Published on
September 6, 2025
Greece Joins Turkey, Serbia, Bulgaria, Croatia, and Romania in a UK travel advisory focusing on safety and emergency preparedness prior to and during the September transit into autumn. This advisory stems from a composite risk assessment that identifies growing wildfire propensity in Greece and Turkey, escalating political volatility in Serbia, and the enforcement of revised entry protocols in Bulgaria and Romania. Given the approaching autumn, the advisory advocates heightened traveler vigilance, particularly in the context of volatile weather, fluid security environments, and dynamically evolving immigration and transit regulations that could substantively alter itineraries.
As the September travel season begins, UK authorities have issued a comprehensive travel advisory covering several countries in Europe and the Middle East. These advisories are designed to alert travelers to potential risks and ensure their safety while exploring the diverse and scenic regions of these nations. The advisory includes detailed guidance for Greece, Turkey, Serbia, Bulgaria, Croatia, and Romania, all of which are experiencing unique challenges in the current travel landscape.
This article will break down the latest advisories for each of these countries, highlighting key safety warnings, potential travel disruptions, and recommendations for a safe travel experience. Travelers are advised to carefully review these updates to ensure they are well-prepared for their journey.
Greece: Enhanced Safety Warnings Amid Wildfire Alerts
Greece is currently facing an increased risk of wildfires, which have been frequent during the summer months. The UK’s travel advisory specifically highlights the period from April to October, which is known for the high risk of wildfires in various regions across the country. While Greece remains a popular tourist destination, travelers should remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to stay safe.
Special Information for Greece:
Wildfire Risks: Wildfires are common in Greece during the summer months, especially from April to October. Visitors are strongly urged to stay informed about local fire warnings and avoid high-risk areas.Safety Measures: Travelers are advised to follow emergency alerts and evacuation instructions in the event of wildfires. Local authorities are working to contain fires, but tourists should prepare for unexpected disruptions.Travel Insurance: It is highly recommended to secure travel insurance that covers wildfire-related disruptions, including cancellations or emergencies.General Travel Advice: Women, LGBT+, disabled, solo, and independent travelers should take additional safety precautions, particularly in remote or rural areas. Travelers are encouraged to follow safety tips for these groups to ensure a safe experience.
Additional Travel Advisory: Travelers should be aware of the country’s emergency response systems, which include mobile alerts for natural disasters, particularly in wildfire-prone regions.
Turkey: Travel Warnings, Border Safety, and Wildfire Concerns
Turkey has been facing multiple challenges that could impact travelers, with significant risks along its borders and areas prone to wildfires. The UK Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO) has advised against travel to certain parts of the country, particularly those near the Syria border.
Special Information for Turkey:
Advisory Against Border Areas: The FCDO advises against all travel within 10 kilometers of the Turkey-Syria border due to ongoing fighting and heightened terrorism risks. The volatile situation poses significant safety concerns for travelers venturing into these regions.Wildfire Risks: Like Greece, Turkey also experiences frequent wildfires during the summer months, which are a major concern for both locals and tourists. Travelers should avoid remote forested areas and follow any official fire safety guidelines.Travel Insurance Warning: If travelers choose to visit regions affected by the FCDO’s warnings, their travel insurance may be invalidated. It’s crucial to verify coverage with insurance providers to ensure all travel contingencies are addressed.Consular Assistance: While UK consular assistance is available 24/7 online and by phone, in-person support may be limited in areas with high security risks. Travelers are advised to prepare for these potential gaps in service.Serbia: Travel Safety in the Midst of Sporting Events and Political Uncertainty
Serbia remains a popular destination for sports fans and history buffs, especially with the upcoming England v. Serbia football match in Belgrade on 9 September. However, political tensions and recent security updates mean that travelers should remain informed about the situation in the region.
Special Information for Serbia:
England v. Serbia Football Match: UK travelers attending the England v. Serbia match in Belgrade should follow official travel advice from the England Football website and the supporters’ association’s social media channels for up-to-date guidance and event-specific safety information.Political Uncertainty: Serbia has experienced some political instability recently, and travelers should exercise caution, especially in major cities. Demonstrations or protests may occur, which could disrupt normal activities and pose potential risks.General Safety: As with other countries in this advisory, travelers are encouraged to take extra precautions, particularly women, solo travelers, and members of the LGBT+ community.Emergency Alerts: Serbia’s government has implemented an emergency alert system. Travelers should stay updated on local news, and download local apps for the latest updates on any security threats or disruptions.
Additional Advice: Ensure travel insurance covers any cancellations or emergencies arising from political unrest or unexpected events during the match or otherwise.
Bulgaria: New Schengen Entry Requirements and Travel Considerations
Bulgaria is preparing for new Schengen entry requirements, effective from 12 October. This update is crucial for UK travelers, especially those planning to enter or transit through Bulgaria as part of their European travel plans.
Special Information for Bulgaria:
Schengen Entry Changes: The introduction of new Schengen entry requirements will affect all travelers entering Bulgaria from 12 October onwards. UK travelers should check the updated visa and documentation rules to ensure a smooth passage.Safety Tips: As with other countries, general travel safety advice for women, disabled, LGBT+, and solo travelers applies. Bulgaria remains relatively safe for tourists, but it’s always wise to stay vigilant and avoid unfamiliar areas after dark.Travel Insurance: Travelers heading to Bulgaria should ensure their insurance policies include coverage for any changes in entry requirements and border delays due to the new Schengen regulations.General Travel Advice: It’s advisable to check the latest entry requirements before departure to avoid any surprises at the border.Croatia: Accessibility and Travel Safety for Visitors
Croatia continues to be a favorite among tourists, offering stunning coastal landscapes and historic sites. For travelers with disabilities, the UK travel advisory includes specific guidance on using UK-issued Blue Badges in Croatia.
Special Information for Croatia:
UK-issued Blue Badge: Travelers with disabilities should be aware that the UK-issued Blue Badge system is recognized in Croatia. A link has been provided for more detailed information on how to use this system for parking and accessibility in Croatia.Safety Considerations: Croatia remains a safe destination for travelers, but as with other countries, standard travel safety advice applies. Solo travelers, women, and LGBT+ travelers should stay vigilant and avoid isolated areas, especially in more rural regions.Travel Insurance: Insurance coverage for any unforeseen disruptions is highly recommended. Policies should include provisions for health-related emergencies, especially for travelers with special needs or disabilities.General Tips: The Croatian government has taken significant steps to ensure accessibility for all travelers, making it a welcoming destination for visitors with mobility challenges.Romania: New Schengen Entry Regulations and Travel Safety Tips
Romania is also preparing for the implementation of new Schengen entry requirements starting 12 October, which will affect all travelers entering the country. UK travelers heading to Romania should familiarize themselves with the updated travel guidelines to avoid any issues.
Special Information for Romania:
Schengen Entry Changes: As with Bulgaria, Romania will enforce new Schengen entry rules from 12 October. UK travelers should ensure they are equipped with the correct documentation and are aware of any changes to visa requirements.Safety Recommendations: Romania remains a generally safe destination. However, travelers should be aware of typical safety precautions, such as avoiding areas with high levels of crime or uncertainty. Solo and LGBT+ travelers should exercise caution when venturing off the beaten path.Travel Insurance: As with other countries in this advisory, securing comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended. Travelers should ensure their insurance covers any potential disruptions from entry requirements or unexpected emergencies.General Advice: Ensure you are aware of local emergency contacts and know how to access consular assistance if needed.
Greece joins Turkey, Serbia, Bulgaria, Croatia, and Romania on the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office’s latest travel advisory list, prompting the government to urge vigilance and preparedness ahead of the September transition and autumn months. The advisory highlights assorted risks, including intensified wildfire conditions, discernible political flux, and the implementation of revised border procedures, and advises visitors to monitor conditions and implement appropriate mitigative measures.
September travel retains its own catalogue of complicating factors; nonetheless, judicious preparation and timely precautions can render the journey equally rewarding. Whether one is attending a regional sporting fixture in Serbia, charting the Croatian coastline, or adapting to the new Schengen protocols in Bulgaria and Romania, vigilant oversight of evolving risks and current advisories is indispensable.
As travelers venture across Greece, Turkey, Serbia, Bulgaria, Croatia, and Romania, the following key steps are recommended:
Stay Informed: Regularly check for updates from official government sources like the FCDO and local embassies.Secure Travel Insurance: Make sure your travel insurance covers emergency evacuations, cancellations, and disruptions related to wildfires, political instability, and entry regulation changes.Follow Local Guidelines: Adhere to local safety measures, especially in high-risk areas such as wildfire zones and politically unstable regions.
By taking these steps, travelers can ensure a safe and enjoyable journey through these beautiful countries while mitigating potential risks associated with the changing September travel season.
