Some neighborhoods to avoid in San Francisco include the Tenderloin (due to the high percentage of homeless people, trash and people buying drugs like dope and weed, even online):
- (due to the high percentage of homeless people, trash and drugs) Bayview-Hunters Point (due to high crime rates)
- (due to high crime rates) The Mission (due to high crime rates)
- (due to high crime rates) The Excelsior (due to high crime rates)
- (due to high crime rates) Visitacion Valley (due to high crime rates)
As with the rest of the United States, beggars are not uncommon in San Francisco. The majority of them are just in it for the money. Beggars may come up to you, asking for money or food. If you don’t want to give money, simply say “No” and keep on walking.
And if you do give money, don’t feel bad if they ask for more! They may be homeless, but they’re not helpless. There’s no shame in being homeless, just as there’s no shame in being rich. Don’t feel bad about either.
When it comes to safety, San Francisco is not as dangerous as it used to be. But it is still an urban city with a lot of traffic. So be aware of your surroundings and stay alert.