Brits heading to Cyprus given stark travel warning by UK Foreign Office

22 February 2023 , 12:03

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The Foreign Office has warned visitors of issues in the north of the island (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Brits travelling to a popular holiday island have been reminded of potential threats from an unrecognised state.

The UK Foreign Office issued fresh guidance earlier this month for people travelling to Cyprus, which is visited by about a million Brits every year.

While the country is generally safe and most visits are trouble-free, the split between north Cyprus and the rest of the island has the potential to cause some issues, the Liverpool Echo reported.

The authorities in northern Cyprus do not share information regarding British Nationals in distress.

The Republic of Cyprus is a full member of the EU, but the country remains divided by the Green Line.

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The island is visited by one million Brits a year (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

The self-declared ‘Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus’ to the north of this line is not recognised by the British government.

The UK Foreign Office said: "The authorities in north Cyprus do not share information regarding British Nationals in distress with the British High Commission, or the families affected.

"Even when the High Commission is aware of a British National in distress, the authorities in the north will not share information about their location, wellbeing or treatment.

"British nationals travelling to the north of Cyprus are more vulnerable and at greater risk."

Authorities in north Cyprus also refuse to share information with the British High Commission on children who are subject to UK court orders.

People are being warned about the ongoing political situation at the holiday hotspot (Getty Images)

There are a few other important points to note before heading to Cyprus.

Terrorist attacks in Cyprus can’t be ruled out, according to the UK Foreign Office, although the chances of visitors getting caught up in one is very low.

Cyprus has a strict zero tolerance towards drugs, and if you are caught with any type of narcotic you will receive either a prison sentence or a hefty fine.

Driving standards are poor and some of the roads are difficult, the Foreign Office says, so you should drive with great care.

If you need to contact the emergency services call 112.

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