Ayush Panchmiya shares cautionary tale after theft in Barcelona Starbucks; urges travelers to stay alert and informed
Incident Highlights
- Location: Barcelona, Spain
- Victim: Ayush Panchmiya, Indian entrepreneur
- Lost items: Passport, Schengen visa, credit cards, and a significant amount of cash
- Response time by Indian Embassy: Within 4–5 hours (emergency certificate issued)
Entrepreneur’s Travel Ordeal in Barcelona
Indian entrepreneur Ayush Panchmiya recently took to social media to share a harrowing travel experience in Barcelona, Spain, where he lost his passport, visa, cash, and credit cards during a brief stop at a Starbucks.
“We had just landed in Barcelona after a hectic week at the Ethereum Community Conference (ETHCC) in Cannes. While editing client content at Starbucks, I stepped out briefly for a call. My small black bag was gone when I returned,” Panchmiya wrote in his viral post on X (formerly Twitter).
The stolen bag contained all his essential documents and cash — a loss that left him stranded abroad over the weekend with limited support options.
Authorities Unhelpful, Embassy Came to the Rescue
Panchmiya contacted the local authorities immediately, pleading for access to CCTV footage, but found no actionable help. As it was the weekend, the Indian Embassy was closed, forcing him to wait until Monday.
“Walked in as soon as the embassy opened. They were extremely helpful and issued me an emergency certificate (temporary passport) within 4 to 5 hours. I was back in India that very evening,” he stated.
Why He Shared the Story
Panchmiya emphasized that his intention wasn’t to complain, but to raise awareness among frequent travelers about how quickly things can go wrong abroad — especially in European cities known for petty theft and pickpocketing.
“This can happen to anyone. Always ask for an emergency certificate if your documents are stolen. If your flight is near, they might issue one the same day.”
Social Media Reacts: Support and Criticism Alike
While many sympathized with Panchmiya, others pointed out a critical travel mistake:
“Barcelona is literally the most renowned city for pickpocketing. Leaving a bag unattended with your passport in it is insane,” one user commented.
Others offered travel tips:
- “Avoid carrying your original passport daily; use a hotel lockbox instead.”
- “Keep copies of important documents and split your valuables.”
Key Travel Safety Tips for Tourists in Europe
To avoid similar mishaps, travelers are advised to follow these precautions:
✅ Do:
- Store original documents securely in hotel safes.
- Carry only copies or digital scans of ID/passport.
- Use anti-theft backpacks or sling bags with lockable zippers.
- Be extra cautious in tourist hotspots and cafes.
❌ Avoid:
- Leaving bags unattended, even for seconds.
- Carrying all valuables (passport, cards, cash) in one bag.
- Relying solely on local police for quick resolutions.
Conclusion: Learn and Stay Prepared
Ayush Panchmiya’s experience serves as a valuable cautionary tale for digital nomads, entrepreneurs, and tourists alike. His quick recovery, thanks to the Indian Embassy’s efficient response, underscores the importance of knowing what to do if things go wrong.
For anyone traveling internationally, awareness, preparation, and prompt action can make all the difference.
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