The Turkish hospitality industry projects a surge in tourism due to Eid al-Fitr, Nevruz, and Easter holidays, aiming for 65 million visitors and $64 billion in revenues this year. With a 15% increase in Eid bookings and favorable weather, hotels expect high occupancy rates and strong domestic and international tourist influx.
The Turkish hospitality industry anticipates a significant boost in tourism activity due to upcoming holidays such as Eid al-Fitr, Nevruz, Easter, and school breaks. Türkiye is targeting 65 million visitors and aims for approximately $64 billion in tourism revenues this year. Notably, the Eid holiday coincides with the start of school mid-term breaks, prompting many to travel to see family or visit resort areas.
Nevruz, celebrated on March 21, is expected to attract holidaymakers from Iran, the Middle East, and Turkic nations, according to local hoteliers. Additionally, the Easter holiday in April and Russia’s long Victory Day holiday in May are contributing factors to the optimistic outlook for the tourism sector. Bookings for Eid al-Fitr have reportedly increased by 15 percent compared to last year, heralding the commencement of the 2025 tourism season earlier than usual.
Mehmet İşler, vice president of the Turkish Hoteliers’ Federation (TÜROFED), expressed confidence that hotels will achieve a 100 percent occupancy rate during the Eid holiday. Accommodation prices in Aegean resorts range from 2,000 to 10,000 Turkish Liras, which includes breakfast.
Kaşif Kavaloğlu, president of the Mediterranean Touristic Hoteliers and Investors Association (AKTOB), echoed these sentiments, predicting a surge in tourist numbers. He stated that despite March being typically difficult for the tourism sector, April will be exceptionally busy.
In Antalya, favorable weather conditions with temperatures between 22-25 degrees Celsius are expected to attract more visitors. Moreover, Ismail Çağlar, a hotel manager, noted promising bookings from Europe for Easter and mentioned an expected influx of tourists from Turkic Republics, the Middle East, and Iran during the Nevruz holiday.
In summary, the Turkish tourism sector is set to experience a promising season fueled by multiple holidays including Eid al-Fitr, Nevruz, and Easter. With significant increases in bookings and favorable weather conditions, hoteliers anticipate full occupancy rates and increased economic activity. The alignment of these holidays presents a unique opportunity for the hospitality industry, poised for a strong influx of both domestic and international tourists.
Original Source: www.hurriyetdailynews.com
