The UK Foreign Office has issued a key update for British holidaymakers planning to visit Turkey, following a spate of deaths and serious illnesses after drinking illegally produced local spirits. The updated safety advice cautions tourists to only purchase alcohol from licensed stores and bars, and to verify the authenticity of labels and bottle seals.
This warning comes in response to reports of over 100 fatalities resulting from the consumption of bootleg alcohol in Turkey in recent weeks. The Foreign Office website advises: “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 protect yourself:
- 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.”
In addition, the Foreign Office has revised its guidance for travelers to Turkey during the holy month of Ramadan, which is expected to commence on February 28 or March 1 and last for 29 or 30 days. The advice warns that tourists may cause offence with a number of activities, reports Wales Online.
“During this time, it may cause offence if you: eat, drink, smoke or chew gum in public in the daytime, including in your car; play loud music or dance; swear in public.”
Officials also tell tourists to be aware that the opening hours of shops and restaurants may change during this time and also know that if restaurants are providing food or drink in fasting hours, they may separate you from Islamic guests, for example with screens. It added that people should “follow local dress codes – clothing that does not meet local dress codes may cause more offence at this time.”
For more information on the situation in Turkey visit the Foreign Office website here. The Foreign Office is responsible for keeping Brits up to date regarding travel to some 226 countries and nations.