Turkey Haberleri - Son Dakika Turkey Haber Güncel Gelişmeler

Türkiye, Turizm Gelirlerinde Dünyada 6. Sıraya Yükseldi

Kültür ve Turizm Bakan Yardımcısı Nadir Alpaslan, Türkiye’nin turizmdeki yükselen başarısını vurguladı. Kamu Taşınmazı Tahsis Müzakeresi'ne başkanlık eden Alpaslan, Türkiye’nin dünyada en fazla turizm geliri elde eden 6. ülke olduğunu belirtti ve 2024 hedeflerinin büyük olduğunu dile getirdi. "Bu sene 61 milyon olarak revize ettiğimiz turist sayısı ve 60 milyar dolar turizm gelirimizle daha üst sıralara yükselmeyi beklemekteyiz" diyen Alpaslan, Türkiye’nin turizmde iddialı ülkeler arasında bulunduğunu ifade etti. Alpaslan, Türkiye'nin 100 milyar dolar turizm gelir hedefine ulaşma yolunda önemli adımlar attığını belirterek, kamu arazilerinin turizm yatırımcılarına tahsis edilmesinin bu yolda kritik bir rol oynadığını söyledi. Müzakerede, "Kamu Taşınmazlarının Turizm Yatırımlarına Tahsisi Hakkında Yönetmelik" hükümleri kapsamında yatırımcıların sosyal ve teknik altyapıya katkı paylarının belirlendiği teklif süreci de gerçekleştirildi.

Global warming is extending the tourism season

Global Warming is Extending the Tourism Season Due to climate change and global warming, this summer saw temperatures above the seasonal norms. While this affects nature and daily life in many ways, it has also impacted the tourism sector. Prof. Dr. Orhan İçöz, Vice Chair of the Department of Tourism Guidance at Yaşar University, stated that while warmer temperatures might extend the tourism season, they are more likely to shorten the winter season and lead to excessive resource consumption, causing negative effects. According to data from the General Directorate of Meteorology (MGM), July 2024 was recorded as the hottest July in the last 53 years in Turkey. Experts are focusing on seasonal shifts and droughts, and the tourism sector is also affected by these temperature changes. Prof. Dr. İçöz noted that global warming could potentially extend the summer tourism season in Turkey but would also lead to increased resource consumption and negative impacts on winter tourism. A study by the European Union suggests that if global warming continues at this rate, the current tourism situation could change, with cooler regions like Scandinavia becoming more advantageous and attracting tourists seeking cooler weather. Extended Summer Season Affects Winter Tourism Prof. Dr. İçöz discussed the impact of climate change on the tourism sector, explaining that since tourism is closely related to seasonal patterns, it is inevitably affected by temperature changes. Global warming increases the duration and intensity of hot weather, leading to more hot days throughout the year. At the same time, reduced rainfall causes water shortages and negatively impacts winter tourism due to fewer snowy days. Turkey, being in a region with low rainfall, is significantly affected by global warming. Over the past year, the country has experienced one of the driest periods in recent years, resulting in minimal rainfall and making winter tourism destinations reliant on artificial snow. Although there is an optimistic view that longer hot days might extend the tourism season in Turkey, Prof. Dr. İçöz mentioned that this seems unlikely given the current markets and visitor profiles. The summer and beach tourism market mostly consists of younger and middle-aged individuals with work or study commitments, who have limited opportunities to travel outside the June-September period. Therefore, tourists outside the high season are typically older individuals who prefer cultural, health, or walking activities rather than hot weather and beaches. Thus, the country's tourism infrastructure is already suited to accommodate such tourists. The goal of an extended tourism season should be to target cultural tourists and those who can travel year-round rather than just summer tourists. Accommodation Occupancy Rates in Popular Destinations Prof. Dr. İçöz described how the tourism season is quite long in Turkey's western and southern regions. For example, Antalya is open for tourism year-round, while popular destinations like Marmaris have a long season from April to October, and Bodrum from May to October. In these areas, accommodation occupancy rates are about 98% during the peak season and around 70% in other periods. Cooler Regions May Gain Interest Prof. Dr. İçöz suggested that climate change might redirect tourists to cooler regions. The World Tourism Organization and the European Union are addressing climate change and global warming as significant issues. An EU study indicates that if global warming continues at this rate, tourism could shift, with cooler European regions like Scandinavia benefiting from the change and attracting tourists seeking cooler climates. The study also noted that changes in the main holiday season might occur, but these would be gradual, with slow shifts in travel flows and holiday corridors. The phenomenon of overtourism in popular destinations could also contribute to these changes. Focus on Quality Tourism Highlighting the impact of global warming and intense tourist activity on energy consumption, Prof. Dr. İçöz stressed that Turkey faces serious issues with water scarcity and energy loss due to high water usage in tourism areas and continuous cooling systems. In some destinations, the high consumption by tourists is harming the quality of life for local residents, leading to a negative response to tourism. Therefore, rather than aiming for a higher volume of tourists, the focus should shift to elite, sustainable, and eco-tourism. The country's primary goal should be to attract fewer but more quality-oriented tourists.

Russians on Vacation: How Much Did Turkey Benefit

In the summer of 2024, there has been a significant increase in Russian travel abroad. According to RBC, which based its report on data from mobile operators, the number of Russian trips abroad between June and August increased by approximately the same percentage compared to the previous year. The report notes that most of these trips were to countries like Turkey, Abkhazia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, and Georgia, with notable increases in visits to Asia as well. Turkey remained the most popular destination during the summer. According to MTS Travel data, visits to Turkey increased, making up 27% of all international trips. MegaFon data shows a similar trend, with 22% of Russian tourists choosing Turkey. Meanwhile, China emerged as the second most popular distant destination for Russian tourists this year. Russian interest in Asia extends beyond China. Significant increases were observed in trips to countries like Vietnam, Japan, Thailand, and Cambodia. MegaFon reports that trips to Vietnam increased by 2.7 times, and trips to Japan grew by 64%. MTS Travel reports a 3.7 times increase in trips to Vietnam. Travel to European countries from Russia has seen a more modest rise. According to MTS Travel, trips to Europe increased by 3% compared to the previous year, with Germany, Italy, France, Spain, and Greece being the most popular European destinations. MegaFon reports a 5% increase in European travel, with Romania, Switzerland, and Estonia showing the most significant growth.

Seville City Council's Tourism Measure: Water to Be Cut Off for Illegal Vacation Rentals

In the autonomous region of Spain, Seville City Council has decided to cut off the water supply to apartments rented out illegally to tourists. This measure is part of a new plan to distance unwanted visitors due to dissatisfaction with mass tourism. Seville has implemented this action by cutting off water to six illegal vacation rentals, hoping to apply this measure to many more. Water will be restored once these properties are used as residences. The city council has decided to hold responsible the agencies managing these illegal rentals, particularly since many property owners live abroad and are difficult to reach. "715 Properties Not Complying with Regulations Identified" Authorities estimate that there are about 5,000 irregular tourist apartments operating in Seville, the capital of Andalusia, either without a license or in violation of regulations. Sources from the city's urban planning department told El Diario that "Among these properties are those registered with the municipality but not complying with the norms, as well as those not registered but operating in the market. We are comparing the data with rental platforms, and the analysis will determine the tourist stress in each neighborhood." So far, 715 properties not complying with regulations have been identified. Seville has over 9,000 tourist apartments. Seville’s conservative mayor, José Luis Sanz, previously stated: “We will act with zero tolerance towards irregularly operating tourist apartments. After years of ignoring them, we are now implementing more controls and stricter penalties to end illegal apartment rentals in Seville.”

Çelik: Occupancy Rates in Tourist Areas Are Concerning

Recent price increases in the tourism sector are negatively impacting the industry. Mahmut Sefa Çelik, General Manager of Kızılbük GYO, pointed out that hotel occupancy rates for the summer season of 2024 have been in the range of 60% to 70%. While June was fully booked due to the holiday period, occupancy rates began to decline in July due to rising prices. Çelik stated: "Having a 30% vacancy rate during the peak season indicates that it was not a good season. Hotels have launched discounted campaigns targeting the European and Russian markets due to high prices. TÜRSAB data reveals that the tourism sector is experiencing a difficult period due to price increases. Especially in last-minute sales in July, discounts are being offered to fill vacant rooms. However, the situation is far from encouraging. Moreover, the current scenario we are facing in 2024 suggests how 2025 might unfold. This is what I believe is the real concern." Çelik noted that hotel prices have increased by 50% compared to last year, highlighting that Turkey has become one of the most expensive countries in Europe. "Going to the Greek Islands" Çelik explained, "The rise in domestic prices has significantly widened the gap. Due to price similarities, a large number of vacationers are choosing the Greek Islands. In the first quarter of 2024, the number of citizens traveling abroad increased by 18.4% to 2,449,225, with an average expenditure of $727 per person." Çelik expressed concern over the alarming occupancy rates in tourism areas, saying, "In Turkey, tourism is unfortunately only associated with summer vacations. However, our country is a paradise that fully supports a four-season travel experience. To encourage year-round travel, tourism businesses need to focus on innovative marketing strategies." "Promoting Four-Season Tourism" Çelik emphasized the strategic importance of increasing investments in four-season tourism for the future of Turkey’s tourism industry. He said, "With our Kızılbük Thermal Wellness Resort project in Marmaris İçmeler, which aims to add value to the region in various areas including tourism and employment, we are targeting to be a pioneer in promoting four-season tourism. Additionally, through this project, we are committed to adding value to the region while touching the lives of local residents. We are transforming a derelict building into a project that will contribute to Marmaris year-round, creating a pleasant retreat. Our facility, which will be open all year, will offer a range of options beyond sea, sand, and sun, including therapeutic waters, thalassotherapy, Turkish baths, and thermal pools."

At the end of August in Turkey: How much is an 'all-inclusive' tour package in rubles?

As the last days of August approach, there has been an increase in advertisements promoting the "ideal period" for affordable vacation opportunities in Turkey. With the start of the school year approaching, many families are returning from vacations with their children, and hotels are adjusting their pricing policies accordingly. 6-7 night Turkey vacations departing from Moscow are available for prices up to 100,000 rubles for two people. However, experts suggest that genuine "last-minute" deals are few and discounts are usually modest. According to information compiled on the Ator website and obtained through the "Turvizor" search and comparison system, many affordable vacation packages departing from Moscow at the end of August are available. These offers are typically valid for city hotels in regions such as Kemer and Alanya. Some examples of vacation packages and prices are as follows: Kemer: Ares Dream 4*: From Anex Tour, a 6-night "all-inclusive" package departing on August 28, priced at 73,915 rubles for two people.Club Herakles (formerly Stone House) 3*: From FUN&SUN, a 6-night "all-inclusive" package departing on August 28, priced at 71,940 rubles for two people. Alanya: Sun Fire Beach Hotel 4*: From Anex Tour, a 6-night "all-inclusive" package departing on August 28, priced at 75,213 rubles for two people.Kleopatra Sun Light Hotel 3*: From Anex Tour, a 6-night "all-inclusive" package departing on August 28, priced at 77,702 rubles for two people. Side: Aroma Butik Hotel 3*: From FUN&SUN, a 6-night bed and breakfast package departing on August 28, priced at 74,265 rubles for two people. Other Examples: Britannia Hotel & Villas 3*: From PEGAS Touristik, a bed and breakfast package in Kemer, priced at 66,473 rubles for two people.Rios Latte Beach Hotel 4*: From Coral Travel, a 6-night "all-inclusive" package departing on August 28, priced at 92,091 rubles for two people.

One-third of Turkey-Greece heritage sites are under maritime threat

According to a new study, more than half of the historical sites along the coastlines of Turkey and Greece may face a 'very high' or 'high' risk of being submerged by the end of the century due to rising sea levels. Rising sea levels are caused by global warming, which leads to the melting of more ice sheets and glaciers. Some locations, such as the island of Delos near Mykonos, have already begun to suffer structural damage due to increasing flooding. This island, listed as a World Heritage site by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), was one of the most significant religious sanctuaries of the Greek and Roman worlds. More than one-third of the historical sites in the Aegean are under threat from rising sea levels. The study, conducted by geologist Enes Zengin from Dumlupınar University's Department of Urban and Regional Planning, used data from the United States National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's 2022 Sea Level Rise Technical Report. Enes Zengin created "flood risk maps" in five different categories ranging from very high to very low, based on global and local sea level rise predictions. The study assessed the vulnerability of 464 historical sites along the Eastern Mediterranean coasts of Turkey and Greece. It was concluded that 147 archaeological sites, castles, fortifications, towers, bridges, necropolises, or ruins along the coastline would be at some level of risk within the next 50 years, even under the best-case scenario. Of the 464 sites analyzed, 34 were found to be at "very high" risk, 19 at "high" risk, and 27 at "medium" risk. The areas in Turkey most at risk include the ancient cities of Knidos and Kaunos in southern Muğla and the ancient port city of Elaia in Bergama, İzmir. These sites could be partially or completely submerged by the end of the 21st century with just a one-meter rise in sea levels. The study shows that a three-meter rise scenario would put many more areas at risk, including the Port of Ephesus, Miletus, and the Güvercinada Castle in Aydın, as well as the ancient cities of Olympos and Patara in Antalya. In Greece, the ancient cities of Sissi, Pavlopetri, and Lokris are considered to be at "very high" risk. Although these findings are concerning, the study reveals that 317 sites would remain safe even under the worst-case scenario of a five-meter rise in sea levels. Enes Zengin, one of the authors of the study, stated, "To ensure the long-term success of these studies and protect humanity's shared cultural heritage, it is crucial to prioritize the implementation of these measures in high-risk areas as soon as possible." Zengin also added, "Rapid action is needed to mitigate potential threats such as natural disasters, human-made catastrophes, and other factors that could pose risks to cultural heritage resources."

Significant increase in the number of visitors to Turkey

In the first seven months of 2024, the total number of foreign visitors to Turkey increased by 8.27% compared to the same period last year, reaching 28,978,471 people. According to data from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the number of citizens residing abroad during the January-June period was recorded as 4,492,105, bringing the total number of visitors to 33,470,576. In the ranking of countries that visited Turkey the most in the first seven months of the year, the Russian Federation ranked first with 3,611,218 visitors, followed by Germany with 3,502,628 visitors, and the United Kingdom with 2,434,333 visitors. Iran and Bulgaria ranked fourth and fifth, respectively. In July, the number of foreign visitors to Turkey increased by 2.60% compared to the same period last year, reaching 7,333,812 people. In July, Germany ranked first in the list of countries sending the most visitors, with 1,035,466 visitors, followed by the Russian Federation and the United Kingdom in second and third places, respectively. Poland and Iran followed the United Kingdom."

Turkey ranks 4th in hotel investments

New Hotel Investments Continue in Europe and Turkey As of the first half of this year, 418 new hotels with a total capacity of 64,835 rooms are being constructed across Europe. Turkey ranks fourth among the countries in Europe with the highest number of new hotel projects. According to data from Lodging Econometrics' (LE) Q2 2024 European Hotel Construction Pipeline Trend Report, the UK leads in new hotel investments with 306 projects. Germany follows with 178 projects, France with 120, and Turkey is in fourth place with 117 projects. It is expected that 354 new hotel and tourism investment projects will be completed in Turkey by 2026. Istanbul Ranks 2nd In terms of the distribution of new hotel investments by city, London ranks first with 76 projects, followed by Istanbul, which is second among European cities with 50 new hotel investment projects. The report also notes that last year, there were 755 hotel projects with a total capacity of 115,300 rooms across Europe. In the first half of this year, there were 418 new hotel investment projects with a total capacity of 64,835 rooms. 21% of New Hotel Investments are in the Luxury Category The report highlights that, in addition to new hotel investment projects, renovation investments in hotels are also being accelerated. A total of 825 facilities with a capacity of 95,519 rooms across Europe are undergoing renovations. Meanwhile, 128 new hotels were opened across Europe in the first half of the year, with an additional 202 hotels expected to open in the second half, bringing the total number of new hotels opened in 2024 to 330. 100 New Hotels in Turkey It is anticipated that between 2025 and 2026, 100 new 4- and 5-star hotels will open across Turkey, with a total of 354 new hotel and tourism investment projects expected to be completed by 2026. Top 5 Countries in Europe with the Most New Hotel Investments: United Kingdom: 306 projects / 43,515 rooms Germany: 178 projects / 28,637 rooms France: 120 projects / 12,831 rooms Turkey: 117 projects / 17,856 rooms Portugal: 114 projects / 14,247 rooms Top 5 Cities in Europe with the Most New Hotel Investments: London, UK: 76 projects / 14,954 rooms Istanbul, Turkey: 50 projects / 8,397 rooms Lisbon, Portugal: 36 projects / 4,425 rooms Dublin, Ireland: 26 projects / 5,012 rooms Düsseldorf, Germany: 24 projects / 4,448 rooms