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There may be a boom in Turkey’s 2009 summer tourism season, according to Adnan Gunes, contracts manager for Kuoni, the world-renowned Swedish tour operator. While the economic crisis and the rise of the dollar are adversely affecting the real economy, this could be an opportunity for the tourism industry. Due to the greenback’s rise, Turkey is now cheaper for European tourists, said Gunes. Danish, Norwegian and Swedish tourists flocked to Antalya, Alanya, Kars, Marmaris and Cesme this past season, totaling 58,000 tourists, he said.
“The crisis is affecting every country. No one is traveling anymore. Tourism has all but stopped in the Canary Islands, Miami and ski resorts for the winter season. If Turkey makes a smart move right now, and really sorts its tourism policy out, this crisis could work in its favor,” said Gunes.
“The middle class in Europe has been hit by the crisis. The demand for expensive countries has fallen. People have started canceling tours to Italy, Spain and Greece. Turkey is the cheapest country for tourism. Then comes Bulgaria and Egypt. The U.S. and the Far East are distant dreams for Europe’s middle class,” he said. “Tourists will now go to inexpensive countries,” Gunes said. “I really think we will bring in 100,000 tourists. Miami, Italy, the Canary Islands and Greece will take a hard hit. In order to keep up with the tourism boom, we are going to invest in Cesme, Foca and Gumuldur. If this crisis had hit in the summer season, we would have hit the jackpot,” he said. “Let’s be cautious of overbooking because there will be a boom. Germans, Scandinavians and English will flock to cheap countries.”
The crisis will, however, affect regions that cater to domestic tourists, said Gunes. “In this respect, Cesme will be hit the hardest. After that it might be Bodrum. Alanya, Side and Marmaris will have a really good season. Cesme will be hit in two ways. It appeals to domestic tourists for two months. And domestic tourists will avoid high prices,” said Gunes. “Cesme should turn to foreign tourists and make 80 percent of its agreements with foreigners. Aside from Cesme, Turkish tourism will experience a boom.”
Theodore is the Co-Founder and Managing Editor of TravelDailyNews Media Network; his responsibilities include business development and planning for TravelDailyNews long-term opportunities.
