Brits have been warned that certain bank notes will not be accepted in Turkey due to a ‘surge’ in counterfeit currency in the country.
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has updated its advice for Britons visiting the country.
Tourists have been warned that some banks and money exchanges will now not accept $50 or $100 US dollar bills, due to a reported surge in counterfeit banknotes in Turkey.
It also said Brits ‘should not accept these banknotes where possible’.
Therefore it is advised that visitors planning trips to Turkey should consider using smaller denominations of US currency or a different currency altogether.
The FCDO generally has advised against all travel southeast Turkey, mainly due to the threat of terror attacks.
Areas of southeast Turkey, aswell as Istanbul and the capital Ankara have experienced terrorist attacks, some involving knives, explosives and firearms.
Other new guidance from the government, has warned that defacing banknotes in Turkey is illegal and can carry a prison sentence of up to three years.
Some of the incredible scenery and beaches in Turkey make it a hotspot for British tourists
Holidaymakers have been warned that a surge in counterfeit currency has led to some bank notes being rejected
Brits have been advised not to visit some areas of Turkey due to the threat of terrorist attacks
It is also illegal to deface or even insult the national flag and these laws can apply to comments or images online, no matter when or where they were posted.
Other guidance from the FCDO includes warnings about sexual assault in the country.
In 2023, 42 cases of sexual assault, including rape, were reported to British consular staff in Turkey, the FCDO said.
Most of these crimes were committed at night by someone the victim met during the day.
It also warned that there had been cases of sexual attacks on minors visiting toilets alone.
The FCDO also highlighted concerns about drink and food spiking, warning visitors to be wary of strangers offering food or drink or inviting them to restaurants.
They also issued a warning for LGBT+ travellers that while same sex sexual activity is legal, many parts of the country are socially conservative and showing affection in public could recieve ‘unwelcome attention’.
It is also illegal not to carry photographic ID in Turkey and in busier areas like Istanbul, authorities stop people for ID checks.
