Some tourists may be a little worried about traveling to Türkiye at this time.
This is because travel warnings were issued last week to those considering planning a holiday to Turkey, or to those already having fun in the sun for a while.
The country's vibrant cities like Antalya and Istanbul attract millions of tourists each year. However, on March 24, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued new advice for people visiting Istanbul and other Turkish cities as a result of ongoing protests and demonstrations.
Travel authorities warned that “the demonstration could be violent. Police responses include the use of tear gas and water cannons.” The Foreign, Federal and Development Authority (FCDO) provides travel advice to help British citizens make decisions about travel abroad to improve their safety and security. They often share tips and potential risks related to how to stay safe overseas.
But while some may be nervous, the woman who lives in Turkey and attended the protest said there are some important things that need to know if she plans to plan a holiday hotspot trip.
A Scottish woman who lives in Turkey, now known as Youllassie Inturkiye in Tiktok, admitted to attending what was described as a “peaceful protest” last week, saying “There's nothing to worry about.” She said people are just trying to “show their support” for the mayor of Istanbul.
She noted that the outcry was “peaceful” and admitted that she saw it as “no problem.” She shared a video of herself relaxing on the beach and admitted it was “great and peaceful.”
In Kusadassi where she is, she says life is almost normal and she wants people to notice this if they plan to visit immediately. She said if you had a trip booked immediately, everything would be roughly the same as a year ago.
She added: “Come to Turkey. Don't let the Istanbul news put you off in any shape, shape, shape, shape. If you are booked to come, keep on moving forward with your holidays.
However, it is important to note that this is just one local idea, with further advice being issued to travelers. For those traveling to Türkiye at this time, the FCDO is publishing essential advice.
The recent tensions in the region, stimulated by events in Israel and the occupied Palestinian territory, have led to significant protests outside the conflict-related diplomatic missions, particularly Israeli diplomatic missions in Ankara and Istanbul.
The FCDO advises all British tourists in Turkey to “avoid all demonstrations and leave the area if they develop,” saying “they can cause confusion in local transportation routes.” Additionally, the agency states, “FCDO advises all travel within 10km of the turkey border.”
To enter Türkiye, you must ensure that your passport has a “expiry date” of at least 150 days beyond the date of arrival. You must also include at least one blank page for the visa stamp. If your travel documents are substandard or you intend to travel with a passport reported as lost or stolen, you will be denied entry to the border.
