Oktoberfest 2024

Oktoberfest takes place every year between the end of September and the beginning of October in Munich, Germany.  However, Oktoberfest is also celebrated in many countries around the world. In Germany, the event goes on for three consecutive weekends and a total of two weeks celebrations. This year it takes place between September 21 and October 6, 2024. 

For UTD travelers going to a location celebrating Oktoberfest, consider the following recommendations from the U.S. Department of State, the CDC and International Risk and Safety. 

Research your destination 

• Review country information for information on safety and security risks, passport, visa and vaccination requirements, local laws, money matters, and health, safety and security. If not a U.S. citizen, for visa information check directly with the country consulate. 
• Review health information for health and medical risks. 
• For UTD travel, you can request a trip review to obtain tailored safety and security advise for your trip. 

Health 

• Consult your doctor about recommended vaccines and medicines for your destination to ensure you are protected against specific health risks and prepared for any necessary treatments. 
• Talk with your doctors to create a tailored plan to manage ongoing health conditions while abroad. 
• For UTD travel, review your insurance coverage through UT Dallas. 

Get ready to go 

• For UTD travel, get travel authorization for your UTD activity abroad, register your flights with On Call International, and download the On Call International contact to your phone. 
• Make photocopies of your travel documents. Leave one copy with a trusted friend or relative at home and carry the other separately from your original documents. To help prevent theft, do not carry your passport in your back pocket, and keep it separate from your money. 
• Create an Emergency Communications plan that will help you in emergency situations. 
• Pack Smart. Pack light, make sure you are not carrying banned items or substances, have vital documents within reach, and have included a health kit. 
• Stay connected: Subscribe to the social media of the embassy or consulate at your destination to get updates and alerts for safety and security information, and any potential risks or changes at your destination. 

During your trip 

• For UTD travel. If you need assistance call On Call International 24/7: +1 (978) 651-9722  for travel and emergency assistance services. 
• Keep local emergency assistance numbers for your destination country readily accessible. Ensure you know how to dial these numbers and have them stored in a convenient location. 
• Choose safe modes of transportation. Avoid hailing taxis from the street, use established taxi services, or established transportation and ride-sharing services if they are available. 
• Follow the CDC advise for Travel to Mass Gatherings. 
• During Crisis or Disaster abroad,
  • Be Informed. Thoroughly review the U.S. Department of State traveler’s checklist and your destination’s travel advisory from time to time to keep up with the latest updates. 
  • Be Prepared. Have enough medication to last for your entire trip. If possible, keep a few days of food supplies in case you need to shelter in place. 
  • Stay in touch. Keep an emergency contact list and addresses readily accessible, think of alternative methods of communication as phone lines may be disrupted during a crisis or disaster. If traveling with a group, have a pre-arranged meeting plan in case all communication methods fail. 
  • Be Connected. Many U.S. embassies, consulates, and the Bureau of Consular Affairs use social media to share important information. Monitor their social media for updates and alerts related to your destination country. 
  • Be Safe. Have an exit strategy in place and follow instructions from local authorities. Stay in touch with your hotel staff for updates, and familiarize yourself with emergency exits in your accommodation. 
• Stay healthy during your trip by following simple steps,
  • Wash your hands regularly with soap and water. If soap and water is unavailable be sure to use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. 
  • Prevent bug bites, make use of insect repellents and wear long sleeves and pants to avoid bug bites. Be cautious around standing water and choose accommodations with screened windows or bed nets for added protection. 
  • Choose freshly prepared and well cooked foods, and bottled or properly sealed drinks to avoid foodborne illnesses. Stick to reputable restaurants and avoid street food or unclean water sources. 
  • Avoid contact with animals to reduce the risk of diseases and infections. This includes not petting stray animals and steering clear of wildlife, especially in areas where diseases like rabies are common. 
  • Protect yourself from sun exposure by wearing sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses, and stay hydrated. In extreme temperatures, dress in appropriate layers and seek shade or shelter. 

After your trip 

• Learn about some of the common health issues travelers might experience after returning home. 
• If you feel sick, visit your doctor and let them know about your trip. 

Sources 

• U.S. Department of State: Country Information Pages 
• CDC: Destinations – Traveler’s Health 
• U.S. Department of State: Traveler’s Checklist 
• CDC: Getting Sick after Travel 
• U.S. Department of State: Crisis and Disaster 
• CDC: Survival Guide 
• CDC: Maintain Health during trip 

The risk information in this report is retrieved from the listed sources. It provides general guidance for UT Dallas travelers. Please note the publication date of this post, and go to the direct sources listed above for the most up-to-date information.  The information in this post may change without prior notice.

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