Travel shouldn’t feel like walking into a minefield, but lately, some destinations are signalling that Brits might not be as welcome as they used to be.
Unfortunately, the political climate means that things aren’t as simple as they used to be, and there are countries in which travel might not be forbidden, but it’s certainly not encouraged, especially if you’re from the UK. From local protests and fines to safety warnings, these places deserve a closer look before you book. These are some of the locations UK tourists may face unexpected tension, restrictions, or risks.
1. Balearic Islands (Mallorca, Ibiza, Menorca)
These once-idyllic islands are now seeing a major backlash against mass tourism. Protests have broken out, banners are flying, and residents are calling for tighter controls on holiday rentals and party tourism. Strikes by hospitality workers are also on the horizon, which could hit peak season hard.
If you’re heading to the Balearics, expect delays, disruption, and a noticeable shift in how warmly tourists are received. While the beaches are still stunning, the local mood has definitely cooled off.
2. Canary Islands
The Canaries are grappling with similar issues. Local communities are pushing back against rising rents and unsustainable tourism, prompting stricter regulations on short-term rentals and a renewed push for responsible travel. You’re unlikely to be turned away outright, but the atmosphere is changing. Visitors may feel less like honoured guests and more like part of a problem, especially in crowded resorts.
3. Mainland Spain
Spain has introduced a wave of new fines and local rules designed to curb unruly tourist behaviour. These include bans on wearing swimwear away from beaches, drinking alcohol in public, and even building oversized sandcastles in some areas. What used to be shrugged off as “just holiday fun” is now being cracked down on. If you don’t want to get hit with a hefty fine or dirty looks, it’s worth brushing up on local rules before you land.
4. Portugal (beach towns like Albufeira)
Portugal is also introducing stricter fines around tourist behaviour, particularly in beach towns that have seen years of party-heavy tourism. From excessive noise to alcohol in the streets, authorities are trying to clean things up fast. While the beaches are as beautiful as ever, there’s less tolerance for rowdy crowds. Expect signs, rules, and fines that aim to restore a sense of calm to local life.
5. Egypt (main tourist areas and beyond)
Travel advice for Egypt has become more cautious in recent months. There are concerns about arbitrary detentions and limited support for British nationals who run into legal trouble. Even popular tourist zones aren’t considered risk-free. While you might not feel unsafe at a resort, the country’s political environment adds a layer of unpredictability. Caution is essential, and it’s not the kind of trip to take on impulse.
6. Middle East hotspots (Israel, Qatar, parts of Egypt)
Recent geopolitical tensions have made travel in parts of the Middle East much riskier. The UK Foreign Office currently advises against visiting certain areas, with airline routes affected and increased security alerts in place. Even if you’re transiting through the region, you might face delays or detours. If your plans include the Middle East, triple-check the current advice before booking anything.
7. South Sudan
This isn’t a typical holiday destination, but it’s worth mentioning. The UK government is advising anyone in South Sudan to leave due to instability and limited embassy support. Travel there is strongly discouraged. Even adventurous or work-related visits carry serious risks. If you’re somehow considering it, now’s the time to re-evaluate that plan entirely.
8. U.S. border checks
While Brits are still welcome in the U.S., border checks have become stricter. Entry denials are up, and even small documentation errors can cause major delays or outright refusal. If you’re heading stateside, make sure your ESTA is approved well in advance, double-check your passport details, and be ready for detailed questioning.
You might also want to take a burner phone, especially if you follow anti-Trump or other political accounts on social media on your regular phone. The welcome mat is still there, sort of, but with some serious strings attached.
9. Russia & Iran
These countries aren’t banning Brits outright, but travellers have reported increased scrutiny and suspicion. In places where political tensions are high, a UK passport can attract unwanted attention. If you’re visiting either, you’ll need to be extra cautious about where you go, what you say, and who you interact with. It’s not the kind of environment for a relaxed cultural getaway right now.
10. Schengen Zone (Spain, France, Greece…)
Post-Brexit rules now limit British travellers to 90 days in any 180-day period across Schengen countries. Overstaying, even accidentally, can lead to entry bans of up to three years. If you’re hopping between multiple countries or planning an extended break, it’s essential to track your travel days. These aren’t soft rules anymore—they’re enforced and can come with real consequences.
Whether it’s through changing laws, political unrest or just local fatigue, it’s clear that not every place is rolling out the red carpet for British travellers anymore. A bit of awareness can go a long way because in 2025, travel is just as much about being informed as it is about being adventurous.
