Russian Ambassador to Turkey Alexei Yerkhov has urged Russian tourists visiting Turkey to take extra precautions to avoid getting into difficult situations while in the country. Speaking to Russian journalists in Antalya during the opening of the new Russian consulate general building, Yerkhov emphasized the importance of vigilance.
“I would like to once again appeal to our tourists, to our citizens. Please take reasonable precautions. This is a different country, albeit one that is quite friendly towards Russia. It is a different nation, albeit one that treats Russians well. But here, the laws, customs, and orders are different. Therefore, please be cautious. Be careful on the streets, as local drivers do not always respect pedestrians. This is just how it is historically. Take care of yourself, so that in case of any incidents, consular offices can more easily protect your interests,” Yerkhov advised.
He also highlighted the importance of obtaining comprehensive medical insurance, especially for those planning to engage in extreme sports or outdoor activities.
Yerkhov further stressed the need to assess risks carefully, referencing a recent tragic incident. “I am referring to the case where a Russian woman was missing for two weeks after setting out alone early in the morning to hike in a remote and potentially dangerous area. The area had cliffs and precipices. Please be careful,” the ambassador urged.
This cautionary message comes after the late August discovery of the body of Russian citizen Natalia Somova in the resort province of Mugla. Somova, 48, had gone missing on August 17 after leaving her hotel in the Icmeler neighborhood of Marmaris for a walk. Despite being scheduled to return to Russia on August 19, she never made it back from her hike. A receipt in her name was found in the forest area, prompting a search operation along the popular “Karya" tourist trail in the mountains, involving units from the Emergency Department, Turkish Coast Guard, and volunteers.
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Based on materials from TASS