The Foreign Office has recently updated its travel guidance for Italy, cautioning British travelers about safety concerns in popular tourist areas. Italy has specific regulations at beach and lakeside resorts, such as the prohibition of wearing swimwear away from designated areas in places like Sorrento, with fines for violators. Similarly, locations like Portofino, Positano, and Capri have implemented similar regulations.
In Sardinia, a controversial rule restricts certain visitors from using beach umbrellas at a renowned beach. Despite these local rules, the Foreign Office has issued a fresh warning to British vacationers planning to visit the Italian coast this summer, focusing on water safety.
The updated advisory emphasizes the risks of drowning in the sea, lakes, and swimming pools in Italy, urging extra caution. Particularly for families with children, the warning stresses the importance of constant supervision near swimming pools and keeping children within reach, even if they can swim or if lifeguards are present.
Travelers heading to iconic lakes like Garda and Como are advised to check water conditions before swimming due to potential dangers like cold water shock. The guidance also highlights the need for vigilance at beaches, warning about strong undercurrents, hidden hazards, and the importance of understanding flag systems for water safety.
Additionally, the advisory encourages travelers to seek local knowledge, especially in unmonitored beach areas where unexpected waves and undertows can pose risks. Further safety tips and information on handling jellyfish encounters are provided through ABTA’s swim safe pages from the Royal Life Saving Society.