Latest advice from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for Spain, France, Greece and Turkey | World | News

As the summer holidays begin, the UK government has issued new guidance for British holidaymakers looking for the sun abroad.

The new regulations cover some of Europe's top holiday destinations, including Spain, France and Greeceas well as other popular destinations for British touristslike Turkey.

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has issued advice which includes updated information on severe weather conditions, the terrorism threat level, cultural advice and transport restrictions.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has warned tourists about street crime, particularly thieves who use diversionary techniques to steal passports, money and personal belongings. Personal belongings should be kept in a safe place and ideally separated so that thieves cannot steal all valuables in one attempt.

The updated advice suggests tourists travel with a photocopy of their passport to use as identification in case their documents are stolen.

In addition, “motorway pirates” have been known to target foreign-registered or rented cars. Travellers have been warned to be wary of people who attempt to flag down motorists or claim there is a problem with their vehicle.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, it is likely that terrorists will carry out attacks in Spain, especially in places frequented by tourists.

In January 2023, one person was killed and others injured in a machete attack on two churches in Cádiz, a port city in southern Spain.

Visitors are advised to keep informed through local media and follow the advice of the authorities in the area in which they are staying.

Every summer, France attracts millions of British travellers, and this summer it is likely to prove particularly popular as the country hosts the Paris Olympics in 2024.

Visitors have been warned to expect transport disruption, as was the case last week with widespread delays to Eurostar services following a series of arson attacks.

In recent months, France has also faced intense periods of public protests and strike movements, causing further unrest and disrupting major transport routes.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs guidelines state: “Social movements can occur frequently in France. This can lead to disruptions and delays on roads and in public transport.”

Tourists should monitor the media for updates on major transport services and, if in doubt about the status of a service, check with the operator for further information.

Regarding public safety, the current terrorist threat attributed to France is “very likely”, with possible attack locations listed as shopping malls, sporting events and public transport hubs.

Pickpockets and thieves are also known to operate on the Paris Metro and in major train stations, and the public is advised to use the inside pockets of bags and jackets to store valuables.

One of the main safety concerns in Greece this summer is the risk of extreme heat.

Current weather forecasts suggest that previous temperature records across the country could be broken in the coming weeks.

While many tourists will be grateful to be able to leave the UK for warmer climes, temperatures in Greece have reached well over 40C as the country endures a scorching 'heat bomb'.

The weather has sparked wildfires and forced some hotels to evacuate, leaving holidaymakers stranded.

To cope with the intense heat, tourists are advised to travel in air-conditioned vehicles for long journeys and to carry an umbrella and plenty of water when traveling on foot.

When spending time in the sun, visitors should use sunscreen with a high SPF and take regular breaks in the shade or indoors to avoid the risk of sunburn or heatstroke.

Just like in Greece, tourists have been warned to expect extremely hot temperatures when visiting Turkey, with some popular regions already seeing temperatures approaching 40C.

Visitors should stay hydrated, wear sunscreen and try to avoid spending long periods in direct sunlight, as the heat can quickly become dangerous.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has also issued additional guidance warning travellers of possible contamination of drinks and the sale of counterfeit alcohol.

Holidaymakers should decline offers of free drinks from strangers and are advised to consume alcohol from trusted suppliers, such as those identified by a tour operator or within a hotel resort.

Regarding Turkish culture, the Foreign Ministry emphasizes that it is illegal to insult the Turkish state or the national flag, and the offense can result in a prison sentence of six months to three years.

Additionally, many areas of the country are considered “socially conservative” and tourists visiting them are expected to dress modestly and respect cultural norms.

Further information on travel is available on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.