As tourists in Europe face the worst terrorist threat in decades – we show some top holiday swaps for safer travel
One of Europe’s top security chiefs has warned that Brits on the continent face the worst threat from terrorism for a generation
BRITS now face the severest threat from terrorism in a generation.
Following tragic events in Barcelona, top security bosses warn that many holiday hot spots - favourites with British tourists - are at high risk from terrorists, including Spain, France and Italy.
The Foreign Office says British tourists need to be vigilant in these areas and that attacks are "likely."
It is a very worrying prospect for many holidaymakers, especially as attacks are specifically targeting touristy areas - like Las Ramblas in Barcelona and Borough Market in London.
But Europe's beauty is not confined to these popular destinations - there are plenty of sandy beaches, fascinating cities and gorgeous landscapes.
If you're a nervous traveller then there are many destinations that that the Foreign Office considers less attractive to terrorists - although that can't be certain of course.
Here are our suggestions for six alternative destinations, with less risk from terrorism.
Instead of Spain, head to Portugal
While Spain is at a high risk from further terrorist attacks after last week's tragic events in Barcelona, Portugal is a safer option.
Despite attracting up to 60 million visitors per year, Portugal has a low general crime rate and the World Economic Forum listed the country as No.1 in the world for low number of terrorism incidents.
With a capital city brimming with history and a stunning coastline to boot, Portugal can easily compete with Spain for sun worshippers wanting to recline and city breakers looking for a buzzing night life and cultural scene.
It doesn't have to break the bank either - the country's Algarve came top in this year's Annual Holiday Costs Barometer by the Post Office, which looks at local prices for things like food, beer, coffee and sun cream.
Instead of France, head to Switzerland
For travellers looking for beautiful countryside as well as picturesque villages and great skiing, Switzerland offers a safer, although considerably pricier, alternative to France.
With a tradition of neutrality, Switzerland has no recent history of terrorism. And while advice on the Foreign Office's website suggests that attacks can't be ruled out anywhere, in nearby France terrorist attacks are "very likely".
After a spate of high profile incidents, in Paris in 2015 and Nice in 2016, as well as recent French military intervention against Daesh, the French government have warned the public to be extra vigilant.
Instead of Italy, head to Malta
Malta's faded grandeur and tumble-down sandy beauty makes a great alternative to Italy - and its geographical proximity means the weather's not bad either.
From taking a boat tour from the Grand Harbour to some pampering at one of the island's many high end hotels, holidaymakers are spoiled for choice.
And the tiny Mediterranean island is also very safe with a low threat from terrorism.
It is surprisingly cheap too - while the euro is very strong against the pound, meals can still be enjoyed for under a tenner if you know where to look.
Instead of Greece, head to Hungary
Terrorist attacks in Greece can't be ruled out - despite it being a lower risk destination than France or Spain.
But Hungary has no recent history of attacks and offers holidaymakers a whole host of attractions, from the vibrant capital city of Budapest to swimming in Lake Balaton and hiking the Bukk mountains.
The country is home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites and also has around 1,300 thermal springs, a third of which are used for natural spas.
Instead of Turkey, head to Bulgaria
While a number of terrorist groups are active in Turkey, next-door neighbour Bulgaria has a much lower threat level.
Foreign Office advice says that attacks can't be ruled out but the country's own government said earlier this year that there was no imminent threat of an attack.
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The coastal resort of Sunny Beach is already popular with Brits thanks to its bargain prices but there is plenty more on offer in the rest of the country.
As well as winter sports and impressive mountain ranges, the cobbled streets of Plovdiv make Bulgaria a diverse and appealing holiday destination and Sofia is also perfect for a cultural city break.
Instead of German Christmas markets, head to Prague
For fans of festive cheer, the Christmas market is a must.
Unfortunately, two of the best countries for these are France and Germany, which are both classed as a high risk for terror attacks.
If you're concerned about safety, why not try the markets in Prague instead.
They still have the quaint wooden huts, the mulled wine, the German sausages and the handmade toys for sale.
According to the Foreign Office, over 300,000 British nationals visit the Czech Republic every year, and most visits are trouble-free.
How to minimise your risk from terrorism, according to the FCO:
- Follow media reporting about the country and regionBe vigilant in public areas and places that attract foreigners and westerners – eg hotels, restaurants, bars and crowded places like markets, malls or sports events
- Always be aware of your surroundings
- Be vigilant around significant religious occasions (including the holy month of Ramadan) and public holidays; terrorist groups sometimes call for attacks around these times
- Look out for anything suspicious and if you see anything report it to the local police immediately – many terrorist attacks are foiled by the vigilance of the public. Where appropriate, you should also report concerns to your employer or your travel company
- Think about the routes you use and have a plan of action to follow in the event of an incident
- Try to avoid routines that could make you an easier target – vary the time and route of your regular journeys
- Keep your mobile phone charged and with you, with emergency numbers programmed in
- Consider the extent to which you might stand out from the crowd, particularly when travelling off the beaten track or to out-of-town destinations
- Be discreet on social media about yourself and your travel and social plans
- Tell family, colleagues, neighbours or trusted hotel staff about where you’re going and when you plan to return
- Identify places where you could seek refuge in an emergency
- In airports, minimise the time spent in the public area, which is generally less well protected. Move quickly from the check-in counter to the secured areas. Upon arrival, leave the airport as soon as possible
