For nearly a year now, I have written about the beauty and allure of San Francisco as a local who has lived here for a long time. Lately, however, I felt I could not keep on blogging about my city without also writing about the recent news on crime happening here. The level of crime and violence is sad and alarming.

Visitors anywhere are always advised to be vigilant and be on guard against possible pickpockets and other petty crime. However, I really am shocked, horrified, and angered by the brazen attacks on unsuspecting tourists and locals alike by individuals out to not just rob but hurt and even kill over anything as trifle as an I phone or camera.

Two nights ago, I watched a news segment with horror. Taken around 10 pm in the Union Square area, a man dressed in a suit and looking at his GPS to find his way back to his hotel, was robbed of his I phone and severely beaten up by a group of young men and a young woman.

Last summer, a tourist from Thailand was taking pictures of the famous Crooked Street when a group of young men tried to steal his camera and shot him in the shoulder in broad daylight. It happened at noon.

I can go on and on. I know some people will say that what happened here can happen anywhere in the US. True. That I do not deny. What I am saying here is I am very alarmed and saddened by some people who have very little regard for other people's welfare and well being.

I cannot reiterate enough what many of us have to do when traveling. When walking around especially at night, walk in well lit areas. Choose streets that are not totally deserted. Follow your gut. If something doesn't feel right nor look right, walk away and choose a different path. Walk fast or run if you must. Do not display valuables. None of these suggestions are full proof but here's hoping everyone will be safe.