Europe travel warning as UK tourists warned of ‘violence’ in holiday hotspot

A holiday hotspot for Britons has been issued a travel warning for “attracting violence”.

Recently, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) issued a travel warning for Romania, primarily due to the ongoing conflict in neighbouring Ukraine.

The FCDO alert highlighted several key concerns for holidaymakers.

It said: “There is widespread military activity in neighbouring Ukraine. Public demonstrations are common. Marches and gatherings are mostly peaceful and well-policed, but extra care should be taken in crowded places.

“Demonstrations, marches, and gatherings can attract violence. Monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.”

The advisory recommends that travellers review the Ukraine travel advice, particularly noting that the FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the western regions of Zakarpattia, Ivano-Frankivsk, Ternopil, Chernivtsi, Lviv, Volyn, Rivne, and Zhytomyr.

Additionally, all travel is discouraged within 50 km of the borders of Volyn, Rivne, and Zhytomyr with Belarus, due to the presence of Russian and Belarusian military and security personnel.

Despite these warnings, Romania remains generally safe for tourists.

The country attracts visitors with its stunning architecture, natural beauty, and diverse experiences, ranging from traditional villages to vibrant nightlife.

However, the FCDO stressed that no travel can be guaranteed safe, and tourists should always be aware of potential issues abroad.

The FCDO also shared information on the threat of terrorism in Romania.

“There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets.

“Stay aware of your surroundings at all times,” the advisory stated. The UK Counter Terrorism Policing provides advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack.

The FCDO noted that terrorist attacks in Romania cannot be ruled out and they could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreign nationals.

Regarding crime, the FCDO warned holidaymakers to be alert to petty theft, particularly in large towns such as Bucharest.

It wrote: “Thieves use distraction techniques and can carry out organised attacks in groups.

“Take care of your passport, money, and personal belongings, particularly near money exchanges and hotels, on public transport – especially to the airport – in main railway stations, and inside airport terminals.

“Criminals have copied credit or debit cards in some bars and restaurants. Use a hotel safe for valuables where possible and carry a copy of your passport.”

For comprehensive and up-to-date information on visiting Romania, including warnings, insurance, entry requirements, safety and security, health, and emergency assistance, travellers are encouraged to consult the FCDO’s official guidance.