Bodrum's Tourism Future: Sustainability and Year-Round Service

Yiğit Girgin, the Bodrum Representative of the Professional Hotel Managers Association (POYD) and the General Manager of Bodrium Hotel & SPA, made important statements regarding Bodrum's potential to become a sustainable tourism destination. Girgin emphasized that Bodrum must continue tourism activities not only during the summer season but throughout the entire year, and strategic steps in this direction are essential.

The Gap Between Bed Capacity and Number of Tourists in Bodrum

Girgin highlighted the imbalance between the existing bed capacity and the number of tourists in Bodrum, pointing out that the region's tourism potential is not being fully utilized. He mentioned that although Bodrum has a bed capacity of approximately 100,000, they are only able to host one million tourists throughout the season. This, according to Girgin, indicates that Bodrum is not operating at its targeted capacity. He also added that Bodrum loses further efficiency due to a significant portion of passengers arriving at the airport choosing other destinations like Didim.

The "Expensive Vacation" Perception Created in the Media

Despite Bodrum's high brand value, Girgin stated that the "expensive vacation" perception created by the media harms the city and the national economy. He noted that this perception causes economic imbalances in a region where thousands of families earn their livelihood from tourism. Girgin emphasized that for Bodrum to be recognized as a true tourism destination, it should offer year-round services like Antalya and Istanbul, thereby ensuring sustainable tourism activity.

The Impact of Construction Activities on Tourism

Girgin emphasized that while Bodrum has grown over the years with new investments and infrastructure projects, this growth has also become a challenge for tourism. He pointed out that the rapid development and increasing construction activities pose the risk of turning a tourism city into a construction city, threatening Bodrum's natural character. Girgin noted that Bodrum has transformed from a fishing village into a tourism city, but the current construction activities could be a significant obstacle to sustainable tourism.

Girgin argued that to make tourism sustainable in Bodrum, a comprehensive quality management system must be implemented. He stated that standards need to be raised in all areas, from guest reception services to security and front desk services. Girgin highlighted that Bodrum has a niche character, and major players in the region are making significant contributions through international initiatives. He also mentioned that for small businesses to benefit from this transformation, they must adopt proper pricing strategies.