But Check Mexico City

In response to Letters, Nov. 8, in which the Ed Raskeys related the very unfortunate incident of purse snatching, being roughed up, poor doctor treatment and disinterest from our embassy in Madrid, a very similar but more intense searching took place in Mexico City. These thugs are very talented and so quick in this operation, it is almost over before it begins.

We four adults and a child had just left a museum. While waiting to hail a taxi a man in suit and tie offered to help, as he also needed a taxi. Four younger men seemed to be loitering near us. At a wave to a cab by the supposedly Good Samaritan, a taxi appeared and as we prepared to enter we were pushed en masse into the cab, piled on each other. Hands searched pockets, our bras, underwear, purses grabbed, and they were gone before we could catch our astonished breaths.

We are told that it is foolhardy to hide money anywhere on your body; they will find it, and they did. Of course the suited man was a shill.

In our travels we have learned one thing: Do not travel with jewelry or cash. Thieves have a ball with credit cards, too. There is always a fence. Traveler beware--the woods are full.

LEE CHILDRESS

Laguna Beach