Hakan Saatçioğlu, President of the Professional Hotel Managers Association (POYD), stated that tourism professionals are suffering due to rising costs and the suppression of the exchange rate. He warned that if this trend continues, the number of tourists could decrease in 2025.
Increase in visitor numbers
Hakan Saatçioğlu noted that the number of visitors to Antalya has increased by 20% compared to the previous year, with a target of 17 million tourists this year. Despite the rise in tourist numbers, Saatçioğlu highlighted that the cost of accommodating a tourist in a five-star hotel has reached up to 120 euros, causing difficulties for tourism professionals.
Impact of the exchange rate
Saatçioğlu emphasized that the exchange rates are below the necessary levels, putting additional pressure on the tourism industry. He expressed concerns that if this situation persists, there could be a decline in tourist numbers next year.
Türkiye no longer a cheap destination
According to Saatçioğlu, Türkiye is no longer considered a cheap destination, and it has now reached European standards. He also mentioned that there has been an increase in visitors from markets such as Poland, the Netherlands, and the UK. Additionally, there has been a significant number of reservations from German tourists, placing Türkiye slightly ahead of its competitor countries.
