Turkey is a popular holiday destination for UK travellers, with Brits making over 3.8 million visits to the country in 2022, according to the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office. Yet it was devastated by two major earthquakes which took place on February 6.
The UN said that at least 50,000 people in Turkey and Syria lost their lives in the disaster, with millions more left homeless. A 7.8 magnitude earthquake hit close to the southeastern city of Gaziantep, followed by a 7.5 magnitude earthquake several hours later in the neighbouring province of Kahramanmaras.
Several strong aftershocks and minor earthquakes were felt afterwards. The Turkish government announced a national emergency in the 10 provinces affected by the earthquake, these are: Kahramanmaraş, Gaziantep, Malatya, Diyarbakır, Kilis, Şanlıurfa, Adıyaman, Hatay, Osmaniye and Adana.
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According to the FCDO the Turkish government has stated that only vehicles which carry air teams and aid materials are allowed to enter cities deemed to be inside the area of the disaster.
With the Easter holidays on the horizon many families will be wondering whether it’s ok to travel to Turkey and if their holiday will go ahead. Read on for key information on travel to Turkey right now. Always check the FDCO website for the latest guidance before you travel.
Are the tourist areas affected by the earthquake?
The main Mediterranean holiday destinations such as Antalya and Bodrum, as well as the city of Istanbul are hundreds of kilometres away from the affected area. The earthquakes have occurred along the East Anatolian Fault line near to the Turkey Syrian border.
The FCDO does not have any guidance against travelling to these destinations. However, it does advise against all travel to areas within 10km of the border with Syria and against all but essential travel to Sirnak and the province of Hakkari.
Should I be travelling to Turkey at this time?
Many holidaymakers may be concerned that they will be unwelcome in the country following the earthquakes, but actually tourists can provide a huge boost to the Turkish economy, aiding the country’s recovery, especially as the holiday resorts are far from the impacted areas.
What about travel insurance?
The FCDO says: “It is more important than ever to get travel insurance and check it provides sufficient cover.” As long as you don’t visit the areas the FCDO advises against travel, your insurance will be valid.
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