The UK Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO) has released an updated travel advisory. The new notice highlights a rise in security concerns, protests, entry rule changes, and natural risks across several global destinations.
Countries now under this advisory include Costa Rica, Hungary, Saudi Arabia, Italy, the Bahamas, Turkey, and South Korea. Each nation faces unique challenges that could directly affect tourists and business travelers. The advisory stresses the importance of staying alert, planning carefully, and keeping up with evolving local regulations.
Costa Rica: Crime Risks and New Entry Guidance
Costa Rica has long been a favorite for eco-tourism. However, rising crime rates, particularly theft and violent muggings on the Atlantic coast, have placed the country under closer scrutiny.
- Entry Requirements: Travelers can stay up to 180 days without a visa. Passports must remain valid beyond the departure date. Overstays are fined at $100 per month.
- Vaccine Rules: Visitors from yellow fever transmission zones must show vaccination proof.
- Safety Concerns: Tourists are urged to stay cautious in public places and avoid leaving belongings unattended. Criminals have targeted tourists during transport or roadside breakdowns.
- Travel Insurance: Comprehensive coverage is strongly advised.
Hungary: Preparing for the EU’s New Entry/Exit System
Hungary, part of the Schengen Area, is implementing the EU’s new Entry/Exit System (EES). Beginning October 12, 2025, all visitors will need biometric registration.
- Entry Rules: UK travelers can stay for up to 90 days without a visa. Passports must be valid for at least three months after departure.
- EES Impact: Longer border waits are expected as fingerprints and photos are required. Travelers are advised to allow extra time when crossing borders.
Saudi Arabia: Security Risks Along Yemen Border
Saudi Arabia continues to attract international visitors for culture and business. However, the FCDO warns against all non-essential travel within 80 km of the Yemen border due to terrorism and conflict risks.
- Visa and Entry: UK citizens can visit for up to 90 days without a visa. Stays beyond that require a residency permit.
- Safety Issues: Political tensions and regional instability remain high. Seasonal wildfire risks can also disrupt travel in rural and desert areas.
Italy: Jubilee 2025 and Border Control Delays
Italy is preparing for Jubilee 2025, a major religious event expected to attract millions of visitors to Rome from December 2024 to January 2026.
- Crowd Warnings: Expect heavy congestion at landmarks and public spaces in Rome.
- New EES System: The EU’s biometric system begins in October 2025, further increasing delays at airports.
- Travel Advice: Travelers should book early, plan for extra waiting times, and stay informed about updates.
The Bahamas: Hurricane Season and Safety Alerts
The Bahamas, renowned for its beaches, is vulnerable during hurricane season, which runs from June to November.
- Travel Risks: Severe storms can disrupt flights, accommodations, and transport.
- Entry Requirements: British citizens can stay up to 30 days visa-free, with options for extensions.
- Crime Concerns: Reports of drink spiking and theft at events have been noted. Tourists should remain cautious during festivals and avoid leaving drinks unattended.
Turkey: Border Risks and Wildfires
Turkey remains a popular cultural hub, but the UK has flagged specific risks.
- Border Warnings: Travel within 10 km of the Syrian border is not advised due to terrorism and military activity.
- Wildfire Season: Coastal and rural areas face recurring wildfire threats during summer.
- Entry Rules: UK travelers can visit for 90 days in a 180-day period without a visa. Longer stays require permits.
South Korea: Health and Insurance Advisory
South Korea continues to attract visitors for business and tourism, but health-related precautions are emphasized.
- Travel Insurance: Medical coverage is strongly recommended due to strict health check policies.
- Air Quality: Seasonal air pollution may affect vulnerable travelers.
- Visa-Free Entry: UK nationals can stay for 90 days without a visa. K-ETA approvals are required for many travelers, though UK visitors are exempt until December 2025.
Key Takeaways for Travelers
The UK’s updated advisory highlights diverse risks across these destinations. From violent crime in Costa Rica and natural disasters in the Bahamas to political unrest in Turkey and Saudi Arabia, the range of challenges is wide.
Key recommendations include:
- Keep up to date with government travel notices.
- Invest in flexible travel insurance that covers delays, cancellations, and medical emergencies.
- Allow extra time at airports due to new border systems in the EU.
- Remain alert during local protests or large gatherings.
Conclusion
The global travel landscape is changing rapidly. The UK government’s new advisory covering Costa Rica, Hungary, Saudi Arabia, Italy, the Bahamas, Turkey, and South Korea underscores the need for preparation and vigilance.
Travelers are urged to stay flexible, monitor local conditions, and prioritize safety. While each destination continues to offer unique cultural and natural attractions, understanding the risks is essential for a safe and enjoyable journey.
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