Britons heading to Athens today are being urged to take essential safety precautions during their visit to the Greek capital.
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has offered advice to Rangers supporters heading to the city for Thursday’s crucial Uefa Europa League clash with Olympiacos.
With thousands of loyal fans expected to make the journey, security measures are paramount for those attending the game at the Karaiskakis Stadium.
The fixture represents a significant European night for the Glasgow side, with both personal safety and property security being key priorities for travelling supporters.
Britons in Athens have been issued a warning
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Holidaymakers should also “follow the instructions of the local authorities” and “take care of personal possessions including passports”, according to the FCDO.
Extra caution is warranted in crowds and on public transport, according to the body.
Authorities have highlighted specific risks for Rangers supporters using Athens’ metro system, where thefts of passports and personal belongings are particularly common.
FCDO also advised that all visitors plan their “movement around the city to arrive at the stadium well in advance of the match kick-off”.
For their safety, fans should distribute valuables across different bags and pockets, particularly in crowded tourist areas of central Athens.
Security experts recommend keeping a backup copy of passport photo pages in a separate, secure location as an essential precaution.
For those opting to drive, vehicles should be parked in well-lit areas or secure car parks, with all valuables removed from sight and doors firmly locked.
“When driving on holiday, keep your valuables out of sight and lock your vehicle at all times,” the FCDO advised.
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“Always park in a well-lit area or secure car park,” it added. “Be alert to car crime.”
“Report anything that does not feel right to local authorities or hotel or club management.”
Visitors should also be aware of regular strikes, sometimes called at short notice, that can disrupt buses, trains, ferries and air travel, as well as road networks and borders.
“Demonstrations often take place around major squares in central Athens, in particular Syntagma Square,” according to the FCDO.
