Now that summer is over, you might be thinking about your seasonal trip. If you landed on Turkey as one of your options, however, you’ll need to heed the current travel warning.
The US Department of State just reissued a travel advisory for Turkey, informing travelers heading to the country to “exercise increased caution due to terrorism and arbitrary detentions.” Do not panic, though,” according to the official advisory, no terrorist event caused the reissue. Instead, the advisory is the result of a “periodic review with minor edits.”
However, travelers “should steer clear of” some specific areas due to terrorism. The same advisory urges travelers not to go to a few provinces, including the Sirnak province, the Hakkari province, and any location within six miles of the Syrian border.
“Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Türkiye,” reads the advisory. “Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations.” For this reason, travelers are encouraged to be cautious in crowded areas and public spaces, such as transportation hubs, markets, malls, government buildings, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, and parks. Additionally, travelers should also be cautious in airports and at major events.
In regards to other threats, authorities are warning travelers about arbitrary detentions. Security forces have “detained tens of thousands of people, including US citizens, for alleged ties to terrorist groups based on scant or secret evidence and grounds that appear to be politically motivated,” reads the advisory. “US citizens have also been subject to exit bans that prevent them from departing Türkiye.” It adds that “protests not approved by the Turkish government can lead to arrest, as can criticizing the government, including on social media.”
For these reasons, travelers are encouraged to always be aware of their surroundings, especially when visiting locations that tourists often frequent. The advisory also urges travelers to avoid demonstrations and crowds and to only stay at hotels with identifiable security measures. They should also monitor local media to keep updated on the latest relevant events and information and be prepared to adjust their travel plans if necessary.
For more information and a complete list of active travel advisories, visit our global guide on current active travel advisories and the Department of State’s website. If you’re heading to Europe, check out our dedicated guide for active European advisories. If you’re heading to the Caribbeans instead, you can check out this dedicated guide.
You can also register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to stay updated on travel advisories that might impact your next international trip.
