I keep my change in my pockets ever since I had someone try to take all my paper money out of my purse whilst I ferreted in it for some change in Barcelona. The trick was to offer a flower to a lady and request one peseta in payment, refusing all offers from the gentleman to buy it. When you (the lady) get your purse out to pay, the 'vendor' would say, no, ONE peseta and then grab your paper money. Luckily I had my purse folded back in my hand and she didn't get anything but an earful of Spanish invective from our guide but it taught me a lesson.

I carry my purse and keys in a place that isn't usual for a female, and my 'handbag' is just for carrying crap.

LTS