U.K. FOREIGN OFFICES UPDATES TRAVEL ADVICE

On 17 July 2009 the U.K. Foreign & Commonwealth Office updated its travel advice for Portugal noting an increase in sexual assaults in the Algarve in the summer of 2009. The relevant portion of the text reads as follows: "A number of British nationals have been the victim of a serious sexual offence in the Algarve this summer. * female travellers in particular should maintain a high state of personal awareness during their time in the Algarve. Be aware that alcohol and drugs can lead to you being less alert, less in control and less aware of your environment. If you are going to drink, know your limit. * you should be careful about taking drinks from strangers and be wary at clubs and parties. Remember that drinks served in bars overseas are often stronger than those in the UK. * reports of sexual assaults against women have become particularly prevalent in Albufeira, but there have also been reports of similar incidents in other towns. Women travellers are, therefore, advised to take particular care."