String men of Sacre Coure long version

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I will be explaining this fully on my blog. http://sexfruit-sexfruit.blogspot.com/
Show More I will be explaining this fully on my blog. http://sexfruit-sexfruit.blogspot.com/
At the Sacre Coure there are the string men, they seem to only speak English and always hang around at the steps, or block the gates, there are many of them, some with strings, some watching.
They don't always do this the same way, I've seen two techniques. Sometimes they approach with nice conversation, one line normally being 'huknama matatta' and things about "I'm from Africa!" and then they will stand in the way not letting you pass.
The other way is more harassing; they will grab you. Then they will trap your hand or wrist and start tying the thing on to you without your consent, you will have to break away.
They will say this thing is free until it's finished when they will then ask for money, sometimes you can get out of it with only five euros, usually they want more, and the men without the strings will all swarm around you, I've seen up to ten string men surround someone when he didn't want to pay.


To deal with them simply say "Non, merci!" walk with your hands in your pockets or your arms folded. I know this will sound racist, but don't make contact with any African men, if you make eye contact with a string man he's more inclined to speak to you. If they grab you shout "Arret!" and pull away. Walk fast and with a purpose, if they think you don't speak french they know you're a tourist and are more likely to hassle you.
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