Urgent warning for Brits at Europe holiday hotspot could result in fine (original) (raw)

British tourists at the popular holiday destination have been warned to be careful where they choose to drink alcohol in case they are hit with a fine after warnings from officials

The Teke Peninsula, southwestern Turkey

Brits travelling abroad for a few days in the sun often like nothing more than to relax with a beer or a cocktail at the beach or by the pool but tourists visiting Turkey have been warned they need to obey local laws about consuming alcohol.

Rules in Turkey about the sale and consumption of booze are different to those back home in the UK. While drinking in public is not explicitly banned in Turkey, it can still land you with a fine in some cases. “Disrupting the peace of others while intoxicated” is an offence and could see you slapped with a fine for 617 lira (around £15).

Authorities in Istanbul issued a public reminder about the existing rules regarding alcohol consumption in public, BirminghamLive reports. The governor referenced “incidents that disrupt public order and disturb the public peace and security”, in which the troublemakers were often drunk. The warning added: "People who drink alcohol in public parks, beaches and similar areas cause fear and panic in our citizens."

Liquor stores in Turkey are also prohibited from selling alcohol after 10pm, however late-night drinking is still allowed in bars and restaurants. Turkey also has strict rules regarding smoking in public places. Smoking is illegal on public transport and in all indoor workplaces and public spaces. It's also restricted in some outdoor areas where cultural, artistic, sports or entertainment activities are held.

It is illegal for locals and tourists not to carry some form of photographic ID in Turkey. The British Foreign Office urges travellers to always carry their passport on them while out and about as authorities are known to stop people for ID checks, particularly in busy areas. If you can't show your ID when asked, you might have to pay money or you may face arrest.

On its website, the Foreign Office states: "It is illegal not to carry some form of photographic ID in Turkey. Always carry your passport or residence permit. In some busy areas, especially Istanbul, the authorities may stop people for ID checks. There are also several police checkpoints on main roads across Turkey." Visitors are also urged to dress modestly when visiting a mosque or religious shrine to avoid causing offence. Don't take photographs near military or official installations and always ask for permission before photographing people.