UK issues travel warning to Türkiye

The UK Foreign Office has updated its travel advice for its citizens planning to travel to Turkey, issuing various security warnings.

In the statement made by the Ministry, particular attention was drawn to issues such as taxi use, mass demonstrations, the risk of counterfeit alcohol and the obligation to carry ID.

The updated official travel page details the potential risks British tourists may face in Türkiye.

The Ministry pointed out that taxis, especially those operating without a license, could pose a significant security risk.

“Unregistered, meterless or unlicensed vehicles may pose serious security threats,” the statement said.

Authorities advised tourists to call taxis through hotels or reliable mobile applications.

It was also recommended to note the license plate before getting into the vehicle, check whether the taximeter is working and follow the route throughout the journey.

WARNING TO STAY AWAY FROM PROTESTS

The British government pointed out that protests held from time to time in some parts of Türkiye could turn violent over time.

While it was noted that social incidents were more intense, especially in big cities such as Istanbul and Ankara, it was recalled that the police intervened with tear gas and water cannons in such protests.

The ministry called for "stay away from areas where demonstrations are taking place. Leave the area quickly during a possible action." It also stated that the protests could lead to delays and cancellations in transportation services.

VITAL WARNING AGAINST FAKE DRINKS

The British Foreign Office noted that there has been an increase in deaths caused by counterfeit alcohol in Türkiye in recent years and stressed that tourists should be careful about this issue.

The statement said that alcohol should only be obtained from licensed businesses, and that products purchased from street vendors or unknown sources pose serious health risks.

The importance of checking the originality of bottle labels and caps, staying away from homemade drinks, and consuming them in facilities such as hotels or reliable restaurants and bars was emphasized.

CARRYING ID IS A LEGAL OBLIGATION

The ministry called on tourists to carry their passports or residence permits, reminding that it is against the law not to carry a photo ID in Türkiye.

It was stated that security checks have become widespread, especially in crowded cities such as Istanbul, and that cooperation is needed against police checks.

Odatv.com