The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has issued a warning to British tourists planning to travel to Turkey or who are already in the country. In its statement, it urges them to "leave the area" in response to rising tensions due to protests and demonstrations in cities like Istanbul.
The warning message coincides with Easter in 2025 in the Canary Islands, which could be affected by a general strike in the tourism sector, called by major unions such as CCOO, UGT, and FSOC. This strike, involving some 170.000 workers, seeks to demand wage and working conditions, including the elimination of split shifts and the implementation of a single regional agreement.
This situation of insecurity in Turkey could divert the interest of British tourists to other, safer destinations, such as Gran Canaria. However, increased demand in areas such as southern Gran Canaria, an iconic destination for British tourism, could pave the way for higher prices for accommodation, transportation, and services. The region will need to prepare for a greater influx of visitors while ensuring that the tourist boom does not affect the quality of services or place a disproportionate burden on local residents.
The FCDO warned of the possibility of the demonstrations turning violent, detailing that police have resorted to the use of tear gas and water cannons to disperse them. Furthermore, tensions in the region have escalated due to events in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories, leading to protests outside diplomatic missions in Ankara and Istanbul. At this juncture, the FCDO advises avoiding crowds and demonstrations, monitoring local media for updates, and planning ahead to avoid transportation disruptions. Travel to areas within 10 km of the Turkey-Syria border is also advised against.
The Canary Islands government has urged negotiations between unions and employers to avoid a shutdown of the sector, while the unions have warned that this strike "is not a bluff" and are prepared to take more drastic measures if their demands are not met. The conflict arises at a crucial time for tourism in the archipelago, as a high influx of visitors is expected during this time. Airlines have increased flights and seats to the Canary Islands, which could worsen the impact of the strike if it goes ahead.
