Beginning April 1, 2025, several public hospitals around Turkey will accept foreigners' basic health insurance. With improved monitoring and wider accessibility, this long-overdue reform represents a dramatic change in the country's approach to health care coverage for foreign residents and expatriates. However, significant price hikes are anticipated in tandem with this service expansion, which would...

According to a top official on Tuesday, cruise ship passenger arrivals to Turkey surged over 500% in February compared to the previous year, possibly setting a new monthly record. Abdulkadir Uraloğlu minister of transportation and infrastructure recently stated the number of passengers arrived increased by 509.3% year-over-year to 29,826. “In February, we reached the highest number of passengers in...

After undergoing repair, the Athena Temple in Antalya's historic Side is now accessible to tourists. The temple, which is believed to be 2,000 years old, is located in the Manavgat area near the entrance to the historic harbour. Adjacent to the Temple of Apollo, the temple is dedicated to Athena, the city's principal deity. Through its historic ruins, it provides tourists with a window into the splendour...

With 3.25 million visitors to its museums and archeological sites in 2024, Antalya, one of the most popular travel destinations in the world due to its natural beauty, historical landmarks, and cultural legacy, set a new record. Antalya, a city that welcomes millions of visitors annually, is notable for its rich cultural legacy in addition to its expansive beaches and opulent resorts. With its open-air...

It is no longer a secret that Turkish fashion designers have achieved worldwide success. Turkish designers continue to make an impact on the global fashion landscape by exhibiting their collections as distinguished guests at important fashion weeks and by having their works featured on top retail platforms. Additionally, their stores and showrooms are becoming popular tourist attractions in Turkey....

According to data from Boat International's 2025 Global Order Book report, a top official stated on Saturday that Turkey has become the world's second-largest producer of mega yachts. "Our country received 146 orders this year with a total length of 6,410 metres (21,030 feet) and an average length of 43.9 metres. In terms of the number of orders in the sector, we hold a 12.9% share in the world,"...

The ninth month of the Muslim calendar is the Holy Month of Ramadan, also known as Ramazan in Turkish. Here is a glimpse at what to expect during Ramadan in Turkey if you are travelling there during this unique time of year. What is Ramadan? To begin with, why is Ramadan such a significant event in the Turkish holiday calendar? Most of us understand the fundamentals. Muslims observe a period of...

The only bicycle race in Turkey that falls under the UCI ProSeries category is organized by the Turkish Bicycle Federation with sponsorship from the Ministry of Youth and Sports and under the Presidency's auspices. There will be 15,898 metres of climbing during the course of the eight-stage, 1,153-kilometre route. It will start on April 27 in Antalya and end on May 4 in İzmir. On Tuesday, April 29,...

During a recent trip to Istanbul with his son Romeo Beckham, former England legend David Beckham met the Beşiktaş women's football squad. The meeting took place in the first week of February; the team members met the Manchester United icon and co-owner of Inter Miami, a Major League Soccer (MLS) team. He gladly signed autographs and posed for pictures. David Beckham used his time in Istanbul to...

Turkey hosts a variety of public and cultural holidays annually, but some dates can shift around when it is a different calendar year. Lets take a look at the Turkish holiday dates set for 2025. During the month of January we have Camel wrestling season. The competitions will be taking place in various arenas around Turkey where the Camels will be dressed in colourful accessories and will endure...

Over 1.8 million tourists visited Northern Cyprus between January and October of 2024, marking a notable increase in tourism. Although Turkish nationals still make up the majority of visitors, the industry has grown as a result of considerable increases in visits from a number of European nations. Numbers of Visitors Increase by 18.6% Tourist who travelled to Northern Cyprus rose 18.6% over the same...

Istanbul Airport is set to make history on April 17th 2025 by becoming the first aviation hub in Europe to launch simultaneous take-off and landing operations on three runways. Transport and Infrastructure Minister Abdulkadir Uraloglu stated that “We are continuing our works related to the increasing passenger capacity.” He continued “This system, which we will bring to life in our country,...

Turkey is planning on investing over $20 billion in energy efficiency projects by 2030, aiming to achieve significant cost savings and sustainability benefits across key sectors, including buildings, public lighting and industry. A recent announcement by an expert at the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources highlighted the country’s commitment to reducing energy consumption, enhancing...

Situated in the Efeler district of Aydin, the Ancient City of Tralleis, which dates back to the 3rd century BC, is finally due to open to the public this August after undergoing excavation since the year 1996. Aydin Adnan Menderes University Archaeology Department Faculty Member and Excavation Director Prof. Dr Murat Cekilmez will lead a team of 15 archaeologists, 10 technical experts, 30 students and...

Lake Bafa, a vital breeding and wintering ground for 261 bird species, including endangered ones, has seen a remarkable recovery in its water level. Previously, the lake's water level had dropped by about 40 meters (131.23 feet) due to the drought over the summer months. However, recent rainfall has replenished the lake, restoring it to its previous levels and submerging areas where the water had...

The ancient and historic Temple of Apollo is located in south-western Turkey in the Hisar district of Didim in the Aydin province. As one of the best-preserved temples from antiquity, it captivates history enthusiasts and travelers alike. Its remarkable preservation and cultural significance have made it a must-visit destination, drawing an impressive 132,740 visitors in 2024 alone compared to the...

According to data from the General Directorate of State Airports Authority (DHMI) there was an increase of passengers using Turkish Airports in 2024.    After assessing the data, Transport and Infrastructure Minister Abdulkadir Uraloglu wrote a statement highlighting last year’s impressive growth stating “While we serve 95.3 million passengers on domestic lines and 134.7 million on international...

Turkey's southern coastal towns are not just for summer holidays but in winter, include a growing number of expats choosing to live there from all over Europe and the UK. A real mix of retirees, professional people and families as well. Right across the southern coastline you will fine expats living all year around, escaping high uk bills and of course the cold cold weather. Although lifestyle is...

In Erzurum, one of Turkey's top winter sports destinations the ski season has started at Palandöken Ski Resort. The snow depth has reached 82 centimeters (32 inches). The ski resort, which is run by Ejder3200 Inc. a division of the Erzurum Metropolitan Municipality, has been working nonstop to get the slopes ready for the winter season. The city's recent snowfall has added to the heavy snow...

The finding of the tomb of Saint Nicholas might shed new light on the well-known patron saint who served as the inspiration for Santa Claus. The grave of Saint Nicholas, the charitable Greek bishop who served as the model for the Christmas character Santa Claus, has been found by archaeologists. The two-story extension of St. Nicholas Church in Demre, Antalya, Turkey, contained the six-foot- ong...

One of the most well-liked vacation options, particularly during the winter, is to take the Eastern Express to Kars in the Eastern Anatolia region of Turkey, where you may enjoy some fascinating novels, listen to music, and relax under the wagon lights. So much so that it may occasionally be hard to find tickets! Taste this amazing sensation as you go through the canyons and villages, taking in the...

With confidence indices rising since the second part of the year, real sector and household estimates for 12-month-ahead inflation falling, and optimistic predictions for the economy's future rising, the Turkish economy seems to be headed in the right direction. After hitting the 100-point mark in March, the economic confidence index declined in the months that followed, to 93.1 in August before rising...

According to sector representatives on Monday, Antalya, a well-known tourist destination in Turkey that recently set a record for the number of visitors it welcomed even before the year ended, is ready for a busy New Year's and Christmas season driven by strong interest, particularly from Germany and the United Kingdom. According to their statement in an interview with Anadolu Agency (AA), the...

Istanbul is planning a taxi transformation as the city will soon introduce a fresh design and app based taxi system. These taxis will be colourful, this transformation is currently in the final stages of design and will operate exclusively through a mobile application. Design options have been created all using white backgrounds, and the designs will be introduced on the Fiat Egea...

This year from January to October, Turkey welcomed nearly 1.8 million cruise passengers to its ports and increase of nearly 27% on the same period last year. A total of 1,112 cruise ships arrived. The tourism sector is a vital part of the economic and social development of the Country, so the government is working hard to increase and improve this sector.   Our ports are equally as important...

A new visa for those talented and qualified individuals globally who want to live and work in Turkey. How to obtain this Visa There is an online website portal to help which handles your application from start to finish. You will need the usual sorts of documents, passport details, professional CV and history, Employment offer in Turkey or a business plan for starting up, and  evidence of tech...

Figures released from official data from the statistical institute show a large increase of 115.8% jump in domestic tourism spending in Quarter 2.  With a staggering figure spent of 103.1 billion TL around 3 billion USD for April May and June. Domestic trips for one or two nights also rose in the same period, with package trips and excursions also rising in the same period also many were visits to...

Turkish Airlines are always setting new standards, new routes, and now a new benchmark for pet friendly travel. Air Canada offers comfortable support and a dedicated team, JetBlue offers an affordable approach, with its own Jetpaws program, but Turkey's main flag offers a new programme in conjunction with Aaron's Animals a recent video showcases Michael the cat travelling to Istanbul, highlighting...

An annual celebration of the founding of the republic by Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, in 1923, this year celebrating 101 years. Turkey Republic Day is a national holiday with many, Republic Day celebrations, with most events held outside. Republic Day is a national holiday under Turkish Lawe so many  government offices are closed on that day. Northern Cyprus observes it as well. The Turkish flag’s...

Every year in October the International Oludeniz Air Games takes place. What are these Games you may ask, this international event takes place here in turkey, a festival of extreme sports and aerial displays attracting people from around the world. Set against the stunning backdrop of this landscape of Oludeniz, skydivers, paragliders and base jumpers showcase their talents and skills, with...

Cappadocia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the fairy tale landscape of Eastern Anatolia, known for its history, and beauty offers hot air balloon rides and is one of the most sought after tourist activities. So far this year January to October a record number of tourists took to the air, in fact 583,063 a new record, enjoyed the wonderful experience. 2023 saw 473,396 people take to the skies over...

Recent reports show that there has been a high increase in demand in both international and domestic travel for Turkey and it looks like it will be continuing through the winter. Ömer Kodet, CFO of Biletbayisi.com, has expressed optimism about the continued growth in the tourism sector, predicting strong momentum through the winter season of 2024. Biletbayisi.com is well-equipped to meet the rising...

During the first 7 months of this year Istanbul airport clock up over 70 million air passengers passing through, continuing air travel recovery, an increase of nearly 6 million to the same period last year. Istanbul's main airport alone accounted  over 45 million of those passengers, Sabiha Gokcen, which is located on the Asian side, also saw noticeable growth, in both International and Domestic...

A new species of Dolphins, spotted in Turkish Waters, in the Black Sea, Marmara, Aegean and Mediterranean waters. The species "rough-toothed Dolphins" love deep water, in warm environments, reported the  Marine mammal Research Association (DMAD). The report was led by founder of DMAD Leyla Israpilova. DMAD is also monitoring sperm whales, beaked whales and striped dolphins, and also the...

These two airports sitting on the southern coast of Turkey in the Mugla region have this summer reported passenger traffic of over 7 million so far this year.  The month of August alone reporting 7/8% increase on last year's numbers. Another strong development for the Turkish tourism industry. Whilst both airports do scale down through the off season winter months, there are still...

Situated around 150 km from the city of Ankara is Lake Tuz, the second largest lake in all of Turkey and one of Turkey’s biggest salt reserves covering around 1,664 square kilometres. Lake Tuz undergoes an extreme evaporation process, shaping its distinctive geological features for over thousands of years. This natural phenomenon has created one of Turkey’s most stunning landscapes while...

On Sunday Ephesus, Turkeys ancient city, kicked off its Night Museum Concert Series. The concert, which is organised by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, was hosted in Celsus Library. The concert series has been introduced following the extended visiting hours of the ancient city that were recently introduced. Visitors may visit the site until midnight. The aim of the night time visits is for...

On Monday, Turkey introduced a new TechVisa program designed to simplify work permits for foreign entrepreneurs and professionals with specialised skills aimed at attracting high-value technical start-up businesses. This new visa, which has been created by the Industry and Technology Ministry in collaboration with the Labor and Social Security Ministry, provides a three year work permit offering a...

In recent news, Dalaman is said to be opening three brand new 5 star luxury hotels featuring high class golf courses. The aim of launching the new hotels is to extend the season for all year round. Dalaman is already a popular holiday destination and hopefully this new venture will mean tourists will be able to visit and enjoy the resort beyond the summer season.   Both industry leaders and local...

Astronaut Alper Gezeravci attended Teknofest in Antalya, the largest space, aviation and technology festival in the world. January 18th of this year saw Alper Gezeravci become the first ever Turkish citizen to travel to space. Gezeravci made history when he travelled to space for a part of the Axiom Mission 3 (Ax-3) mission which was launched from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. This mission marks a...

Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Abdulkadir Uraloglu disclosed in a written statement that in 2025 Turkey’s first national high speed train will be undergoing track tests with trials following afterwards.    The train is being manufactured by the Turkish Railway Vehicles Industries Inc (TURASAS) and is collaborating with the Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey...

In a recent interview with the Anadolu Agency, the Directorate General of Migration Management head Atilla Toros disclosed that YIMER 157, the Foreigners Communication Centre, does not just function as an information service but it also acts as a support line for all emergencies such as victims of crimes, domestic violence, migrant smuggling as well as human trafficking. YIMER 157 has been assisting...

One of the world’s most famous supermodels Naomi Campbell has been enjoying holidaying in Turkey. The supermodel began her holiday in fabulous Bodrum, a resort she has visited many times. Ms Campbell enjoyed shopping in the lovely Turkbuku area. The model was seen shopping in a local store where she purchased several pairs of sandals. After her time in Bodrum Ms Campbell travelled over to Mykonos...

Located in southwestern Turkey just a short drive from the Turquoise Coast and what was once a bustling and thriving town of Turkey’s Muslims and Greek Orthodox Christians, now lies a silent, abandoned and ghostly village. The village is situated around 120 metres above sea level in the Kaya Valley, a tranquil and beautiful place. This eerie village has been abandoned for more than 100 years. As...

Following high temperatures during the Spring and Summer months experts now state that the glorious weather will continue into the Autumn season.   Jet2 has announced that the summer season will be extended giving holiday makers the opportunity to get some extra sunshine and trips away. The resort which will see the extended flights is Bodrum, one of Turkey’s most popular resort and a firm favourite...

It has been reported that SunExpress will be operating new flights to Dalaman from Newcastle Airport . The new route will be launched for Summer 2025 with flights to Dalaman twice a week starting from 4th May. SunExpress will also be adding additional flights to Antalya from Newcastle Airport as well. The Airline already flies to Antalya but due to a high increase in demand there will be flights...

Back in 2019 the EuroVelo Cycle Route 8 was opened. The 300 mile route running along the Aegean Coast takes around four to five days to finish with many aiming to complete the route in a single day. The route will begin near the city of Pergamon and will finish in Ehpesus. Along the way, cyclists will enjoy passing through seaside villages, ancient ruins, nature reserves and more. There are in fact...

Among 36 European countries, Turkey has been listed as the most affordable for its services and its consumer goods according to The Turkish Statistical Institute. Turkey, scoring 42, was found at the bottom of the stats index list due to its more affordable prices when compared to other countries in Europe. Other countries with low prices ranked just above Turkey where North Macesdonia,...

UNESCO World Heritage has crowned its 20th historical site, that being Gordion, the ancient capital of the Iron Age Kingdom of Phrygia. Gordion is located south-west of Ankara and is around 4,500 years old. Landscape surrounds this once powerful city which now looks like a collapsed crater or a quarry. You can see the outlines of walls which have collapsed, many mounds and there is still a gateway...

A number of airline representatives including Huseyin Keskin the General Manager of the State Airports Authority and Deputy Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Ismail Kurt, got together to discuss a plan to double Antalya’s Airport capacity. The plans to increase capacity is so that flights and passenger traffic can be managed more effectively and efficiently. Last year in 2023 Antalya...

Recent reports show that British holidaymakers longing for a Summer of sunshine are heading to destinations such as Turkey, Greece and Morocco and are going for fantastic all inclusive packages. Following the cool climates we have seen in our British “so called” Summer people want out of the UK and want to head out where they can get some much needed sunshine. There has been an increase in bookings...

The new crime series which aired on 7th July has been adapted from Inspector Ikmen, an award-winning novel collection by author Barbara Nadel.  The series, which is set in modern-day Istanbul, follows British Detective Mehmet Suleyman, played by Killing Eve actor Ethan Kai, as he arrives in the city to join a homicide unit ran by Inspector Cetin Ikmen, played by Haluk Bilginer.   The series...

Mandarin Oriental in Bodrum is getting ready to celebrate its 10th anniversary.  The luxurious and established hotel located in the very heart of Bodrum will be hosting a variety of amazing festivities to ensure those in attendance an incredible experience. One festivity in particular will for sure be the highlight of the event. The celebrations main highlight will be from no-other than...

New sea bus services will begin this month with a service between Bodrum – Turgutreis – Didim starting on the 1st July and a service between Fethiye – Marmaris starting on the 2nd July. An opening ceremony was held this morning at the Didim D Marina Passenger Pier to officially kick off the new transportation services. Mugla Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Ahmet Aras and Aydin Metropolitan...

Let’s take a look at Turkeys top 10 most loved ice cream flavours Bal Badem After a survey was taken within the Aegean district of Turkey, it revealed that Bal Badem, which in English means honey almond, is actually the Turks favourite flavour. This ice cream is rich and creamy and consists of honey and chopped up pieces of almond brittle. Kaymak The Kaymak ice cream, which means clotted...

Back in October 2021 Turkey was placed on list by the Global Financial Watchdog due to failing to supervise vulnerable sectors like real estate, banking and other sectors, but that is no more. Mehmet Simsek, the Turkish Finance Minister has announced that Turkey has been struck off the list due to the amount of progress that has been made to improve financing of terrorism and anti-money...

This year, for the very first time, night time museum visits are being introduced at the historic Ephesus Ancient City, with visiting times being extended until midnight.   The aim of the night time visits is for visitors to get the opportunity to see and explore the ancient city in a different kind of atmosphere and now the 2,300 year old city can be viewed after sunset thanks to the new renewed...

The Anda Barut Collection hosted its incredible Weekend of Wellness with an “Opening Ceremony” this weekend after being open just 10 days with the help of a number of famous Olympic champions, stars of BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing and well-known fitness influencers. The “Weekend of Wellness” saw legends Colin Jackson, Daley Thompson, Jamie Baulch and Dame Denise Lewis host fun and energetic...

Servet Yardimci, UEFA Executive Committee member, has announced that Istanbul will be hosting the 2026 UEFA Europa League and the 2027 UEFA Europa Conference League.    The Tupras Stadium in the Besiktas district of Istanbul will be hosting the 2026 UEFA Europa League final. The venue for the 2027 UEFA Conference League has not yet been announced. The Tupras Stadium hosted the UEFA Super Cup final...

Where are the best beach towns in Turkey? Turkey is famed for its stunning beaches that dot across it vast coastline. Two of its most beautiful beach towns are amongst the top 10 European best beach towns. Akyaka, Turkey Akyaka is located near the mouth of the Azmak River on the glittering Bay of Gökova. It is one ofTurkey's "cittaslows," or slow cities, with a focus on sustainability and ecology....

Turkish Airlines (THY), a major international airline renowned for its vast network and stellar customer service, marked its 91st birthday on Monday, carrying on its tradition of serving up to 350 locations across the globe. With just five planes and 24 employees, including seven pilots, when it set out on its maiden voyage on May 20, 1933, Turkey's flag carrier eventually developed into a significant...

The Sirkeci-Kazlıçeşme rail line in Istanbul has been named one of the six must-see railway routes in Europe by Lonely Planet, one of the top travel guides in the world, according to a statement released by the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure. Inaugurating the Sirkeci-Kazlıçeşme rail line on February 26, 2024, was President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and Minister of Transport and...

In the upcoming year, Scotland's two major airports will have additional low-cost flight options to Turkey. Pegasus Airlines This summer, Edinburgh-Istanbul flights will be offered by Pegasus Airlines. It will run the route to Istanbul's Sabiha Gokcen Airport twice a week, on Thursdays and Sundays. Bookings for one-way rates starting at £49.99 per person are currently open, and flights will depart...

The "fairy chimneys" of Turkey are naturally occurring, but bizarre-appearing spires that can reach heights of up to 130 feet (40 meters), sculpted over millions of years by the elements from soft volcanic rock. Sprinkling the Love Valley in Göreme National Park are thousands of these spindly chimneys, creating a rocky wonderland that has served as a haven for human civilizations for almost 4,000...

According to a senior official on Wednesday, airline traffic on both domestic and international flights increased by over 50% in April, resulting in a record 18 million passengers passing through Turkish airports, including transit passengers. According to Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Abdulkadir Uraloğlu, who cited data from the State Airports Authority General Directorate (DHMI), the amount...

Turkey's credit rating was raised from B to B+ by the credit rating company Standard & Poor's (S&P), which maintained a favorable outlook. In the context of external rebalancing, Turkey is anticipated to enhance coordination between monetary, fiscal, and income policies, according to a news statement issued by the agency. "We forecast rising portfolio inflows and narrowing current account...

The number of cruise passengers in Turkey rose by more than 79% annually in the first three months of this year, surpassing 61,000, according to figures released. According to data obtained from the General Directorate of Maritime Affairs of the Transport and Infrastructure Ministry, the total number of cruise ship passengers, including arrivals, departures, and transit passengers, reached 61,113 in...

Cyprus is the third largest island in the Mediterranean, situated directly in the center of the sea. With its pleasant weather, friendly locals, mouthwatering cuisine, and much more, it's one of the best options for an ideal living. What are the areas of Northern Cyprus? The 3,354 square kilometer Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) is divided into six administrative regions: Nicosia, the...

Turkey is a great place for digital nomads to live since it offers both the excitement of its vibrant metropolis and the tranquility of its quiet southern coastal towns. Fortunately, there is now a visa designed especially for people who want to live and work remotely in Turkey. With the recent announcement of Go Turkey’s new digital visa program, remote workers from a variety of nations, mostly in...

In an effort to assist operators and agents looking to book flights, leisure airline SunExpress has nearly increased its capacity from the UK to Turkey this summer. Although the airline has been operating between Germany and Turkey for almost 30 years, it only began operating in the UK in the summer of 2022. It is jointly owned by Turkish Airlines and Lufthansa. But this summer, it increased the number...

This ranking highlights the high standard of living in European cities, acknowledging Turkey's role in raising the bar for livability on the continent. The top cities in Europe have been revealed. The welfare and livability rankings were applied to each city. One Turkish city Istanbul is included on the list of the greatest cities in Europe. Resonance Consultancy ranked the most popular tourist...

Inspired by an actual World War II operation, Guy Ritchie's latest film, "The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare," aims to illuminate a critical juncture in history. In an effort to entertain viewers without undermining the event's historical significance, Ritchie injects humor into the otherwise somber subject matter. The goal of director Guy Ritchie's most recent film, "The Ministry of Ungentlemanly...

Nestled within the city walls of Antalya, the old town is protected by sheer, steep cliff faces that plummet into the Mediterranean Sea below. Throughout history, fortifications have undergone countless strengthening and reconstructions. From their first construction in antiquity, during the Hellenistic era, to the 20th century, Hadrian's Gate underwent renovation in 1959. In the twenty-first century,...

Turkey may rank among the top destinations for foreign investors this year, according to Marek Drimal, Chief Strategist for Societe Generale's CEEMEA (Central and Eastern Europe, Middle East, and Africa) division. Speaking to the EKONOMİ daily, Drimal stated, "We think this will stimulate inflows into emerging markets and Turkey if our projection of three interest rate reductions by the Fed this year...

Tucked away in Ölüdeniz, Turkey's Blue Lagoon is one of the best beaches in the planet, according to the Daily Mail's list of the "Greatest Beaches in the World" as summer draws near. The Daily Mail, the premier newspaper in the United Kingdom, contacted industry insiders and foreign travel specialists to find out which beaches are considered the "Best Beaches in the World." The Blue Lagoon was added...

The Municipality of Beykoz opened the "Yalı (Mansion) Library" at a seafront location in an effort to promote a culture of reading and learning while embracing the tranquil beauty of the Bosporus. The library is situated next to the charming Bosporus and beckons readers with its picturesque setting and diverse collection. The 24-hour, seven-day-a-week library has a well-curated collection and...

The largest Olympic event on the continent, the European Games, which take place every four years, will be hosted in Istanbul, Turkey, in 2027, according to the European Olympic Committees (EOC). Ekrem Imamoğlu, the mayor of Istanbul, emphasised the excitement of the city and referred to the day as momentous for both their sports and the nation. "We are here at the historic Saraçhane building, in the...

The decision to prolong the highly anticipated Ramadan break to nine days has delighted and excited both locals and professionals in the tourism industry. It offers residents a longer time to unwind and gives the travel and tourism sector new life. During an iftar event in Ankara, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan declared the extension, saying, "We have provided our public servants with a comfortable...

Hundreds of cyclists from all over the world are expected to participate in the 59th Presidential Cycling Tour of Türkiye, which is scheduled to begin on April 21 in the Mediterranean resort city of Antalya and conclude in Istanbul on April 28. The Presidential Cycling Tour of Türkiye, which is celebrating its 59th year, is preparing to welcome elite teams and athletes as it travels through the...

Turkish Airlines and Lufthansa's joint venture, SunExpress, brought in 1.8 billion euros in revenue in 2023—a 21% rise over the previous year. Eighty-five% was the airline's reported occupancy rate. SunExpress plans to launch 28 new routes in the summer of 2024 in an effort to create the greatest flying network in its history. Max Kownatzki, CEO of SunExpress, stated: "This year, Turkey remains a top...

Mehmet Nuri Ersoy, the minister of culture and tourism, highlighted the initiatives being taken to levate Turkey's standing in the global tourism arena. He stated, "One of our most significant efforts in this process has been to strengthen quality tourism and spread tourism over a 12-month period." During the official opening of the Olympos Ancient Site Reception Centre in the Kumluca district of...

AnadoluJet was founded in 2008 as a Turkish Airlines (THY) subsidiary with the goal of providing favourable options to suit Anatolia's air transportation demands. The company formally launches ticket sales under the name "AJet" on its official website. AnadoluJet, which was founded as a THY brand with the mission of "Let no one stay grounded," reunited over 150 million passengers with their loved ones...

One of the most amazing times of the year to be in Turkey is during the holy month of Ramadan. This month will provide a wealth of insights into Turkish culture, from the increased acts of kindness and emphasis on values to the spiritual mood. Like in many other nations with a predominately Muslim population, Turkey observes Ramadan as a noteworthy and unique occasion. Many people will join the world's...

Turkey's exports to the United Kingdom, one of its main markets, increased by almost 15% in the first two months of this year compared to the same time last year, according to statistics obtained by Anadolu Agency (AA) from Turkish Exporters Assembly (TIM) on Friday. This was based on the general trade system data that AA analysed, the nation's exports increased by 8.5% year over year to $41.1 billion...

Turkey's marketplaces and bazaars provide an eclectic and unique assortment of items that are sure to entice even the most averse consumer. The vibrant bazaars, markets, shops, and stalls of Istanbul are unmatched, but rural marketplaces are slower paced and often the greatest sites to discover handmade goods and unusual products. Bodrum is great for shopping in particular. These are a few things that...

In response to rising passenger demand, Turkish Airlines is increasing the number of flights fromManchester to Istanbul. Beginning on May 19th, Turkey's flag carrier will run a fourth service, bringing the total number of weekly flights to and from Manchester to 25 during the busiest summer months. The airline currently operates four more services (one daily) to Istanbul from Manchester on Mondays,...

In the popular tourist destination of Antalya, tulips are grown in water, and a firm is growing 200,000 blossoms especially for International Women's Day. A local business has been focusing primarily on using water in greenhouses to grow soilless tulips. The flower production centre, located in the Belek district of Antalya's Serik province, has been growing tulips in water for the past nine...

With an astounding 184% increase in demand between 2020 and 2023, Turkey cedes its position as the world's third-largest exporter of TV series, further solidifying its domination in the television industry. Meanwhile, efforts to advance the film industry and gain international recognition continue, with projections of significant growth. Turkey is establishing itself as a major player in the TV...

A top official announced on Saturday that Turkey is getting ready to build a technology at Istanbul Airport that will allow three planes to independently land and take off simultaneously—a first for Europe. The statement is in line with the country's goal to establish itself as a leader in aviation infrastructure and services and represents a significant step towards improving the operating...

An important migration route for many bird species in central Konya, Akgöl has developed into a beloved destination for migrating birds, such as stately flamingos, as well as for nature lovers and birdwatchers, providing a window into the fascinating world of avian life. These bird species depend on the reed beds of Akgöl, which are tucked away in the centre of Ereğli, for vital cover and nesting...

Turkey is home to two of the top four tourist destinations in the world. The country is anticipated to see an increase in tourists in 2024 as a result of the recent relaxation of visa rules. Travel is almost back to how it was before the outbreak. With almost 975 million people travelling overseas annually, the UN World Tourism Organisation reported in November 2023 that international tourism was on...

The Greek Orthodox Sumela Monastery honours Mary and is situated in Karadağ, in the PonticMountains. It is a city on northeastern Turkey's Black Sea coast, located in the Maçka district of Trabzon Province. Currently it’s flanked by snow making for a spectacular sight. Located at an elevation of approximately 1,200 metres (3,900 feet) above sea level and overlooking the Altındere Valley, this...

About 49.2 million international visitors visited Turkey in 2023; officials called it the industry's best year ever. The tourism sector is a vital source of income for the nation, which is working to reduce its chronic current account deficit. Leading the way from Russia and Europe, the number reaches a record high and increases by 10.4% from the 44.6 million international tourists in 2022, according...

Launched from NASA's Kennedy Space Centre in Florida, the spaceship owned by SpaceX carrying Turkey's first space traveller, Alper Gezeravcı, was successfully completed. Gezeravcı will undertake a number of scientific experiments during his 14-day stay at the International Space Station (ISS). As a part of the Axiom Mission 3 crew, Alper will collaborate alongside Walter Villadei of Italy and Marcus...

The service will become live right before the school break. EasyJet has revealed that it will be launching a new route this summer from Manchester Airport to a well-liked vacation spot in Turkey. Beginning on May 16th, the airline will run a twice-weekly flight from Manchester to Bodrum. Situated on the Bodrum Peninsula on Turkey's southwest coast, popularly referred to as the Turkish Riviera, the city...

Digital nomadism is becoming more and more popular these days, but Turkey has long been astronghold of nomadic thought and cultural customs, making it an excellent model of the nomadic lifestyle of today. Since the Turks have always been a nomadic people, they have lived a protracted, centuries-long nomadic existence. The sixth century saw the activity of the first known nomads. While some Turkic...

Owing to the short notice given to owners to obtain a Rental Permit in order to comply with the "Air B&B law in Turkey" which covers all vacation rentals of up to 100 days, it appears that the Supreme Court may grant a 12-month grace period to those who are currently renting out their properties, subject to confirmation from a meeting scheduled for the coming few days. If this occurs, it will not...

Turkey hosts a variety of public and cultural holidays annually, but some dates can shift around when it is a different calendar year. Lets take a look at the Turkish holiday dates set for 2024. During the month of January we have Camel wrestling season. The competitions will be taking place in various arenas around Turkey where the Camels will be dressed in colourful accessories and will endure...

With the introduction of multiple new brands and the country's first domestically produced battery powered vehicle, Turkey's sales of electric vehicles (EVs) exceeded those of numerous European nations in 2023 thanks to the growing trend of drivers looking to go green. With an 844.4% year-over-year rise, sales of completely electric automobiles in Turkey hit a record 65,562 units last year, according...

Turkey is quickly rising to the top of the luxury yacht charter destination list because it provides an unmatched combination of natural beauty and cultural diversity. Turkey's 8,300 kilometres of coastline, which is encircled by the Aegean, Mediterranean, Marmara, and Black Seas, offer an abundance of opulent experiences. The nation is home to tranquil sandy beaches, award-winning super yacht marinas,...

Eastern Kars' Sarıkamış Ski Centre is a well-known winter tourist attraction, drawing visitors from all over the world with its gorgeous scenery, perfect snow, and contemporary facilities. This is a well-regarded ski resort with nine tracks in total, the longest of which is 3,500 metres long and winds through picturesque pine forests. In addition to offering skiing and snowboarding, the facility...

It has been reported that British Airways shall be launching new flights from Heathrow Airport to Izmir. Flights will be departing from Heathrow’s terminal 5 every Saturday at 06.30 and will arrive in Izmir at 10.30. Flights will depart Izmir and will return to Heathrow for 15.50.   Flights are scheduled to begin on the 18th May and run till the 28th September offering return fares at...

Despite the fact that Christmas as we know it is not widely celebrated in Turkiye, it doesn’t mean that this festive month goes by with ‘business as usual’ – it is still a unique and intriguing experience of traditions and cultures. Let’s not forget that the idea of ‘Santa Claus’ originated in Turkiye, with the legend of Saint Nicholas who was renowned for his kindness especially towards...

As Turkiye continues its quest for dominance of the Global Tourism Industry, Hilton Hotels are planning on boosting their overall presence in the country with not one, not two, but eleven new establishments across the country starting with the new Hilton Istanbul Airport which will feature 491 rooms & a huge business hub that’s perfect for the commercial traveller. Already having over 34 hotels...

As the number of Cruise passengers into Turkiye increases significantly year on year, it’s no wonder that investment companies are looking to capitalize on demand with a new $32 million port proposed for the area of Fethiye. Set to become the second largest cruise hub, after Galataport in Istanbul, Yenikapı will be expected to serve around 120,000 passengers from 120 cruise liners by 2030 it will...

Exploring the neighbourhoods of Istanbul any time of year is an enjoyable experience with its many different streets offering great historical sites, shops, markets and eateries, even more so in winter as now with the holiday season upon us, it is the perfect time to spend the day getting into the festive spirit by wandering round the streets exploring the shops, immersing yourself in the history,...

Turkiye's Ski Resorts Brace Themselves for a Tremendous Season - Tis the season to be jolly – especially if you enjoy the thrill of skiing, as many parts of Turkiye received intense snowfall over the last few days. Resorts such as Erciyes, Palandöken and Konakli are bracing for an influx of visitors and plenty of investments have been made throughout the year to ensure a quality time will be had by...

The Anda Barut Collection Hotel, which officially opens on May 1st 2024, will be launching itself to the public with its first ever Wellness Weekend event May 10th till 12th where it will host a number of British winning Olympic Athletes and champions from all around the world. The weekend will be filled with programmed events and activities from British Athletes, Olympians as well as dancers. The...

Already ahead of the likes of Emirates, Lufthansa, and Air France – Turkish Airlines is set to continue their global expansion and will soon be ready to take on the ‘big four’ consisting of United, American, Delta and Air China. Having said publicly that they want to double their fleet by 2033, negotiations with Airbus have recently begun for a potential order of 355 new aircraft, with deliveries...

Ernst and Young have just released their Global Tourism report for 2023, which has ranked Turkiye as the 5th most visited country in 2022 with a total of 51m foreign arrivals, and a 21% increase on visits already for the first half of 2023. Istanbul hosted the most amount of visitors in 2022, with a total of 16.02 million mainly from Russia, Germany, Iran, USA and the UK, however the report indicated...

Firuz Baglikaya, the President of TURSAB (Association of Turkish Travel Agencies), has recently highlighted the UK’s substantial role in international tourism, revealing that approx. one in every two UK citizens travels abroad and they made over 70 million international trips in 2022. There were just over 3.3m visitors from the UK to Turkiye last year, which was a record high, and the anticipation is...

One of the activities which is a 'must' when visiting North Cyprus is exploring its many historical streets, with each one offering something completely different. Wandering and exploring the streets in North Cyprus gives you the chance to really experience the culture, you can get a look into the everyday lives of the locals and enjoy some fantastic sites along the way. The beautiful region of...

Türkiye’s Cruise Industry is on course to exceed their target of 1.5m passengers this year as tourists have flocked to the popular holiday resorts of Bodrum, Antalya and Kusadasi. The numerous ships which have docked in recent days, have bought the total amount of arrivals to just over 906,000 many of which have travelled from the US and UK. Between January and August of this year, 719 cruises have...

Situated off the Western shore of the Antalya Province lays the Kumluca Bronze Age Shipwreck, which is one of the oldest in the world, dating back to the year 1600BC, in the Bronze Age. Since being discovered by a team of divers from the University’s Underwater Research department, numerous artefacts have been uncovered and bought back to the surface, many of which have never been seen before shedding...

It’s been a hard series of months for the state of the global economy with many countries hiking interest rates to try and curb high levels of inflation, and the situation is no different in Türkiye.However with the potential revival of ‘Lira Carry Trade’, and the continued overhaul of economic policy in Ankara, analysts from Goldman Sachs are predicting a return to rate normalization and a much...

It has been reported this week that there has been a boost in flights with Turkish Airlines, Lyfthansa and SunExpress launching more flights to Turkey starting from this October till March 2024. The Turkish carriers will be offering three flights per week from London’s Stansted to Turkey’s Izmir region. The London Airport currently flies to Bodrum, Dalaman, Antalya, Istanbul and...

As part of a three-day visit to Türkiye’s capital, Ankara, Prince Edward met with President Erdoğan behind closed doors at the Presidential Complex within the city. Initially there to raise awareness of the impact that non-formal education has on the minds of young people, the British Prince will attend a reception marking the 40th Anniversary of the Chevening scholarship program. The itenarary has...

The stage has been set for the 58th Presidential Cycling Tour in Turkey which takes place between the  8th and 15th of October with the journey beginning in Alanya and ending in Istanbul. The tour was planned to be held earlier in the year, but due to the disastrous earthquakes in the south-east the event had to be postponed. Alternations have had to be made to the route for both the second and...

According to the recent information that’s been released by the Anadolu Agency Brits made up a third of the total foreigners visiting the resort province of Mugla between January and August of this year. Part of the Turquoise coast and famous for its gorgeous landscapes, beautiful beaches, Mediterranean lifestyle and upmarket resort towns, the province welcomed over 2.4m visitors in total, resulting in...

Jill Morris is the British Ambassador to Türkiye and based on her current analysis of the stats she firmly believes that British Tourists could be into their record numbers this year, easily surpassing last year’s figures of 3m, and pre-pandemic levels of 2.5 million. Currently on a tour of the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts, taking in the likes of Izmir, Aydin, Mugla, Antalya, Bodrum, Marmaris and...

In the vibrant and culturally diverse city of Istanbul, one event stands out as a beacon of creativity and expression: the Istanbul Theatre Festival. This annual celebration of the performing arts has been enchanting audiences and showcasing the best of international and Turkish theatre for decades. Organised by the Istanbul Foundation for Culture and Arts (IKSV), the festival has a rich history dating...

Known as the ‘MüzeKart’ Turkiye’s Museum Card sales have reached new heights in the first seven months of 2023, with a total 2.1m sold even with the new increased price of 60 lira. Valid for Turkish Citizens and enabling them to visit more than 300 museums and archaeological sites throughout Turkiye, it looks set to break the record of 2022 which reached 2.93m, which equated to an approximate...

Antalya is one of Türkiye’s top Mediterranean resorts and this years extremely high demand will not only see the tourist season extended potentially into October and November, but also it’s been revealed that occupancy rates for August have soared way beyond 90%, surpassing the 70% figure that was recorded back in July. It’s even being said that already Antalya has beaten the number of tourists...

It’s good news for those who wish to rent out their homes during the busy summer months or for those who own an investment property as new reports reveal that passenger numbers at Turkish Airports have significantly increased by 23% for the first seven months of 2023, when compared to the same period last year. Istanbul, Antalya and Milas-Bodrum all saw rises in the numbers of international...

Istanbul’s Çamlıca Tower was opened by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan in May 2021 and at a height of 369m it’s officially Europe’s tallest tower. Recently becoming the centre of attention within the area, it’s also starting to be recognized internationally, with 35% of the 1.19m tourists who have visited so far this year, being foreign. The tower not only shows off Türkiye’s architectural...

Troy Museum Pushing for 1m Visitors by 2024 - You’ve probably all heard the story of Troy, and you may have even seen the movie, which was released in 2002, with Brad Pitt and Eric Bana in lead roles. Essentially in Greek Mythology, Troy was the ‘Impenetrable’ city, which was the epicentre of the Trojan War fought between the Trojans and the Greeks after Paris of Troy took Helen from her husband...

So far 2023 seems to be the year of recovery, especially in the tourism sector, as early reports are indicating that the ancient UNESCO World Heritage site of Cappadocia could have it’s best year ever, with a record number of tourists visiting the site’s attractions in the first half of this year. Welcoming around 4.1m tourists last year, official figures for the first four months of 2023 reveal...

Turkiye already has nineteen UNESCO World Heritage sites, and next year they are hoping for one more as an application has already gone in to the committee for the site of Iznik which is the Northwest Province of Bursa and is of great importance for the Christian faith. A small but highly significant historical town, Iznik is still enclosed by it’s ancient walls and its systematic grid line layout...

As the cost of living continues to play a significant role in people’s daily lives, especially if they live in the UK, it’s no surprise that most people are looking for cheap holiday destinations in which they can enjoy a relaxing vacation without it breaking the bank. Turkiye has recently been revealed as one of those preferred alternatives with tourism numbers already into the high millions and on...

The spectacular resort of Bodrum has become one of the most visited holiday destinations in the world and is a big hit not just with tourists but with high profile celebrities also making it known as the St Tropez of Turkey. Of course you don’t need to be a Hollywood A-lister to enjoy a bit of luxury on your vacation. Below are some ideas on how you can spend a fabulous and lavish weekend on the...

Bodrum’s Summer Festivals & Cultural Events - Bodrum is an extremely popular resort town and continually appears as one of the most visited vacation destinations in the world. Well known for its spectacular scenery, gorgeous beaches, friendly locals & excellent gastronomy options the once quiet fishing village is now a thriving retreat suitable for both tourists & expats wishing to enjoy the...

Singapore Airlines may have just been named the World’s best, but who do you think claimed the top spot in Europe? Turkish Airlines of course…and for the eighth time I might add!Held at the Paris Air Museum and Judged by Skytrax, who are the International Organization tasked with Air Transport rating, Turkish Airlines also won top spot for Southern Europe, Business Class and Economy Class Catering,...

The cruise industry took a right beating during the covid pandemic, which was similar to the airline industry where pretty much everything was a standstill, so with 299,000 cruise passengers visiting Turkiye within the first five months of 2023, it’s great to hear that this highly popular industry is once again sailing the high seas, and ships are docking in the ports. It’s even more interesting to...

Large numbers of tourists from Russia, Germany, Bulgaria, Iran and the UK have helped to contribute to an increase of just over 27% of foreign arrivals into Turkiye when compared to 2022, with 9.53 million visitors in total to Turkiye between January and April of this year. Official data released by the Culture and Tourism Ministry revealed that Istanbul welcomed over half of all visitors so in the...