Information for Travelers

WARDEN INFOMRATION

Albanian Socialist Party Rally

October 10, 2009

The Albanian Socialist Party (SP) has obtained a permit from Tirana police to stage a large public rally on Saturday, October 10, on Boulevard Deshmoret e Kombit between the hours of 6PM and 8PM.  The Albanian Police will close the Boulevard to vehicular traffic between the hours of 4PM and 8PM; long traffic delays can be expected.  The rally, protesting the June 28 elections, will be centered between the Prime Minister’s office and the Speaker of Parliament’s office.  U.S. Embassy personnel have been advised to avoid the area in and around Boulevard Deshmoret e Kombit on Saturday, October 10.

Spontaneous demonstrations take place in Albania from time to time in response to world events or local developments.  We remind American citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational.  American citizens are therefore urged to avoid the areas of demonstrations if possible, and to exercise caution if within the vicinity of any demonstrations.  American citizens should stay current with media coverage of local events and be aware of their surroundings at all times.

Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the U.S. Embassy’s website, and the Department of State's Bureau of Consular Affairs website, where the current Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and Country Specific Information can be found.  The U.S. Embassy also encourages U.S. citizens to review to "A Safe Trip Abroad," which includes valuable security information for those both living and traveling abroad.  In addition to information on the Internet, travelers may obtain up-to-date information on security conditions by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the U.S. and Canada, or outside the U.S. and Canada on a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444.

Americans living or traveling in Albania are encouraged to register with the U.S. Embassy in Tirana through the State Department's travel registration website, so that they can obtain updated information on travel and security within Albania.  By registering, American citizens make it easier for the U.S. Embassy to contact them in case of emergency. The U.S. Embassy in Tirana is located at Rr. Elbasanit, No. 103, Tel: +355-(0)4-224-7285; Fax: +355-(0)4-237-4957; E-mail: acstirana@state.gov.