Crisis May Boost Tourism in Turkey

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.