Foreign Office Updates Travel Guidance for Cyprus and Turkey Amid Regional Unrest
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has released updated travel advice for Cyprus and Turkey, as escalating tensions in the Middle East prompt some UK tourists to reconsider their holiday plans. Travel expert Simon Calder, known for his appearances on ITV's This Morning and work with The Independent, has highlighted the situation, noting that while risks to tourists remain low, many are opting to rebook to destinations like Spain and Portugal.
Simon Calder's Warning on Holiday Safety
Simon Calder addressed the ongoing crisis involving the United States, Israel, and Iran in the Gulf region, which has seen missile activity affecting areas near Turkey and Cyprus. "We've already seen missiles sent to Turkey and attacks on Cyprus," Calder stated. "Now, personally, I think the chances of anything happening to a tourist in Turkey or Cyprus are microscopically low, but I also know that people are rebooking away. They're going to the western Mediterranean - typically Spain and Portugal - because they believe they will be safer there."
Despite these concerns, the FCDO does not currently advise British nationals to cancel holidays or avoid travel to these popular destinations, which are frequented by travelers from Birmingham and across the UK.
Detailed FCDO Advice for Cyprus
The FCDO emphasizes that no travel can be guaranteed safe, but it has not issued a warning against travel to Cyprus. However, the advice page references a suspected drone impact at RAF Akrotiri on March 2, 2026, as confirmed by the Sovereign Base Areas Administration.
Key recommendations for British nationals in Cyprus include:
- Follow instructions from the Sovereign Base Areas Administration or Cypriot local authorities.
- Be aware that regional escalation poses significant security risks and may lead to travel disruption.
- Read the "If you’re affected by a crisis abroad" section on the government website for guidance on emergency preparedness.
Additional safety measures advised by the FCDO:
- Sign up for FCDO Travel Advice email alerts.
- Monitor local and international media for updates.
- Keep departure plans under review and ensure travel documents are up to date.
FCDO Guidance for Turkey Travel
For Turkey, the FCDO advises against all travel within 10 kilometers of the border with Syria due to ongoing fighting and a heightened risk of terrorism. However, popular holiday hotspots such as Bodrum, Fethiye, Oludeniz, and Istanbul are considered safe for tourists.
The border remains open visa-free for UK passport holders for stays of up to 90 days. British nationals intending to cross the land border from Iran into Turkey must request facilitation from the British Embassy in Ankara by contacting the FCDO before travel. This requires providing personal details and specifying the border point.
Important notes from the FCDO:
- The Turkish authorities report that the Esendere-Serow crossing point on the Iranian side is closed to daily traders.
- Usual entry requirements apply, including visa-free access for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
- Leaving Iran overland is done at your own risk, as holding a British passport or perceived UK connections can lead to detention by Iranian authorities.
This updated advice comes as regional conflicts continue to influence travel decisions, with the FCDO urging caution and preparedness for all British travelers planning trips to these destinations.
