When I saw all of the concern over traveling to Rome due to protests and Bush's visit, it got me curious as to what I would have done if I had scheduled a trip there during this time. I'm currently living in Sicily so I'm not sure what the press is passing along there in the US but I received an email update from the US Embassy strongly discouraging visits to Rome due to expected Anti-Bush and Anti-American protests and threats. I'm certainly one to lock myself away due to high threat levels but when there's a specific event like this, I guess I would plan for a day trip away from Rome.

Brian

That should have read..."certainly NOT one to lock myself..."

Frankly, VERY frankly, I think any and all protests will be completely anti-Bush and NOT anti-American despite the "spin" the embassy is putting on it.

Regardless, I would not subject myself to that mess. Ordinarily I would say that given Rome's size there will probably be many neighborhoods which won't even know that a protest is going on....or will there be in this case?

We were in Rome during a demonstration that was anti-Bush, last year or the year before, I don't recall. However, we didn't it know it had occurred until watching the news later. I think you could safely go and not worry.

Hi Brian

Where about in Sicily are you?

I found myself in the midst of more than a few protest parades last year in Palermo when the war broke out. I say "protest parades" because they had a generic feeling about them. It was as if there was a demonstration society for whatever given cause already in place just waiting to haul out the banners, loud speakers, and marchers in the event that a political controversy needed a little drama and color. A parade is a parade is a parade.

I'm actually on the Eastern side near Catania. There have been protests in Italy and even Sicily for the past year that I've been here but this seems a bit different. One, because Bush is actually visiting (the first time since the war broke out). Second, because some of the groups are admitting to potential violence. I'm hoping it remains peaceful.

Brian

Brian

Given the attack on the Italian Embassy in Bagdad today, I realize that I should not have been so cavalier in my post to you. Please know that I recognize that your concerns are real and moreover quite valid. I hope you will accept my sincere apologies.

Whatcha doin' in Sicily? I'd love to be able to spend more time there.