Brit holidaymakers heading to Turkey are being urged to brush up on the local laws concerning alcohol consumption - or face being slapped with a fine. Unlike in the UK, Turkey's regulations around the sale and consumption of booze differ significantly. While there isn't a blanket ban on drinking in public spaces in Turkey, it can lead to a fine under certain circumstances.
Specifically, if you're caught 'disrupting the peace of others while intoxicated', you could be slapped with a 617 lira penalty - that's about £15. Last year, Istanbul officials reminded everyone about the rules after several incidents involving drunken behaviour that threatened public order and safety. Officials have warned: "People who drink alcohol in public parks, beaches and similar areas cause fear and panic in our citizens.
", reports Birmingham Live . Additionally, in Turkey, off-licences must stop selling alcohol at 10pm, but bars and restaurants continue to serve drinks into the night. Turkey is also tough on smoking in public places.
It's banned on all forms of public transport, indoors at workplaces and public spaces, and in certain outdoor areas where events are taking place. In Turkey, it's against the law for both locals and tourists to be without some form of photographic ID. The British Foreign Office strongly advises travellers to always have their passports on them as authorities are known to conduct ID checks, especially in crowded areas.
Visitors are also encouraged to dress modestly when visiting mosques or religious shrines to prevent causing offence. Avoid taking photographs near military or official installations and always seek permission before photographing individuals. Thinking about a trip to Turkey? Check out deals on holidays and flights to Turkey on the Travel Republic website.
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