Domestic tourism market shrinks by 20 pct in Turkey’s hotspot Bodrum due to high prices

Duvar English

President of the Bodrum Hoteliers Association (BODER), Ömer Faruk Dengiz, noted that the number of domestic tourists arriving in the popular vacation spot has diminished by 20 percent, compared to the first six months of 2023. 

Dengiz drew attention to the diverging patterns observed in domestic and international tourism markets, adding that the number of foreign visitors coming to Bodrum increased by 30 percent compared to last year, according to reporting by the Demirören News Agency (DHA). 

Even the increase seen in the domestic market during Eid al-Adha (late June) was now negligible. "After discussions with relevant agencies, the revenue target was met, but there was a decrease in last-minute reservations. Five-star hotels have a 90 percent occupancy rate, while three and four-star facilities have an occupancy rate between 60 to 70 percent," Dengiz said.

Dengiz also addressed criticisms about the high prices hotels and business owners in Bodrum have been setting. He believed the criticisms were unfounded, and held that prices only recently went up “a little bit,” after years of being among the most affordable vacation places in Europe.  

"There should be a distinction between 'worth it or not.' We offer the best service and the most affordable vacation opportunities. Bodrum and Turkey are worth it. Turkey has hotels among the top 100 in the world. We provide services and hospitality comparable to other competitive countries. In terms of service, Turkey is among the top three countries," claimed Dengiz. 

He added, "Prices start from 1,500 liras (45 dollars) per person for bed and breakfast and can go up to 10,000 euros due to the high season. There are options suitable for everyone." 

The current minimum wage in Turkey stands at 517 dollars. 

Dengiz also mentioned that the European championship’s indirect effect on tourism activity, with some people postponing their vacation plans. He highlighted factors such as two countries holding early elections, the start of the Olympics, and the bankruptcy of a travel agency in Germany. "There is a global contraction. The perception that there is only a contraction in Turkey is wrong," he said.

Dengiz stated that they were negatively affected by the gate visa application on the Greek islands. "The perception that Bodrum is expensive is constantly being pushed to the forefront. We naturally understand comparisons with the Greek islands, but this needs to be examined carefully," he said.

"Bodrum should not be compared with the island of Kos. Bodrum should be equated with Mykonos and Rhodes," Dengiz emphasized. "Prices on the islands vary, leading to inaccurate comparisons," he concluded.

A 2023 survey by the Consumer Association Federation revealed that 71.76 percent of consumers did not have the financial means to go on holiday, displaying the effects of the economic crisis.

The crisis has only deepened in 2024, with the government announcing public saving measures and denying mid-year adjustments to the minimum wage. The minimum wage has eroded by more than 60 dollars since the rise at the beginning of 2024.