Egypt is one of the destinations warned about, as parts are ‘no go’ zones and LGBT+ could face arrest
A travel insurance expert has pinpointed five ‘potentially deadly’ holiday destinations Brits should steer clear of this summer. The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has issued warnings about several locations due to their potential danger and serious travel issues.
Many of these places are popular tourist spots, attracting thousands of UK holidaymakers each year. However, they also come with their own set of risks, with some areas being declared no-go zones and restrictions placed on certain travellers, including those who identify as LGBTQIA+.
Eeva Ruuska, Operations Manager at international travel risk assessment firm Riskline, has identified five hotspots that people should reconsider visiting.
She stated: “Safety is a crucial factor in choosing destinations. From political unrest and war zones to the rising threat of extreme weather events, the traditional idea of a ‘dream destination’ is being reshaped by real-world risks. With 35 per cent of Brits planning holidays one to three months in advance, many are currently making their bookings.
“However, the mix of political instability, weather extremes, cultural attitudes and economic pressures is casting a shadow over the viability of certain locations”.
“While some destinations may still hold appeal, shifting geopolitical dynamics, extreme weather patterns and cultural differences can significantly impact the safety and well-being of travellers.”
Five tourist destinations to avoid this summer:
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has issued a travel alert for Britons travelling abroad, highlighting certain destinations as high-risk. The FCDO’s advice, collated from UK embassies and various intelligence sources, includes precautions for safety and health, among other concerns.
Egypt
Among destinations to avoid, the FCDO strongly discourages all travel to specific parts of Egypt, warning against trips to areas like the eastern sector of Ismailiyah, the North Sinai Governorate, regions of the Western Desert and any location within 20km of the border with Libya due to potential terrorist attacks, unpredictable protests, and security threats.
Additionally, while Egyptian law doesn’t explicitly ban same-sex relations, repercussions for LGBTQIA+ tourists are a concern, with instances of individuals being prosecuted under “debauchery” laws, such as those publicly displaying rainbow flags.
Turkey
Turkey, despite being the 8th most visited country by Brits according to UK Parliament data, is not considered a safe destination. Anti-government protests have become a regular occurrence following the detention of Istanbul’s mayor, Ekrem İmamoğlu. Large-scale demonstrations are often held near diplomatic buildings, particularly Israeli missions in Ankara and Istanbul.
There has been a worrying increase in serious illnesses and deaths linked to counterfeit alcohol, including fake branded spirits. The threat of terrorism remains high, with UK nationals potentially at risk.
Mexico
Between August 2023 and July 2024, Mexico was the holiday destination for 6% of UK travellers. Despite its allure of stunning beaches, rich history and culture, it’s not deemed a safe destination. The northern border, Pacific Coast and central states are rife with cartel-related violence.
While these cartels generally don’t target foreigners, their violent counter-offensives can be unpredictable, putting visitors at risk of being caught in the crossfire. Political protests, particularly in Mexico City, are frequent and can escalate into violence. Foreign nationals are barred from participating in these activities, and involvement could lead to detention and deportation. Street crime is also a concern for foreigners, especially in major cities and tourist hotspots.
UAE
The United Arab Emirates is a favourite among Brits, ranking in the top 10 most visited countries. However, it’s not without its challenges, particularly for women and LGBTQIA+ visitors due to stringent laws and cultural norms. Same-sex relationships are illegal, and public displays of affection could land you in jail.
Women are expected to dress conservatively.
Foreigners dabbling in politics risk detention or deportation. These restrictions make the UAE a tough spot for those seeking freedom and acceptance.
Philippines
The Philippines holds the unfortunate title of being the most cyclone-affected country globally, with an average of 20 typhoons each year. The typhoon season runs from May to November, peaking between July and September. Besides the extreme weather risks, the country also has high crime and terrorism risks.
Before jetting off to your summer holiday, there are several factors Brits should take into account:
- It’s crucial for travellers to be aware of the local security situation, including potential crime and political instability. Keeping an eye on government travel advice and local news can help keep you in the loop.
- Extreme weather events like hurricanes, cyclones and typhoons are becoming more frequent and intense, especially during the UK summer. This is reshaping global travel plans. Rising sea temperatures and shifting weather patterns are making traditionally safe areas more vulnerable to storms, with regions like Central Europe, the Mediterranean, and the Middle East facing unexpected challenges.
Read the full article in Daily Record.