Mediterranean

Travel insurance for Turkey has jumped almost 50 per cent in just a year, according to new data

Five European and Mediterranean destinations including some hotspots much loved by British tourists have been named as having seen big rises in insurance costs, directly caused by the Middle East crisis. Travel insurance for Turkey has jumped 46% in just a year, according to new data analysing 5,000 policies across popular destinations near conflict zones.

There is no sign of the Middle East conflict calming down – today Iran fired ballistic missiles and drones towards Bahrain and Kuwait, Bahrain’s government said, adding that they were intercepted.

Bahrain’s government called on Tehran to immediately cease attacks on Gulf neighbours that it deemed a “serious escalation”. Iran’s Foreign Ministry said the US early Saturday attacked surveillance facilities on Qeshm Island and near Sirik that it said were used to protect borders and “ensure the security of navigation in international waters”.

The latest exchange of fire came as the Trump administration pressed Iran to make a deal to end the war that has strained the global economy and threatened a hunger crisis in some of the world’s most vulnerable countries.

The US military earlier said it shot down several Iranian missiles and drones launched towards the Strait of Hormuz and Gulf Arab allies, and struck some of the Islamic Republic’s coastal surveillance radar sites in response.

It has had a big impact on the region with some popular destinations seeing big rises in premiums. Quotezone travel insurance expert Helen Rolph warned travellers not to assume last year’s prices still apply and urges holidaymakers to compare policies carefully, buy cover as soon as they book, and check Foreign Office advice before travelling.

Industry experts compared 5,000 travel insurance premiums across five popular tourist destinations close to conflict zones, revealing which countries have seen the biggest price increases over the past year.

Prices in Turkey have been affected the most despite it traditionally being considered one of the most popular and cost-effective destinations for UK holidaymakers over recent years.

Standard travel insurance premiums to the country have jumped from £40.56 in early 2025 to £59.19 just a year later – a rise of 46% or almost £20 per trip – which may be due to the fact it shares a border with Iran.

Holidaymakers travelling to Bulgaria are also seeing a sharp rise with prices up 19%, possibly down to its proximity to Ukraine.

Premiums for Cyprus have increased by 6%, Egypt by 4% and Poland by 8%. To gather the data, popular holiday destinations for British tourists were cross-referenced with countries geographically close to conflict zones, namely Ukraine and Iran, creating a dataset of major holiday hotspots in relative proximity to areas of geopolitical tension.

Insurers regularly reassess risk when global tensions rise, particularly in destinations close to areas where travel complications might become more likely.

Destinations situated close to areas experiencing heightened tensions – such as Iran and Ukraine – could see premiums shift as insurers reassess the likelihood of travel disruption, delays or emergency evacuation should issues escalate.

Helen Rolph, travel insurance expert at Quotezone.co.uk said: “Travel insurance prices change constantly as insurers respond to global events, the number of claims made and healthcare costs.

“Even if a destination remains popular despite its proximity to ongoing conflict, premiums can rise when the wider region becomes more uncertain.

“Travellers and holidaymakers shouldn’t assume last year’s prices will still apply and make sure they’re comparing policies carefully rather than opting for the cheapest option, as cover can vary significantly.

“It’s also sensible to arrange insurance as soon as a trip is booked, check government travel advice before departure, and ensure any medical conditions are fully declared.

“Travel disruption insurance can also be useful as it covers a wider range of issues while travelling but it’s important to remember that travel insurance won’t provide cover if the foreign office advises against travel to that region and most travel insurance policies won’t cover war related incidents. It’s crucial for holidaymakers to check what is and isn’t covered on their policy and add any extras or specialised cover they might need.”

Travel Insurance Premiums

Country // Average 2025 // Average 2026 // Average Price Change // % Change

Turkey £40.56 £59.19 £18.63 46%

Bulgaria £32.70 £38.82 £6.11 19%

Poland £10.50 £11.32 £0.82 8%

Cyprus £43.21 £45.80 £2.59 6%

Egypt £68.52 £71.30 £2.78 4%

The hidden gem offers a unique blend of charm reminiscent of a Greek island

For Brits dreaming of a Mediterranean escape but keen to stay on home turf, a hidden treasure tucked away in Cornwall could be the ideal answer. Nestled along the stunning south coast, Polperro boasts a distinctive mix of charm and tranquillity that feels far more like Greece than your typical Cornish fishing village.

According to experts at Park Holidays: “With whitewashed cottages and boats bobbing in the tiny harbour, Polperro feels more like a tucked-away Greek island than a Cornish fishing village.”

Framed by towering cliffs and lush greenery, the village enjoys a breathtaking backdrop to its peaceful bay. What truly makes Polperro stand out, however, is its unspoilt beach, which on bright sunny days appears to take on the colours of the Aegean Sea, turning an “Aegean shade of turquoise”.

It’s this winning combination of scenery and serenity that makes Polperro such a coveted destination for those seeking a taste of the Mediterranean without ever boarding a plane, reports the Express.

As the experts note: “Narrow, winding streets lead to cafés and shops with serious Santorini charm.”

While souvlaki and baklava may not feature on any local menus, the village’s wonderful selection of fish and chip shops and ice cream parlours offers a thoroughly British yet equally delightful alternative to Greece’s beloved tavernas.

For those with a passion for both history and the great outdoors, Polperro delivers on all fronts, with its rich maritime heritage proudly on display at its lively harbour, where local vessels have dropped anchor for centuries.

During the 18th and 19th centuries, Polperro was a bustling hub for pilchard fishing and smuggling. According to Holiday Cottages Polperro, “pilchards were caught in huge numbers by Polperro Gaffers, large gaff-rigged boats of which there were once 40 operating out of the harbour.”

“The fish once caught were processed in the village and this provided work for many women and children. There were three factories by the harbour involved in this and here the pilchards were salted and then cured.”

Stunning coastal walks along the surrounding clifftops offer breathtaking panoramas of the sea below, with the famous South West Coast Path weaving directly through the village itself.

What makes Polperro all the more attractive is how conveniently situated it is within Cornwall. Just a short drive from well-loved spots such as Fowey and Looe, it serves as an ideal base from which to explore the wider region.

This charming coastal spot is one of the most beautiful beaches in the UK.

Summer is approaching, and if you’re already fantasising about sea and sunshine, then you’re truly spoilt for choice. While destinations such as the Mediterranean and the Caribbean are alluring, flying overseas can prove costly – without even mentioning accommodation prices and dining expenses.

Fortunately, if you’re watching your pennies, the UK boasts some genuinely breathtaking destinations to discover, right on your doorstep. Not only will it prove more affordable, it will also eliminate much of the hassle involved in organising an overseas getaway. Instead of dashing through airport security, all you need to do is jump in the car or board a train.

Staycation specialists at holidaycottages.co.uk have examined some of the globe’s most sought-after beach destinations and recommended lesser-known UK alternatives that deliver all the splendour of the finest spots but without the hefty price tag or the throngs of visitors.

The Costa Brava ranks as an extremely popular destination for British holidaymakers.

Renowned for its white sand beaches, verdant landscape and turquoise waters, this north-east Spanish hotspot frequently draws crowds of British tourists seeking to unwind by the sea, reports the Express.

For a more tranquil and budget-friendly option, Porthcurno Beach in Cornwall serves as the UK’s own slice of paradise.

The beach sits beneath towering cliffs that shield it from the wind, while the stunning clear waters prove ideal for swimming and snorkelling.

One visitor wrote on Tripadvisor the beach was “absolutely breathtaking”.

“The most amazing beach beautiful white sand and turquoise sea. Breathtaking views and definitely one of the best beaches you will ever find.”

Another said: “Spent the day here, it’s just like being abroad, clear blue skies water, perfect sandy beach and so peaceful. No arcades, no boats, no noise, just gorgeous.”

Sarah Pring, PR manager at holidaycottages.co.uk, said: “For many people, summer brings the temptation of a beach holiday, however, travel enthusiasts don’t have to travel internationally to experience crystal-clear waters and beautiful sandy beaches hidden between towering cliffs as there are many comparable spots in the UK.”

The most stunning beach alternatives in the UK

• Luskentyre Beach, Scotland – looks like Turks and Caicos

• Porthcurno Beach, Cornwall – looks like Costa Brava, Spain

• Runswick Bay, Yorkshire – looks like Monterosso Al Mare, Cinque Terre, Italy

• Barricane Beach, Devon – looks like Calanque d’En-Vau, France

• Porthdinllaen, North Wales – looks like Hout Bay, Cape Town, South Africa