Yes, perspective is right. I wouldn't believe all of Paris is nothing more than a den of theives, cutthroats and assorted villains, anymore than New York, LA, or Washington might be. I roam the streets in Manhattan daily, without feeling wholly threatened or in great danger of suddenly being attacked. The reason is I don't go places and do things that don't make sense. You would never find me in the west end of Brooklyn or certain parts of Queens after nightfall, unless I am being escorted by a significant security contingent. Likewise, I would not walk down the backstreets in Compton alone any time of the day or night. You ought to be able to recognize and avoid places that you don't belong in. Heck, even in the suburbs of Brisbane in Australia there's certain areas and times where the chance someone like me could be confronted by a group of well armed 14 year olds is quite likely, and would end not well. Fortunately I knew enough to avoid those situations just by virtue of not being a dumba$$ about it. Paris should be no different. People who get pinched are most often folks who fail to stay aware of their surroundings and act like an easy mark. If you are travelling and you haven't yet developed those skills, then you should really limit the amount of time you spend outside by yourself, and find someone you can trust that will help you learn how to function in public better. Somehow Blast, I reckon you are not so naive as that.

Take care bub