Government warns tourists of counterfeit banknotes in Turkey

Turkey has become a focal point of concern for travelers due to a significant rise in counterfeit currency, particularly affecting US dollar denominations. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has recently updated its travel advice, explicitly warning Britons to refrain from using $50 and $100 bills. This recommendation comes amidst reports indicating that several banks and money exchange services throughout the country are no longer accepting these higher denomination notes. The increasing counterfeiting problem is prompting authorities to discourage tourists from accepting these bills, pushing them toward the use of smaller denominations or alternative currencies for their transactions. In addition to the financial guidance, the FCDO has reiterated its broader travel warnings regarding certain regions of Turkey. Areas in the southeast are particularly noted for their instability, citing threats of terrorist attacks that have previously manifested in violence, including the use of knives, explosives, and firearms. Cities such as Istanbul and the capital, Ankara, have witnessed violent incidents, which have led the FCDO to strongly advise against all non-essential travel to these regions. Tourists planning visits should remain vigilant and well-informed about their surroundings while traveling. The report also touches upon the legal implications of handling currency in Turkey. Defacing any banknotes is illegal, punishable by severe penalties, including imprisonment of up to three years. This extends to actions involving the national flag, highlighting the sensitivity surrounding national symbols in Turkey. Moreover, the FCDO has noted instances of sexual assault reported by British tourists, with 42 such cases documented in 2023. Many of these crimes occurred at night and were perpetrated by someone the victim had met earlier in the day, raising concerns about safety and security for travelers. Additional warnings concern the risks of drink and food spiking incidents, emphasizing the importance of caution when interacting with strangers who may offer food or drink. LGBT+ travelers are also cautioned that while same-sex sexual activity is legally permissible, societal norms in many parts of Turkey remain conservative, and public displays of affection may attract unwanted attention. Furthermore, it’s important for all visitors to carry photographic identification, as failing to do so can lead to confrontations with authorities, especially in busy urban settings like Istanbul.