Brits with their sights set on Croatia for a getaway are being cautioned by the Foreign Office. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has revised its travel guidance for the holiday hotspot, citing concerns over potential terrorist threats.
Although Croatia is not currently facing an immediate danger, the FCDO advises tourists to remain vigilant. In an update on January 14, the FCDO website stated: “Although there’s no recent history of terrorism in Croatia, attacks cannot be ruled out.
“Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreigners.” The update also highlighted a broader risk, noting: “There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.”
With its stunning coastlines, lush forests, rich wildlife, historic architecture, and even iconic Game of Thrones filming locations, Croatia’s appeal is clear, drawing in excess of 20 million visitors in 2023. Travellers are urged to check in with UK Counter Terrorism Policing for tips and advice on how to stay safe while enjoying their international adventures.
Ignoring the FCDO’s guidance before jetting off could compromise your safety and potentially invalidate your travel insurance. On top of this, separate FCDO guidance pertaining to crime in Croatia has been provided for tourists.
The advice notes that although crime levels are “low” with violent incidents being “rare”, visitors should remain vigilant to protect themselves and their belongings. Particular caution is advised regarding attacks and sexual assaults related to taxi use.
It has been warned by the FCDO that: “Tourists have been overcharged at certain ‘gentlemen’s clubs’, sometimes by thousands of euros, and threatened with violence if they refuse to pay.”
“Pickpockets operate in tourist areas. Avoid carrying large sums of cash, do not leave valuables unattended and use hotel safes if possible. There have been reports of sexual assaults in taxis in Croatia.”
To minimise your risk from terrorism, the FCDO advises you:
- Follow news and media reporting about the country and region
- Be aware of your surroundings, and be especially vigilant in public areas, including hotels, restaurants, bars and crowded places like markets, malls or sports events
- Be vigilant around significant religious occasions and public holidays
- Look out for anything suspicious, and if you see anything report it to the local police immediately. Many terrorist attacks are stopped by people being vigilant. Where appropriate, also report any concerns to your employer or your travel company
- Think about the routes you use, and have a plan to follow if an incident occurs
- Try to avoid routines that could make you an easier target. Vary the time and route of your regular journeys
- Keep your mobile phone charged and with you, with emergency numbers programmed in
- Consider whether you might stand out from the crowd, particularly when travelling off the beaten track or to out-of-town destinations
- Be careful on social media. Avoid sharing information about yourself and your travel and social plans
- Tell family, friends, colleagues, or trusted hotel staff where you’re going and when you plan to return
- Identify places where you could seek refuge in an emergency.