Foreign Office warns against 'all but essential' travel to part of popular destination
The Foreign Office has issued guidance advising against "all but essential" travel to a popular holiday spot.
Tunisia is popular among British tourists for its beaches, history and affordability. It offers experiences including beach resorts such as Hammamet and Sousse, and the opportunity to explore ancient Roman ruins and vibrant medinas.
However, as of Wednesday, July 16, the official travel advice has been changed over serious safety concerns, listing no-go areas visitors should steer clear of, WalesOnline reports.
The Foreign Office said: 'FCDO now advises against all but essential travel to within 20km of the Tunisia-Algerian border in El Kef and Jendouba Governorates, south of the town of Jendouba. FCDO no longer advises against travel to the archaeological site of Chemtou.'
Safety fears continue to affect tourism in the country. In 2023, several terrorist attacks were planned and carried out by self-initiated individuals, potentially influenced by organisations.
A National Guard officer was stabbed in the capital city Tunis, and a police officer died after being stabbed outside an embassy building. On the island of Djerba, a gunman opened fire at a Jewish pilgrimage site, killing three security staff and two civilians and injuring 10 people.
The Foreign Office added: 'There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.'
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Areas where FCDO advises against travel
Western Tunisia, including the Tunisia-Algeria border
FCDO advises against all travel to:
the Chaambi Mountains National Park
the designated military operations zones: Mount Salloum Mount Sammamma Mount Mghila
This is due to cross-border terrorist activity and operations by the Tunisian security forces.
In addition, FCDO advises against all but essential travel to:
areas north and west of the town of Ghardimaou in Jendouba Governorate, including El Feidja National Park
within 20km of the Tunisia-Algeria border in El Kef and Jendouba governorates, south of the town of Jendouba
Kasserine Governorate, including the town of Sbeitla
within 10km of the rest of the Tunisia-Algeria border south of Kasserine Governorate
within 10km of Mount Mghila
Mount Orbata
Southern Tunisia, including the Tunisia-Libya border
FCDO advises against all travel to:
the militarised zone south of the towns of El Borma and Dhehiba
within 20km of the rest of the Tunisia-Libya border area north of Dhehiba
the town of Ben Guerdane and immediate surrounding area
This is due to cross-border terrorist activity and fighting in Libya.
In addition, FCDO advises against all but essential travel to within 75km of the Tunisia-Libya border, including Remada and El Borma.
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