The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has issued a warning for anyone travelling abroad, with the summer holidays drawing to a close. The advice aims to help travellers make informed decisions about the risks of travel.
Advice for Group Travel
In a recent update shared on X, the FCDO shared advice for people travelling in groups. It featured a poster which said: "Stick with your mates."
Further advice said: "Holidays are better when you look out for each other. If you go out together, go home together. If a friend isn't okay, don't ignore it. Stick with your mates."
It's that time of year when families, friends and couples make their way to the airport for a long-awaited summer getaway. Some of the most popular destinations include Majorca, Turkey, Greece and Italy.
Methanol Poisoning Warning
The FCDO recently shared advice for people drinking alcohol abroad, raising awareness of methanol poisoning. A post said: "Not all alcohol is what it seems. In some parts of the world, methanol can be illegally mixed with spirit-based drinks and cocktails. Even small amounts can cause serious harm or death. Learn the signs of methanol poisoning before you travel."
Alcohol contaminated with methanol and targeted spiking incidents can lead to serious illness and death. Spotting methanol poisoning can be difficult because at first it can affect you in the same ways as "real" alcohol. According to the Foreign Office, signs to look out for include vomiting, poor judgement, loss of balance and drowsiness.
At first it may feel like a bad hangover, but travellers should watch out for a hangover that feels worse than it should. Signs include:
- Early signs: vomiting, poor judgement, loss of balance and drowsiness.
- 12-48 hours after drinking: abdominal pain, vertigo, hyperventilation, breathlessness, blurred vision and/or blindness, coma and convulsions.
If you or someone you are travelling with have any of these symptoms seek urgent medical attention. Vision issues are a distinctive red flag, particularly blurry vision, trouble looking at bright lights, and in some cases complete blindness. "Snowfield vision" (seeing snowy static like an old TV) or tunnel vision can also occur. If you have any of these symptoms, seek urgent medical help.
Travel Preparation Advice
If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency. Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.
