The UK Foreign Office has updated its travel advice for popular holiday destinations including Spain, Greece, Turkey, and Italy.
British tourists are urged to stay informed through the Foreign Office website, which provides the latest “safety and security” guidance as the peak of the summer getaway season arrives.
The FCDO said there is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals.
Here’s the latest advice…
In Spain, the Foreign Office advises: “Be alert to the risk of street crime. Thieves use distraction techniques and often work in teams.
“Make sure your accommodation has adequate security. Keep all doors and windows locked. If you’re concerned about the security of your accommodation, speak to your travel operator or the property owner.”
The Foreign Office highlighted: “‘Highway pirates’ target foreign-registered and hire cars, especially those towing caravans. They may flag you down, claiming there is something wrong with your car or that you have damaged theirs.”
It wrote: “Thieves posing as police officers may ask to see your wallet, claiming they need to see it for identification. Genuine police officers will ask to see ID but will not ask for wallets or purses. All police officers, including those in plain clothes, carry official ID.”
For those heading to Turkey, the Foreign Office advised: “Most terrorist attacks have occurred in southeast Turkey, Ankara and Istanbul. Attacks could be indiscriminate including in places visited by foreigners, such as public buildings, places of worship, airports, and large public gatherings.”
It added: “Street robbery and pick-pocketing are common in the major tourist areas of Istanbul. Be aware of your personal belongings and make sure they are always secure.
“Buy your own drinks and always keep sight of them. Be wary of strangers approaching you to change money, taking you to a restaurant or nightclub and offering you food and drink these could be spiked.
The Foreign Office emphasised: “In 2023, 42 cases of sexual assault, including rape, were reported to British consular staff in Turkey. Most cases happened during summer holidays in coastal tourist areas.
“Crimes were committed at night by someone the victim met during the day, including hotel and spa workers. There have also been sexual attacks on minors visiting toilet facilities alone.”
The Foreign Office has issued a stern warning to Brits travelling to Greece, stating “thefts are common on the metro and in crowded tourist places, particularly in central Athens.
“Carry your valuables in different bags and pockets and keep a copy of your passport photo page somewhere safe.”
The FCDO added: “To reduce your personal risk, especially late at night and around clubs and bars: save the location of your accommodation; set up a WhatsApp group to keep in touch with your group; keep an eye on drinks to make sure they do not get spiked; do not let a friend walk back to their hotel alone; do not give a drunk person more alcohol.”
For those heading to Italy, the Foreign Office advised: “Crime levels are generally low but there are higher levels of petty crime, particularly bag-snatching and pickpocketing, in city centres and at major tourist attractions.
“Take care on public transport, in crowded areas and in city centres, including main stations – particularly in and around Termini station in Rome.”
It continued: “Do not take drinks from strangers or leave your drinks unattended. Victims of spiked drinks have been robbed and sometimes assaulted.
“Alcohol and drugs can reduce your vigilance, making you less in control. If you drink, know your limit. Drinks served in bars in Italy are often stronger than those in the UK.”
