Train stations are favored hangouts for scam artists. They know a fairly high percentage of the people passing through are in unfamiliar territory and might be a bit confused. They'll look for your bewildered expression while standing in a long line to buy tickets or while searching for the correct platform.
If you're in need of help, you can always get it quickly by searching for the letter "I" on a sign such as the one pictured here in the Venice rail station. In even the largest stations, you won't have to look very long before finding it. If you take help from someone who walks up and offers assistance, be careful.
Readers have emailed about a common street scam that involves picking up your luggage and "helping" you to your car. Once they've performed this unsolicited task, they demand large sums of money in a way designed to embarrass you if you refuse to pay. Others will help you buy tickets and then ask for a tip. Still others will buy the tickets for you and through sleight-of-hand exchange them for worthless ones.
Don't be suspicious of everyone who offers assistance. But if someone takes an active role very quickly, consider whether you really need the help and ask them politely but firmly to leave.
