The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has released updated travel guidance for British nationals planning trips to Spain, Italy, and Portugal. This follows recent changes to the official advice for victims of rape and sexual assault in Croatia, highlighting increased safety concerns across popular European destinations.
New Information for Croatia
The FCDO has published specific information for British nationals who are victims of rape and sexual assault in Croatia. The document emphasizes that victims have choices and provides resources to help them make informed decisions.
The most important priority is ensuring personal safety. The FCDO advises contacting the international emergency number 112 and reaching out to tour operators if applicable. British Embassy staff in Croatia can be reached at +385 (0)1 6009 100 or +44 (0)20 7008 500 for consular assistance.
Consular staff are trained to be empathetic and non-judgmental, offering information on local police and medical procedures. All communications are treated with strict confidentiality. The embassy can also facilitate contact with family or friends upon request.
Additionally, the FCDO provides contact details for relevant Croatian non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that offer support services to victims.
Safety Advice for Spain
For travelers to Spain, the FCDO warns about the potential use of 'date rape' drugs and other substances like GHB and liquid ecstasy. Visitors are urged to purchase their own drinks and keep them in sight at all times to prevent spiking.
Alcohol and drugs can significantly reduce vigilance and personal control. The FCDO notes that drinks served in Spanish bars are often stronger than those in the UK, so knowing personal limits is crucial for safety.
Guidance for Portugal
While attacks or assaults, including sexual assaults, are rare in Portugal, they do occur. The highest risk periods are late at night around popular nightlife areas.
To minimize personal risk, the FCDO recommends keeping an eye on group members' drinks to prevent spiking. Practical tips include saving accommodation locations on maps apps and taking photographs of accommodation names and addresses for easy reference at night.
Setting up group chats to maintain communication with travel companions is also advised as an additional safety measure.
Recommendations for Italy
In Italy, the FCDO cautions against accepting drinks from strangers or leaving beverages unattended. There have been incidents where victims of spiked drinks were robbed and sometimes assaulted.
Similar to the advice for Spain, the FCDO emphasizes that alcohol and drugs can impair judgment and control. Drinks in Italian bars are typically stronger than UK equivalents, making it essential for travelers to be aware of their consumption limits.
This comprehensive update from the Foreign Office reflects ongoing efforts to protect British tourists abroad, providing clear, actionable safety information for some of Europe's most visited destinations.
