Müberra Eresin, President of the Turkish Hotel Association (TÜROB), stated that while Turkey continued to attract interest in the UK, major cities were not receiving sufficient attention due to high food and beverage costs and a shortage of flights. Speaking to media about the WTM London Fair and the UK market, Eresin emphasized that WTM was one of the most important international fairs.
Eresin also noted that after Russia and Germany, the UK was Turkey’s third-largest source of visitors. By the end of September this year, Turkey had welcomed 3.7 million visitors from the UK, and she hoped this demand would continue to grow.
A Growing Perception of High Costs in Turkey
Eresin observed that while coastal regions like Antalya and Bodrum continued to attract British tourists, with Muğla’s coastal towns still very popular, the same could not be said for major cities like Istanbul. Rising costs, particularly in dining, seem to be dampening demand for urban destinations. “Unfortunately, a perception of Turkey as an expensive destination is beginning to form,” she added.
Need for More Budget Flights from the UK to Istanbul
Highlighting the need for more budget flights between the UK and Istanbul, Eresin emphasized that affordable flight options were essential to boost demand for city and cultural tours. She mentioned that although Wizz Air operated flights between London and Istanbul, the frequency was insufficient. Eresin underscored the importance of more budget airlines offering flights to Istanbul to support tourism.
