British holidaymakers given Germany travel update as new security guidance is added
Holidaymakers in Germany have been given new guidance
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Germany is a popular holiday destination, from bustling Berlin to the beautiful Black Forest, but Britons travelling to the European country have been given an important update.
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has recently provided additional information about security, as well as information on a dangerous incident that happened this weekend.
Knife attack in Solingen
The FCDO said: "We are aware of reports of a knife attack at a festival in Solingen on the evening of August 23, 2024, which German authorities advise has left three people dead and several injured.
"You should avoid the area and follow the advice of local authorities."
The FCDO said: 'We are aware of reports of a knife attack at a festival in Solingen on the evening of August 23, 2024'
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Terrorism
Holidaymakers were warned: "There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.
"UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.
"Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Germany in the near future.
"Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in public places visited by foreign nationals such as restaurants, markets, shopping centres, places of worship and religious sites - including synagogues - sporting and cultural events, crowded places and public gatherings."
Several terror attacks have taken place over the last few years. The FCDO said: "In 2019, two people were shot and killed after a failed attempt to enter a synagogue in the eastern German city of Halle.
"In 2020, eight people were killed and five injured in two mass shootings in shisha bars in Hanau.
"In 2021, one person was killed and another seriously injured in a knife attack in Dresden. In 2021, five people were stabbed and injured on a train in Neumarkt, Bavaria."
Britons were told: "German authorities regularly report that they have disrupted planned attacks and made arrests."
Crime
Protecting yourself and your belongings
The FCDO told Britons: "Crime levels are similar to the UK. Take sensible precautions to avoid mugging, bag-snatching and pickpocketing. Be particularly vigilant at airports, railway stations and in crowded public places or gatherings. Do not leave bags unattended."
Counterfeit currency
Holidaymakers were advised: "Only change money at banks, ATMs or official money exchanges. Check your change when paying in cash. British nationals have been arrested for trying to pay with counterfeit currency."
Laws and cultural differences
Personal ID
Britons were advised: "It’s not a legal requirement to carry ID. However, if you cannot show ID when asked, police can escort you to get your passport.
"They will ask for a passport and, if you are a resident, for your residence card as well."
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Berlin, the German capital, is popular with tourists and famous for its art, museums, opera houses and architecture
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Outdoor activities and adventure tourism and transport risks
The FCDO also provides essential information on outdoor activities and adventure tourism, including guidance on safety and insurance, hiking and winter sports.
As for transport risks, Britons were given important information on road travel and low-emission zones.
This comes as holidaymakers were issued a critical travel warning as holiday destinations with the highest malaria risk are named.
Britons have also been warned to "stay away from the area" as a European destination faces a series of volcanic eruptions.