The Foreign Office has provided the latest advice and warnings regarding international travel to some holiday hotspots favoured by Brits.
So, if you’re planning a getaway to escape the cold weather and catch some sun, here is what they have said about some popular tourist destinations.
Spain, Greece and Italy all follow the Schengen area rules, which means your passport must have a passport “date of issue” less than ten years before the date they arrive and an expiry date at least three months after the day you plan to leave.
If you are a tourist, visiting family or friends, attending business, cultural or sports events or travelling for short-term studies and training, you can also travel to the countries for up to 90 days in any 180 days.
Each country has different advice for categories such as crime, sexual assault, terrorism, law and cultural differences and more.
Spain, including the Canary Islands
According to the FCO, “terrorists are likely to try and carry out attacks in Spain”. The FCO states: “Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreign nationals. Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities. In January 2023, one person was killed and others injured in a machete attack at 2 churches in Cadiz.”
Travellers are also advised to beware of street crimes, to keep valuables in one place and to keep a copy of the photo page of your passport.
Regarding sexual assault, it also states: “Avoid splitting up from your friends, do not leave drinks unattended and do not go off with people you do not know. Save the location of your accommodation on your maps app”
Greece
For Greece, the FCDO provides advice for visitors who are at risk of facing discrimination. It states: “The majority of visitors experience no difficulties related to their race, but there have been some racially-motivated attacks, particularly in inner-city areas.”
Additionally: “Anti-discrimination and hate speech laws apply to gender identity. Public attitudes towards same-sex couples vary throughout the country. Couples showing affection in public may be frowned upon, especially in rural areas. Attitudes are generally more welcoming in Athens and on many Greek islands.”
In Greece, it is illegal to smoke in indoor public places, including shopping malls and transport hubs. Those who do are at risk of a fine of 500 euros (approx £420).
Italy
The advice page warns those who will be driving in Italy about theft in Rome, Ostia, Milan and Pisa.
They added: “Thieves also target coastal areas and towns, and motorway service stations. Avoid leaving luggage in your vehicle – even out of sight in the boot – for any length of time.
Some cities in Italy also impose tax on tourists which is usually paid at a hotel. Hotels often ask for payment in cash and it’s recommended to check with the local tourist information office as the tax varies.
UAE
Passports must have an “expiry date” of at least six months after arrival. If you have a residence permit, your passport’s expiry date must be at least three months after the date you arrive in the UAE.
Regarding visa requirements, you can get a visitor or tourist one issued free of charge when you arrive in the UAE, and you do not need to apply for one before travelling. Your passport is stamped with the visa as you go through immigration, and it will be valid for up to 40 days. Overstaying your visa will result in a fine.
The FDCO has plenty of advice for those travelling to the UAE covering terrorism, property scams, dress codes and more.
The website states: “The UAE is a Muslim country. Respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions. Make sure your actions do not cause offence, especially during the holy month of Ramadan or if you visit religious areas. There may be serious penalties for doing something that might not be illegal in the UK but is in the UAE.”
It also has a list of lawyers for Abu Dhabi and Dubai to prevent people from being at risk of any property scams.
For more information regarding travel advice, you can visit the official government website.