There have been several cases of foreigners being pick pocketed by gangs of children and bag snatchers in the main shopping and entertainment areas late at night.

Foreign nationals appear to have been specifically targeted. You should ensure that your personal possessions are secure.

Credit card fraud is widespread and caution should be exercised when making a purchase using this method. The number of ATMs in Macedonia is increasing, making the withdrawal of local currency much easier.

Most visits to Macedonia are trouble-free but you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be against civilian targets, including places visited by foreigners.

A major police operation against local criminals commenced on 7 November 2007 in the northwest region of Macedonia, close to the Popova Sapka ski resort.

Access to this area is currently sealed off. Travellers should avoid this area whilst the police operation remains in progress.

Macedonia shares with the rest of Europe a threat from international terrorism. Travellers should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be against civilian targets, including places visited by foreigners.

Sporadic acts of violence do still occur in Macedonia, particularly in the north, but also including Skopje.

In August/September 2006 The Albanian political party, DUI, temporarily blocked several main arterial roads in northeastern Macedonia.

The roadblocks have been lifted but DUI have not ruled out holding similar protests again. Those who visit this area should be aware that this may considerably add to your journey time and should consider alternative routes where possible.

There is also the possibility that any future political protests could turn violent. Travellers should exercise vigilance and caution and avoid large crowds and demonstrations.

This advice is based on information provided by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in the UK.

It is correct at time of publishing. As the situation can change rapidly, visitors are advised to contact the following organisations for the latest travel advice:

British Foreign and Commonwealth Office

Tel: 0845 850 2829.
Website: www.fco.gov.uk

US Department of State

Website: http://travel.state.gov/travel
Embassies and tourist offices

Embassy of the Republic of Macedonia in the UK

Suite 2.1 & 2.2, Buckingham Court, Buckingham Gate 75/83, London SW1E 6PE, UK
Tel: (020) 7976 0535 or 0538 (consular section).
www.macedonianembassy.org.uk
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 0900-1700; Mon, Wed and Fri 1000-1300 (for personal callers).

Embassy of the Republic of Macedonia in the USA

2129 Wyoming Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20008, USA
Tel: (202) 667 0501.
www.macedonianembassy.org

Tourist Association of Skopje

Street address: Dame Gruev Gradski Blok 3, 1000 Skopje, Macedonia
Tel: (2) 311 8498.
www.skopjetourism.org