Foreign Office issues alcohol warning to Brits going on holiday this summer

The Foreign Office has issued a warning to Brits heading on holiday this summer. Officials posted the update on social media and gave advice to anyone planning to drink alcohol abroad.

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has given two pieces of advice to holidaymakers when heading to the bar. It comes after previous warnings around drink spiking where officials warned Brits to "stay on your toes".

As reported by the Liverpool Echo, the Foreign Office warned: "Remember not to leave drinks unattended". They added: "Drinks abroad can have different alcohol measures".

The Foreign Office previously warned about methanol spiking. A suspected poisoning killed 33 people in a Turkey holiday hotspot earlier this year and four people were arrested.

They said: "Spiking is when someone sneaks something into your drink, like drugs or harmful substances, without you knowing. It can be done to make you blackout, incapacitated, or worse.

"Methanol spiking is when alcohol is contaminated with methanol to save money. In tourist hotspots, it's not unheard of, so you've got to stay on your toes."

• Methanol spiking: Symptoms hit harder and faster than regular alcohol. If you're suddenly dizzy, nauseous, or struggling to see properly after just a couple of drinks, something's off.
• Drug spiking: Feeling way more drunk than you should, drowsy, or confused could mean your drink's been tampered with. Some people experience hallucinations, paranoia, and memory blackouts. Trust your gut-if something feels wrong, it probably is.

• Keep an eye on your drink. Don't leave it unattended, even for a second. If it smells or tastes odd, bin it.
• Say no to drinks from strangers. Better safe than sorry.
• Go to reputable venues. Stick to places with a decent reputation-shady bars aren't worth the risk.
• Don't overdo it. Alcohol can hit harder abroad because measures are sometimes larger, and dehydration from heat can make you feel worse. Stay in control.
• Plan your trip home. Arrange transport before heading out so you're not stuck accepting dodgy lifts
• Check travel advice for your destination and sign up to email alerts for the most up-to-date information before you travel.