Berlin, Germany
Stay safe
Berlin is a safe place compared to most other cities of similar size but it has its share of problems as well. No specific rules apply with the exception of public transportation and tourist areas where pickpockets are a problem. Watch your bags during rush hours and at larger train stations. No borough of Berlin would be much of a comparison to American “ghettos” in terms of crime, though.
Since the 1980s there have been localized riots on Labour Day (1st of May). These normally take place in Kreuzberg around Oranienstraße/Mariannenplatz where they usually erupt in the night before May 1st, especially in the Mauerpark (nowadays more in Friedrichshain – Boxhagener Platz) and again at the evening of May 1st in Kreuzberg, but became rather small since 2005 due to engagement of the citizens who celebrate the Labour Day with a nice “myfest” in Kreuzberg and well-planned police efforts. Even so, it is better to stay out of these areas after 8pm and until sunrise. Vehicles should not be parked in these areas either!
Racially-motivated violence is rare but the risk is higher on the outskirts of East Berlin. It is recommended for non-Caucasian tourists to be attentive in areas such as Lichtenberg, Hellersdorf, Marzahn, Treptow and Köpenick in the evening and night, especially if alone.
The police in Berlin are competent and not corrupt. They are generally helpful to tourists, particularly in the run up to the football/soccer world championship in June/July 2006. Most of the officers are able to speak English, so don’t hesitate to approach them if you are frightened or lost.
The nationwide emergency number is 112 for medical emergencies and fires, while the police emergency number is 110.