Travel warning issued for Spain and Turkey for Irish holidaymakers

Holidaymakers jetting off to soak up the sun have been urged to check the latest warnings as the Irish government updates its travel advice for some of the most popular destinations.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DfA) has warned of the high threat of terrorism in Spain and Turkey. The official line on its website reads: “There is a general threat from terrorism in Europe, and the threat in Spain is considered to be high. Since 2015, the Spanish Government’s national anti-terror alert level has remained at level four (high) on a scale of 1 to 5.”

The DfA urged holidaymakers to ramp up their vigilance and be extra careful. The advice is clear: “As terrorists could attempt further attacks, and such attacks could include places visited by foreigners, Irish citizens are advised to increase their security awareness and exercise heightened caution. In the event of any security incident, you should follow the instructions of the local police and your tour operator.”

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The guidance for Turkey is similar, stating: “The threat from terrorism in Turkiye remains high, with bomb attacks in major Turkish cities, including Istanbul and Ankara. Although some attacks have targeted security forces, there have also been random attacks in areas frequented by tourists. The situation in the south-east of the country is particularly serious and these areas should be avoided.”

The DfA advises against all travel within 10km of the border between Turkiye and Syria, as well as non-essential trips to the provinces of Hatay, Kilis, and Sirnak.

Officials also highlighted the unpredictable nature of terrorism, stating: “Terrorist attacks are, by their nature, random and indiscriminate and cannot be predicted in advance. Visitors are advised to exercise a high degree of caution, particularly in public places that are frequented by foreigners.”

In addition, tourists in Turkey are being cautioned to steer clear of any protests or large gatherings, which have the potential to escalate quickly. The DfA warns: “The police will take measures such as the use of tear gas to control protesters. Stay away from military sites taking photos of, or near, military or security installations and some public buildings, may be prohibited.”

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