Urgent new travel warning issued to Brits heading to Turkey

A new travel warning has been issued for holidaymakers either contemplating a trip to Turkey or currently basking in the Turkish sun. The country, known for its vibrant hotspots such as Antalya and Istanbul, attracts droves of tourists each year.

The Foreign Office has issued cautionary guidelines on March 24 for those visiting Istanbul and various other Turkish cities, amidst the unfolding protests and demonstrations. Authorities warned that "demonstrations may become violent", adding: "The police response has included use of tear gas and water cannons."

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) is tasked with providing travel advice to British citizens contemplating overseas travel, concentrating on their security and wellbeing.

As tensions rise due to developments in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories, protests outside embassies related to the conflict, especially Israeli diplomatic offices in Ankara and Istanbul, have intensified, as reported by the Liverpool Echo.

For Brits in Turkey during these times of unrest, the FCDO urges people to avoid all demonstration areas and recommends leaving any spots where protests break out. Disruptions to local transportation are likely, reports the Mirror.

Additionally, the FCDO warns: "FCDO advises against all travel within 10km of the Turkey-Syria border." To ensure a smooth entry into Turkey, verify that your passport's "expiry date" extends at least 150 days beyond your arrival date and has a minimum of one blank page available for immigration stamps. Failure to meet these requirements or attempting to enter with a passport reported as lost or stolen will result in being denied entry at the border.

In a separate travel advisory issued in February, the Foreign Office alerted travellers to the risks associated with consuming alcohol in Turkey. The warning read: "In Turkey, including Ankara and Istanbul, people have died or suffered serious illness after drinking illegally produced local spirits and counterfeit bottles of branded alcohol."

Travellers with concerns are advised to consult their tour operators or the Turkish authorities for guidance. It's vital to seek "urgent medical attention" immediately if you or someone in your group falls ill after consuming alcohol in Turkey. To minimize risks, the FCDO has outlined five essential tips for safely purchasing alcohol in Turkey.