Riot police clash with protesters at World Economic Forum
Riot police fired tear gas and water cannons at bottle-throwing demonstrators in Geneva who protested yesterday against the annual World Economic Forum meeting in the Swiss Alps.
Violence erupts in peaceful protest
Police chased after black-clad protesters through the narrow streets of what is known as the "city of peace" as Saturday shoppers took refuge in bars and cafés. There were a few minor injuries. The protest of hundreds of people was largely peaceful until police blocked the group from walking to the centre of the city. Some in the crowd threw bottles and police responded with tear gas.
Protest focus far from the World Economic Forum
The violence was a long way from the target of the protesters' anger, the World Economic Forum in Davos, a five-hour train ride from Geneva. The forum is an annual gathering of the world's business and political elite. In Davos itself, a small group of left-wing protesters threw snowballs at riot police. Swiss police say about 120 protesters marched through the heavily policed streets of the resort town.
Leaders' concerns overshadowed by protests
Some 2500 business and political leaders gathered last week in Davos at a meeting dominated by concerns about the financial crisis, but they offered no renewed hopes for a long-awaited trade deal. The protests went unnoticed in the forum's last full day. Instead, CEOs, company chairmen, and politicians turned their attention to the future of free trade, which many of them said was under threat as countries deal with rising unemployment, financial instability, and recession.
World leaders advocate for global cooperation
Prime Minister Gordon Brown warned that these pressures were no reason to reject free trade, calling cooperation the only path forward. "This is not like the 1930s. The world can come together," he said. "This is a global banking crisis and you've got to deal with it for what it is, a global banking crisis." Brown reiterated the need for new systems to deflect future crises, a focus of a meeting of the Group of 20 richest nations in London in April. Brown and other leaders believe an international alert system might have prevented the rapid contagion in world financial markets last year.
Hotels: A Haven Amidst Chaos
The Importance of Hotel Accommodations
When traveling for events like the World Economic Forum, finding suitable accommodation is essential. Hotels not only provide a comfortable place to rest but also serve as a haven amidst the chaos of protests and demonstrations. Offering a range of services and amenities, hotels play a vital role in ensuring the well-being and safety of their guests.
A Welcoming Retreat
During times of unrest, hotels serve as a retreat where guests can find solace and respite. After a long day of attending conferences or participating in protests, returning to the comforts of a hotel room provides a sense of security. The peaceful atmosphere allows guests to unwind and recharge, preparing for the next day's activities.
Security Measures
Hotels also prioritize their guests' safety by implementing security measures. Trained staff members are vigilant in monitoring entrances and exits, ensuring that only authorized individuals have access to the premises. Some hotels may even employ additional security personnel during high-profile events to further enhance safety.
Amenities and Services
Hotels offer a range of amenities and services to cater to their guests' needs. From on-site restaurants and bars to fitness centers and spas, these amenities provide convenient options for relaxation and recreation. Additionally, hotels often provide concierge services to assist guests with transportation arrangements, local area information, and any other requests they may have.