These figures echo tourism statistics from the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism which reported a 15% increase in tourist arrivals for the first 5 months of 2008 compared to 2007.
One of the main reasons for the increase in popularity of Turkey is affordability according the Julian Walker, MD of specialist Turkish property agent, Spot Blue. "Countries that are less likely to be considered now because of the gulf between the buying power of the weak pound against the mighty euro are Spain, France and Cyprus – traditionally hugely popular overseas holiday destinations. The cost of living in Turkey is low compared to the UK and this is very attractive to British families hard hit by the credit crunch."
Demand for accommodation in the most popular locations such as Dalaman and Antalya is high. The Chairman of the Mediterranean Tourism Hotels Union (AKTOB) commented recently that "Antalya hotel occupancy rates are at the highest levels. Even finding a single room is difficult. We expect high occupancy to continue until mid-October."
Dominic Whiting, publisher of the Buying in Turkey Guide added, "Dalaman is one of the three gateway airports for the Turkish Mediterranean, so hundreds of thousands of British holidaymakers pass through each year on their way to resorts along the coast. But Dalaman itself is a stunning area where great beaches, a new golf course at Sarigerme, the lazy riverside resort of Dalyan and the posh Gocek marinas are attracting more and more British tourists and property buyers."
This rise in tourist numbers also spells good news for the holiday home market. Figures estimate that over 30,000 Britons already own property in Turkey with retirees accounting for a significant amount. Julian Walker comments, "We have seen increased demand over the last year from those seeking to retire abroad, especially FREDs (the demographic group of over fifties who are ‘facing retirement earnings doubts'). This group are actively seeking retirement locations where their pensions and savings will go further coupled with good weather, a low cost of living and reliable health care system."
