UK Foreign Office issues new travel advice for Brits in Turkey

The Foreign Office has issued a new warning to any Brits travelling to a popular holiday destination amid a string of assaults. According to the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), holidaymakers should “take extra precautions” when visiting Turkey.

In its advice that was updated on April 22, the FCDO highlighted the risk of sexual assault in Turkey, with 56 incidents affecting Brits recorded in 2024. These cases mostly occured during tourist season in coastal resort areas.

On GOV.UK, the FCDO explained: “Among the 4.4 million British travellers that visited Turkey in 2024, 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.

“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.”

It recommended taking the following precautions:

• Make sure children and young people are always accompanied by known and trusted people and not left alone with hotel or excursion staff
• Use reputable providers for any services and excursions, carry out research beforehand, including by consulting your tour operator if you have one
• Don’t unnecessarily share personal details such as, information about your accommodation, personal contact information or social media accounts.

The FCDO said: “If you experience sexual harassment or assault, or if you feel threatened or unsafe, report it as soon as possible to the hotel and to the Turkish police or gendarmerie.

"Call 112 for police. Contact your nearest British Consulate for Consular support.”

It also warned that accepting lifts from drivers of unofficial taxis is “highly risky”. It said: “Find a registered taxi and note the registration number before entering. App-based taxis are also widely available.”

Separate to this advice, the FCDO has also urged against all travel to areas of Turkey within 10km of the border with Syria due to “fighting and a heightened risk of terrorism”.

Failing to adhere to this warning could not only put you at risk but invalidate your travel insurance.

For more information, visit gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/turkey.