Urgent Turkey holiday warning as more than 100 die from 'fake' alcohol poisoning More than 100 people are reported to have died by poisoning from bootlegged alcohol in Turkey, with the government issuing a warning to tourists.
The Foreign Office website states: "In Turkey, including Ankara and Istanbul, people have died or suffered serious illness after drinking illegally produced local spirits and counterfeit bottles of branded alcohol."
In the new advice for those travelling to Turkey from the UK, the Foreign Office urges all holidaymakers to drink alcohol only from licensed liquor stores and bars, and to check labels and bottle seals to ensure they are intact.
Officials also warned tourists to be aware that the opening hours of shops and restaurants may change during this time and know that if restaurants are providing food or drink in fasting hours, they may separate you from Islamic guests, for example with screens.
The Foreign Office has also recently updated its travel advice for those travelling to Turkey during the holy month of Ramadan, which is likely to begin on February 28 or March 1 and last for 29 or 30 days.
