Tunisia Shooting: Where Is It Safe To Go Now For British Tourists?

In the wake of atrocities in France and Tunisia, where is safe for British holidaymakers to go?

We look at Foreign Office travel advice for major destinations abroad, to help inform you before you book a summer getaway.

Tunisia

Special advice and safety measures are in place, to help protect British nationals. Certain areas of Tunisia are to be avoided just now, in line with government warnings.

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) advise avoiding all travel to: the Chaambi Mountain National Park area; the Tunisia-Algeria border crossing points at Ghardimaou, Hazoua and Sakiet Sidi Youssef; the militarized zone south of, but not including, the towns of El Borma and Dhehiba.

Travellers should also completely avoid going within 5km of the Libya border area, from north of Dhehiba – but not including the Ras Ajdir border crossing.

France

There is a high risk of terrorist threat at the moment, following last week’s attack near Lyon. French authorities warn, that due to an ongoing threat to France by Islamist terror groups, the public should be extra vigilant.  France has reinforced security measures.

Those planning a trip to France should check online with their travel operators, especially if further disruption occurs to cross channel passengers.

Other dangers in France include pickpocketing  - which is a big problem, and illegal immigrants who may try to stowaway in vehicles. The government advises that drivers close and lock their doors when traffic is moving slowly and when cars are unattended.

Make sure you have applied for a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), prior to going. If you have one already, check it’s still valid and get your own medical and travel insurance, as it doesn’t cover everything.

Italy

There is a general threat of terrorism in Italy, according to government travel advisors.

Demonstrations occur with little warning and visitors should avoid getting involved in any political marches, gatherings and protests, experts suggest.

It is recommended that holidaymakers take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance, prior to leaving home.

Those going skiing, should get clued up on weather and avalanche conditions, and skiing laws, in advance.

Spain

There is a high terrorist threat just now.

Death from falling off balconies has occurred several times in recent years, and travellers are asked to avoid taking unnecessary risks, when under the influence of drink and drugs, to help prevent such tragedies.

Street crime awareness will make a trip to Spain safer. Money and passports are sought after. Advice includes not keeping all your cash/cards in one bag/pocket, keeping your passport somewhere safe and hiding valuables from view.

Have a valid EHIC with you (as above) and medical and travel insurance, as it doesn’t cover all costs.

Morocco

Morocco has a general threat of terrorism. As such, Moroccan authorities have heightened their security forces in major population centres.

Although often peaceful, there have been some demonstrations in various locations across the country. Other risk factors include a poor road safety record.

Visitors are advised to respect Islamic laws and customs and those travelling to Western Sahara should seek special advice on this disputed territory.

Egypt

Currently there’s a high terrorist risk. Terrorists continue to plan attacks in Egypt and visitors should take great care, the government says.

The FCO recommends avoiding the Governorate of North Sinai, due to increased criminal activity and continued terror attacks of police and security forces.

They recommend avoiding the following places, unless travel is essential: the Governorate of South Sinai, which includes the airport, Sharm el Maya, Hadaba, Naama Bay, Sharks Bay and Nabq.

Also don’t go within 50km of the Libya border or the area west of the Nile Valley and Delta Regions, unless necessary.

This does not include tourist areas, such as along the Nile River, or the Red Sea Resorts of Sharm el Sheikh and Hurghada, which the FCO does not suggest need avoiding at this time.

Turkey

A high terrorist threat make this a risky holiday choice right now. The FCO is warning against all travel to areas within 10km of the border with Syria.

And government experts advise that the following places are to be visited, only if essential: the remaining areas of Sirnak, Mardin, Sanliurfa, Gaziantep, Kilis and Hatay provinces. Also avoid Siirt, Tunceli and Hakkari provinces, unless absolutely necessary.

British nationals need a visa to go to Turkey, which can be obtained as an e-visa online or for £20 on arrival.

Many parts of Turkey are subject to earthquakes, such as the one which hit the Sea of Marmara last year. Demonstrations have involved police water cannons and tear gas in the past and should be avoided.

Greece

There is a general terror threat here too and risk of political violence. In April 2014, there was a large explosion outside the Bank of Greece in central Athens.

Other tensions include regular strikes - which can cause public transport disruption at short notice – banking issues and demonstrations, which should be avoided.

Travellers are advises to carry British photo ID with them at all times, secure their personal belongings and carry enough Euros in cash to cover any emergencies or unexpected delays.

Cyprus

A general threat from terrorism exists here.

Cyprus Airways has ceased to operate so alternative arrangements are in place for those with Cyprus Airways tickets.

Security factors particular to Cyprus are a zero tolerance towards drugs, poor driving on the roads and issues with banking.

Withdrawal limits apply to those with Cypriot bank accounts but these should not affect UK bank withdrawals. There are controls however on how much cash you can take out of the country. Consult airport displays or your tour operator for more information.

Croatia

The terror threat for Croatia is described as “underlying” by British government.

Other risks involve land mines in isolated areas, and severe weather such as floods, which can also result in road closures.

Visitors are advised to carry their passport at all times and you must be able to show ID when checking into hotels.

Standard European advice about taking a valid EHIC with you applies, and make sure you have travel and health insurance because not all costs are covered.

Bulgaria

Bulgaria has an underlying terrorist threat but dangers, such as pickpockets, prostitutes, hotel burglaries, and threatening behaviour could spoil your holiday, especially around Burgas and Sunny Beach.

Protests in cities across the country, which are reported to be mostly peaceful, pose a slight threat of violence, due to the extreme groups they can attract. Guests should avoid all protests for this reason, keep up to date with media reports and follow the local authorities’ advice.

Proof of identity, such as a copy of the information pages in your passport, should be carried at all times.