'Red means danger': Britons who swim on holiday given fresh travel warning as African tourist spot poses safety risk

Britons, who flock to Cape Verde for its gorgeous summer climate, vibrant local cultures, wildlife opportunities, stunning nature and beaches, have been told to heed advice about swimming safety.

The FCDO told holidaymakers: "If you are going into the water, always use beaches where there is a lifeguard on duty.

"Tides and currents around the islands are very strong. Take care when walking close to the water’s edge, especially along unsupervised stretches of beach. Waves can be unpredictable and have a strong undertow.

"Follow the lifeguard’s instructions and respect the warning flags. Red means danger: do not go into the water. yellow means caution: you can walk in the water, but you cannot swim. Green means it’s safe to swim."

Holidaymakers were advised to consult the Royal Life Saving Society's guidance on water safety on holiday.

This includes essential information on "staying safe whilst having fun, in, or around the water".

Holidaymakers were also given important information on travelling with children in Cape Verde.

The FCDO said: "Children aged 17 and under travelling to Cape Verde alone, or with a person who is not their parent or legal guardian, must carry a letter of authorisation to travel from their parent or guardian.

"The letter must be in Portuguese and the signature must be certified by a solicitor or notary.

"The letter should include the child’s dates of arrival and departure, the address where they will be staying, the name of the adult in Cape Verde who will be responsible for them during their stay, the full names, passport numbers and contact details of the parent or guardian and the parent or guardian’s signature and date of issue.

"If you are not the parent or guardian and you bring a child to Cape Verde without a legally certified letter of authorisation, you may be refused entry."

For Britons entering Cape Verde, the FCDO shared information on traveller entry forms. Children aged one and under do not need to fill in the traveller entry form.

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Britons planning on holidaying in Cape Verde should consult the FCDO's up-to-date guidance on warnings and insurance, entry requirements, safety and security, health and getting help.

In other travel news, closer to home, Britons have been given a Europe warning about a destination that could erupt in "violence".

Holidaymakers were issued a second warning as another popular destination "cannot rule out" terrorist attacks.