Munich demonstrations - US Embassy travel warning

Just Sharing FYI

From the U.S. Mission Germany to American Citizen Subscribers
February 2, 2004

U.S. Mission Germany alerts Americans to large demonstrations expected to occur in the city of Munich on February 6, 7, and 8, 2004. American citizens visiting or resident in Munich should exercise caution during this period. This alert expires on February 14, 2004.

From February 6 to February 8, 2004, the city of Munich will host the annual "http://www.toytowngermany.com/munich/munic...rence_2005.html". Local officials expect a large turnout of demonstrators. Bavarian police authorities have expressed confidence that law and order will be maintained, and they will implement additional countermeasures for public safety. Traffic disruptions are likely in the Munich city center, and access to an area several blocks wide around the Bayerischer Hof Hotel, the site of the conference, will be restricted. The Embassy reminds American citizens that demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn into confrontational situations and possibly escalate into violence. U.S. citizens traveling or residing in Munich are advised to take common-sense precautions and avoid sites of demonstrations, which will include Sendlinger Tor, Odeonsplatz, Lenbach Platz, and Marienplatz. Travelers should keep informed of local developments by following local press, radio, and television.

U.S. citizens may obtain updated security information at the U.S. Consulate General in Munich, located at Koeniginstrasse 5, 80539 Munich, telephone (49)(89)2888-0. For further information on travel to Germany, please consult the Department of State's Consular Information Sheet on Germany and the Worldwide Cautions and Public Announcements that are located on the Department's Internet web site at http://travel.state.gov/

Very Interesting!! How come *my* embassy didn't tell me that!
Anyways - I can't see anything major happening.
Big riot protests? That just doesn't happen in Toytown.

Reminds me of Chaos Day a while back - didn't hear a squeak from anyone.
But, drinkin' a beer in the beergarden at the Chinese Tower with about 30
police in riotgear just standing around staring was a bit intimidating.

Munich's heavy handed approach to security will ensure there'll
be no dodgy goings on.

*gasp* Maybe the police will have to do some REAL policing, instead
of handing out parking fines, and waving the finger at people cycling without
lights!