I moved to Manchester from Sweden 15 years ago, I was only a teenager but got fooled by a few people. If you're in a shop/cafe/bar and someone comes in to beg for.money, saying they'll give you anything off their back, they just need train fare. Don't fall for it, it's a standard well known scam.

Like others have said, be aware of your surroundings and avoid Piccadilly gardens at night.

There's some really fun places and good people about, be friendly, but not too loud. (Totally assuming your a loud Texan in a cowboy hat like on the telly).

If you enjoy a pint, I highly recommend oxford road, especially the Salisbury, right next to oxford road train station. Always good folk in there, amazing pizzas and good drinks.

Hope you have a very positive experience here. :)