While the Foreign Office advice remains that only Afghanistan, Pakistan, and parts of Indonesia are off limits since September 11, the air strikes have compounded tourists' fears of visiting much of the Middle East and other Muslim countries.
Tour operators are reporting a slump in bookings for the likes of Egypt and Tunisia. Cancellations are rife, but the situation in these perceived trouble zones remains friendly and calm, according to latest reports from those who have travelled there.
Liz Bird decided that the welcome couldn't be warmer in Morocco, while correspondents in five other Muslim holiday hotspots - Dubai, Northern Cyprus, Turkey, Egypt and Tunisia - came to similar conclusions
The Foreign Office says that it is not aware of any specific threat to British nationals overseas beyond pakistan, Indonesia and Afghanistan, but recommends that travellers "keep a low profile, maintain a high level of vigilance, avoid situations where there might be tension and stay in touch with fast moving events until the situation clarifies."
Following the launch of air strikes by the US and Britain against Afghanistan, the Foreign Office says any British nationals currently in Afghanistan should leave the country "with immediate effect". Travel to Pakistan, unless with compelling reason, is also discouraged, and British nationals in Pakistan are recommended to consider whether it is necessary for them to remain there. All British nationals in the north-west frontier province of Baluchistan should leave the area immediately. Anyone with concerns about friends or relatives in Pakistan can call 0870 121 5151.
The list of countries where "holiday and non-essential travel" is advised against includes Indonesia, due to the street protests which have been taking place there since October 7. Although the British Embassy has not considered it necessary to ask British citizens to leave the country, visitors are nevertheless cautioned to "stay in touch with British Community wardens or hotel management", and to remain in their hotels or homes if they have any concerns about their safety. The only exception in Indonesia is the island of Bali, which remains trouble free: those planning to holiday on Bali are not at present advised to defer their travel
Further information: useful links
Foreign Office travel advice
BAA
Association of British Travel Agents
