty. You give good tips.

[@mariana6033]

so sorry that happened to you!! wishing you a quick recovery

[@silaszinn]

Hey Dave, I'm sorry to hear something like this happened to you. I'm Brazilian and I moved to Porto recently, looking for a safer place to live and very well guided and inspired by your videos. My wife and I were walking around this side of the Porto at late hours and we were very low guard compared to Brazil due to the security that Portugal transmits. We saw a similar situation happening with an elderly couple, but instead of selling drugs he was asking for money very aggressively and following them, but they were fine because they went into a bar, which we did the same. Which was a good reminder to keep our guard up at late hours even here. I wish you a good recovery and don't stop enjoying Portugal due to an event like this. I hope one day to bump into you in Porto and share a bottle of wine to thank you for the excellent content you provide here o/

[@johnconstable8512]

vai voltar pro br?

[@izzytoons]

Even better to avoid empty places late at night. In fact, don't stay out late at night in any city.

[@dcole6328]

Success is the best revenge, You have made a good video from the incident. Kudos! Your video of Porto led me to go there for a lovely time.

[@marite135]

You are so calm in relating your incident and your perspective is so well balanced. By the way you have a very soothing voice.

[@pongobird]

You are taking this quite well, it is great to get this information out. Sometimes we need a dose of reality to wake up. Thanks for sharing this.

[@girlybutch666]

Hello from Detroit! Hoping you heal well. Porto was such a welcoming and warm city while visiting, but you must still keep your head up like you're from the D! All the best..

[@olenaverbova9720]

I am from D as well;)

[@joshuaslokum36]

Thank you for sharing your experience. 😞 We are to Portugal in a few days.... and will be cautious. 🙏 stay safe

[@stargazer5073]

I am so sorry.....prayers for healing emotionally and physically.

[@wendyurquia4034]

Great video Dave. The gentleman who said ‘this is not Portugal’ is 100% right. It’s awful to think but there are rotten people out there who see someone out alone at night as an easy target. And your point about what’s happening across Europe right now cannot go unsaid in this context. Thanks for your honesty. Porto remains my favourite city in the world. I can’t wait to return. ❤

[@zelareka]

wrong, now it is.. too many immigrantes from 3rd world countries

[@evangelosmorris6764]

Porto is my favourite city. The mugging sucks but the warmth and care of the local and international Portuguese community is superb and exactly what I remember. I’ll be back at the end of May on vacation. Great catching up on your videos Dave.

[@loreelattik1]

Thank you for posting. It is a great reminder to pay attention, no matter where you are.

[@izzytoons]

Yup. For example, the pickpocketing tends to happen in broad daylight, in crowded (not deserted) areas, by white people, even women. Totally unsuspecting circumstances. You just have to learn how to protect your valuables.

[@suzannecuerrier279]

Thanks for sharing your story and making sure it was the actual facts presented.

[@petefoti1041]

Sorry to hear about this. I'm hoping to retire there in a few years with my wife. She has family about an hour from Porto, I've been there many times and never felt being in any danger. Then again I haven't been out alone at midnight with a good alcohol buzz. Thanks for sharing, Hopefully you're feeling better. Lesson here is "Don't let your guard down anywhere."

[@INSIGHTSAU]

Thank you for making this video. I’m an Aussie living in Portugal for several years. I have never had an issue but been offered “oregano” many times. You handled your experience very well and as you said it’s all about situational awareness. Hope your future journeys are trouble free.

[@learneuropeanportuguese]

So sorry to hear about this! As melhoras!

[@richsanta]

Thanks Dave for sharing your experiences in Portugal including this mugging story which as you said it can happen anywhere, and very glad that there were other people came to help and you are ok.

[@mariafatimaalmeida4693]

I am from Portugal it breaks my heart that this happened to you. Please remember that most Portuguese people are not this way.

[@TigasFMS]

It wasn’t a portuguese

[@bookinsights1092]

Native Portuguese are good people but the immigrants that come here are a different story.

[@bilie9117]

The thing is, nowadays everyone is “portuguese”

[@REMPLACEMENT-TV]

@@bookinsights1092 same problem all over europe , we all need to find a solution before it's too late

[@88PJota]

Hi Dave! Porto is my hometown and where I live. I’m really sorry to hear about what happened to you 😢 I’ve been seeing those kind of aggressive behaviors from non-Portuguese individuals and it makes me really sad that they’re ruining our peaceful city and country. Hope you feel better!

[@JoelSantos-lk9tu]

Isto ainda é só o começo, a imigração (composta por uma grande maioria de homens do terceiro mundo) está completamente descontrolada e nem sequer verificam os antecedentes criminais. Ou o Chega tem já uma grande votação ou então depois já vai ser tarde para corrigir a porcaria que fizeram.

[@gracasilver8574]

Jota - Esses tipos vêm de onde ?... Roménia ... ou fora da Europa ?...

[@HF06]

​@@gracasilver8574Brasil, África e sub-continente Indiano

[@richyq8786]

You are beautiful. @88PJota

[@blackinton2526]

Angola é Nossa @@HF06

[@IceTTToy]

Aww, Dave, that really sucks and I’m so sorry that happened to you! My wife and I recently visited Lisbon & Porto for our 30th anniversary and my 55th birthday and I credit you and your videos for having a huge part in making it an absolutely amazing trip. I did as you said, I think we left Portugal a little better than we found it. Can’t say the same for your attackers, but the kindness of the guys who came to your aid is exactly the kind of thing I would have expected from the locals. If anything, your video has given me more faith in humanity and just love Portugal that much more. Take care of that shiner and your nose and keep bringing that joy to the rest of us living vicariously through you!!

[@stevenbagley9858]

Thanks for sharing this useful and informative video. Hope you stay safe and thanks for your honesty and objectivity. Your first point is key. Midnight, Walking Alone, Deserted Area, with a drink too many. All the Best and get well soon.

[@MyTaropist]

I read an almost identical story in a Reddit thread recently, but it happened in Lisboa and the person was robbed of hundreds of euros from people trying to sell them “drugs.” Be safe out there. One of the reasons I moved from LA to Portugal was to feel safer, but we must be alert everywhere. So sorry this happened to you, Dave.

[@ForeignNumber]

I heard this story, too. Then a few nights ago I was walking near Pink Street (hell hole) and some dude was badgering me about trying his free cocaine. I said your cocaine is fake. He then proceeded to get quite aggressive and follow me down the street for a minute or so. Probably not the wisest move on my part.

[@user-xy6vd7dj2n]

Since Portugal has faced lot of imigration its not the same. We all want it to change thats why CHEGA must win elections

[@NathanLeeKrish]

@@ForeignNumber Pink Street is a hellhole? I guess my time spent there gave a different impression.

[@lynxcato3327]

@@user-xy6vd7dj2n Immigration is a good thing. If you bring up anecdotes or statistics that show rising crime of whatever you're just a racist to be ignored. If the entirety of Africa comes to Portugal, that's a good thing, only racists would disagree.

[@user-xy6vd7dj2n]

@@lynxcato3327 ? Im not racist. Crime has been rising and they arent portuguese. You clearly didnt go to school boy. Go on , there is still time and hope for you

[@leoemportugal]

Oh Dave, what a cool video, so honest. I'm sorry about what happened to you. I'm from Brazil and, when we came here, we had an incredible feeling of security, but bad things can happen even here, one of the safest countries in the world. That's why we always have to be attentive. Thanks and of course, you gained another subscriber

[@tooooo-dc6dq]

Going to Porto in 2 weeks. So grateful to stumble across your page and the video of “what not to do in Portugal”. Bummer this happened to you, but also nice to see people come to your rescue.

[@mongofan1]

Damn, sorry that happened. Glad the others came to your aid. That says something about Portugal, too. Thanks for sharing this with us. Alex

[@stevejohnson1231]

Sorry this happened to you Dave and thanks for posting this sobering advice.

[@christiandasilva9435]

I'm a venezuelan living in Porto for the past 6 years. Very close to city center. I OFTEN go out at nights, close to midnight for a walk or a run and I've never felt safer. I'm totally aware that you can get in these kind of situations literally ANYWHERE in the world, even in the most developed countries, but I can assure anyone reading this that Porto is the place where I've felt the safest and what happened to Dave was isolated. I've dealt with these drug dealers offering things and they've never insisted after my first "no".

[@kastrelo]

I have never seen more broken car windows than in Porto. I stayed there for 48h and saw like 2 or 3. It was insane. Clearly robbed.

[@sandrogomes19]

Depois dizem Que a culpa dos roubos e crime vem com a imigração. Sabemos que temos vários xenófobos em Portugal. Viva ao povo da Venezuela 🇻🇪

[@christiandasilva9435]

@@kastrelo I was referring to the city of Porto in the northern of Portugal. I've seen 2 or 3 car windows broken in 6 years in total here.

[@luisantos1996]

Portugal streets were much safer 15 years ago, you entered in our country in the moment our government stop caring who entered in it.

[@kastrelo]

​@@christiandasilva9435estuve en Oporto en Portugal hace justo un año y vi 2 coches a los que les habían robado las pertenencias tras romperles los vidrios con una piedra. 2 lunas rotas en 2 coches distintos en menos de 48h.

[@tbsfnsc]

I'm truly sorry to hear about your experience. I had a comparable situation in Porto towards the end of January 2023, near the location you've pointed out. Please take good care of yourself, and I hope you've filed a report to assist in raising awareness among the Portuguese that things are changing.

[@daydani]

I'm so sorry, Dave. Hope you can fully recover from this.

[@terra7066]

According to the Eurostat (The statistical office of the European Union) in 2022 there was 3 member states with a robbery rate higher than 100 per 100 000 people. They were 1st Belgium , 2nd Spain and 3rd Portugal. Portugal was safe but no longer is , Portugal has it's own bad citizens like any country but is receiving immigrants from countries that have an higher homicide rate by itself than the homicide rate , the number of people killed in terrorist attacks and the number of people killed in civil war put together in countries like Syria , Iraq , Afghanistan and many others. If I name the nationality of the immigrants that are causing the huge increase of criminality in Portugal I'm immediately accused of being a racist , they become the victims of my racism and their victims are blamed for being robbed , assaulted or killed on their way to work or during a night out.

[@elisabetefontes4334]

@terra7066 unfortunantely socialism is destroing Portugal, they approve uncontrolled imigration, and this is the worst thing they could do. Did you know that everyday 100 people from indostan are arriving to Porto? Having Said that, you can imagine what is going on now, and you can imagine the future!!!! We are going to have elections on Match 10 th, if the socialism wins again, this country will never be Portugal again, and not even Europe...very sad😢😊😊😢

[@astrocartomanciacienciaanc5308]

Concordo. I agree!

[@Bruno-vw8jv]

Portugal is still extremely safe as long as you don't risk around at night in the big touristic cities. It's still considered the 7th safest country in the world.

[@lauracoelhodesigns]

​@@elisabetefontes4334yes you right! Because we are the door to Europe. We let everyone in, regarding the backgroung. 🫤

[@rafaelfigueiredo5865]

I love how people comment with zero regards to facts. Nothing in this thread makes sense. This lady saying that socialism is killing the country, we don't have socialism in Portugal, so that's lie number 1. Only someone who is completely alienated from polítics says we have socialism here. The owner of the comment says Portugal isn't safe anymore, and in 2023 we raked the 7th safest country in the world. Basically people are now product of the society of the spectacle. Click baits, and titles without reading the whole thing. Portugal is a safe country, and still one of the safest countries in the world. You write this and you miss the most important part of the video where the guy says locals told him that it was different 20 years ago and much worse. I'm a local, and I remember no one even daring to walk downtown at night , not even in small groups. So lick you your dogmatic speeches elsewhere.

[@stoned8034]

my friend, i love your channel, im so sorry about what happened with you, please, keep doing content, and keep being part of my country Portugal, i love you

[@tinahorta6711]

Uau, what can I say Dave😢 sorry this happened in my country 😢. Thanks for the awareness video. Hope you are recovering nicely .❤❤❤

[@Brad_West]

Sorry to hear that this happened to you Dave! I've been living in Porto for 6 months now and haven't experienced anything like this, but as you said, this could happen anywhere in the world. I hope that shiner and nose heals up soon! 💪🏼

[@daveaway]

Thanks for being brave enough to share this import information

[@tcbbctagain572]

There was once a time when we were the 3rd safest country in the world. But then the migration happened and the foreign population went from not 300 thousand to almost 900 thousand in less than 10 years. Lisbon is basically south asia nowadays. Algarve and Alentejo are heading the same path. Now in the north we are also seeing more and more foreigners. I bet those guys were from south asia

[@gracasilver8574]

Sul da Ásia ?... 🤔 Os Ciganos vieram do Norte da Índia ...

[@tcbbctagain572]

@@gracasilver8574 lá tá, isso é sul da Ásia. Ele disse que mal sabiam falar português por isso vê se logo que são migrantes

[@ericerven5456]

Good info to keep in mind Thanks!!

[@sharonwright7932]

This is the best travel vid I’ve seen in a long while….better to be safe than sorry! I know Porto and like you would have been caught off guard so thanks so much for posting and more credit for not mentioning the nationalities!

[@andreacatzel8259]

How awful, Dave. Thank goodness there were 3 helpful guys that chased them away. Please take care. After midnight is always a bit dodgy……Wherever you are. Thanks for the warning. Heal well ❤

[@lynnthompson5527]

Dave I’m so sorry you had this experience and I sincerely hope it does not deeply color your whole Living in Portugal experience. I was pick pocketed in Lisbon 16 months ago - due primarily to my own stupidity, and it was a nightmare replacing my cards, etc. but I learned my lesson ( $$$$) and did not let it affect the rest of my trip. I found my 2 weeks in Porto to be some of the best experiences of my life and the people were remarkably kind and helpful to us naive American tourists. I am looking forward to returning and I wish you the best in your life there.

[@KitchensbySavina]

Great video. Thank you.

[@davidhalliday7182]

Thank you for the video. I'm sorry about your experience. When I next go travelling I will remember it.

[@user-fj2yi4po9h]

I’m so sorry. I was just there and felt 1000% more safe there than here in the States. I’m glad you didn’t get hurt worse

[@lorrainesclark]

Hey😢 Dave. Glad to hear you are ok. Thanks so much for posting. Portugal is an amazing place and yes Crime can happen anywhere at any time. Appreciate your honesty and you have probably saved a few people just by posting this video. It takes courage and I for one very much appreciate your honesty. Stay safe.

[@robertobruni3877]

Hi Dave, I am really sorry to learn that you were mugged in Porto. I hope you get better soon! By the way congrats in the work you are doing to educate people about Portugal! I am enjoying every new video you are creating. Thanks,

[@pamsshabbyvintagedreams9874]

Thanks for your honesty on this. Hindsight is 20/20. Glad you’re okay. 👍🏻

[@libertyleave]

I'm really sorry this happened to you. My partner and I were in Lisbon in May 2023 (ironically as a "scouting trip" because we were thinking about moving there) and had a very similar scenario happen to us. Someone asked us if we wanted to buy off them, we said no politely, and they kept following us and some of their friends joined. This was at like 3PM in the day. We quickly walked away and went into a cafe to wait it out. It was very scary and reason enough for me to write off Lisbon as a place to live because I was genuinely afraid to go outside by myself. We ended up moving to Malaga, Spain.

[@tiagopires5713]

I`m Portuguese, I live in Porto and I`m mad someone would do that to you. I`m so so sorry this happened to you, keep safe Dave. Also subscribed is the least I can do.

[@alankirby5962]

Thank you for making this brave video. It will certainly help many travelers to be more aware and to know it can happen anywhere, so stay alert. Great advice on running or ducking into an establishment. Nothing wrong with getting away.

[@arcachucho]

Thanks for the tips!

[@cabrui]

Hey Dave. I’m so sorry this happened to you. I feel ashamed that my country was the location for this altercation. I hope you’re alright and this will never happens to you again. I’m in the process of moving permanently to Portugal from Canada in April and would love to meet you and have an Imperial with you. I have a place in Boliqueime and if you ever happen to be down south, I hope we can meet face to face. Take care Dave

[@RobertJohnson1980]

hope you're not moving to Vancouver. Its a craphole. Best to stick to a 1st class city like Montreal or Toronto

[@good2begreen99]

I personally believe it is absolutely relevant to mention ethnicity and race, it is the first and most relevant fact in any criminal investigation. It is a fact, not a feeling, not a judgement, not a condemnation of everyone from that ethnicity. Did you not mention it to the police? The fact that you felt the need to say that you don't feel the need to mention it speaks volumes. Are you going to do anyone a favor by concealing the most visible and identifiable characteristics of these criminals? Perhaps your subscribers who travel would be better off with the knowledge of who to look for. Literally everyone knows who you are talking about, just say it. Is political correctness going to help anyone placed in this situation in the future? I went to Lisbon last year and the only problem I had, literally on my first walk outside my room on the way for groceries, was with two young males of Middle Eastern descent tailing me immediately in very close proximity. This was mid day in nice area. I stopped abruptly and pretended to look at a menu and I stared back at them. They turned and walked into the restaurant and they certainly were not going to eat. I am sorry this happened to you and I hope you recover quickly. Always love your videos and your path in life. Keep up the great work.

[@user-ib3mh7su8h]

I am sad to hear it happened to you ( And you did so cool to make this video to keep other people to be aware. I wish you only good luck!

[@indigoinarritu6096]

So sorry that this happened to you Dave. Take care! I appreciate that you were honest about your role in this confrontation and how you could have avoided it. I hope this was a one-off and it never happens to you again based on your newly acquired wisdom.

[@mca200tq]

Tracksuit was the clue lol

[@yanusz1963]

Black

[@nickynuke6390]

I think I know exactly who these guys are. I was in Porto 2 weeks ago, and I stayed at a hotel right in that area. Multiple times I was offered cocaine by 2 guys in track suits. And, no not black, Eastern European and two of them looked liked twins. The only difference is I am 6'4", 250 lbs. No shenanigans ensued after I told them leave me alone.

[@Pauln71]

​@@yanusz1963Try not to be a racist

[@yanusz1963]

@@Pauln71 ant you one racist to givin us clues Tracksuit

[@Pauln71]

@@yanusz1963 What

[@edgarcosta2538]

So sorry to hear that you went through this event. I do live in Porto and never came across anything similar. And I have travelled extensively and lived in Australia 20 year nil incidents too (well I did work on a psych ward, but that's an exceptional environment). I guess it was just one of those occasions that one is in the wrong place at the wrong time. Hope you recover soon an this event does not deter you from enjoying Porto. Hope to see more of your videos which are amazing.

[@c4tubo]

A very balanced and well delivered story. Obrigado.

[@DaveG-rs3xp]

Glad you are ok Dave

[@edplayssims]

I live in Porto, this is terrible! I'm so sorry for you.

[@mariefortune]

I have been to Portugal, everyone was friendly to us. This is one of my top picks for retired.

[@People_of_the_Mouse]

3-5 or sooner and we are heading to Viana do Castelo

[@izzytoons]

I think you are right about the retirement assessment. Although the tax laws are apparently changing. Apparently the law has passed, but there is some small chance that it might not be implemented. So I hear. Without it, taxes could be high, even for retirees. Look into that.

[@mariefortune]

Please tell me about the new law.@@izzytoons

[@shyyeung2347]

I like you to be honest with yourself and the situations. Nobody could avoid the unpredictable danger that happened while travelling.

[@claudiooliveira2684]

I am portuguese and I am so sorry for this. probably the thugs weren't portuguese... I know what it sounds what I said but it's becoming a fact...

[@ramongar]

Experienced this in Barcelona too with the same eye injury. Ethnicity should have been mentioned. As experienced by you, the ones that attacked were not Spanish but came from another country. Immigration and asylum policies as well as more punitive law enforcement should be enabled in Europe

[@Francedefence]

Nearly always the sames!

[@BillyJ-vi8df]

Black betcha anything. They do it in nyc.

[@robban5545]

IF THEY THINK YOU ARE A TOURIST, THEY SEE YOU AS AN EASIER PREY. WE ALL KNOW WHO THEY ARE, BUT YOU CAN'T SAY

[@izzytoons]

@@robban5545 Yes, because there were no pickpockets, dangerous neighborhoods, or assaults before immigration. Um, no. I have traveled extensively since the eighties, and I have always had to do my homework and follow certain basic rules of safety, especially in cities: know the wrong neighborhoods, avoid the wrong neighborhoods, learn how to protect my valuables in crowded tourist areas, avoid empty areas, don't stay out late. Just the rules of traveling, especially in cities. Always works. I talk to travelers all the time. Nothing's changed. You just need to know and follow the right rules. By the way, NYC was MORE dangerous in the eighties than now, with the immigration. The same is true for many European countries and cities. For example, Trump calls Mexicans rapists and murderers, but the statistics show they are no more likely to rape or murder than white people... I am not saying that multi-cultural communities are not more challenging to manage. They are. Different people have different behaviors, habits, customs, etc. It takes some effort to work through that. Wave after wave of immigration for centuries in the U.S. has shown. It doesn't matter whether the immigrants are Mexican. When they are Irish., German, Italian, Polish, etc., they were ALL problems. Not just brown and black people. They all had trouble getting jobs, They were all verbally and physically abused. They were all poor and tended to violence, too. They all resorted to crime. And eventually after many generations they assimilated. In the U.S., white people are now 41% percent of the population. That is challenging. I see European countries with like 3% immigrants who are whining incredibly and their right-wings are growing. All the problems are heaped on those 3%, even when the crime rates are the same. It's always the color of the skin. I'm not saying that immigration is never or not a problem. I am saying that whenever I dig down into the details, the statistics, the proof of huge problems caused specifically by immigrants is not always there. In a lot of cases, you have people focusing on specific events involving black people over and over, exaggerating them, and ignoring the crimes committed by others, crime that has always been there. Here in America, for example, white people commit ALL the mass shootings. ALL the serial killers are white. Tons of white people do drugs and drive the drug trade, which involves a number of different crimes. Rich people engage in all kinds of white collar crime, robbing others of tons of money, in many cases perfectly legally. The white crimes just don't get the same attention, just don't generate the same kind of focus, judgment, and anger. It's interesting.