I always felt that if you walk with certain amount of confidence (not that cocky, okay this guy needs his ass kicked way) that you won't present a target. I was in New York (got lost, of course) and was the only pasty guy around for blocks. No one really gave me shit, even though I'm sure I looked like a tourist.

Also,

Why no knives? I have a Kubaton with a knife inside it as a keychain. Nifty, even when the knife isn't out.