A beautiful country with white-sand beaches, ubiquitous history and acclaimed waterparks aims to attract almost five million British tourists this year – despite a fresh FCDO travel warning
A beautiful country reaping the benefits of escalating anti-tourist sentiment in hotspots like Spain and Greece is slated for a record-breaking number of visitors this year.
Spanning across West Asia and Southeast Europe, Turkey (Türkiye) boasts a balmy climate, sugar-like sand, cobalt waters, and acclaimed water parks – making it a great seaside resort. Istanbul is a great alternative for those not so keen on spending their entire holiday on the beach, and is filled with unique architecture, a rich history – and bustling markets.
Last month, Culture and Tourism Minister Mehmet Ersoy stated Turkey was witnessing ‘signs of new records in tourism’ as it attempts to bolster its appeal as a holiday destination. “Turkey has become the country with the highest number of early reservations in Germany,” the politician added. “We aim to welcome over seven million visitors from both Russia and Germany this year. Additionally, we expect 4.8 million visitors from the UK in 2025.”
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However, on Tuesday, May 27 – the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) updated the ‘safety and security’ section of its travel advice for the country. Under the subheading ‘taxi safety’, the body warned: “Accepting lifts from drivers of unofficial taxis is highly risky.”
It advised Brits to make sure they only travel in a registered taxi, and urged holidaymakers to make a note of the registration number before entering the vehicle – as well as checking the fare is metered. “App-based taxis and pre-booked taxis are also widely available,” the FCDO added.
At the time of writing, the FCDO advises against all travel to within 10km of the border with Syria due to ‘fighting and a heightened risk of terrorism’. This is due to on-going conflict with its neighbouring country, and follows extremist groups such as Daesh which have previously targeted border crossings near Turkey.
“Most terrorist attacks have occurred in southeast Turkey, Ankara and Istanbul,” the FCDO states. “You should remain aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.”
Other warnings include pickpocketing, counterfeit banknotes, drink spiking, and sexual assault. Among the 4.4 million Brits that travelled to Turkey last year – 56 cases of sexual assault, including rape, were reported to British consular staff.
“The majority of cases that have been reported took place during the tourist season in coastal resort areas,” the FCDO adds. “Often these crimes were committed by someone the victim may have met during the day, with a significant number being by hotel or spa staff. There have also been sexual attacks on minors visiting toilet facilities alone. Be extra vigilant in these situations.”
While same-sex sexual activity is legal in Turkey, many parts of the country are ‘socially conservative’. This means showing public affection could result in ‘unwelcome attention’.
You can read the FCDO’s full advice on travelling to Turkey here.
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