Travel in Turkey: “Under the counter tourism” by Russians in Antalya

Antalya Trade and Industry Chamber (ATSO) President made statements regarding the sale of properties to foreigners in Antalya, especially in the Alanya and Konyaaltı districts, being used for purposes other than intended, which is causing significant harm to the hotel industry. He confirmed the accuracy of the findings and stated that they had also made similar observations. In an interview on Turkish media, he made the following statements:

FIGURES ARE UNFORTUNATELY TRUE

“We had already brought this issue to the attention of the Minister of Culture and Tourism, Mehmet Nuri Ersoy. I know that our ministry is also addressing this issue with sensitivity. The numbers provided by the Mediterranean Hoteliers and Operators Association (AKTOB) are unfortunately accurate. We are aware that a foreigner can buy 60-70 apartments. These data have reached us as well. Especially in the Hurma region of Konyaaltı and in Alanya, this problem exists.

THEY DON’T HAVE PERMITS

Of course, a tourist can come and buy an apartment in Antalya, but when the number reaches 60-70, and illegal hotel activities are involved, it becomes known as under the counter (underground) tourism. This should never be allowed. They don’t have permits. Without permits, there is no supervision. This means there is both a loss of tax revenue and a security issue. In fact, many countries and cities are grappling with this problem.

EXAMPLE DECISIONS ARE BEING MADE ABROAD

For example, the New York City Council recently made new decisions regarding short-term rentals. We have examined these decisions. For instance, if it’s a short-term rental, it should be reserved one month in advance, and only two people should be allowed to stay in the house. If it’s rented out like Airbnb, the homeowner should also be present. We need to engage in similar efforts. We are sharing information from the field to ensure that proper work is done.”

WHAT HAD HAPPENED?

The President of the Mediterranean Hoteliers and Operators Association (AKTOB) Board of Directors, had shared following about foreigners buying multiple properties in Antalya:

“It’s certainly nice that foreigners come to Antalya and buy homes. This is a type of tourism that has examples around the world. However, the problem starts when the sold 108,000 apartments are not sold to 108,000 different individuals. This is where the problem begins. In this list, one person has bought 80 houses. And the same person is renting these houses to their compatriots.

UNACCEPTABLE

So, they have created a rental system among themselves. Unfortunately, this system is completely unregulated. We want to prevent this informal economy.