The British Foreign Office has updated its travel advice for UK tourists going on holiday to Bulgaria. A 'safety and security' warning has been issued to holidaymakers visiting the country after 'attacks' against people from the UK. The Foreign Office updated its advice on July 11 to include information about reports of 'verbal and physical attacks'.
Some travellers have experienced 'unwanted attention' or 'harassment in public places', prompting a warning for tourists to 'stay aware'. The reported incidents were race-related and involved ethnic minority UK nationals being targeted. Recent protests organised by right-wing and populist groups in Bulgaria have caused tensions to rise and holidaymakers have been urged to 'avoid' these areas, particularly when travelling alone or at night.
Read more: UK tourists visiting south of Spain warned of 'extreme' risk when leaving hotel The Foreign Office said: " The majority of visitors experience no difficulties related to their race, ethnicity or religious beliefs. However there have been a small number of verbal and physical attacks against ethnic minority UK nationals, including residents, in Bulgaria, and others have experienced unwanted attention or harassment in public places. "Instances have increased at times of demonstrations organised by groups connected to populist or right-wing movements.
Avoid all protests and stay aware of your surroundings, particularly when travelling alone or at night." Protests can take place in towns.