Adventure calling

8 Jun 2015 10:16 AM

Foreign & Commonwealth Office launch checklist for thrill seekers

With a rise in holiday makers foregoing the pool or beach for something more active and adventurous on their break abroad, the Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) has teamed up with the British Standards Institution (BSI) to offer advice on how to get the most from your trip whilst staying safe.

According to the ABTA Travel Trends 2015 report, adventure breaks are booming with an increase in people looking for a new experience. Whether it’s for a once in a lifetime challenge, gap year travel, volunteering abroad or just a holiday, if you are planning a trip with an element of adventure our new checklist and guide to safer adventure travel and volunteering overseas are designed to help people prepare.

It is important to recognise that a range of hazards can arise during any journey in unfamiliar conditions and climates, and although uncommon, tragic accidents have happened. Where there is an intention to include some element of challenge and physical risk, travellers and their organisers need to be especially well prepared. Although there is no absolute guarantee that accidents can be avoided, the FCO and BSI are highlighting the importance of being aware of potential risks.

Cara Fortune, from the FCO’s ‘Know Before You Go’ team said:

As adventure travel abroad becomes more and more popular, it’s important for British nationals heading overseas to be aware of the potential risks.

Our new checklist, developed with the experts at the British Standards Institution, provides some helpful advice on how to choose a quality trip with a travel provider who adheres to an appropriate safety standard. Most of all we want people to stay safe and remember their time abroad for all the right reasons.

Wherever you are going, or whatever you are doing, the FCO’s country-specific travel advice pages are a good place to start your research. Our Know Before You Go page offers further advice on staying safe and healthy abroad.

Further information

If you would like further information please contact 0207 781 2342 or fcoteam@consolidatedpr.com

The Know Before You Go campaign targets a number of audiences, from gap year students to package holidaymakers; sports fans to older travellers and people visiting friends and family abroad. The campaign works with more than 300 travel industry partners to communicate its messages.

You can also keep up-to-date with the latest FCO travel advice by signing up to the FCO’s Facebook and Twitter feeds.