Thursday, February 8, 2024
Turkey, renowned as one of the premier global tourism destinations, continued its impressive growth trajectory by hosting 56.7 million international visitors in 2023, marking a substantial 10% increase from the previous year. According to the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the country witnessed a remarkable 17% surge in tourism income, totaling $54.3 billion, with an average expenditure per overnight visitor reaching $99. These figures represent record-breaking milestones for Turkey in terms of both visitor numbers and tourism revenue.
Breaking Records in Tourism Demand
Turkey, celebrated for its diverse offerings spanning culture, art, gastronomy, cycling, religious tourism, as well as traditional beach holidays, enjoyed an unprecedented year in 2023. Building on this success, the country has set ambitious targets, aiming to attract 60 million tourists and generate $60 billion in tourism income by 2024. Emphasizing the importance of market diversity, Turkey plans to continue its efforts in established strategic markets while also exploring new target markets in the coming year.
Pioneering Sustainability Initiatives
At the heart of Turkey’s tourism triumph lies a strategic commitment to sustainability and inclusivity. Through responsible and sustainable policies, the country has transformed its tourism sector into a resilient and environmentally conscious industry. In a groundbreaking move, Turkey became the first country globally to formalize an agreement with the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) at the governmental level in 2022. This agreement, implemented as a sectoral requirement, led to the establishment of the Turkey Sustainable Tourism Program in cooperation with the GSTC. This program not only recognizes and rewards practitioners of sustainable tourism but also fosters trust and credibility among visitors. By offering diverse sustainable experiences, including eco-friendly accommodations, cycling, and trekking, Turkey aims to deepen the connection between its rich heritage and those who appreciate it.
Turkey: A Year-Round Gem
Situated at the crossroads of Europe and Asia and blessed with stunning natural beauty and a wealth of historical sites, Turkey shines as a year-round destination for travelers. The country’s diverse attractions, ranging from vibrant city escapes to thrilling sports activities and cultural festivals, continue to captivate visitors worldwide. Beyond its renowned landmarks, Turkey boasts hidden archaeological treasures, which are meticulously preserved through ongoing excavation and restoration projects. As a testament to its commitment to heritage preservation, Turkey expanded its archaeological endeavors to 720 projects in 2023, with plans to further increase to 750 in 2024. Additionally, the country offers enchanting night visits to popular archaeological sites such as Ephesus, Hierapolis, Patara, and Side, allowing visitors to experience the magic of Turkey’s cultural heritage under the stars.
Sunday, April 28, 2024
Sunday, April 28, 2024
Sunday, April 28, 2024
