Stay sensible for a great trip to Austria

Whether it be the charms of Vienna or a top skiing holiday, careful measures should be taken when you head to Austria.

Austria is certainly a popular destination among Britons, with a recent study showing that 802,000 people from these shores head to the country every year.

However, visitors should always ensure that they take the necessary precautions before travelling, while also remaining sensible and vigilant for the duration of their trip.

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) has issued a wide-ranging compilation of tips to help people make the most out of their stay in Austria.

As with most areas in the current climate, travellers are warned that there is a general, ever-present threat of terrorism, which could be indiscriminate and involve places frequented by tourists.

The country also attracts large numbers of thrill-seeking holidaymakers who participate in winter sports such as skiing.

The FCO has the following advice: "If you intend to ski you should be aware that during and around the winter season there is continued danger of avalanches in some areas of Austria.

"Even during summer time this danger still exists for snow covered areas. You should take advice on weather and avalanche conditions before you travel and also while you are in the resort."

A normal, common-sense approach to crime is prudent for all visitors, particularly in Vienna, where pickpockets and muggers operate in and around the city centre - in restaurants, cafes, hotel lobbies and on public transport.

Despite this, most visits to the country are trouble-free, with the main type of incident for which Britons required consular support last year being lost or stolen passports (100 cases).

Travellers looking to hire a car should also be wary of bogus police officers, and can call the emergency services on 133 if in doubt as to their legitimacy.

There are a number of complex laws relating to driving in the country, with high visibility vests, for example, required to be close at hand for all drivers, who must wear them if they step out of their vehicle on the hard shoulder.

Anyone using Autobahn (motorways) or 'S' roads must also have a 'Motorway Vignette' on the windscreen of their vehicle or face a heavy on-the-spot fine if caught.

While visas are not required to enter Austria, the FCO advises all visitors to carry some form of identification around with them at all times, while single parents (or any lone adult) with children are required to produce documentary evidence of parental responsibility.

Travellers are also reminded of the fact that there is a very low risk of bird flu in the country, so checking that all poultry and egg dishes are cooked is essential.

Finally, the FCO urges people to secure comprehensive travel and medical insurance, while also carrying their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).