Venice, one of Europe's most visited cities, attracts around 20 million tourists every year. However, it has recently become a hotspot for petty thefts, with a record number of incidents reported in the last decade. In 2023, Italy saw its highest increase in petty theft, particularly in Venice, where thefts on public transportation surged by nearly 39 percent. The overcrowded streets provide ample opportunities for pickpockets, turning the city into a veritable goldmine for thieves.

Before their trip, Edvardas Žičkus and his team were warned by Aida Skorupskas, a Lithuanian professional guide who has lived in Venice for almost three decades. She emphasized the need for caution in such a bustling environment, stating, "Where there is much good, there are many dangers. One must be constantly vigilant against schemes involving handbags, backpacks, and crowd pushing." Her advice served as an essential guide for navigating the city's bustling, yet crime-prone, streets.

In a popular lifestyle program broadcasted on YouTube, it was shared that a sort of unwritten rule prevails in Venice regarding personal safety: bags should be carried in front, backpacks secured, and wallets not kept in back pockets. This guidance reflects the current reality in Venice, where romantic escapades can quickly turn sour if one becomes a target of petty crime. Edvardas's experience serves as a cautionary tale for other tourists visiting the iconic Italian city.