Chaos in Belgium as Foreign Office issues new travel warning to Brits
Share:
UK tourists flocking to take in the winter wonders of Belgium’s renowned Christmas markets have been dealt a blow by the Foreign Office, which has slapped an urgent warning for Brits heading to the festive hotspot. The Government's travel gurus at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) have revamped their "Safety and Security" advice following increased concerns over pickpocketing and theft as the Christmas bustle intensifies.
The FCDO cautioned: "Theft and pickpocketing is common in crowded areas. Take care of your baggage and passports and beware of any attempts to distract you.". "Take extra care in major railway stations and on public transport, particularly late at night.
"Thieves, pickpockets and muggers operate in busy areas, and there have been cases of violent robbery. Be aware of your surroundings.". Especially worrying are the hotspots cited by officials, including Brussels Gare du Midi/Zuidstation (Eurostar terminal) and Brussels Nord, with international trains, notably the Paris-Brussels and Amsterdam-Brussels routes, also pegged as potential danger zones. They didn't stop at just raising the red flag but also dished out practical advice, reminding Brits: "Never leave luggage unattended", reports the Express.
“Luggage has been stolen from the racks at the end of carriages in high-speed trains (TGV and Thalys), usually just before the doors close.”. The alert went on: "Thieves, usually on motorbikes, can break a car window and snatch valuables from the front or back passenger seat when a vehicle is stationary at traffic lights. If you see anything suspicious, report it to local police authorities.".
