Turkey holidays - the rise, fall and rise again...

Chris Butler February 22nd, 2019 6,873 views

After a couple of precarious years, Turkey's popularity with tourists has been restored. The Business Times reported the country was the fourth fastest-growing destination in 2018, 24% up year-on-year, with growth expected to continue in 2019. The fall of the Turkish lira and the British pound against the euro are seen as major contributing factors in the country's tourism resurgence.

Turkey's idyllic coastlines and fair prices have lured in tourists from all over for many years. Breathtaking areas on the Mediterranean Sea like Antalya and Bodrum are blessed with stunning beaches like Yahsi and Cirali, and are full of luxury hotels, waterparks and almost guaranteed sun. Charming old towns like Alanya and Belek in the Antalya region have an abundance of culture throughout, including ancient Roman archaeological sites. It's not hard to see why the country became one of the biggest holiday destinations.

However, the country has had its problems in recent times. An unstable government and, though rare, acts of terrorism disrupted tourist proceedings in 2016. Similarly, the UK has had its own issues, particularly after the value of the pound dropped against the dollar and euro following the 2016 EU referendum. Naturally, a decline in consumer spending transpired, hitting the tourism industry in Turkey in the process.

Midway through 2018, the Turkish lira fell to an all-time low against the pound. Shortly afterwards, travel companies reported a huge boost in Turkey holidays (some even overtook sales to Mallorca). 2018 saw some of the highest numbers of holidays booked to Turkey in many years, and its tourism trade is expected to have another great year in 2019.

If you want more information on why you should visit Turkey, see our Infographic guide. If you want to know where to stay, have a look at our guide to the best hotels in Turkey.

Deals to Turkey can be found on Cheekytrip.com but hurry, summer offers are selling fast!