How safe is Amsterdam?
 

HILVERSUM, Netherlands (AP)(6 May 2002) - Right-wing Dutch politician Pim Fortuyn, whose anti-immigration party stunned the public with its strong showing in local elections last March, was shot six times and killed Monday as he left a radio interview.<BR><BR>

And your point would be?

hi<BR><BR>Amsterdam is one of the safest cities in Europe.<BR><BR>Certainly safer than NY<BR><BR>Peter<BR>

When a leading politician is assasinated its usually an indication of some degree of un-rest within the country, whether by internal or external forces.<BR><BR>And also sometimes followed by additional unrest.<BR><BR>I recognize that Mr. Fortuyn is considered to be a bit of an extremist that made him a constant target. By that line of thinking, there may not be any additional risk for the typical citizen or visitor, but nevertheless this seems a bit alarming for anyone travelling to the Netherlands.<BR><BR>So, I was looking for insight from some of the locals on the current environment.<BR><BR>Do you have any insight?

<BR>Topping for tj.

Oh please. The Netherlands is a stable democracy that has suffered a terrible tragedy. It is not unstable or unsafe.

Have watched Dutch TV extensively today and apart from minor riots in The Hague last night, aimed at the established parties, the reaction - although overwhelming - is peaceful. Thousands of people are on the streets, crying, debating, shocked. The elections on May 15 will take place as planned. <BR>As previous posters said, the Netherlands is a stable country.

Please don´t call demonstration a riot.

The only problem I have had in Amsterdam is a "pickpocket" took my wallet other then that no problems.<BR>I love the city go back every year.

It felt very safe to me. Political Assassinations are a separate category from 'street' crime.

Michele, Could you tell us more about the exact situation where the pickpocketing happened? I'll be in Amsterdam in June and would appreciate any details you're willing to share? Thank you.

<BR>Thanks for the topping and the responses.<BR><BR>Peter, I must commend you for deducing where I am from. Lucky guess? Or was it obvious?<BR><BR>I will be there next week during the election and will keep a close eye on my wallet.<BR><BR>I expected to hear that the environment was relatively un-changed for visitors, but wanted some re-assurance.<BR><BR>Will let you know how it goes - <BR><BR>By the way, there were few hotel vacancies for next week, has anyone stayed at the Sofitel in Amsterdam? Had followed up on several recommendations, but that was the only place I found available so far.<BR><BR>Thanks!<BR>