UK tourists visiting Turkey - warned to remain vigilant

50.000 Britons on holiday in Turkey have been urged to avoid from public places in Istanbul and Ankara and avoid demonstrations

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) has issued a travel warning for the British citizens still in Turkey's seaside resorts, while the flights in the area return to normal. As stated by the warning, UK travellers should avoid demonstrations and remain cautious when outdoors.

As things in Turkey seem slowly to return to normality, the FCO has decided not to issue an official warning to advise British people to stay away from the country. Furthermore, travel agencies also operate as normal and do not offer refunds for cancellations. Major airlines' flights disruptions are as well under review, but returning to the routine schedule.

More than 50,000 Britons are currently in the country, spending their holidays in beach resorts hundreds of miles away from Istanbul and Ankara. Nevertheless, the FCO spokesman declared:

“The situation in Turkey appears to be calming following an attempted coup overnight on July 15 to 16. The security environment, however, remains potentially volatile. Following earlier disruption, flights to and from airports in Turkey are returning to normal, although some disruption remains and you should check with your airline or tour operator before travelling. You may need to turn up at the airport earlier than normal to get through the additional security checks in place. If you are in Turkey, please follow the advice of the authorities, closely monitor travel advice and contact your airline or tour operator. In Ankara and Istanbul we advise you to avoid public places, in particular demonstrations, and remain vigilant. Take sensible precautions if you are in the vicinity of any military or security forces. Roadblocks are in place in some areas. The coastal resorts do not appear to be significantly affected at present. You should check with your airline or tour operator before travelling to the airport. Continue to exercise vigilance in resort areas.”

According to a statement from the Prime Minister's office, the situation is continuously monitored by the intelligence agencies, the Ministry of Defence, the Home Office and the Department for Transport, in close cooperation and dialogue with the Turkish government to keep the travel advice to Turkey under permanent and close supervision.