Last year, during a solo trip to Amsterdam, I encountered something unexpected and unsettling: I was pickpocketed. Losing my iPhone was frustrating enough, but the subsequent hassle of having to spend over a grand on a replacement and being unable to activate it until I returned home compounded the situation. Throughout the week-long trip and for weeks afterward, I grappled with feelings of loss, isolation, and distrust—emotions I had never experienced during my years of travel. It was a demoralizing ordeal that left a lasting impression.

The incident occurred on my first night in Amsterdam while I was at a club in the Leidsestraat neighborhood. It was January, and I had my coat on, mistakenly placing my phone in its pocket—a mistake that cost me dearly within minutes. While I've always been laid-back and comfortable in crowded places, this incident forced me to recognize the importance of preparedness and vigilance. Although I can't change what happened, it’s caused me to be more cautious in the future, ensuring my personal items remain secure, avoiding over-intoxication, and being mindful of my surroundings, especially when alone.

Dealing with the situation was a challenge, especially since the pickpocketing happened late at night. The bar staff and police were of little help, but their directions back to my hotel were a small consolation amidst the chaos. The following morning, a trip to the Apple Store provided me with a replacement, but without the ability to activate it, I was left reliant on hotel and restaurant wifi for communication, making navigating the city significantly more difficult. It was a sobering reminder to exercise caution, particularly when traveling solo in unfamiliar places.

To anyone else traveling, especially those going solo, I urge you to prioritize the security of your valuables and remain vigilant in crowded areas where pickpocketing may occur. Trust me, it's an experience you'll want to avoid. Despite the situation, I still found moments of joy in Amsterdam, and it remains a destination I hope to revisit in the future.