Foreign Office issues warning to Brits travelling to Turkey this summer

The Foreign Office has issued a warning to Brits travelling to Turkey this year, advising they avoid certain areas. According to the government body, three locations within the country are not safe for visitors.

It’s also urging people to stay safe in potentially extreme weather as high temperatures are expected over the next couple of months.

Not only is this advice key for safety reasons but failing to adhere to the warnings could also invalidate your travel insurance, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) states.

It adds: “The embassy staff cannot travel to areas where FCDO advises against travel to help you in person. Staff can offer support by phone and email.”

Areas on the FDCO’s no-go list are as follows.

Turkey-Syria border

FCDO advises against all travel within 10 kilometres of the border with Syria.

“Fighting in Syria continues in areas close to the Turkish border and there remains a heightened risk of terrorism in the region,” the FCDO says.

“Due to the ongoing conflict in Syria, roads in Hatay Province leading towards the border may be subject to closure.”

Sirnak city

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to Sirnak city.

Hakkari Province

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to Hakkari Province.

It explains: “This advice is due to the heightened risk of terrorism in the region. If you’re undertaking essential travel to Sirnak city or Hakkari Province, take extreme care.”

Additionally, it advises taking precautions to stay safe in the heat.

“Extreme temperatures can affect many areas of Turkey over the summer months,” it says.

As a result there is also the risk of wildfires happening “frequently” in Turkey during summer.

Due to this you could get a fine or prison sentence for lighting a fire of any kind or discarding cigarettes in risk areas such as woodland.

And barbecues are prohibited in these areas.

The FCDO adds: “If there is a wildfire in your area, local authorities may tell you to leave your accommodation. Follow the directions of local authorities.”