Coastal Turkey for couples: taxis, fake alcohol and laws

The Turkish Aegean and Mediterranean coast attracts with its bays, castles and summer nights. It also demands good information. This guide sums up the UK government's safety advice on Turkey, checked on 7 November 2026. Notice up front: the text does not mention Bodrum specifically, so what follows is general advice for the country and its coastal areas, not a description of any venue or particular town. Practical information for adult couples.

Terrorism and demonstrations

The advice recalls that attacks have taken place in south-east Turkey, Ankara and Istanbul, with targets including public buildings, places of worship, airports and large gatherings, and cites recent attacks using knives, firearms and explosives. It recommends staying alert, following local media and the authorities' advice. Demonstrations are regular in Istanbul and other cities and can turn violent, with tear gas and water cannons: avoid them and leave the area if one develops.

Crime and scams

Street robbery and pickpocketing are common in Istanbul's tourist areas. Banks and money exchanges may refuse US$50 and US$100 bills because of counterfeiting. Be wary of strangers who approach you to change money or take you to a restaurant or nightclub. Use registered metered taxis, app-based or pre-booked taxis, avoid unofficial ones and note the registration number before getting in.

A serious point: sexual assaults, including rape, are reported to consular staff each year; most occur in coastal resorts during the tourist season and many involve someone met that day, including hotel or spa staff. Avoid sharing details such as your accommodation or social media accounts with strangers, and do not remain alone with excursion or hotel staff. If something happens, tell your hotel and the Turkish police or gendarmerie and then your consulate.

Drinks, counterfeit alcohol and drugs

Do not accept food or drink from strangers: it may be spiked. Buy your own drinks and keep them in sight. The advice adds a grave risk: illegally produced spirits and counterfeit branded alcohol have caused deaths and serious illness, including in Ankara and Istanbul. Methanol cannot be detected by taste or smell, and even a small amount can kill. If you or someone with you shows symptoms after drinking, seek urgent medical help.

Penalties for possessing, using or smuggling illegal drugs are severe: 4 to 24 years in prison and heavy fines, including in airport transit.

Laws and customs

Always carry photo ID: police checks are common and you should cooperate. Insulting the Turkish nation, the flag, the President or Atatürk is a criminal offence, including online comments or images; so is defacing banknotes. Do not photograph military or official sites and ask permission before photographing people. Smoking is banned on public transport and in indoor public places. Dress modestly at mosques and shrines. During Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking, smoking or chewing gum in public in daylight, playing loud music and swearing.

LGBT+ travellers

Same-sex sexual activity is legal, but same-sex relationships are not legally recognised. Some areas are socially conservative and public displays of affection may attract unwanted attention. Pride events have been banned or dispersed since 2015, and authorities have acted against LGBT+ organisations and activists.

Coast: sea, sports and bikes

There is a drowning risk in the sea and in pools: supervise children at all times, even with a lifeguard. Watch for undercurrents, hidden rocks and shallow water; do not dive into unknown water. Respect the flag system: red means do not enter the water. Book water sports, paragliding, jeep safaris or quad biking only with licensed operators and check your insurance covers the activity. On mopeds and motorcycles a helmet is required.

Wildfires and earthquakes

Wildfires are frequent in summer; lighting fires or discarding cigarettes in risk areas such as woodland can lead to fines or prison. Follow local directions if you must evacuate. Earthquakes and tremors are common and can be high magnitude; the advice recalls a 6.2-magnitude quake in the Sea of Marmara in April 2025. Check AFAD's page and follow the authorities and your accommodation. 112 serves for police and wildfires.

Quick list for couples

1. Registered or app taxis, with a photo of the plate.
2. Drinks bought by you and in sight; beware alcohol of doubtful origin.
3. Travel insurance covering water activities.
4. Photo ID always on you.
5. Read the safety and privacy guide and the one on consent.

Frequently asked questions

Does the advice mention Bodrum? No; these are general tips for Turkey and its coastal areas.

What number do I call? 112 for police and for wildfires.

What are the penalties for drugs? 4 to 24 years in prison and heavy fines, according to the advice.

Is the alcohol safe? Illegal or counterfeit alcohol has caused deaths; buy from reliable places.

*Sources: UK FCDO travel advice for Turkey (safety), checked on 7 November 2026; Go Türkiye. Content for adults aged 18 and over.