Holiday resort Çeşme benefits from Visa-on-arrival application for Greek islands

With the implementation of visa-on-arrival, Çeşme has become one of the most preferred destinations for holidaymakers this year. The President of Çeşme Association of Touristic Hoteliers (ÇEŞTOB), stated that hotel occupancy rates had reached 100%, and the effect of Chios Island was also significant in this rate.

He said, “During this holiday, people prefer to split their vacations. With the start of the visa-on-arrival application, they are planning 2-3 days in Çeşme and 1-2 days in Chios Island, and also exploring different destinations from the same point. We are happy with the holiday.”

Çeşme, a district of Izmir, experienced an influx of holidaymakers from different parts of Turkey during the 9-day holiday period. Within the scope of the visa-on-arrival application, holidaymakers who wanted to spend part of their holidays on Greek islands and those who wanted to take tours formed long queues.

Yakup Demir, the President of ÇEŞTOB, expressed that there were more reservations than expected for the Ramadan Holiday in Çeşme. He said, “During this holiday, people prefer to split their vacations. With the start of the visa-on-arrival application, they are planning 2-3 days in Çeşme and 1-2 days in Chios Island, and also exploring different destinations from the same point. We are happy about the holiday. The holiday came at a good time, and with the beginning of the season and the arrival of spring, some people prefer to swim in the sea. Additionally, there are many holidaymakers using the pool. With the holiday lasting for 9 days, there were no traffic problems.”

‘THERE ARE MANY WHO COME TO GO TO CHIOS ISLAND’

Demir stated that the busiest days began today and will continue until the 12th, saying, “Our open-air hotels have almost reached 100% occupancy. Occupancy rates on other days are around 50-60%. As tourism professionals, we support the visa-on-arrival application. Due to visa issues, our society sometimes cannot travel abroad frequently. Visa-on-arrival adds significant movement to Çeşme and the areas where ships depart. For example, when I look at those who stay, almost one or two out of every ten rooms stay to go to Chios Island in the morning. Therefore, there are many who come to Çeşme to go to Chios Island. Thus, those who holiday in Çeşme also visit the local businesses for dinner in the evening and breakfast in the morning. Overall, I can say that the visa-on-arrival application has supported us psychologically and economically.”