There have been a number of incidents related to counterfeit alcohol

The UK Foreign Office has issued an update UK holidaymakers looking to travel to a popular holiday destination. The Foreign Office, responsible for keeping Brits up to date regarding travel to some 226 countries and nations, has updated the safety advice for those travelling to Turkey

Officials said a number of people died or became seriously ill in Turkey after drinking illegally produced local spirits. The new advice for those travelling to Turkey from the UK urges all holiday makers to drink alcohol only from licensed liquor stores and bars.

Holidaymakers are also urged to check labels and bottle seals to ensure they are intact. It comes after reports in recent weeks suggesting more than 100 people have died after drinking bootleg alcohol in Turkey. The Foreign Office has now updated its website with the latest safety advice, Wales Online reports.

It states: “In Turkey, including Ankara and Istanbul, people have died or suffered serious illness after drinking illegally produced local spirits and counterfeit bottles of branded alcohol. To protect yourself:

• buy alcoholic beverages only from licensed liquor stores
• buy drinks only at licensed bars and hotels
• avoid home-made alcoholic drinks
• check bottle seals are intact
• check labels for poor print quality or incorrect spelling”

The Foreign Office also recently updated its travel advice for those travelling to Turkey during the holy month of Ramadan, which is likely to begin on February 28 or March 1 and last for 29 or 30 days. The advice warns that tourists may cause offence with a number of activities. It says:

“During this time, it may cause offence if you:

• eat, drink, smoke or chew gum in public in the daytime, including in your car
• play loud music or dance
• swear in public

Officials also tell tourists to be aware the opening hours of shops and restaurants may change during this time and also if restaurants are providing food or drink in fasting hours, they may separate you from Islamic guests, for example with screens. It added that people should “follow local dress codes – clothing that does not meet local dress codes may cause more offence at this time”.

For more information on the situation in Turkey visit the Foreign Office website here.