FCDO

Despite witnessing soaring visitor numbers in recent years, a ‘beautiful’ European hotspot has been stung with an FCDO warning following its dystopian political direction

Brits have been warned about travelling to an increasingly popular European hotspot, following concerning new legislation. Last year, a whopping 8.7 million international tourists flocked to Hungary – lured in by the country’s dark history, stunning architecture, and cheap booze.

Many holidaymakers will have headed straight to Budapest, Hungary’s capital, renowned for its huge thermal spas, underground bars, and plethora of cultural attractions (including the only McDonald’s in the world that transforms itself into a nightclub). Here, you’ll find the fairy-tale complex of Fisherman’s Bastion, the spectacular St Stephen’s Basilica, and the powerful Shoes on the Danube Bank memorial.

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Acclaimed for its low-cost food and beverages, Hungary has become increasingly popular amongst Brits with a slew of major UK airports flying directly to the country – including Bristol, Edinburgh, Birmingham, Glasgow, Liverpool, London Heathrow, Gatwick and Stansted.

However, on Thursday, July 17, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office updated its advice for LGBT+ travellers, under its ‘safety and security’ page. The warning comes after tens of thousands defied Hungary’s dystopian ban on Pride – spearheaded by Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s swiftly implemented law that makes it an offence to hold or attend events that involve the ‘depiction or promotion’ of homosexuality to minors.

While same-sex sexual activity is legal, and Budapest is known for its openness and liberal tolerance – showing affection in public outside the capital could result in ‘unwanted attention’. “Hungary has passed legislation allowing the banning of rallies and marches that depict or promote LGBT+ identities to minors,” the FCDO states.

“Participants could be identified by facial recognition technology and face fines of up to 200,000 Hungarian Forints (approximately £433.71). The Hungarian government classified Budapest Pride 2025 as illegal under this legislation.”

While the Pride event has officially ended, Brits travelling to Budapest over the summer period should be aware of changing attitudes towards LGBT+ people, and the risk that public affection may garner outside of the tourist-riddled capital.

The FCDO also warns that tourists in Hungary can often be targets for ‘petty crime’, including bag-snatching and pickpocketing. This is more likely to occur in busy places like on public transport, in train stations, at markets, or bustling attractions.

“Some bars, clubs and restaurants might charge high amounts for food and drink,” the body added. “Tourists have been taken to cashpoints with demands for the money to pay the bill. Always ask to see the menu and price list before ordering food and check your bill carefully before paying.”

There have also been reports of drinks being spiked, particularly in Budapest’s bars. Travellers are therefore advised to always buy their own alcoholic drinks and make sure to ‘keep sight of them’ at all times.

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A stunning country located just three hours from the UK seems to have finally been cast into the tourist spotlight – but now the FCDO is warning Brits about ‘ongoing hostilities’

An ‘underrated’ country just three hours from the UK has welcomed a huge tourist influx – but has now been stung with a stark travel warning.

Boasting unspoilt golden sandy beaches, a rich history and some of the best markets in the world, Morocco has long been cast out of the tourist spotlight. For years, the country, located in North Africa, has grappled with its reputation – struggling to prove to Brits that it’s ‘safe’ to visit.

Harrowing events such as the 2011 bombing in Marrakesh, which killed 10 foreigners, have deterred huge numbers of UK holidaymakers from exploring the country’s vast offerings. However, as anti-tourist sentiment sweeps across hotspots like Greece and Spain, it seems Morocco is finally getting the attention it deserves.

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As previously reported, The Moroccan Ministry of Tourism recently revealed the country had welcomed a whopping 5.7 million international visitors in the first four months of 2025. This marks a 23 per cent increase compared to the same period in 2024, and sets Morocco up for potentially breaking its tourist record this year.

Tourism Minister Fatim-Zahra Ammor hailed the news, arguing that January-April is ‘traditionally considered slow’ when it comes to tourist footfall. The politician attributed the momentum as a ‘direct result’ of pushing Morocco as a tourist destination while ‘anchoring the sector’s development in a sustainable and resilient manner’.

Many tourists opt to stay in Marrakesh, the country’s fourth-largest city famed for its bustling market vendors, breathtaking architecture, and unique attractions such as Jardin Majorelle, which was previously owned by fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent. In recent years, Agadir has set itself up as the perfect ‘fly and flop’ destination – with a slew of all-inclusive resorts now operating on the country’s stunning coastline.

However, just as tourism is starting to soar – Morocco has been stung with a travel warning from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO). While the body does not advise Brits against travelling to the country, it updated its advice on June 13 following the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran.

Under its ‘Safety and Security’ page, the FCDO warns: “Ongoing hostilities in the region and between Israel and Iran could escalate quickly and pose security risks for the wider region. You should monitor local and international media for the latest information, be vigilant, and follow the instructions of local authorities.”

Other warnings include violent crimes against tourists, credit card scams, bogus tourist guides, and marriage fraud. “Protests and demonstrations could occur across the country, particularly in large cities, often without warning,” the FCDO adds.

“These events are typically monitored closely by law enforcement. While authorised protests are generally peaceful, unauthorised ones have sometimes led to clashes between protesters and police. Such gatherings can cause travel disruption in the affected areas. Avoid political gatherings and demonstrations and follow local news and directions from security officials.”

You can read the FCDO’s full travel advice for Morocco here.

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A stunning Mediterranean country featuring golden sand, beach clubs, and ubiquitous history is ‘redesigning’ the way it approaches tourism following an explosive conflict

Boasting 139 miles of pristine Mediterranean coastline, luxury holiday resorts, and 32C temperatures – this ‘beautiful’ country could easily be mistaken for Greece.

Last year, a staggering 1.31 million tourists flocked to Lebanon, lured in by the country’s ancient ruins, golden sandy beaches, and stunning architecture. The influx marks a 32.1 per cent decrease in visitor numbers compared to 2023, which can largely be attributed to the conflict between Israel and Lebanese Hizballah.

However, after a ceasefire came into force on November 27, 2024, Lebanon has been grappling to restore its image as a holiday destination. Laura Lahoud, the country’s Minister of Tourism, says Lebanon is entering a ‘new chapter’ – adding: “We are redesigning the tourism journey to meet modern expectations. This includes higher hospitality standards and consistent, transparent pricing. For Gulf visitors in particular, we are encouraging medical, wellness, and cultural offerings that reflect their current expectations, grounded in authenticity, not nostalgia.”

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On March 27, the Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO) updated its advice for Lebanon – removing the strict warning to avoid travelling to the entire country. Now, the body advises against all travel to areas in Beirut and Mount Lebanon Governorate – including the following neighbourhoods:

• Tariq el Jdideh
• Bir Hassan (excluding the Rafiq Hariri Hospital and the Ministry of Public Health)
• Ghobeiry
• Chiayah (south of the Rizkallah Semaan Road and west of (but not including) the Old Saida Road)
• Haret Hraik
• Burj Al Barajneh
• Mraije
• Laylake

The FCDO’s map also shows long stretchers of the country that have an ‘advise against all but essential travel’ warning.This includes spots such as Jezzine, Zgharta, Bcharre, Sidon, and Kfaroue. However, much of the coastline has now turned green – which means tourists can visit but should check the FCDO’s advice before travelling.

Under its ‘Safety and Security’ page, the FCDO highlights multiple risks tourists should consider if visiting the country, including potential terrorist attacks, crime, drug smuggling, and sexual assault. “The Lebanese Criminal Code includes a general provision concerning ‘every sexual act against nature’,” the FCDO adds. “Lebanese courts might consider that this includes same-sex sexual activity. A criminal offence under this provision is punishable by a prison sentence of up to a year.”

Despite the barrage of warnings, travel enthusiasts are still flocking to the country – desperate to show its more luxurious side. Last year, TikTok account Wanderlust Family shared a video of their trip to Lebanon, comparing it to the insatiably popular country of Greece.

“Be honest, how many of you thought Lebanon was so beautiful?” the account wrote. “The news gives you a whole wrong picture of this beautiful country! The Lebanese love to party and if you’re travelling to Lebanon, you absolutely have to visit a beach club.”

Hundreds of viewers flocked to the comments section to hail Lebanon’s beauty, with one user writing: “Even as a Greek, I can easily say Lebanon has the most beautiful people and the best food. I can’t wait to go back.” Another said: “I literally want to go so bad,” while a third added: “Wow, so beautiful.”

Your travel insurance may be void if you visit a country hit with an FCDO warning. You can read the government’s full advice here.

Do you have a story to share? Email us at [email protected] for a chance to be featured.

A tourist-magnet country that welcomed more than 18 million international visitors last year will be hit hard by fresh travel warnings from the FCDO – and it could invalidate your insurance

Brits have been issued a stark warning following escalating tensions in a country that welcomes tourists in their droves. Last year, a staggering 18.89 million international visitors flocked to India – lured in by the country’s fascinating history, stunning architecture, and stellar street food.

Classed as the world’s seventh largest country, spanning some 1.2 million square miles, India is home to some of the most iconic tourist attractions in the world – including Amber Palace, Agra Fort, and Humayun’s Tomb. Of course, a trip to the country isn’t complete without having a selfie in front of the majestic Taj Mahal.

Touted as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, this 17th century marble mausoleum and its pristinely symmetrical garden has attracted A-listers and political figures from across the globe. It’s where Princess Diana was snapped sitting on a bench – without her prince.

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But, for almost 80 years, India has been locked in a military exchange with Pakistan over Kashmir, an area claimed in full and administered in parts by both countries. This conflict flared up on May 7 when India launched attacks on what it described as ‘terrorist infrastructure’ in Pakistan – in response to gunmen opening fire on a group of domestic tourists visiting Pahalgam, a popular part of Indian-administered Kashmir.

On May 10, the government of Pakistan stated that both countries have agreed to stop military action. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) therefore updated its travel advice on May 22, but still advises against ‘all travel to parts of India’ – including within 10km of the India-Pakistan border.

“FCDO advises against all travel to the region of Jammu and Kashmir (including Pahalgam, Gulmarg, Sonamarg, the city of Srinagar and the Jammu-Srinagar national highway), except for: travel by air to and from the city of Jammu, travel within the city of Jammu, and travel within the Union Territory of Ladakh,” the body added. “FCDO [also] advises against all but essential travel to the state of Manipur including the capital, Imphal.

“Curfews and restrictions continue in parts of Manipur following violent ethnic clashes that broke out in 2023. Intermittent incidents have continued and escalated in September 2024.”

Even tourist hotspots like Goa, renowned for its sugar-like beaches and cobalt waters, come with risks. The FCDO says the destination’s popularity has given surge to ‘opportunistic criminals’ that operate in the area.

“There have been some serious incidents involving British nationals in recent years, including sexual assaults and the murder of a young female traveller,” the FCDO added. “It is illegal to drink alcohol in public places in Goa. If you drink alcohol outside the limits of a licensed premises, you could be fined or given a prison sentence. You can drink within the limits of a registered beach shack or bar, for example, but not on an open beach or road.

Travelling to a country with an FCDO warning could mean your travel insurance is invalid. You can read the government’s full advice on India here.

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