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THE FOREIGN OFFICE HAS TOLD HOLIDAYMAKERS TO TAKE PARTICULAR CARE AT NIGHT AND WHEN ALONE 14:47, 04 Jun 2025 The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has updated its travel
advice for Slovakia. The European country attracts millions of visitors due to its diverse landscape, historical sites and cultural attractions. 425 chateaus and 220 castles make Slovakia a
unique place to visit. There are also many natural jewels that people enjoy visiting when travelling to the country, including mountains, canyons and waterfalls. The latest advice from the
Foreign Office concerns the use of taxis when in the country. On the safety and security section of Gov.uk, it states: "Only use officially licensed taxis. Drivers must display their
licence. Take sensible precautions, particularly at night or if you are alone. "Do not get into a taxi if you are concerned about the driver or condition of the vehicle. Taxi drivers
sometimes try to overcharge tourists by adding unauthorised supplements or by not setting the meter at the start of a journey." The government body has asked people to "make
sure" the taxi meter is on or agree a set price for the journey beforehand. For those who choose not to travel in a taxi, advice has been offered about hiring cars. Hire car companies
often have stricter requirements for their customers in Slovakia, such as a year of driving experience, a higher minimum age and holding an IDP (International Driving Permit). Article
continues below You can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in Slovakia for up to 6 months. If you still have a paper driving licence, you may need to update it to a photocard
licence or get the 1968 version of the international driving permit as well. Explaining what you can expect from road conditions in Slovakia, the government website says many main roads have
only a single carriageway in each direction making overtaking difficult. You should "beware of oncoming cars" overtaking on your side of the road. Road markings are difficult to
see in poor weather and can be faded. In winter, you must equip your car for severe driving conditions. If you are planning a trip to Slovakia, the country follows Schengen area rules. This
means your passport must have a ‘date of issue’ less than 10 years before the date you arrive and have an expiry date at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave the Schengen area. You
will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen. Aside from a passport, other things you may need at border
control in Slovakia are: * show a return or onward ticket Article continues below * prove you have enough money for your stay * show proof of your accommodation, for example, a hotel booking
confirmation or proof of address for a second home