taking photo i.d off the ship with you ???

[MicCanberra]

Just for your information ; in some European countries, e.g. Belgium, Netherlands, even nationals and residents must by law always carry their identity cards (or lacking this; passports).

Thanks for the clarification.

Personally, I would not risk not having my Passport (International ID) on me when travelling abroad but some feel it is better left behind and that is their choice.:D

[4774Papa]

Just for your information ; in some European countries, e.g. Belgium, Netherlands, even nationals and residents must by law always carry their identity cards (or lacking this; passports).

I lived in Germany for four years and had to show my ID for the local police a couple of times. Both times, my driver's license was sufficient.

 

Europeans don't routinely carry their passports around with them.

 

I can remember years ago European hotels held your passports while you were staying at the hotel. That changed and most people had the hotel keep the passports and airline tickets in the hotel safe.

 

Fortunately, while in Madrid in 1984 my ex had her purse snatched. Had her passport and airline ticket been in her purse, we would have a huge problem.

 

Several European cities have a huge pickpocket problem, especially, Rome, Barcelona, Madrid, Paris, etc.

 

Carrying your passport is a must in countries like China, Russia, but most for people on cruises, especially on cruise excursions do not need to carry their passports, unless the cruise line so announces (because the country requires it, like Bulgaria).

 

Again, one must weigh the risk of needing your passport vs. the risk of loosing it to a pickpocket.