Cyprus holidays are undertaken by around a million Britons every year with the island a popular tourist destination for summer trips. However, tourism could be set to be threatened after the country was hit by what is believed to be a stray Russian-built Syrian missile this morning. The incident could drag the holiday island into a greater Middle Eastern conflict. So how safe is it to travel to Cyprus? This is the latest travel advice.
A missile struck Cyprus in the early hours of Monday morning, narrowly missing the densely populated capital of Nicosia and crashing on a mountainside.
Hills were set on fire by the errant missile but no casualties have been reported.
Officials say the missile, believed to be a Russian-made S-200, could be a rogue strike which saw the missile veering off course after being launched in retaliation to an Israeli airstrike on Syria.
This is the first time Cyprus has been caught in the crosshairs of the war in Syria.
The incident could risk dragging the holiday hotspot into the conflict.
However, the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office has not updated its travel advice for the island.
Nevertheless, the FCO issues advice on other safety and security points, particularly in relation to crime.
“Crime against tourists is not common, but you should keep passports, money and other valuables safe. Room safes and hotel safety deposit boxes have been targeted previously,” it says.
“Personal attacks, including sexual assaults, are infrequent but they do occur. Be alert to the possible use of ‘date rape’ and other drugs including ‘GHB’ and liquid ecstasy.
“Buy your own drinks and keep sight of them at all times to make sure they are not spiked. Female travellers should be particularly watchful.
“If you drink, know your limit; drinks served in bars are often stronger than those in the UK. Avoid splitting up from your friends, and don’t go off with people you don’t know.”
They also issue a caution regarding local travel: “British and other foreign nationals who have entered Cyprus through the north (such as via Ercan airport) are considered by the Government of the Republic of Cyprus to have entered Cyprus through an illegal port of entry.
“The Government of the Republic of Cyprus may fine you for illegal entry if you cross into the south, or refuse you entry into or exit from the Republic.”
The FCO also states: “Minor demonstrations have taken place in response to the government’s economic reforms.
“You should avoid all demonstrations and follow the advice given by local security authorities.”
Anyone driving in Cyprus should be aware of road rules, too. Any British driver making rude or offensive gestures towards another road user could be punished with a steep fine in Cyprus.
