The Foreign Office has issued a ‘no travel’ advisory for 24 countries, effectively banning UK holidaymakers from these destinations. The list includes some expected entries like Afghanistan and Iraq, as well as some surprises such as Israel and Russia.
According to the advisory, British nationals are strongly advised against all but essential travel to these ‘blacklisted’ countries due to various security concerns. For example, in Afghanistan, the security situation is described as volatile, with a heightened risk of detention for British nationals. Similarly, Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine has led to the Foreign Office advising against all travel to the country.
It is crucial for travelers to check Foreign Office travel warnings before planning any trips abroad. Traveling against Foreign Office advice may invalidate travel insurance and limit consular support in case of emergencies.
Despite the warnings, some British tourists have fond memories of their visits to these countries. One tourist shared their positive experience in St Petersburg, Russia, praising the stunning architecture and friendly people. Another visitor recommended the Church of Our Saviour on the Spilled Blood as a must-see attraction in St Petersburg.
While some may have positive experiences in these countries, the Foreign Office’s advisory serves as a reminder of the potential risks associated with traveling to certain destinations. It is always important to prioritize safety and security when planning international trips.