The UK Foreign Office has issued fresh guidance for Britons planning to holiday in Turkey, following a spate of deaths and serious illnesses linked to the consumption of illegally produced local spirits. The Foreign Office, which provides travel advice for 226 countries and territories, is urging all travellers to Turkey to only purchase alcohol from licensed outlets and bars, and to verify that labels and bottle seals are intact.
This warning comes in the wake of reports suggesting over 100 people have died after consuming bootleg alcohol in Turkey recently. The Foreign Office website cautions: “In Turkey, including Ankara and Istanbul, people have died or suffered serious illness after drinking illegally produced local spirits and counterfeit bottles of branded alcohol.”
To safeguard themselves, travellers are advised to: “Buy alcoholic beverages only from licensed liquor stores, buy drinks only at licensed bars and hotels, avoid home-made alcoholic drinks, check bottle seals are intact, check labels for poor print quality or incorrect spelling.”
Additionally, the Foreign Office has updated its travel advice for those visiting Turkey during the holy month of Ramadan, expected to commence on February 28 or March 1 and last for 29 or 30 days. The guidance warns tourists to be mindful of their actions to avoid causing offence.
During this period, tourists are advised that certain behaviours may cause offence, including eating, drinking, smoking or chewing gum in public during daylight hours, playing loud music or dancing, and inappropriate attire. Officials also caution visitors to be mindful of altered opening times for shops and restaurants, reports Wales Online.
They further note that establishments serving food or drink during fasting hours may separate non-Muslim guests from their Islamic counterparts, potentially using screens. The guidance emphasises the importance of adhering to local dress codes, warning that non-compliance could cause increased offence during this time.
For more detailed information on the situation in Turkey, individuals are directed to visit the Foreign Office website. Stay updated with the most significant stories in Wales by subscribing to our daily newsletter.
