Latest UK travel advice for Spain, Greece and Turkey
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has been updating travel guidance for countries around the world as the war in the Middle East continues to cause major disruption. The conflict has had an impact on travel, with many British nationals warned against travelling to many areas.Understandably, people who have booked holidays for the summer may be concerned about what the war means for them and their travel plans. The Foreign Office advises people keep updated with the latest advice for the country they are travelling to and monitor local and international media for the latest information.A lot of countries are still safe to visit, but if you travel, you should research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency. Millions of families will be jetting off in the coming weeks as the Easter holidays approach.Political conflicts, natural disasters and safety concerns are among the reasons the UK Foreign Office will recommend British nationals to avoid certain destinations. We have rounded up the latest travel guidance for some of the most popular holiday locations:GreeceGreece currently has no Foreign Office travel advisories in effect. Guidance regarding large-scale protests and extensive disruption to public services throughout the country was withdrawn on February 28. However, the Foreign Office does warn: "No travel can be guaranteed safe."It is recommended that women travellers, LGBTQ+ travellers and solo travellers read Foreign Office advice before travelling. If you choose to travel, you should research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.The authorities in Greece set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Greek Embassy in the UK.Guidance surrounding safety and security in the country, said: "There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times."Greek authorities have also increased security at some prominent locations, including tourist sites, due to events in Israel and Palestine. You should stay aware of your surroundings, stay away from protests and follow the advice of local authorities.Before you travel check that your destination can provide the healthcare you may need and you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation. Calling 999 from a UK mobile in Greece will automatically transfer you to the Greek emergency services.SpainSpain's travel advice has not been updated by the Foreign Office since last month. The last update came on February 18, in the wake of the two high‑speed trains that collided near Adamuz, in the province of Córdoba in Andalusia.Guidance from the Foreign Office said: "If you are planning to travel to Spain through France, check the travel advice for France before you start your journey."If you are planning to travel to Spain through Gibraltar, check the travel advice for Gibraltar before you start your journey. No travel can be guaranteed safe."In the safety and security for Spain via gov.uk, it said: "There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times."Drink spiking can also be a problem. You should buy your own drinks and always keep them in sight to avoid them being spiked. Alcohol and drugs can reduce your vigilance, making you less in control. If you drink, know your limit. Drinks served in bars in Spain are often stronger than those in the UK.TurkeyThe Foreign Office advises against all travel to within 10km of the border with Syria due to fighting and a heightened risk of terrorism. While 24-hour consular assistance is available by phone or online, in-person consular support is severely limited in areas wheret they advise against travel.Regional escalation poses significant security risks and has led to travel disruption. British nationals should follow advice from the local authorities, sign up to FCDO Travel Advice email alerts, monitor local and international media for the latest information and stay away from areas around security or military facilities.The Foreign Office provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Further guidance said: "There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times."
