What happens during Ramadan in Turkey?

What happens during Ramadan in Turkey?

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...

Exports from Turkey to UK rise by 15%

Exports from Turkey to UK rise by 15% in first quarter of 2024

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...

Shopping in Turkey

What is shopping like in Turkey?

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...

Turkish Airlines adds more routes to Istanbul

Turkish Airlines are adding more routes from the UK to Istanbul

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,...

Where are Tulips grown? In Antalya

Where are Tulips grown? In Antalya, Turkey!

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...

Turkey 3rd largest exporter after UK and US

Does Turkey export any TV Series? It’s the 3rd largest exporter after UK and US

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...

Triple takeoff and landing at Istanbul Airport

Triple takeoff and landing at Istanbul Airport

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...

Migratory birds in Konya Turkey

A safe haven for migratory birds is found in Konya, Turkey

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...

Istanbul and Antalya the most visited cities

Istanbul and Antalya in Turkey are two of the most visited cities in the world

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...

Historic Sumela Monastery in Turkey

Historic Sumela Monastery in Turkey

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...

How many tourists did Turkey get in 2023

How many tourists did Turkey receive in 2023?

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...

Turkey proud of its first Astronaut

Turkey proud of its first Astronaut

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...

EasyJet flights from Manchester to Bodrum

Does EasyJet fly from Manchester to Bodrum? It does from 16th May and from just £33

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...

Are you a digital nomad?

Are you a digital nomad? An insight into Turkeys past cultural lifestyle

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...

Renting in Turkey

Has the rental permit requirement for renting out a Turkish property been postponed?

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...

Turkish holiday dates for 2024

Turkish holiday dates for 2024!!

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...

Turkey in top 7 countries of European electric car sales of 2023

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...

Can you charter a yacht in Turkey? It’s one of the top yacht charter destinations for 2024

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,...

Can you ski in Turkey? – Yes you can in beautiful Kars

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...

British Airways launches new flights for 2024

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...

Christmas in Turkiye: A Fusion of Traditions

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...

Türkiye’s Tourism Industry - Turkish Connextions

Industry Giants Express Their Optimism for Türkiye’s Tourism Industry

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...

A New Cruise Port Planned for Fethiye

A New Cruise Port Planned for Fethiye

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

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

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...

Olympic winning Athletes from the UK coming to Didim 2024

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...

Turkish Airlines Continues Its Global Expansion

Turkish Airlines Continues Its Global Expansion

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...

Turkiye is the 5th Most Popular Tourist Destination

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...

UK is a Key Tourism Market for Turkiye

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...

Wandering the streets of North Cyprus

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...

Turkiyes Cruise Industry On Course to Hit 1.5m Target

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...

Kumluca Bronze Age Shipwreck - Turkish Connextions

One of the World’s Oldest Shipwrecks Finally Reveals Its Treasured Cargo

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...

Türkiye’s Real Interest Rates Expected to Turn Positive By the End of the Year

Türkiye’s Real Interest Rates Expected to Turn Positive By the End of the Year

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...

New flights to Turkey starting from this October

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...

Prince Edward & President Erdoğan Discuss Non-Formal Education & Learning

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...

Turkey’s Presidential Cross-Continental Cycling Tour coming this October

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...

Mugla Province Is a Tourist Hotspot for the Brits

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...

Record Levels of British Tourists to Türkiye by the end of 2023

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...

The company of "PIXEL" at the 22nd Istanbul Theatre Festival. Photo by Ali Gurer.

Celebrating Culture and Creativity: The Istanbul Theatre Festival

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...

Turkiye’s Museum Cards & Increased Tourism

Turkiye’s Museum Cards & Increased Tourism

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’s Tourism Season is Flourishing - Turkish Connextions

Antalya’s Tourism Season is Flourishing

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...

Increased Passenger Numbers for Turkish Airports

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 - Turkish Connextions

Istanbul’s Çamlıca Tower – The Tallest in Europe

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

Troy Museum Pushing for 1m Visitors by 2024

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...

A Record Year Ahead for Cappadocia

A Record Year Ahead for Cappadocia as Tourist Numbers Steadily Increase

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...

Iznik, A Town of Great Cultural & Religious Importance, Is Submitted for UNESCO World Heritage Status.

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...

Turkiye Has The Cheapest Beach in Europe…

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...

How to spend a weekend in Bodrum!!

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’s Summer Festivals & Cultural Events

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...

Turkish Airlines Named Europe’s Best for the Eighth Time

Turkish Airlines Named Europe’s Best for the Eighth Time

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,...

Increased Cruise Ship Passengers in 2023 - Turkish Connextions

114% Increase in Cruise Ship Passengers from January to May 2023

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...

9.53m Tourists to Turkiye Between January & April 2023

9.53m Tourists to Turkiye Between January & April 2023

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...

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About Akbuk Akbuk is a place to stay for holiday makers who like to take quiet laid back holidays. It is also said to have the highest oxygen ratio and lowest humidity rate in Turkey. Akbuk’s atmosphere is recommended by doctors for people suffering with asthmatic conditions. Read More About Bodrum Bodrum is located in the Mugla province of Southwest Turkey, on the coast of...

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