News About Our Cheap Flights To Turkey From The UK

Each week we add all the latest news on flights and holidays in Turkey. From what's going on in the resorts to any new travel ideas from Aegean Flights, this is where to look.

___

Didim’s Prize

21 June 2009

Altinkum and its neighbouring Didim have always featured strongly in the Holidays4U programme, and we are proud to be associated with a resort that has just been voted the third cleanest municipality in the whole of Turkey.

The award has been made by the Ministry of Environment and Forestry.

___

Sign Of The Times

07 June 2009

An indication of just how popular Turkey has become as a holiday destination comes from foreign currency provider, Travelex, who told Timesonline Travel that while demand for the euro had been flat this year, there had been a 21,5 per cent increase for Turkish lira.

___

Don’t Forget The Sunscreen

31 May 2009

With temperatures set to soar into the eighties in Turkey this week, here’s a reminder to pack the sunscreen.

However, the important word here is “pack” because, although restrictions on taking liquids through security search have been in place for nearly three years many travellers are still taking their suntan lotions, gels, creams and perfumes in their hand baggage, and as a result having them confiscated as they pass through security.

According to Chris Davis, head of operations at Newcastle International some 800 liquid items are confiscated every day from passengers’ hand baggage including alcoholic spirits, champagne, wine, bottles of water, fizzy pop and suntan lotion. Some people have even had jars of Marmite and bottles of tomato ketchup removed.

Apart from creating a major waste disposal cost for the airport, explaining the reason for the removals slows down the security clearance procedures for everybody; and remember, if you need something to drink on the flight or want to take on board other liquid items, they can be bought in duty free after passing through security.

___

Warning On Paradise

31 May 2009

Voices, the Altinkum-based English language newspaper, is running a story that may affect investors who have taken, or who are planning to take, a stake in the Paradise Bay Resort in Didim being marketed on web sites.

According to the report, plans for the luxury resort, which includes a six-screen cinema, retail complex and an ice-skating rink and more than 550 residential units, have not been passed by the Didim Council.

This site has no way of confirming the Voices story or the claims of the Paradise Bay Resort promoters and is not taking sides, but suggests that before signing on the line potential purchasers make their own enquiries as they should for any other deal.

___

Talking Turkey

24 May 2009

The reservations staff at Holidays4U the Turkish holiday specialists, know how popular Turkey has become as a holiday destination this year, and others are confirming this.

Today we have travel writer Gareth Huw Davies writing in the Mail on Sunday: “Turkey is one of the hits of 2009 as an outside-the-eurozone destination, with a big urge in interest from people looking for low-cost stays in the sun” and Paul Kehoe, chief executive of Birmingham Airport reporting that charter flights to Turkey from his airport were 108.7 per cent higher in April than in the same month last year.

At the same time, this week the Turkish Tourism Ministry reported that the number of foreign visitors to the country rose more than 6 per cent to 1,750,000.

And the tourist season has only just started.

___

Didim Award

24 May 2009

Didim has been acclaimed as the cleanest town in the Aydin region, in the “Most Environmentalist Municipality” contest held throughout Turkey by the Ministry of Environment and Forestry.

At the same time Didim beaches again qualified for the Blue Flag beaches award issued by the Turkey Environment and Education Foundation.

It is only fair to report that the awards are greeted with a fair amount of scepticism by some the readers of Voices the English language newspaper that reported the findings.

___

Don’t Gamble On Prices Tumbling

17 May 2009

Although the credit crunch is having an effect on holiday bookings, do not bank on cut price late bookings this year, according to Timesonline travel writer Steve Keenan.

He reports that while some of the big operators are reporting a drop in sales, they have also cut capacity in anticipation of the downturn.

However, the article also reports that all-inclusive and package holidays have actually risen, particularly to Turkey and Egypt and Lawrence Hunt, director of web site lowcostbeds.com says that Turkey is selling strongly and he anticipates a shortage of both seats and hotel beds in some areas.

Mr Hunt adds: “The consumer that books late is taking a gamble that flight prices to the western Med will remain low, but there is a risk that these seat prices will sky rocket in June.”

Be warned!

___

Antalya For Property Bargains

17 May 2009

Using the star-studded opening party for the £1billion 560-room Mardan Palace Hotel in Antalya as an excuse to write about the area, Mail on Sunday property writer Gary Edwards, extols the virtues of buying a property in Turkey, particularly in the Antalya area.

Azerbaijani billionaire, Telman Ismailov, chairman of Russia’s biggest property developers AST, is opening the Mardan Palace with a glitzy party, with guests including Sharon Stone and Richard Gere being entertained with performances by Mariah Carey and Tom Jones. He has also built himself a 40-room £50million mansion in the grounds of the hotel and five luxury villas for visiting friends and family.

Mr Edwards does not suggest ex-pat Brits should invest at such a level but points out that there are apartments and small villas available for as little as £100,000 and highlights a detached six-bedroom villa with three bathrooms and bordered by forest for £245,000.

His article ends with the information that: “Antalya is the same flight time from the UK as Tenerife, but property is about a quarter of the price.”

___

Everybody Is Doing The Turkey Trot

10 May 2009

As temperatures begin to surge in Turkey – it’s hitting 80 F today in Marmaris – everybody seems to be jumping on the travel to Turkey bandwagon.

We have Edwin Reeves, travel writer in the Sunday Telegraph leading a two page feature with the words: “Turkey is currently great value for British travellers…” and a picture with the unnecessary caption shows: “Turkish delights: the Aegean coastline offers hidden bays and unbelievable water clarity.”

True, Mr Reeves’s article is extolling the virtues beyond the traditional holiday centres, but there is no reason why tourists cannot enjoy both sides of Turkey.

For instance, Frank Corless of the Sunday Express discovered Sedir Island, only a short drive from Marmaris and he luxuriated “in the relaxing calm of an unspoilt beach resort backed by pine-clad peaks.

This is the spot where, legend has it Mark Antony displayed his undying affection for Cleopatra, Queen of Egypt, “by creating this beach just for her, using barges full of sand ferried from her home city Alexandria.”

Legend or not, it appears that geological experts have discovered this type of sand doesn’t exist anywhere else in Turkey and that northern Egypt was its most likely source.”

And a feature in the Times highlighted Altinkum and its allure for British families. Locals are upset by the reporter’s likening of Altinkum to the Spanish resort of Benidorm, which may not be the most flattering comparison, but while the locals may not relish the description, they should remember that Benidorm was the most popular destination for British tourists for decades.

Finally, like it or not, locals should listen to Gordon Dewar, managing director of Edinburgh Airport, who reveals that several airlines are responding to the growing demand for holidays in Turkey, and expects numbers to soar as the ever-canny Scots see the value of their pounds sink against the euro and find they can stretch their holiday budgets further in Turkey.

___

Ferry Fast

10 May 2009

A new twice-weekly ferry service from Altinkum to Kos is being launched at the end of this month.

The ferry will leave Altinkum at 9 am and arrive back at 5.45 pm. Services to Samos and Patmos, two other Greek islands are under consideration according to Voices the locally produced English language newspaper.

___

Flexible Stay Demand Grows

27 April 2009

Demand is growing for holidays that don't fit the traditional 1 or 2 week stays, said a new survey out today. Around 35% of holidaymakers are now looking for 'odd durations' such as 10 or 11night stays. Luckily with Aegean Flights you can book any combination of outbound and inbound flights to get the stay in Turkey you want. You can also of course book one way flights.

___

Turkey Is Ideal Say Tourists

26 April 2009

Others are now discovering what Holidays4U has been preaching for the last two decades, that Turkey is now the ideal holiday location for families – and for those seeking a holiday home or buy-to-let properties.

The current slump in sterling against the euro, that has changed holiday habits of the past 20-30 years, has caused millions to realise that the reliable climate, numerous beach resorts, good quality accommodation and superb activities on water and land, as well as a fantastic night life and ancient cultures make this one fabulous holiday destination.

But it comes at a price – not the price you pay for a cup of coffee or relaxed dinner - but at the price that will be paid for the rapid development of the area in terms of the sheer volume of tourists. The Culture and Tourism Ministry in Turkey has announced ambitious aims for the next 15 years including the creation of seven tourist development corridors and nine cultural and tourism zones to attract 40 million visitors, against last year’s record 26.3m visitors.

The plans include a new airport, 11 cruise ports, 10 tourism cities and nine marinas to be completed in the next five years.

As well as increased flights from the UK and Europe from both scheduled and charter airlines, direct routes are being opened to Canada, New York, Singapore, Johannesburg and Seoul.

Despite the down turn of the British economy Turkey is anticipating a further 20 per cent rise in British tourists this year, which means there will be less chance of cut-price last minute deals.

But this is all good news for property owners, particularly those buying as an investment. Joseph Upchurch, managing director of local real estate developer Aston Lloyd says: “Two of our developments are under construction with one nearing completion, which is a positive reflection of the strength of Turkey and the opportunities that exist for investors looking to make real returns in turbulent times. Turkey is one of the top places in the world to buy property right now. We are building on the back of in-depth analysis, not speculation.

“Those with existing properties to rent in key tourism locations, such as Antalya, are set to benefit this year as holiday villa rentals become increasingly popular.”

But don’t just take our word for it, take time to read travel writer Gareth Huw Davies in today’s Mil on Sunday who lit his favourite things to do on “the gorgeous stretch of seaside around Antalya – the Turquoise Coast.”

___

Multiple Berths At Didim’s Marina

26 April 2009

The $50m Didim Marina is due to open at the end of May and boat owners are being offered a discount of 15 per cent on initial berthing fees. According to Voices, the local English language newspaper, those taking out annual contracts will have an additional three months free.

The Voices report says the marina, which stretches over 287,000 sq. m, will have 580 berths at sea and a dry dock capacity for 600 yachts.

Other amenities include a yacht club with restaurant, café, bar, resting/overnight stay accommodation, swimming pool, a fitness area, sauna, massage, tennis court and basketball field, all this plus a heliport, shopping centre, supermarket, yacht equipment shops as well as a ferry boat operator, and customs and port authority facilities.

___

Allow Extra Time If Travelling To Bournemouth Airport

26 April 2009

Road re-surfacing works are scheduled to take place in Parley Lane, the main access road to Bournemouth Airport, from April 27th for a minimum of 10 days. The airport authorities warn that this could lead to delays for all traffic travelling to and from the airport, and ask that passengers leave plenty of time for their journey.

___

Airport News

05 April 2009

Newcastle - Congratulations to Newcastle International airport that has been voted one of the best airports of its size in the UK, according to a customer survey published in Which? Holiday magazine. Newcastle scored highly in all assessed categories, from parking and check-in to shops and airside amenities. Dave Laws, chief executive says: “In many ways, Newcastle International offers customers the best of both worlds – it’s small enough to be friendly, yet large enough to provide flights to a large number of exciting destinations across the globe. Holidays4U, one of the first tour operators to recognise the importance of using “local” airports flies thousands of holidaymakers to Turkey every year from Newcastle International.

Glasgow – In an effort to encourage Scots to book their family holidays early, Glasgow Airport is offering a £1,000 prize to one lucky holidaymaker. It’s “Time to Fly” campaign is urging holidaymakers to book now to get the best savings, offering the prize to encourage holidaymakers to book early this year. Advertisements are being posted around the City and the airport, adding that with fewer holidays on sale this year, anyone waiting until the summer to get a last-minute bargain might be disappointed. Good advice.

___

Cheers For Turkey

22 March 2009

Spring is here and the summer holidays are just around the corner, and it is amazing just how many travel writers are now highlighting the delights of Turkey that Holidays4U has been offering for 15 years.

In a Spring Holiday eight-page special published by the Daily Mail this past week, Turkey’s Turquoise coast features as a front-page headline, and a whole page is devoted to the various resorts, golden beaches and historical sites.

The author, Chris Leadbeater, says: “Few holiday destinations are as aptly titled as Turkey’s Turquoise Coast. Huddled on the southwest corner of the Turkish mainland, where the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas meet, here is a coastline dotted with soft beaches, inviting resorts and a few big-city thrills, all of them fringed by water as blue as the area’s name suggests.”

In a separate feature, the Daily Mirror has rated two of Turkey’s beaches among the top ten European beaches for sunny family breaks. Turkey is the only country to get two mentions.

___

Airport News

15 March 2009

Newcastle

Newcastle Airport has slashed a third off the price of a week’s holiday car parking for the rest of 2009 for those who book their space before the end of March.

Under the offer, a seven or eight day period in the long-stay car park will cost just £29, a saving of £16 from the standard pre-book charges.

But remember you must book before March 31 to snap up this price.

Cardiff

Cardiff International Airport officially changed its name on March 2nd to Cardiff Airport and Maes Awyr Caerdydd to mark its Welsh national identity; the change coincided with the announcement of major plans to redevelop and enhance the airport’s terminal and approach areas.

Work starts in October and will see the arrivals and departure halls linked with the provision of new retail and food outlets, and is expected to be completed by the summer of 2010.

___

Retire To Turkey – You Know It Makes Sense

15 March 2009

“Turkey is one of the few logical choices for those seeking to balance lifestyle and financial advantage in their retirement,” says Julian Walker from Turkish property specialist Spot Blue. Of course, you might say, he would say that.

But the evidence is mounting that Turkey is featuring prominently in the plans of Britons looking to retire overseas, according to Zoe Dare Hall, of the Daily Mail property section.

She says a warm and sunny climate and, crucially, no euro, makes the attractions obvious.

It also helps that the cost of living is up to 60 per cent cheaper than in the UK.

The article also quotes Stephen Hughes, director of Foreign Currency Direct, who has seen a 36 per cent increase in British clients changing their sterling to Turkish lira in the past year, most of them pensioners retiring to Turkey.

With property prices having risen between 10-15 per cent over the past year and a three storey, three bedroom prestige villa available from £175,000 in Bodrum, or go to the less developed Dalaman area and you could find an apartment near a golf course and marina for under £50,000.

And it doesn’t need to cost the earth to get to your new home either; the aegeanflights.com web site offers some of the cheapest flights to both Bodrum and Dalaman all year round with flights from under £40 for early bookers, with winter flights from Birmingham, Gatwick and Manchester and summer flights from a range of regional airports it makes sense to book early and fly cheaper.

___

Turkish Value

22 February 2009

It’s not only the holiday pages in newspapers which are recommending Turkey as a holiday hot spot this year; the money pages of the Mail on Sunday are also jumping on the band wagon, pointing out that while sterling has “plummeted in value against the euro in the last year” the Turkish lira remains good value – in fact people changing £500 last Friday (February 20) would have received 1,159 Turkish lira against just 1,111 lira a year ago says writer Jo Thornhill.

As is the norm in such articles, she has identified a 27-year old marketing manager who has been put off other European destinations because of the euro exchange rate, and has opted for Bodrum instead. Wise lady.

___

Edinburgh Airport £40m Expansion Programme

22 February 2009

Edinburgh’s Capital Airport is set to take on Europe’s best with a £40m terminal extension including a new, purpose-built security screening area, new bars, shops and restaurants and, more space to relax.

The project is the first phase of a planned £100m investment over the next five years, and will be met entirely by BAA at no cost to the Scottish taxpayer.

___

Telegraphing The News

22 February 2009

Thinking of visiting Turkey this year (and you probably are if you’re reading this page) then it’s worth looking at the Daily Telegraph web site (telegraph.co.uk) on travel which gives as comprehensive a listing as you are likely to find covering the “natural beauty, cultural richness and excellent value” which makes Turkey the hot spot for this year. Writer Nick Trend also throws in ten tips to help save cash and details of places to visit and a bit of history as well.

___

More Evidence Of Turkey’s Good Value

26 January 2009

Further proof that the pound in your pocket goes further in Turkey than in the euro-zone comes from the latest survey from the Post Office.

Comparing the cost of buying a cup of coffee, bottle of Heineken and a can of Coca Cola in a café, a bottle of mineral water, sun cream and insect repellent in a supermarket, a packet of Marlboro lights, and a three course evening meal with wine in a local restaurant, the survey found the cost in Turkey would be some £12 cheaper than in Spain.

The Post Office’s Worldwide Holiday Costs barometer measured the costs of tourist staples in 27 countries and found that Turkey, Bulgaria and Croatia are cheaper than any of the euro-zone countries, although Thailand and South Africa were cheaper for those prepared to travel further afield.

___

Top Five

25 January 2009

Turkey features naturally into the top five hotspot destinations featured in a Travel Supplement in the Mail on Sunday this week with the comment: “Turkey is set to be even more popular in 2009. The country has some fantastic four and five-star luxury resorts, with infinity pools, spas and facilities often found only in long-haul destinations.”

___

Happy Returns

25 January 2009

Does it make sense to go back to a spot where you have had a fabulous holiday, or will the happy memories be erased? asks Alice Hart-Davis in the Daily Mail yesterday.

Having spent a “brilliant, if blisteringly hot week” near Fethiye five years ago, she returned last year to find everything is as good as she remembered with breathtakingly gorgeous scenery, impressive food and stacks of activities for each member of the family.

Some things never change!

___

Turkey Plans For Growth

25 January 2009

While Britain is in the throes of a recession with the economy expected to fall up to two per cent this year, Turkish economists and businessmen expect their economy to grow 0.4 per cent this year, according to the Central Bank’s biweekly survey published on its website.

Consumer prices are expected to rise 7.46 per cent over the next 12 months.

___

Happy New Year

01 January 2009

Happy New Year from Aegean Flights and a reminder that Turkey is not just for Christmas – it’s a year-round destination.

___

Turkey – It’s A Deal

28 December 2008

Leon Wilczynski knows a thing or two about making the right choices. He’s already won more than £50,000 in prizes after appearing in 20 different television quiz shows.

Now the Huddersfield-based father of three has scooped a £29,000 prize on Deal or No Deal and is planning a holiday to Turkey with his wife, Casey.

Another good choice!

___

Turkey Prepares For Record Tourist Season

28 December 2008

The slump in the pound against the euro – it’s almost reached one-for-one – means Turkey is bound to be the holiday destination of choice for more British tourists than ever before.

Last year, it edged out the Costas in the holiday stakes, and 2009 is set to be a block-buster with the Turkish lira proving better value than the euro.

In no particular order, here are some of this weekend’s press comments:

“The Crafty Traveller” in the Daily Mail says: “Turkey looks as if it will be very popular in 2009. Day-to-day costs are markedly lower than in the euro zone destinations such as Spain and the pound has dropped only about five per cent against the Turkish lira.”

The Sunday Express in an article on “Credit Crunch Holidays That the Euro Can’t Spoil” says: “Even if you get a good package deal, meals and drinks can be extortionate in countries that have the euro. The Turkish lira will buy you a lot more meze (typical Turkish starters) for your money and there are plenty of bargains to be found in the bazaars and markets where you can barter prices down to at least half the asking price. The resort of Akyaka is ideal for families, with a long, safe beach and a laid-back peaceful atmosphere.”

And The Sun, in a top ten choice says: “Turkey is showing a massive rise in popularity as we look for cheap, all-inclusive deals.”

And, on a more personal note, I have just come back from a two-day visit to Bruges with my wife. On a freezing-cold day we returned to a local café we visited a year ago for a bubblingly hot bowl of home made soup and a glass of wine each. A year ago the snack cost us 18 euros – then the equivalent of around £12; this year the euro price was the same but in sterling it worked out at £18.

___

Pound’s Pounding Makes Turkey Even More Attractive

14 December 2008

The pound is taking a beating in the foreign exchange markets at the moment falling to its lowest ever level against the euro and crumpling against the dollar, and it is making Turkey the destination of choice for holidaymakers in 2009.

Where the euro, just over a year ago, was worth less than 60p it is now equal to £1; and while only a year ago the pound would buy more than $2 you would be lucky to get $1.40 today.

While the Turkish lira has also strengthened against the pound, the rise has not been as rapid and the cost of living in Turkey is still considerably lower than the euro zone, allowing your pounds to go further.

The past year has seen Turkey over take the Costas of Spain as the favourite choice for British holidaymakers, and all the signs are pointing to an even bigger growth next year. All the more reason to book early, because according to a report by the Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA) this week there is a strong chance that there will be cuts in market capacity in the coming year which, says ABTA, “could lead to further rises in the cost of package holidays.”

___

Airport News

14 December 2008

* Congratulations to Newcastle Airport that has come top in a survey of scheduled and charter flight punctuality at airports across the UK published by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).

From July to September nearly four out of every five scheduled flight arrivals and departures were on time – eight per cent higher than the national average, while charter flight punctuality was 13 per cent higher than the national average.

* Birmingham International Airport is celebrating its busiest ever November, handling 620,283 passengers, an increase of 1.6 per cent over the corresponding month last year and allowing chief executive Paul Kehoe to say: “It is great news, particularly given the current economic conditions.”

* Manchester Airport advises that as a result of new December rail time tables, passengers should check their train times to and from the airport before travelling.

___

Bodrum, The New Marbella

30 November 2008

“Increasing disillusionment with Spain’s high rises and prices is driving buyers away from the costas to this corner of the Aegean, where properties can be no higher than two storeys and you can still buy new-build holiday apartments from £35,000,” writes Zoe Dare Hall in the property section of the Mail on Sunday today.

Having covered the fact that some 22,000 Brits have already bought properties in Turkey and that Turkey is becoming the destination of choice for a growing number of tourists, Ms Dare Hall says: “Bodrum is Turkey’s Marbella, catering as much to the elite as the mass market. It’s where the jet set come to party.”

She continues: “Designer villas are cropping up all over the peninsula” and she highlights Yalikavak, not long ago a tiny fishing village that has become “the Beverley Hills” of Bodrum with some properties on offer around £1.7m.

Most Brits have a more modest taste and are looking for, and finding, properties in the £100,000 range.

Other advantages include a cost of living some 60 per cent lower than in Britain, no need for heating nine months of the year and, thanks to mushrooming new development, good shops, a year-round community and a plush new cinema with all the latest films in English.

___

Stretch Your Sterling

16 November 2008

British holidaymakers are switching in their hundreds of thousands to all-inclusive resorts in Egypt and Turkey, according The Independent’s travel expert Simon Calder.

He reports on the latest travel market intelligence from specialists Ascent MI that British travellers are forsaking the euro area in record numbers and that the destinations of choice are Turkey and Egypt both of which saw a 30 per cent plus rise in tourists this year while European destinations like Spain and Portugal were big losers.

With sterling seemingly in free fall against both the dollar and the euro as a result of the credit crunch, demand for Turkey holidays in 2009 is again expected to soar.

___

Turkey’s Duty Free Prices To Be Monitored

11 November 2008

A crack down on companies charging tourists inflated prices in Turkish airport duty-free shops has been promised by Ertugrul Gunay, Turkey’s minister of culture and tourism.

Speaking at the World Travel Market in London, Mr Gunay said such practices would no longer be tolerated. He said: “There are a lot of private companies out for a killing and they think they can charge what they please. But in the run-up to 2010, when Istanbul becomes European capital of culture, we will be dealing with these companies in an appropriate way and these practices will cease to exist. We will be conducting checks and controls to bring them to heel.”

Turkey reportedly has some of the most expensive airport duty free prices in Europe with prices up to four times higher than other countries. This has led to complaints that foreign tourists are being exploited

___

H4u’s Help For Orphans

09 November 2008

Inspired by the Duchess of York’s TV programme highlighting the plight of Turkish orphans, Holidays4U has launched a project to provide help for local orphanages in the Milas and Muglia areas.

A locally-based representative of the company says that donations of any unwanted or unused clothes, linen, towels or toys for boys or girls of any age, from babies to young adults, is welcome.

She urged local families to get out their knitting needles and help by knitting blankets or clothes and dropping them into the Holidays4U resort offices.

Holidaymakers can join in too and donate items they do not wish to pack for their return home.

___

Didim Marina Attracting The Mega Rich

09 November 2008

A Hollywood “A” list celebrity is heading a high-powered list of mega-rich yacht owners looking for a berth when the $52m (£30m plus) Didim Marina opens next May Day.

According to an exclusive interview with Voices, the local English language newspaper, the actor, who remains anonymous, was revealed by Murat Yaprak, the marina manager who also said the site was creating a buzz in the international yachting arena.

The marina will provide 625 berths at sea and its dry dock will have capacity for 600 yachts.

Mr Yaprak expects to reveal the yearly cost of berthing in January or February and says: “The marina will attract yacht owners from the Middle East and across Europe. But importantly, it will be catering for the mega-yacht owners, the super-rich who have yachts that cannot berth at the likes of Turgutries, near Bodrum.”

Other amenities will include a yacht club, a heliport, a shopping centre and restaurants and bars.

The story arrives as a report in the Hurriyet Daily News reports that Mugla is to become a yachting capital of the world and, with the help of part of a six million euro donation from the European Union, its aim is to build a worldwide yacht-building brand.

___

Airport News

09 November 2008

· The public are invited to attend the next meeting of the Cardiff International Consultative Committee that is being held on Tuesday November 18 at 1800 hours in the main terminal building. There will be an opportunity after the main proceedings for questions from the floor. To register for attendance phone 01446 712528 or email jocelyn.barton@cwl.aero.

· Leeds Bradford International Airport has unveiled a £28m development of its passenger terminal to “deliver a step change in the passenger experience at Yorkshire’s gateway as the airport prepares for the next decade of air travel,” a statement says.

___

Didim Even More Tourist Friendly In 2009

19 October 2008

Less hassle and quieter nights are promised for Didim next year. Tourist and local authority bosses meeting last week emphasised the need to eradicate negatives such as sound pollution, hassle and bars continuing to serve beyond their allotted hours, according to a report in Voices the local English language newspaper.

Head official Ali Katirci said he had heard tourists complaining about “hassle boys” saying that 25 business were closed for this reason in the past season and he added: “You cannot have tourism by pulling people by the arms. This is a serious issue and we will look into it. We will get rid of this hassle disease.”

Mayor Mumin Kamaci said he was bothered by the sound pollution in Altinkum and added that this problem will certainly be addressed next year. Others said that restaurants opening until 3am with some playing loud music after certain hours must be stopped.

On a more positive note, Mr Katirci said: “One of the biggest marinas in Turkey is being built in Didim and big investors are interested in tourism areas. Didim will be a star of tourism” and could rival Antalya in coming years.

In a separate announcement it was revealed that the European Union made a Euro 340,000 (£270,000) grant for the Meandros Village project, which aims to highlight the historical and cultural assets of Didim and its environs.

___

Boost For Turkey’s Golfing Future

19 October 2008

A further indication of Turkey’s rising status in the golfing world is that Turkey is to host the world amateur team golf championship in 2012.

More than three quarters of the delegates attending the Golf Federation’s meeting in Adelaide, Australia voted in favour of Turkey to host this prestigious event.

The Championship will be held at the Comelia Golf Club, Gloria Golf Club and Antalya Golf Club in Belek, Antalya.

___

Prestwick Flights For 2009

10 October 2008

Turkish holiday specialists Holidays4U has added Prestwick to the list of regional airports that it will be using in 2009.

Managing director Karen Vyse has announced that during the peak period between June 16 and July 28 the company will be operating a weekly flight from Prestwick.

Holidays4U recognised the importance and convenience of bringing flights to the customer by offering regional airport departures more than a decade ago and now offers flights to Turkey’s popular resorts from 17 regional airports.

As well as Prestwick the company has added Bristol, Belfast, Bournemouth, Doncaster Robin Hood, Humberside and Leeds-Bradford in the past year.

___

Forget Birdies And Eagles – Think Turkey

05 October 2008

Turkey has been crowned “Best Golf Destination of the Year in Europe” by the International Association of Golf Tour Operators, according to the web site Property Wire.

The reports says: “Sitting outside the euro-zone and only a short flight from the UK, astute players are now realising that world-class golf in the Mediterranean doesn’t just mean Spain and Portugal.

“With the construction of international class courses well underway and more planned, Turkey really is golf’s next big thing.”

It points out that the Turkish Golf Federation has “ambitious” plans for 100 courses nationwide with big names in the world of golf design, including Nick Faldo and Colin Montgomerie, already active in the country.

Bodrum now has three golf courses open or in the final stages of construction with four more planned for the area.

The Hilton Hotel Group is creating a euros100m luxury resort around an 18-hole golf course at Sarigerme, just 15km from Dalaman airport that is due to open next year.

___

Fire Destroys Popular Restaurant

05 October 2008

Regular travellers to Altinkum will be upset to learn that The Casserole Restaurant, just off Ege Caddessi and very popular with British tourists, has been destroyed by fire.

Fortunately there were no reported injuries, but according to a report in Voices, the local English language newspaper “the ferocity of the fire completely destroyed the restaurant in about ten minutes.”

___

Telegraphing Good Advice

28 September 2008

The message could not be clearer from Sophie Butler, travel writer for the Sunday Telegraph, who leads that papers 12 page travel section today with the headline “Why We’re All Going To Turkey” accompanied by a full-page picture of the Temple of Apollo at sunset.

Ms Butler says it is remarkable how determined most people are to cling to their annual break, despite the turmoil in the financial markets and the travel industry.

Most of her two-page article is devoted to the best ways to cut costs and the main advice is to continue to avoid the euro zone next year, with Turkey bound to be a hot favourite. But she warns her readers that as a result of the collapse of XL Leisure and others there are likely to be 10 per cent fewer package holidays on sale next year meaning there will be fewer last-minute bargains available, so it is best to buy early for the best prices and fares.

At Holidays4U we are already finding demand for 2009 is well ahead of this time a year ago, as well as our popular winter programme.

___

Winter Sun

28 September 2008

Antalya on Turkey’s coast is one of half a dozen destinations selected by the Sun newspaper for “the cheapest, hottest and nearest” for winter sun breaks. It says the resort averages six hours sun a day with temperatures of more than 22C - that is 72 F.

___

Help Is Available

28 September 2008

A group of English-speaking Turkish professionals in Didim has launched one of the first Citizens’ Advice Bureau-style helpdesks in Turkey for British people seeking advice on coping with living there, according to Voices, the English language newspaper published there.

The paper says: “A raft of services will include help regarding issues affecting all aspects of living in Turkey including buying and selling a property, getting the necessary visas, schools, hospitals and other bodies.”

The association will also raise awareness of British peoples; problems in Didim within Government departments and highlight these to the Press and other media.

The idea is that of 27-year old Fulya Onder who spent 10 years working in Shropshire and included two years working at the Telford branch of the Citizens’ Advice Bureau.

___

Mirror Tips Turkey For Late Breaks

22 September 2008

“With great beaches and delicious food (beer costs a third of the price in Britain) head for Euro-free Turkey where, even in November temperatures still hit 75F” is the advice of Daily Mirror journalist Vicky Mayer this week.

She continues by reporting in detail on the various delights of Altinkum, Olu Deniz, Bodrum, Icmeler, Marmaris, Antalya and Gumbet.

Vicky, of course, is only emphasising what more than a million Brits have already discovered for themselves this year so far.

Official figures from the Turkish Ministry of Tourism show that some 2.2m foreign tourists visited the main resorts this year, some 13 per cent higher than in 2007, and of these around half were British with Dutch, German, Russian and Belgians making up the majority of the rest.

And next year looks like being more of the same, particularly if the euro retains its strength against sterling in the foreign exchange markets.

___

Temple Ruins Found In Bodrum

22 September 2008

While Turkey offers the magic ingredients of sun, sea and sand, it also has the X-factor that comes from its incredible past.

Now, right in the heart of one of today’s most popular resorts, Bodrum, archeologists have uncovered the Temple of Athena, the goddess of heroic endeavour in Greek mythology.

According to Professor Adnan Diler, who is leading the excavations: “We have finally found ruins of the temple belonging to the civilisation of the Leieges around the 6th century BC.” He adds: “We found walls of the temple and an inscription. Our excavations will continue to bring the temple into daylight.”

___

Edinburgh Airport’s Revised Development Plans

22 September 2008

Edinburgh Airport has published new long-term development plans that take into account the rising costs of relocating the Royal Highland Showground.

Originally the plan was to relocate the showground from 2013, but to do so would have meant an additional cost of some £350m (and rising).

The revised plans will mean that the showground does not have to relocate before 2020.

___

K & S Holidays No Connection To Onur Air

14 September 2008

Another holiday company recently ceased trading called K & S Holidays. There have been rumours on the internet that this company is connected to Onur Air.

We would like to assure all our customers that this company is not connected with Onur Air and any bookings made with Holidays 4 U and Aegean Flights are not affected by this.

___

Xl Leisure Group In Administration

12 September 2008

Holidays 4U and & Aegean Flights customers are
unaffected by XL Leisure Group’s failure.

Holidays 4U Managing Director Karen Vyse wishes to reassure all of her customers booked with a package holiday or flight to Turkey with Holidays 4U or Aegean Flights that their travel arrangements are entirely safe. "We are thankfully not part of the XL Leisure Group and have no direct business links to that failed concern. All of our customers can relax in the knowledge that we are a healthy and thriving company even in today's troublesome market". "There are a few of our customers, and we are talking about no more than 200, who may notice that they have tickets indicating that their flight arrangements are with XL Airways. We have already found alternative solutions for this small minority of our customers and they can expect to be contracted by one of my staff or their travel agent well before they travel".

Click here for more information »

___

Turkey To Spend £180m To Strengthen Tourism

07 September 2008

Turkey is planning to spend £180m promoting the country’s tourism over the coming year.

Having enjoyed its best tourist season ever, welcoming an expected 25m tourists this year, the Turkish Tourism Ministry is linking with the private sector to expand even further next year.

According to the Turkish magazine Ekonomist the aim is to expand tourist activities to 12 months of the year and raise tourist numbers to 60m by 2012.

One group that is likely to benefit is golfers who are already discovering the delights of many new courses where prices are considerably lower than in Spain and Portugal.

___

Glasgow Airport Expansion Near Completion

06 September 2008

The £31m “skyhub” project, the biggest single investment at Glasgow Airport since the 1990s, will be handed over on September 19 allowing fitting out work to begin.

The new terminal extension will open to passengers next month offering state-of-the-art security, more space to relax and a wider choice of bars, shops and restaurants.

The project, which started last October, is part of a £200m ten-year investment planned for the airport.

___

Mirror Image

24 August 2008

The Daily Mirror has jumped on our story of a week ago highlighting the fact that Tory leader “Call Me Dave” Cameron has been enjoying a week’s cruise on a Gulet (traditional yacht) in the Turkish Aegean (or as the Mirror calls it “The Turkish Riviera).

The Mirror uses the lengthy article to lampoon Dave’s “ordinary guy” credentials writing of him “sunbathing on a £21,000-a-week yacht, waited on by an army of staff” with a personal chef, captain and two crew hands.

Now the Mirror can make whatever political capital it wishes out of this extended family holiday taken with family and friends to celebrate his mother-in-law’s 60th birthday, but I do not like the impression it gives that gulet holidays are out of reach of ordinary people.

Holidays4U offers gulet cruises in its brochure and on its web site starting from either Bodrum or Marmaris throughout the season but, in the week that Dave travelled, it would have cost £594 per person a week; this includes flights to and from the UK, a personal chef, captain and two crew hands.

That price is based on two people sharing a cabin with en-suite facilities but if you want to charter the whole gulet for a private party then our reservation people will give you a price – and it won’t be £21,000 a week.

___

Turkey Delights

24 August 2008

Turkey is now the top spot for late summer holidays, particularly in the Dalaman area where mountains and the sea are both on offer, according to Co-operative Travel in a report for The Guardian. A spokesman for the Co-op, described Turkey’s rise in popularity as a “seismic shift in holiday bookings” as Spain has been the UK’s number one choice since package holidays began.

The number of UK holidaymakers visiting Turkey in 2008 has increased by 20 per cent to 1.7m people, according to the Association of British Travel Agents.

___

Turkey’s Shores

17 August 2008

As tens of thousands of Brits have been discovering for the first time this year, the coastal areas of Turkey are packed with idyllic beaches and places of interest.

One of those who highlights the pleasures is Ben Crichton, writing in the Independent newspaper this weekend presenting what he calls “The Complete Guide to Turkish Shores.

In fairness, Mr Crichton is as interested in visiting the historical sites of Turkey as he is in just soaking in the sun on the beaches, but you cannot argue with his assessment that: “Turkish shores offer sumptuous scenery, breathtaking beaches, the greatest concentration of historical ruins in the country and the opportunity to do as much as you like or as little as you want.”

Coincidentally, Kevin Gould, writing in the Guardian, also homes in on the historical attractions of the country. He has been living and enjoying visiting the sites of the history lessons he hated when he was at school; in his words history comes alive here and he says: “In the last five days, I’ve driven through 13,000 years of invasion, conquest and treaties.”

And completing a trio of “broadsheet” coverage this weekend, Dan Eldridge nominates in Saturday’s Daily Telegraph Travel Supplement the Best Beaches in Turkey, starting with Olu Deniz with its large, curved beach, mountainous scenery and famously calm lagoon – he also mentions the uncommonly crisp blue waters that give the coast its Turquoise title. All of these magnificent features can be seen in the fabulous photograph of Olu Deniz in the Holidays4U brochure and on our web site.

Sun, sea, sand or a stroll through 13,000 years of history, Turkey has something for everyone.

___

Dave Goes To Turkey

14 August 2008

Turkey has never been so popular with the Brits as this year. Not only have tourist numbers increased by nearly 20 per cent, but it is also becoming the holiday of choice for VIPs.

Already this year the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh have made a visit, and so too has London Mayor Boris Johnson, now Tory leader “Call me Dave” Cameron and his wife, Samantha, are heading for the Aegean as part of a family get together to celebrate the 60th birthday of Samantha’s mother, Lady Astor.

Their party will be 30 strong and they have chartered three gullet yachts for the occasion.

At Holidays4U we offer the choice of two separate Gulet cruises, starting and finishing in Bodrum or Marmaris, and all the vessels are in the capable hands of master sailors, certified by the Ministry of Turkish Maritime Operations and with a full crew to look after the meals and every need.

Each Gulet comprises six to eight wood-panelled cabins with either double bed or bunk bed arrangements and each cabin has its own private bathroom comprising a WC, washbasin and shower, and if you have a party that wants to charter the whole boat, then our reservations people can confirm a price.

___

Consulate Plans Regular Meetings With British Residents

14 August 2008

Following a successful meeting in Altinkum between British Consulate officials and some 200 British residents in Didim, there are plans for regular surgeries to allow British people to seek advice on various issues.

Regional Consular Director Susan Wilson told Voices, the English language newspaper: “We want to share with residents what we can and what we cannot do for them in Turkey.

“There are things that we have to look to the local authorities and the Turkish government to do for our residents, as much as Turkish citizens have to look to the British Government when they live in Britain.”

Ms Wilson urged British people to register their presence in the country by either filling out forms or going on to the British Foreign and Commonwealth Office website: www.ukinturkey.fco.gov.uk

___

Think When Packing Hand Luggage

03 August 2008

Although restrictions on carrying liquids through security have been in force for two years, there are still some travellers who think the restrictions do not apply to them.

Last week security staff at Liverpool’s John Lennon Airport were amazed to discover one passenger attempting to carry 13 bottles containing various liquids totalling more than 2,400ml in their hand luggage.

Included in the haul, that was confiscated, were four bottles of sun cream, five bottles of insect repellent and shampoo and conditioner.

At JLA, as with every other airport, there are signs everywhere, and staff reminding passengers of the restrictions limiting liquids, gels and aerosols to be limited to 100ml containers that fit comfortably into a re-sealable clear bag, no larger than 20cm by 20cm. It’s much better to put all liquids into the hold luggage.

Andy Gower, airport director at JLA, says: “When items are discovered in hand luggage which do not comply with the restrictions, we have no alternative but to confiscate them, slowing down the security process for other passengers and causing disappointment for the individual concerned.”

___

Turkey Travellers Boost East Midlands Airport

03 August 2008

East Midlands Airport is celebrating the carriage of more than half a million passengers in June – the second consecutive month the record has been reached.

The figures show that it was non-EU destinations that showed the biggest increase (17 per cent) reflecting the fact that more and more holidaymakers are choosing to jet to more value-for-money destinations outside the eurozone, such as Dalaman in Turkey, the Press Release says.

East Midlands Airport was one of the first of the ten regional airports chosen by Holidays4U to fly holidaymakers to Turkey.

___

Platform For Friendship

20 July 2008

The Turkish-British Friendship Platform has been set up with the main objective of contributing to developing relations between the two communities in Altinkum and Akbuk, according to an article in Voices, the English-language newspaper of the region.

A drop-in centre is being opened at Sehit Ridvan Cakir Street between Caglayan Group head office and Evcil Market Pet Shop, where help and advice will be offered free of charge, including aid to Europeans in understanding Turkish customs, offering multi-lingual help and explanation of Turkish documents on site.

The organisation also plans activities such as picnics, excursions and gatherings and will offer economical airport pick-ups, medical help and insurance cover at competitive rates.

For more information email tbfp@windowslive.com

___

Birmingham Airport Grows As Passengers Choose Regional

20 July 2008

Further proof that holidaymakers prefer to travel from their local airport where possible comes with news from Birmingham International Airport handled 936,868 passengers in June, nearly three per cent more than in June last year.

The number of people flying to Turkey was up 7.3 per cent year-on-year.

Holidays4U offers flights to Turkey from ten regional airports and added Birmingham to its list for the first time in the summer of 2007.

___

Turkey More Popular Than Spain For The Brits

13 July 2008

It’s official, Turkey is this year’s holiday hot spot. The independent Co-operative Travel Company reports that Turkey has now toppled Spain as the most popular destination for British holidaymakers.

It is the first time since the birth of the package holiday that Spain has failed to lead the league table.

Sales to Turkey are up 30 per cent so far this year while bookings to Majorca, traditionally the favourite, have fallen 13 per cent.

Dalaman now holds the number on spot, with Majorca second, Crete third and Bodrum in fourth place.

One of the reasons is, as reported here some three months ago, the fall in the exchange rate of sterling against the euro, a factor that means the average cost of a holiday to Majorca costs a third more than a similar holiday to Turkey.

However, with so many newcomers discovering the delights of Turkey for the first time, this could be the number one spot for years to come.

___

Ferry Good News

13 July 2008

It has been a year of delay, but the Altinkum to Kos ferry service is now due to start next Wednesday (July 16) according to a report in Voices, Altinkum’s English language newspaper.

It was in April that Voices reported plans at last for a twice-weekly service, but the launch has been held back by red tape.

No regular timetable has yet been published, but the journey which takes 75 minutes will depart from Altinkum at 9 am on Wednesday and arrive back at 5.45 pm.

___

Ballet In Bodrum

13 July 2008

Culture is as much a part of Bodrum as sun, sea and sand as regular visitors will know, and the town is hosting its sixth Bodrum International Ballet Festival between August 15 and 29.

First up at the northern part of Bodrum Castle will be the Ankara State Opera and Ballet Group, while the first of many visiting groups will be Los Vicanos 7 Hermanos, seven brothers known as the “Magnificent Seven” because of their flamenco dancing and their ability to each play different instruments.

Others featuring in the festival are the Istanbul State Opera and Ballet Group, another Spanish group – Flamenoriental – and a performance by the Izmir State Opera and Ballet Group.

___

Discovering The Delights Of A Gulet

06 July 2008

Holidays4U has been highlighting the delights of holidaying on a Turkish gulet (a converted fishing vessel) for more than a decade so it’s always nice to read when others discover the joy for themselves.

Today the Mail on Sunday carries a lengthy report by Alex Zinovieff on his voyage with other teenage friends and his parents.

The article, compiled from the diary notes of all participants collected during their week-long trip, is interspersed with lines such as: “waking up with the sun rising over pine and olive-clad hills” or “as we cruised through the beautiful turquoise water with the wind and sun on my face – I was in absolute bliss,” and “another brilliant day in Paradise.”

But the final word goes to the father, Leo Zinovieff, who says: “I don’t think any of us will forget it EVER.”

At Holidays4U we base our prices on two people sharing a cabin on a boat, but if you have a group that wants to take a whole gulet to yourself, then our reservation department will confirm a price.

Each gulet has a full crew to look after your needs and is headed by a master sailor certified by the Ministry of Turkish Maritime Operations and all cruises are sold on a full board basis which can be upgraded to all inclusive, which includes all drinks, if you book the whole boat.

___

Manchester Airport Traffic Warning

06 July 2008

Manchester Airport advises that traffic light controlled lane closures will be in operation on Ringway Road from Monday July 7 for around five weeks, and this may affect passengers travelling to and from Terminal 3. Allow extra time if travelling.

___

Turkey’s Economy Grows Faster Than Expected

06 July 2008

According to a report by the New York-based MarketWatch, Turkey’s economy grew by a, faster than expected, 6.6 per cent in the first quarter of this year.

Analysts had been expecting a growth of 4.9 per cent after the 3.4 per cent growth in the final quarter of 2007.

___

Even “kevin” Found Turkey “cool”

29 June 2008

Adrian Mourby, travel writer for the Independent writing today, found that while his teen-age son and daughter became a “Kevin and Perry” while he and his wife tried to take in the cultural sites of Turkey, their mood changed once they experienced the delights of the Aegean sea (snorkelling, water skiing. Parasailing and banana-boating) and the Halikarnas disco in Bodrum.

Proof, yet again, that Turkey has something for everyone.

___

Its Hotting Up

29 June 2008

Just a warning that temperatures in the Bodrum area are due to hit 41c this week – that’s more than 100 degrees in old money – so don’t forget the sunscreen.

___

Altinkum Gets Royle Approval

26 June 2008

It is only a matter of weeks since the Queen and Prince Phillip made a state visit to Turkey and now a leading member of the Royle Family, has decided to buy a home in Altinkum.

Speaking to Voices, the local English language newspaper, Ricky Tomlinson, star of the TV sitcom The Royle Family, revealed he is buying a penthouse duplex at the £10m Apollon Holiday Village, a move he was inspired to take after reading that boxer Joe Cazalghe had bought a property in the same complex.

Mr Tomlinson told Voices: “I see my new home as a base to retire to and take it easy. Hopefully it will become a second home.” He said he found the people great, the culture fantastic and the whole attitude towards life brilliant.

___

Tourist Flock To Turkey

26 June 2008

Nearly 2,750,000 tourists visited Turkey in May, more than 20 per cent more than in May 2007.

It brings to more than 7.3m the number of tourists visiting Turkey in the first five months of this year according to figures from the Tourism Ministry.

___

Cindy Discovers Turkey

22 June 2008

Congratulations to travelmail writer Cindy Blake who has discovered the delights of Turkey.

Her two-page feature article in the Daily Mail covering her visit to Kalkan on Saturday June 21 says early on: “If you visit the Turquoise Coast in south west Turkey, I guarantee you’ll meet warm, friendly, loquacious people and eat spectacularly well.”

And she ends her article with the comment: “On rainy days in England, I listen to a plaintive country and western ballad sung by Greg Brown called When Does the Good Part Start?”

She continues: “Hop on a plane, Greg. Fly to Turkey….The good part starts right there.”

Welcome to the Turkey fan club Cindy.

___

£45m Extension At Birmingham International

22 June 2008

Work started this week on a £45m state-of-the-art extension to terminal one at Birmingham International Airport. It is the single biggest investment the airport has made in 20 years, and a clear indication that public demand for regional airports is growing, a trend Holidays4U has supported for more than a decade.

___

Airport News

17 June 2008

Both Liverpool John Lennon Airport and Birmingham Airport are celebrating a continuing boom in passengers. At Liverpool the 50 millionth passenger since the airport’s opening in July 1933 was being lauded, while at Birmingham International they clocked a record 877,232 passengers in May, nearly six per cent higher than in May last year.

It is the fourth month of record-breaking numbers in a row for Birmingham, and confirmation that passengers appreciate the advantages of being able to fly from their local regional airports.

Holidays4U operates from 10 regional airports throughout the year.

___

Golf Investors Visit Didim

17 June 2008

According to a report in Voices, Altinkum’s English languages newspaper, four groups of investors – two Swedish and two Turkish – have visited Didim in the past week to investigate the potential of setting up a top quality golf course in the area.

The parties have a planned budget of 20m euros, but are also investigating other sites in Bodrumm and Ayvalik. One spokesman said they expect to open the golf course in three years once the go-ahead decision is taken.

___

Turkish Property Highlighted

17 June 2008

British interest in Turkish property has trebled in the past year, according to a report by Moneycorp in a survey on Overseas Property published in the Daily Telegraph (June 14).

In the same article a NatWest survey of mortgage lenders predicts that Turkey – where 22,650 Brits own property – will be the third most popular destination for UK buyers in the next three years, while agents Knight Frank are expecting to see prices rise there by 10-15 per cent this year.

In a separate section of the paper it is reported that British tourists to Turkey were 19 per cent higher in the first four months of this year than a year ago.

And why wouldn’t Turkey prove popular with the Brits? The BBC Weather centre is predicting temperatures in Bodrum will rise to 42c (that’s more than 100 degrees in old money) this week and sunshine all the way. Just don’t forget the sun screen.

___

Hasslers Hassled

10 June 2008

Some tourists see it as local colour and part of the Turkish holiday experience; others feel it an intrusion and, occasionally, some feel threatened by it, but now the local police have taken major steps to clampdown on bar staff “hassling” passers-by to sit at their tables.

Plainclothes police officers carrying cameras and posing as tourists, swept through Altinkum last week and where they felt they were being “hassled” took photographs and action; as a result some 18 bars, including some of the most popular, were shut down for five days.

The authorities are clear that they do not want to see a return to last season when bar staff were walking along the beaches handing out leaflets to sunbathers, as well as trying to call them in off the streets.

Several bar owners claim that they were not “hassling” tourists, but just being friendly, and they are seeking a definition from the authorities about what constitutes hassling.

But the message from the authorities is take note, because any bar that repeats the offence will be closed for 30 days next time.

___

Parking Extras At East Midlands Airport

07 June 2008

Parking for an additional 1,500 vehicles is now available at East Midlands Airport following the opening of Car Park 6, situated at the western end of the airport. The additional space is available for either pre-booking or just turn up and park.

A regular shuttle bus services is available for the 10-minute journey to the terminal.

Meanwhile, maintenance work that started in March continues on improving facilities at car park 4 at the airport.

___

Daily Telegraph Boosts Turkey

03 June 2008

Like so many Holidays4U clients, the London Daily Telegraph is singing the praises of Turkey as the destination of choice.

First the travel section picks up on the point we made last week that holidays will be the last luxury to go in the credit crunch, in which it highlights the growing demand for holidays in Turkey (one group claims a 44 per cent increase in sales) and then today it announces it is hosting a free seminar in London on June 26 for those looking to buy a property in Turkey.

Under the heading “Turkey – the new home of Mediterranean living” it says: “With its sun soaked climate, miles of Mediterranean coastline and great value property, it’s no wonder that Turkey is attracting more visitors and investors than ever before.”

More details are available from telegraph.co.uk/propertyseminars or call 0844 4480 944.

___

Mayor Boris In Dalaman

28 May 2008

London’s new mayor Boris Johnson has chosen Turkey as the place to relax with his family after months of campaigning and getting to grips with running the capital.

He was spotted by a fellow holidaymaker on a yacht on the Dalaman coast and posed for a photograph that has now appeared in the Daily Mail.

Having spent months in sober suits and a tie on his election campaign, the photograph shows Boris in an open neck shirt and a pair of red and white patterned swimming shorts and he was said to be “in a jovial mood,” despite keeping in touch with his new office twice a day.

But then again, most people on holiday in Turkey tend to be “in a jovial mood,” and why not, with the five-day weather forecast today showing sunshine all the way and temperatures in the high eighties?

___

More Votes For Turkey From Media Writers

24 May 2008

The credit crunch is biting in all areas of spending, but travel experts agree the annual holiday will be among the last luxury to be sacrificed.

But more and more travel writers are steering readers away from the delights of the Mediterranean euro-zone and pointing them towards Turkey as the destination that offers value.

In the Sunday Times, Mark Hodson writes: “Turkey looks the favourite if you can’t bear to forgo your annual dose of Mediterranean sunshine. The beaches are as good as you’ll find in Europe, the food is outstanding and sunshine is pretty much guaranteed. Although the pound has fallen slightly over the past year against the Turkish lira, prices on the ground are still astonishingly low compared with those in its euro zone rivals.”

The Sunday Herald in Scotland says: “Bulgaria is the cheapest European destination, followed closely by Turkey.”

But as more people are turning to Turkey, make sure you do not leave it too late hoping for late bargains. The Sun warns that there will be a million fewer holiday beds to choose from this year (throughout all destinations) following a shake-up in the travel industry with mergers between tour giants Thomas Cook and MyTravel and Thomson and First Choice meaning there will be fewer flights and hotels to choose from.

While Hurriyet, an English language Turkish publication, says the number of European tourists visiting Turkey this year will rise by up to 10 per cent with some three million of those being Germans- grab a deck chair quickly - and the number from Russia rising 25 per cent.

___

Festival

24 May 2008

If you are lucky enough to be in Didim between June 27 and July 27, be sure to take time out to enjoy some of the Meandros Festival, highlighting the area’s historical past.

Included are a sculpture symposium, in which five internationally renowned sculptors will work next to the Apollon Temple for the month, a photography camp, concerts at ancient sites, culture and village dinners.

___

Property Bogof

24 May 2008

We’re all used to supermarkets boosting sales with their “BOGOF” – Buy One Get One Free – offers, but The Dorado property group in Didim, is really pushing the boat out according to Voices, the local printed English language newspaper.

People buying one of the group’s two “stunning” villas on offer will also get a holiday apartment in a catered holiday complex free.

___

Smoking Ban Starts

19 May 2008

The ban on smoking in enclosed areas, on public transport as well as open-air areas, comes into force in Turkey today.

Although many people surveyed were uncertain whether the law can be implemented in Turkey, many people believe the ban is positive particularly in respect to the fines it imposes.

Those who smoke in areas where smoking is banned will be fined 62 Turkish lira (£26) and those who throw the stump of a cigarette on the street will be fined 23 lira (just under £10).

___

Cardiff Plans For Cup Crush

18 May 2008

If you are a Holidays4U customer travelling from Cardiff Airport on the weekend of May 23 to May 25, be prepared for a greater crush than normal. As well as being a Bank Holiday weekend it’s the Heineken Cup final at the Millennium Stadium and the airport’s management is anticipating around 10,000 additional passengers to travel through the airport for the final alone, with a total of 100 extra flights.

To keep disruption to a minimum the airport authorities are working with Cardiff Council, the cup organisers and various coach companies to provide special transfer arrangements from airport to the City centre and also for the return journey.

Additional security personnel, handling agents and airport staff have also been recruited to deal with the additional numbers at the airport itself.

Our advice is to allow a little extra time for your check in and keep the stress levels down.

___

Taxes Due

18 May 2008

A reminder to property owners in Didim that the closing date for the first instalment of this year’s property tax is due by Friday May 30.

___

Bodrum Expansion Plans Challenged

18 May 2008

Bodrum residents are up in arms about a decision taken on May 7 by the Culture and Tourism Ministry to allow building height limits to rise to five storeys.

The residents claim that Bodrum is unique and the only major town on the Turkish coast with a low-building height limit and a style of houses and hotels that make it different.

Mayor Mehmet Ulkum told the Turkish Daily News: “Five storeys violate Bodrum’s traditional building view. Bodrum is known for its two-floor white houses. We will be appealing against this decision through legal channels.”

According to the newspaper report, a campaign is developing to bombard the Ministry with e-mails to protest against the decision.

___

Turkey – Hot Spot

18 May 2008

Holidays4U cannot but help to agree with Frank Barrett, travel writer in the Mail on Sunday today who writes in a review of Mediterranean Hot Spots: “Turkey: Go gullet cruising along the enchanting Lycian coast, take a mud bath in Dalyan or enjoy an intriguing mix of ancient and modern in Bodrum. Fancy dancing the night away? Try Marmaris, where no shortage of clubs and bars will keep you entertained until the small hours.”

You know he makes sense.

___

Turkey Wins Royal Approval

18 May 2008

By all accounts the Queen and Prince Philip, like most tourists, enjoyed their four-day visit to Turkey last week, with time to relax and also time to take in many of the historical sites and visit popular tourist areas.

Their visit inspired Matthew Hampton, a Sunday Express travel writer, to look deeper into “this fascinating country that teeters between Europe and Asia.”

Among the areas he features are Antalya – “a pretty port town full of fascinating sites” and Dalyan “famous for its mud baths.” He suggests staying at the Dalyan Resort hotel that he describes as “a smart four-star with lovely riverside setting.” The Dalyan Resort Hotel has featured in the Holidays4U brochure and on our web site for many years and has always proved popular.

Mr Hampton also recommends Bodrum as a lively resort, Fethiye as a bustling market town and a handy base, and further east, Kas and Kalkan that have become very pleasant upmarket retreats. Olu Deniz also gets a mention –“its crowded but the setting is spectacular.”

___

Property Plus

11 May 2008

The Overseas Property section of the Daily Mail (Friday May 9) extols the delights of buying property in Turkey but one example stands out. It concerns a couple, Bernard and Ann Tomlinson who bought a three bedroom villa with a pool in the La Vanta resort of Kalkan, having spent some ten years searching for a Mediterranean holiday home.

They bought the property for £225,000 last year and, according to the article its value has since risen to £320,000.

___

Dalyan - It’s Muddy Great

11 May 2008

Celebrating the start of the mud bath season in Dalyan, the Turkish Daily News reminds readers that among the many famous people who have sampled the health-improving aspects of the mud baths and hot springs have been Princess Anne, Spanish Prince Felipe de Carlos and his wife Princess Alexia, actors Dustin Hoffman and Jack Nicholson, and singers Sting and David Bowie.

The article goes on to say that the waters of Dalyan are believed to cure skin disease and rheumatism, as well as liver, spleen and bowel problems.

The mud bath is followed by a sun bathe to feel the healing effect of the mud that stretches the skin and cleans the pores as it dries. Then you relax in the warm waters of the hot springs.

___

“obscenely Blue”

11 May 2008

No, it’s not what you are thinking, “obscenely blue” is how Go Travel Insurance, the online travel insurance group describes the waters along Turkey’s stunning Mediterranean coast, in a web site article advising holiday destinations that can beat the strong euro.

___

Bosch Backs Turkey

11 May 2008

Wolfgang Chur, a member of the Board of Management of Robert Bosch GmbH, has told the Anatolian news agency that Turkey continues to be attractive to the company in terms of growth potential.

He said that while there was great potential in the automotive sector, Turkey was also important to Bosch in its household appliances sector and in thermotechnology.

Having expanded its workforce in Turkey by 10 per cent to 8,400 last year, Bosch expects to add a further 1,000 this year.

___

Golf In Belek

11 May 2008

Ferraris and MacLarens are battling it out in Istanbul, Belek in Antalya is hosting a Formula 1 is not the only major sporting event in Turkey this weekend. While the leg of the Ladies European Golf Tour – the Garanti American Express Turkish Open - where 126 professional players from 34 different countries are competing for a 250,000 euro (approx £200,000) prize.

Alexandra Armas, executive director of the Ladies European Tour told the Turkish Daily News she is very impressed by Belek adding: “The infrastructure is great, the climate is great. It is a typical Mediterranean town and a great golf destination.”

Belek is now established as a key destination on the international golfing circuit with some 13 different courses open to hackers and low handicappers alike.

___

Don’t Lose Your Bottle

11 May 2008

A timely warning comes from the management of Newcastle International Airport about the need to take heed of security regulations.

It’s security teams confiscate 800 bottles of prohibited liquids from passengers EVERY DAY. That means around 400 litres, worth an estimated £1,000 worth of pop, water, suntan lotion, perfume, shampoo and toothpaste; but they have also found vintage champagne and spirits in peoples’ hand luggage.

Just to remind travellers, the regulations that apply at all UK airports prohibit the carrying of liquids in quantities greater than 100ml through the security search airports.

___

Home From Home

03 May 2008

As many as one in seven tourists to Turkey stayed in their own homes in the first quarter of this year according to figures published by the Turkish Statistical Institute.

The largest foreign property owners are German, British and Greeks, with Mugla and Antalya being the most popular areas.

And the number could be set to rise with the Turkish Parliament’s Justice Committee having approved a Government bill regarding the sale of 10 per cent of Turkish new build real estate to foreigners.

The Ministry of Public Works and Settlement temporarily halted Turkish property sales to foreigners at the beginning of April.

___

Are There Enough Deckchairs?

03 May 2008

Hundreds of German tour operators are scheduled to arrive in Didim this year as part of a fact-finding mission to bring tourists to the resort next year.

According to Voices, Altinkum’s English language newspaper, a meeting last month in Izmir, hosted by The Magazine for German Travel and Tourism, supported by the Ministry of Tourism and Culture, Sunexpress Airlines and Oger Tour, was aimed at promoting Didim to the Germans and offer them an alternative to Antalya and Alanya.

Deniz Atabay, chairman of Didim Tourism Association said the announcement was an exciting and excellent development for a resort such as Didim – an area that Holidays4U has been promoting for the past decade.

The question is, however, will there be enough deckchairs?

___

Turkish Lira Moves In Favour Of Tourists

03 May 2008

As the euro goes from strength to strength, forcing up the cost of holidays in the eurozone, the Turkish lira has fallen more than all emerging-market currencies except the Icelandic krona and the South African rand.

It’s not good news for the Turkish economy, but wonderful timing for Brits looking for an alternative to Spain, France, Portugal and other Mediterranean euro centres where prices have soared some 20 per cent since last year.

___

Holiday Spending Goes Further In Turkey

20 April 2008

Turkey is the value-for-money holiday destination of the year with the tourist pound stretching further than in all the rival Mediterranean hotspots, says Karen Vyse, managing director of Turkey holiday specialists Holidays4U.

In January the Office of National Statistics reported that holidays are now considered essential and no longer a luxury, and added that people are prepared to cut back on home improvements and eating and drinking out rather than sacrifice their annual holiday.

Karen says: “The pound is currently at record lows against the euro in the foreign exchange markets and holidaymakers going to Spain, France, Portugal and anywhere else in the eurozone will find they have a fifth less spending money than they did a year ago.

“Sterling has also fallen against the Turkish lira, but by only 10 per cent, and as the BBC Radio 4’s Money Box presenter Bob Howard pointed out in a recent broadcast, the cost of living in Turkey is still relatively low, so the rise will be felt less.

“As an example he claimed a bottle of coke would now cost on average £2.95 in France, but only £1.06 in Turkey.”

And in research being posted by the Post Office this week, Helen Warburton, head of travel at the Post Office, said: “We have already seen a 15 per cent increase in our currency sales of the Turkish lira.”

Now we have the Sunday Times (April 20) reporting “savvy holidaymakers are avoiding the credit crunch by shunning eurozone countries and heading for destinations where sterling is stronger” and the Association of British Travel Agents quoted by that paper as saying there had been a noticeable increase in travel outside the traditional Mediterranean resorts with Turkey and Egypt as the “winners.”

“At Holidays4U we have also seen a sharp upturn in bookings, particularly in the past month, confirming the findings of the ONS report, and I am just pleased that as a result thousands more tourists will discover the delights of Turkey,” says Karen.

___

Congratulations

20 April 2008

Congratulations to Birmingham International Airport, one of the ten provincial airports used by Holidays4U, who achieved the highest percentage of on-time scheduled flights in the last quarter of 2007 than any other UK airport.

According to statistics released by the Civil Aviation Authority (the CAA) 80 per cent of all scheduled flights from Birmingham operated on time compared with the national average of 69 per cent.

___

Turkish Property Booms

13 April 2008

Some 73,000 foreigners now own homes in Turkey according to figures released by the Land Registry General Directorate, with the Brits and Germans making up the majority.

Mugla, where Bodrum is located, is the most popular area for the Brits with some 2.6m of the 4.4m sq metres of foreign-owned property now in British hands.

The Germans are second largest in Mugla, but rank first of the foreign owners in Antalya, where the Brits are second biggest.

Other foreign nationals include the Dutch, Danish, Irish and US citizens, and the total of foreign ownership is set to rise with news that Gulf investors have raised $90m to invest in the Turkish real estate market, with holiday homes and apartments in Antalya being a major target.

___

Turkey Planning 100 New Golf Courses

13 April 2008

The Turkish Golf Federation has plans to add 100 new golf courses and provide a real challenge to Spain and Portugal as a golfer’s paradise.

There are currently less than 20 courses in Turkey, but golf tourism is experiencing strong growth and revenues are expected to reach £400m by 2010.

Mugla Province is set to be the main target area and golfers will be able to play for considerably less than the average £65 for a round currently the rate on the Costa del Sol.

According to International Property News, while 27 holes winding through the pine forests and olive groves are under construction close to the village Munculur and a further 36 holes are nearing completion at Vita park near Bodrum, no less than a further 18 courses are planned to open over the next six years. The aim is to make Mugla one of Europe’s leading golf centres and, according to reports, world golfing bodies have already been approached to open debate about hosting international tournaments in the future.

___

Turkey Offers Better Value For Your Pounds

13 April 2008

Don’t take our word for it, read it for yourself in the Independent on Sunday, where travel writer Amol Rajan looks at the effects of a weak sterling on European travel this year.

The article says: “Millions of British families will avoid holidays in Europe this summer because the soaring euro is making traditional destinations poor value for money.”

It points out that because of the slump in sterling in the foreign exchanges, holidaymakers will have about a fifth less spending money in the eurozone than they did a year ago and adds: “Though a family weekend break to Disneyland in Paris has gone up from £456 last year to £533 this year, a basket of everyday goods in countries including Croatia, Bulgaria and especially Turkey, remains inexpensive.

The article quotes Helen Warburton, head of travel at the Post Office who, having pointed out that sterling has fallen in value by 17-18 per cent compared to the euro in the past year, says: “We have already seen a 15 per cent increase in our currency sales of the Turkish lira, a sure sign that there are plenty of affordable destinations.”

___

It’s On The Cards

30 March 2008

I pass on this information from an article in Money Mail as a warning to those pushing the plastic on holiday. The article claims that holidaymakers are losing £686m each year through stealth charges for using plastic cards overseas.

It says that over the past year many big banks have been pushing up the fees they charge every time a customer uses a card to buy a meal, pay a hotel bill or make a cash withdrawal, and adds: “these charges are hidden away by the banks’ manipulation of currency exchange rates.”

Mike Naylor, personal finance expert at uSwitch, is quoted as saying: “On a two week holiday it’s not unfeasible for someone to pay for 14 meals with a debit card, and with a transaction charge of £1.50 for each use, the charges could soon add up to £21 and that is before foreign exchange fees are added on.”

___

Tougher Traffic Laws

30 March 2008

Foreign residents, and those hiring cars in Turkey, should be aware that the police are planning a crack down on drink drivers, those who do not wear seat belts and those who drive while speaking on their mobiles.

According to a police Press Release, offences such as driving through red lights will be cracked down on with the use of mobile cameras and they intend to use radar traps to catch speeding drivers, and the new arrangement include plans to prohibit smoking for drivers as well.

___

Ferry Hopes

30 March 2008

After a year’s delay it appears that the ferry service from Altinkum to the Greek island of Kos may get launched in May. According to an exclusive story in Voices, Altinkum’s English language newspaper, the ferry service should be operational from May 1.

___

Airport News

23 March 2008

GLASGOWAIRPORT is to create a free, covered pick-up and drop-off zone opposite the main terminal as part of an ongoing £2m plan to improve passenger access following the failed terrorist attack last year.

The new zone has been created in the ground floor of the multi-storey car park, directly opposite the terminal. Motorists will be able to drop off and pickup passengers just metres from the front of the terminal with a free stay for up to 10 minutes. Passengers intending to stay longer than 10 minutes must use the designated parking bays in car parks 1,2 or 3.

DURHAM TEES VALLEY AIRPORT advises that all travellers to the airport from the east, using the A66, that from March 30th for four weeks diversions will be in operation closing access through Long Newton, while works at the Long Newton interchange are in the completion phase.

When complete the changes will offer better direct access to the airport, but meanwhile passengers should allow additional time for their journey.

___

Let The Summer Begin

23 March 2008

According to Voices, Altinkum’s English language newspaper, many popular restaurants are already opening for the summer season. The paper says that there are also a host of new bars that are close to opening in the next couple of weeks.

___

Gatwick Passenger Numbers Rise

15 March 2008

More than 2.3 million passengers travelled through Gatwick Airport in February, a rise of 3.4 per cent over February last year (not including this year’s extra leap year day).

Just another reminder that with the continuing security measures in force, passengers should not leave it too late when arriving for their flights.

___

Walk In St Paul’s Footsteps

15 March 2008

Daily Telegraph writer Jeremy Seal reminds readers today, just before Easter, how very close British tourists who visit the popular resorts of Fethiye, Hisaronu, Ovacik and Olu Deniz are to Christian history.

Mr Seal was staying in Kaya Village an area where St Paul once walked; it is only four or five miles from Fethiye, and today’s visitors can, with just a short break from the beach or swimming pool, tread in the disciple’s footsteps.

St Paul, born in Tarsus, then part of Southern Turkey, and a close friend of Jesus, travelled throughout Turkey and the middle-east spreading the message, and there are several places in Turkey dedicated to his memory, but few are as close to popular tourist spots as Kaya.

___

Bodrum-samos Ferry Starts In May

15 March 2008

Tourists visiting the Bodrum area this year will be able to take a day trip to the Greek Island of Samos following an agreement reached this week.

Round trips by ferry are to start in May; the 40-mile journey will take around 75 minutes and a round trip will cost 35 euros (approx £12).

___

Turkey’s Economy Soars

11 March 2008

At a time when the economies of the UK and many other parts of Europe are struggling, Turkey’s economy is almost one-third bigger than previous estimates according to an article in the Financial Times.

According to official figures Turkey’s gross domestic product was £300bn in 2006, a 31.6 per cent rise on the previous estimate. The article says that Turkey is one of the most watched emerging markets and foreign investors own 70 per cent of the Istanbul stock market and the revised figure is expected to “spark an upsurge in foreign direct investment.”

___

A Prophecy For Didim

11 March 2008

A former chapel close to the Apollon Temple is to be renovated and used to promote Didim’s heritage with tourists.

According to Mayor Mumin Kamaci, quoted in Voices, the locally produced English language newspaper: “Didim was a major prophecy centre of ancient times” and this site will be used to help tourists understand the area better.

Mayor Kamaci says he wants to renovate 100 more historical buildings around the temple and make the Apollon Temple area a centre of attraction.

Our prophecy is that with the marina due to open next year and the efforts being made by Mayor Kamaci and others, Didim is destined to be a great tourism success story.

___

Marina Project Expected To Boost House Prices

07 March 2008

Signs are that the Didim Marina project, due for completion in May 2009, will double the number of tourists to the area and be a major factor in driving real estate prices upwards.

Speaking to Voices, the local English language newspaper, Mayor Mumin Kamaci, predicted a 100 per cent rise in tourist coming to Didim when the marina was completed, particularly attracting excursion yachts.

Construction supervisor Kemal Atabak said that by completion there would also be a boutique hotel with 80 rooms, businesses on 20 different sectors, shops, restaurants, cafes, markets, banks and a health clinic and parking for 526 vehicles. In addition there would be an open sports field, tennis courts, four multi-purpose sports fields, a shipyard, a ceremonial square, swimming pools and a sauna.

___

Can’t Wait To Get Back

07 March 2008

Renowned US travel critic Rick Steeves has described Turkey as one of the “must visit” locations in Europe, adding that he could not wait to get back there in April.

Mr Steeves was speaking at the New York Times Travel Show in New York, and seemingly he was not speaking just for himself; an estimated 800,000 Americans are expected to visit Turkey this year.

Meanwhile Turkish tourism professionals are out in numbers at the International Tourism Bourse, currently taking place in Berlin. This is said to be the world’s largest tourism exhibition, and Turkey’s representatives will occupy more than 2,500 square metres of the exhibition to show off the country’s attractions.

___

Bodrum – The Turkish Monaco

02 March 2008

Daily Express travel writer Andrew Eames has been renewing his acquaintance with the delights of Bodrum accompanied by his teenage son and family; it is a place he first visited some 20 years ago.

For those of you getting withdrawal symptoms from this jewel of a resort, or anticipating a first-time visit, here is a taste of his article.

He writes: “When I first came, the Bodrum peninsula was still remote enough to be a haunt of travellers and yachties. These days, however, it has its own airport and has become the Turkish Monaco with extensive nightlife, designer retailing and ever-increasing numbers of up-market hotels.”

He continues: “The fabulous harbour usually hosts a cruise liner or two, moored beneath the castle of St Peter, and the surrounding hills are braided with new villa developments. There is even a giant new Tesco, called Kipa.”

Mr Eames dips his toes around the bay in Gumbet – “generously sandy and ideal for families” – and moves on to Bitez where the watersport prices were more competitive.

He finishes his article in a mezza café with an aperitif “before the serious nightlife begins” and concludes: “We felt the satisfaction of being in the right place, at the right time.”

Aren’t you dreaming of such happy memories?

___

Turkey – Book Early To Avoid Disappointment

27 February 2008

There is an intensive demand throughout Europe for holiday reservations, with Turkey on top of the list, according to a study by Thomas Cook this week. It says that experts expect “at least” a 10 per cent increase in tourist inflow to Turkey this year.

The study highlights Antalya, Marmaris and Kusadasi as the “must-see” destinations.

Significantly Spain has lost its popularity among European tourists while Turkey, Croatia and Bulgaria are the new emerging markets in terms of tourism, especially for British tourists.

An indication of how dramatically Turkey is overtaking Spain is the announcement by the Spanish tourism giant, Barcelo Corporation, that it plans to open four more hotels in Turkey, taking their total to seven in the country.

Enrique Ecker, Barcelo’s area manager for Turkey is quoted as saying: “We truly believe in the future of the country as one of the world’s top tourism destinations thanks to its privileged location close to the main source markets and its amazing history and cultural heritage.”

He added that the plan was to be present in the most important destinations, and confirmed that Bodrum and the Antalya resorts were among those areas being discussed.

___

Cruise Ships Are Coming

24 February 2008

In addition to the millions arriving by air, some 700,000 tourists are expected to step ashore in Turkey’s popular holiday resorts this season as a host of huge cruise liners tie up alongside the newly contracted cruise ships expected to dock in Kusadasi Harbour this season.

The new season starts with the berthing of the Aqua Marine at the port on March 8; it is expected to be the first of some 700 ships due this year at the port.

Such is the rate of growing popularity of Turkey as a tourist attraction that the construction of a third wharf and the development of the existing wharves’ capacity are now priorities.

___

Renewal Option

24 February 2008

Ex-pats living in Didim can now renew their residency visas in Kusadasi rather than having to travel to Aydin.

Arrangements have been made for the procedure to take place at the police station at the harbour, where there is an office that deals with visas, where all relevant documents should be taken.

___

Bats Strikes Lucky In Turkey

24 February 2008

Hard on the heels of the statement last week that foreign investors are flooding into Turkey comes news that British American Tobacco has won a £873m battle to buy Tekel Cigarette the state-owned Turkish company.

The makers of Lucky Strike emerged the winner after equity group investors Citigroup Ventures and Cinven, and Dogan, a Turkish media and consumer goods conglomerate, stepped away from the auction.

Turkey is the eighth-largest tobacco market in the world, but the market is expected to fall by around five per cent as a smoking ban, similar to that in the rest of Europe comes into force by 2009.

According to Paul Adams, BAT chief executive talking to the London Financial Times: “We are buying into a declining market. But the fall in volume will be compensated by the growing population, better pricing and consumers trading up.”

A growing number of major British companies are being attracted to Turkey as the country’s economy grows and its popularity with tourists, particularly the British, develops. Among those with a foothold in the country now are Vodafone, who bought Telsim, Turkey’s second largest mobile phone group, Tesco, Shell, BP, and Cadbury Schweppes.

___

Queen Planning Turkey Visit

20 February 2008

Turkey attracts all the best people, as anybody reading this site will know already, and according to a report in the Turkish newspaper Hurriyet, the Queen and Prince Philip expect to be boosting the tourist numbers this year.

The report says that Turkish and British Foreign Ministry officials are still working on the details of the visit, planned for May, but the exact dates will be announced shortly before her visit.

Buckingham Palace refused to confirm or deny the report saying “no announcements of the Queen’s foreign trips for this year have been made.” So, unless you subscribe to Hurriyet, you read it here first.

However, the newspaper report quotes diplomats as saying the Queen will be staying in Ankara and will also visit Istanbul and they say that a British warship will arrive in Istanbul at the same time and it is expected the Queen will host a reception aboard the ship.

Turkey’s president Abdullah Gul is expected to host a dinner at the Cankaya Presidential Palace in Ankara. It seems a lot of effort if she isn’t going to make the journey.

___

Every Little Helps

19 February 2008

Tesco, which already has 46 outlets in Turkey, has announced that Didim is a priority target for a new store.

Didim, popular with British tourists and ex-pats, would be a natural extension for the supermarket group’s expansion which will lead to the group becoming one of the biggest employers in Turkey over the next five years.

Rahmi Sarici, Property Purchasing Regional manager of Tesco-Kipa, has confirmed to Voices, Altinkum’s English language newspaper, that Didim is a prime target and that he expected the project to transform the shopping habits of people in the region and change the social structure of the region and develop the district socially.

While negotiations are continuing for a suitable site, it is expected to be big enough to support a cinema and a bowling hall as well.

A spokesperson at Tesco’s headquarters in Cheshunt, Hertfordshire, confirmed that the group now has 46 outlets open in Turkey and expects the growth to continue over the next few years.

___

Migros Turk To Get A British Look

19 February 2008

BC Partners, a low-profile, London-based private-equity group, is buying a 51 per cent stake in Migros Turk for $1.7bn and is offering to buy the remainder of the shares in a deal that will raise the overall cost to $3.2bn.

Migros owns 961 stores in Turkey and neighbouring countries, employs 14,800 people and, in 2006, recorded sales of $3.6bn; BC Partners’ senior partner Francesco Conte says: “we are committed to working together with the management team in developing the business and investing in the future.”

Growing the business should not be difficult despite growing opposition from other big players, such as Tesco-Kipa (see Every Little Helps). According to statistics by international accountants PricewaterhouseCooper Turkey has just 17 supermarkets per million people compared with 150 per million in most other parts of the European Union.

Those figures show why Migros Turk became such a target with two other world players in the private equity world – Blackstone Group and KKR (Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co) – both said to have been pitching for the group, as well as Russian billionaire Mikhail Fridman’s Alfa Group also said to have shown an interest.

BC Partners, run by 45-year old French financier Raymond Svider, is the owner in the UK of, among others, Fitness First, the gym chain, General Healthcare Group, a private hospital business and last summer bought Foxtons, the up-market London estate agency group.

While the world-wide credit crunch has restricted some private equity group activities in recent months, BC Partners has succeeded in having this deal financed by Turkish banks Garanti Bank, is Bank and Vakifbank, and includes Turkven Private Equity, the leading private equity firm in Turkey, as a minority investor.

___

Foreign Investors Boost Stake In Turkey

19 February 2008

Further signs that Turkey is now a major economic player in the world comes with the announcement that foreign direct investment in the country soared a staggering 9.5 per cent last year to a record $21.87bn (Approx £11.2bn).

Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan told a Parliamentary group “The Turkish economy has shifted gears.”

As recently as 2003 Turkey attracted only $1.7bn of inward investment but expectations are for a further $60bn worth to pour in over the next three years.

___

Turkey Is Hot, Hot, Hot

17 February 2008

Turkey has plans to increase its share of world tourism from the current 2.5 per cent to four per cent, Tourism Investors Association President Murat Dedeman told journalists at the opening of the East Mediterranean International Tourism and Travel Fair this weekend.

Mr Dedeman was supported by Mr Ertrugrul Gunay, Turkey’s minister of tourism and culture, who said that while tourism in Turkey had been growing faster than the world average, it still had the potential to grow even further. He emphasised the need to spread tourism throughout the whole year, not just the summer season, and to diversify tourism destinations.

The message is clearly getting through. This weekend three of the UK’s biggest national newspapers, the Daily Mail, The Telegraph and The Times all carried major feature articles on the delights of Turkey.

___

Bodrum To Flaunt Its Culture Side

17 February 2008

Bodrum is determined to offer tourists even more than its already famous sun, sea and sand, and wants visitors and ex-pats to appreciate its history, culture and art activities as well.

A meeting of some 150 representatives from the arts have met at the Bodrum Art and Culture Association to discuss how best to make this town a centre for these activities.

Plans are to invite experts in all fields of the arts to a series of national and international festivals and workshops and to turn the area into a 12-month a year attraction.

___

Not Strictly Come Dancing

17 February 2008

A group of British residents in the Oludeniz district in Fethiye are to demonstrate their expertise in Turkish singing and folk dancing to a prestigious Turkish audience next Saturday (Feb. 23) in the eastern province of Kars.

Although the group only started to learn the intricacies a year ago with the aim of making a one-off performance, it was such a success that the group of three men and five women, all in their 50s, have already attracted crowds at local events and have appeared live on television.

Modest spokesman for the group David Groom says he is not certain whether the Turkish audience is impressed or merely curious, but other ex-pats are said to be very impressed.

___

Didim Image To Get A Five Star Boost

10 February 2008

Didim, always seen as a neighbour of popular Altinkum, is pushing for wider recognition as a tourist hot spot. Three major five star hotels will be opening in the area by the start of the 2008 tourist season and in 2010 a seven-star holiday village is due for completion.

Didim’s Mayor Mumin Kamaci believes the new boutique and international hotels, aimed at bringing elite tourists in from Britain, Russia, Thailand, Vietnam, Belgium, Norway, Germany and the Netherlands, will strengthen the image of Didim on the international stage and boost the local economy.

Among other improvements due to be completed before the summer season is the renovation of the road in red cobblestones between the second beach and Altinkum beach and a widening of the pavement.

___

Glasgow Airport Travel Warning

10 February 2008

If you are planning to travel from Glasgow Airport next weekend allow some extra time for the journey to the airport. Resurfacing work on the M8 motorway is planned from Friday February 15 to Monday February 18 during which a contra flow system will be operating, and passengers travelling eastbound to Glasgow Airport (ie from Greenock, Gourock, Irvine etc) are warned they should allow extra time for their journey.

Passengers wishing to access the airport from the eastbound carriageway of the M8 motorway should follow diversion signs to junction 27 (Arkleston junction) entering the airport via junction 28 on the westbound carriageway.

___

East Midlands Record

10 February 2008

A new annual passenger record has been set at East Midlands Airport with a total of 5,414,299 passengers using the Castle Donington Airport – an increase of 14.5 per cent over 2006.

Penny Coates, managing director of the airport said: “The record increase demonstrates the demand in the region for local access to air travel.”

At H4U we know how important it is to have convenient flights from your local airports and, as well as offering flights to Turkey from East Midlands, we fly from nine other regional airports as well, including Glasgow, Edinburgh, Newcastle, Durham Tees Valley, Manchester, Liverpool, Birmingham, Gatwick and Cardiff.

___

Baggage

10 February 2008

Newcastle International Airport has lifted restrictions on passengers carrying just one piece of hand baggage, although travellers will still not be allowed to carry liquids, creams or gels of more than 100ml in cabin baggage.

However, each airline has its own policy regarding cabin baggage allowed on their aircraft and passengers are advised to check direct with their airline before travelling to the airport.

Gatwick Airport is also relaxing its rules on baggage with passengers connecting flights through the North Terminal now able to travel with more than one piece of hand baggage. This rule was also relaxed for passengers connecting flights through the South Terminal last month, but the one bag rule remains for all other flights although this too is expected to be relaxed in the near future.

___

More Flights Scheduled

10 February 2008

The average number of flights made by the British is expected to rise from four to eight a year over the next 15-20 years according to Airbus, the European aircraft manufacturer.

Airbus said the number of airliners in service with more than 100 seats would more than double globally from 14,980 to 33,000 by 1926. It said that no other European country would match Britain’s growth in demand for flights.

___

Exports Up

04 February 2008

Turkey’s exports surged a massive 49.3 per cent in January over the same month last year with Britain the second biggest customer after Germany. At $9.82 billion (approx £10m) it was the biggest jump in Turkey’s history.

Announcing the figures at the monthly meeting of the Turkish Exporters’ Assembly, TIM President Oguz Satici revealed that the industrial sector recorded $8.4bn sales over the month, the export of vehicles bringing in $2.15bn with the textile industry contributing $1.45bn and chemicals $1bn.

___

Turkey ‘ole

04 February 2008

More and more Spaniards are moving as far away from the Costa as they can when the Brits invade their shores each summer choosing to pack their bags and move to the other end of the Mediterranean - that is Turkey. It’s all part of the growing appeal of Turkey as a tourist destination.

According to figures released by the UN World Trade Organisation, Europe attracts more than half the world’s tourists with Turkey the fastest growing destination, up 18 per cent last year.

Some 300,000 Spanish tourists visited Turkey in 2007, a rise of 23 per cent on the previous year, and the target this year is for 350,000 such tourists according to Ismail Aksel, deputy advisor at the Culture and Tourism Ministry of Turkey.

Mr Aksel was speaking at the International Tourism Fair in Madrid where Turkey’s stand was the third biggest of any country’s exhibit, a further sign of the massive world-wide tourism promotion that Turkey is undertaking this year.

In the UK Turkey is spending several million pounds on television and Sunday magazines advertising the country’s attractions, part of a £70m world-wide spend to build Turkey into one of the top five tourist destinations in the world over the next few years.

Part of that growth will come through developing the country as a year-round resort and encouraging hotel owners to keep their doors open throughout the year. Like Spain, Turkey plans to target golfers with international standard golf courses.

The “Tourism Living Quarter” project on the Bodrum-Milas road is one such project. The plot spans more than 9,000 acres and, as well as a 670 acre international course, will include a hotel, apartment hotels and training centres and villas.

According to those associated with the project, due for completion by the end of 2009, golfers spend around 150 euros a day (approx £100) taking into account the balls, course charges, meals and drinks; in addition there are hotel charges and other spending on shopping and entertainment, all adding to the economy of the region.

___

Opportunity Missed?

31 January 2008

A plot of land earmarked as a future tourist facility in Marmaris has failed to find a bidder at auction.

The plot, with an appraised value of 39m lira (approx £18m) was put up for sale by the official Savings Deposit Insurance Fund in Istanbul on Tuesday but attracted no bids.

Could be an opportunity with some local knowledge!

___

Turkey’s Economy Set To Grow

27 January 2008

Turkey, currently ranked 17th, expects to move into the world’s top ten economies in the next 15 years as it steps up major reforms and becomes a more European country, foreign minister Ali Babacan told business and political leaders attending the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland this weekend.

Mr Babacan stressed Turkey’s transformation over the past five years and its determination to continue economic, political and social reforms.

He insisted that over the next 15 years it would become more and more of a European country.

He said economic growth this year is targeted around five per cent, very similar to 2007

___

Switch It