Chapter 1

Research into the International Tourism Movements on the Basis of

Destination: The Case of Turkey
Necdet HACIOĞLU*, Füsun ESENKAL ÇÖZELİ**

1. INTRODUCTION
Tourism is one of the leading sectors that are the fastest developing and growing industries
throughout the world. This sector which makes positive and important contributions to the countries
from economic, social, political and cultural aspects, has become an industry on its own in the world
economy (Bozok, 1996: v). To that effect, the number of tourists who participated in the international
travels in 2014 reached by 4.7% increase rate and up to 1,138 million compared to the previous year
(with an increase of 51 million tourists compared to the previous period) according to World Tourism
Organization’s statement (Turofed, 2015: 22). Therefore, the countries almost compete in order to get a
share from international tourism which is such an important source of income. New destinations which
possess many original features show up every day within intense tourism competition in the world
(Yavuz, 2007: 41). The competition among the businesses in international tourism and travel industry
has left its place to the competition among the destinations (Cabael, 2011: 15).
A large number of destinations whose physical characteristics are similar are in a competition in
Mediterranean basin where Turkey is also located (Cabael, 2011:4). Many countries which offer similar
tourism products are affected negatively by this type of competition. When it is taken into consideration
that it is highly possible for the countries such as Tunisia and Algeria, which are located in
Mediterranean basin new in tourism, to offer charming prices to the tourists for the basic product, it
should be expected that the competition will be much more intensive for Turkey in the following years.
One of the predictions is that it would be easier and more profitable to do what has not been done in
fierce competition environment brought by globalization or to enter into the small and niche markets
which have not been entered yet and which possess a certain level of potential (Yavuz, 2007: 41).
Therefore, the destinations in Turkey should continuously review themselves. The destinations should
rediscover their past, history and cultural values, and should face the world with a new identity and
vision (Yavuz, 2007: 41). Because each place may not motivate everyone in the same way (Hacıoğlu,
2000: 118). This situation necessitates that the authorities know the factors which affect the tourists’
destination preferences, and that various public and private enterprises offer a package composed of
complementary goods and services in line with the resources of the destinations in a manner which will
be beneficial for the tourists (Bağıran, 2015: 10). Otherwise, all destinations, including Turkey, which
cannot ensure the development of sustainable tourism, cannot diversify their attractions, cannot make
use of their resources effectively, cannot perform new and creative marketing activities will face the risk
of losing their share in international tourism market (Bardakoğlu, 2011: 31).
2. LITERATURE REVIEW
2.1. The Concept of Destination
Destination is a word of French origin, and is used to mean “the place to arrive” in the most
general sense (Cabael, 2011: 5). Apart from that, it is seen that this word is used in Turkish tourism
literature with various expressions such as “the place visited”, “tourism area”, “orientation location”,
“destination point”, “attraction location”, “tourist site”, “tourism region”, “target area”, “tourist target”,
“tourist station” (Aksöz, 2010: 3). In general, destination is defined as “a geographical area which
constitutes the focal point of the services and opportunities that are envisaged in order to meet the needs

*
Prof. Dr, Balıkesir University, Tourism Faculty, Head of Tourism Guide Department
**
PhD Candidate, Balıkesir University, Social Sciences Institute, Tourism Mangement Department
of the tourists” (Babacan, 2010: 40).
Destinations may be either as big as a continent, or a country or may be smaller than the whole
country, or may be either as small as a city or even a village in a country. Within this context; villages,
towns, cities, provinces and countries are expressed as destination (Aksöz, 2010: 4). Kotler, Bowen and
Makens divide the destinations into two as micro and macro. Micro destination means the places whose
borders exist physically in some way or it is accepted that their borders exist, and macro destination
means the places which have more than one destination area. According to this definition, Bodrum is a
micro destination, and Turkey is a macro destination. Besides that, even specific casino centers can be
qualified as destination as is seen in the examples of Las Vegas, Cyprus, Monte Carlo (Aksöz, 2010: 5).
2.2 The Relationship between Tourism and Destination
Destination is among the most essential factors of the tourism concept (Ekici, 2013: 5). Since all
tourism activities are carried out within tourism destinations by the nature of the tourism sector (Doğan,
2013: 2). Therefore, it is known that tourism and destination are two important factors which are
interrelated and have an impact on the development of each other. A well-preserved destination is
important for the refreshment and development of the tourism, and similarly tourism is also rather
important for the development and promotion of the destination (Keskin, 2012: 35).
A visitor wants to be engaged in many activities in the place he/she has gone and wants to live
different experiences such as accommodation, food & beverage, entertainment, sightseeing new places,
learning different cultures. Hence, the visitors prefer the destinations which can provide some of the
tourism activities all together such as sea-sand-sun, shopping, culture, sports, history, faith etc. During
the vacation, the visitors evaluate the quality of the total service they have been provided, and they have
an overall satisfaction opinion satisfaction upon these evaluations at the end of the vacation (Cabael,
2011: 16). Therefore, a success of a tourism destination lays on considering thoroughly how the visitors
that have tendency for travelling can be affected and/or how the visitors coming to that place can be re-
attracted. In this period, it has great importance to develop strategies in the matters of determining the
factors that have affect upon the destination preferences of the tourists, knowing the features of the
destination well, knowing how to use and manage the existing potential of the destinations (Cabael,
2011: 4). Thus, the destinations which can meet the demands of the changing visitors, and which can
enhance the quality of service and product range will gain advantage in today’s fierce competition
conditions (Cabael, 2011: 16).
3. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
3.1. Purpose and Importance of the Research
In this study, some suggestions have been brought forward in relation to what can be done about
moving the position of Turkey, as a tourism destination, in international tourism movements to top
ranks. For this purpose, tourism destinations which comes into prominence and the destination areas
which remain idle in Turkey have been addressed statistically on the basis of regions, provinces and
districts. Afterwards, the regions and the provinces have been evaluated from the point of tourism
features. Within this framework, it has been studied to give answers to some questions such as: Which
regions and which provinces in Turkey do the foreigners mainly prefer? What are the reasons for
preferring the accommodation in those destinations? What are the reasons for not preferring the
destinations remaining idle? What can be done to increase the demand towards the destinations
remaining idle? There exists a great deal of studies about destination marketing when the studies about
the issue are examined. However, there has never been this type of study. In this sense, it is considered
that this study becomes more of an issue for the literature.
3.2. Research Method
As the method, firstly literature review has been conducted, and then it has been scrutinized that
which destinations the countries prefer in the world and why they prefer these destinations, and which
features Turkey has as a tourism destination, and the reasons why the foreigners prefer Turkey; and later
it has been aimed to determine the destination centers that are preferred and the destination centers
remaining idle in Turkey in the light of statistical data.

2
3.3. Findings obtained from the study
When the data in the Table 1 are examined, it can be seen that Mediterranean, Marmara, Aegean,
Southeastern Anatolia, Central Anatolia, Black Sea and Eastern Anatolia Region are listed respectively
from the most accommodated to the least accommodated regions.
Table 1: Distribution of the Foreigners Accommodating in Turkey by the Geographic Regions
2010 2011 2012 2013 2014
Mediterranean 8,870,174 9,592,572 10,313,228 10,978,366 12,122,769
Marmara 3,829,370 4,425,365 4,998,288 5,145,758 5,811,276
Aegean 3,387,806 3,825,261 3,719,639 3,515,462 3,913,693
Central Anatolia 1,080,197 1,098,324 1,102,695 1,118,511 1,267,282
Southeastern Anatolia 84,168 116,831 136,993 190,405 180,656
Black Sea 101,053 133,722 141,135 152,238 160,635
Eastern Anatolia 62,596 72,363 69,330 80,928 111,488
Source: This table was compiled from the Accommodation Statistics of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.
Mediterranean Region
According to the data of Table 1- 2014, Mediterranean Region is ranked as the first in terms of
accommodation. The region draws attention of the foreign tourists both due to its natural beauties and
mild climate; and its history and culture. In Mediterranean Region, there are natural health sources such
as hot springs, healing waters, and mineral springs, which are of capital importance; and relaxing
waterfalls and lakes, as well. The presence of Taurus Mountains brings the region into prominence in
terms of mountain and hunting tourism. Apart from these, the region comes into prominence in terms of
tourism with important cultural events and tourism fairs and festivals such as Mersin Fashion and
Textile Fair, and Golden Orange Film Festival (Antalya Film Festival) which is held annually (web-1
(web-2). Mediterranean Region is the earliest warming and the latest cooling region in Turkey (web-2).
The fact that the summer starts early results in the early start and development of the sea tourism, as
well (web-2). Therefore, the most developed tourism type is sea tourism (WEB-3). At the same time,
conducting tourism development projects in the region, intensification of the domestic and foreign
tourism investments and accordingly the existence the tourism facilities which have various qualities
and sufficient bed amounts lead to the fact that this region achieves superiority upon the other regions;
and bring the Mediterranean Region into the number one attraction center (Hacıoğlu et. al. 2008: 81). So
much so that, up to 35% of the tourist bed capacity in Turkey have been positioned in this region,
especially in Antalya coastline. Along the coasts of the region, some very-well equipped international
hotels, holiday villages, hostels, and the marinas are ranked after one another.
There are other important factors which contributes to the development of the tourism in these
areas such as marinas built in many places of the coasts, new airports, the roads which link the
settlements and the spectacular sights to each other along the shore (WEB-3), and carrying out charter
flights directly from the countries to this region, and the direct flights made in the air transportations.
When the region is examined on the basis of the provinces, it is seen that the most important tourism
center is Antalya which has a share at the rate of 98.5%. The province has 4 important tourism center as
Alanya, Kemer, Manavgat, Serik. Moreover, it is seen that Muratpaşa, Side, Aksu and Konyalatı are
also important tourism centers. Mersin gets share from tourism with its Akdeniz and Erdemli districts,
Adana with its Seyhan and Yüreğir districts, Hatay with its down-town and Antakya and İskenderun
districts, Isparta with its centers and Eğridir district, Burdur with its down-town and Ağlasun district,
Kahramanmaraş with its Dulkadiroğlu and Onikişubat districts, and Osmaniye with its down-town. As
seen in the table; the number of the tourists decreases especially as getting closer to the Syrian
provincial border. Although there are plenty of cultural, historical and natural attractions, it is evident
that the biggest reason why these provinces cannot get the desired share is security issue (Syrian civil
war, terrorism etc.).

3
Table 2: Distribution of the Foreigners Accommodating in the Mediterranean Region by the Provinces and
Districts
Mediterranean Region
Number of the Number of the
Districts Districts
arrivals to facility arrivals to facility
Alanya 2,564,824
Eğirdir 3,005
Kemer 2,407,689 Isparta
Antalya
Manavgat 2,193,077 5 970 Down-town 2,837
11 944 480
Serik 2,130,536 Others 128
Others 2.648.354
Burdur Down-town 2,260
Mersin Akdeniz 30,395
4 333
62 396 Others 32.001 Others 2073
Adana Seyhan 33,739 Kahraman- Dulkadiroğlu 2,275
51 782 Others 18,064 Maraş
Others 1,663
Down- 3.398
Hatay
town 26,270 Osmaniye Down-Town 1,030
48 534
(antakya) 1.336 Others 336
Source: This table was compiled from the accommodation statistics of the ministry of culture and tourism.
Table 3: Distribution of the Foreigners Accommodating in the Mediterranean Region by the Provinces in
2010-2014
Provinces 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014
Antalya 8,695,231 9,454,362 10,183,562 10,827,654 11,944,480
Mersin 63,003 50,105 43,651 50,106 62,396
Adana 40,922 40,420 39,592 44,641 51,782
Hatay 57,879 37,157 35,473 43,870 48,534
Isparta 8,046 6,210 4,401 4,111 5,970
Burdur 1,446 957 1,847 1,847 4,333
Kahramanmaraş 2,493 2,356 2,405 4,093 3,938
Kilis 153 293 1,192 - -
Osmaniye - - - - 1,336
Source: This table was compiled from the Accommodation Statistics of the Ministry
of Culture and Tourism
When the statistics between 2010 and 2014 are examined on the basis of the provinces, it is seen
that Antalya maintains its stability and the number continues to increase. However, the same balanced
attitude could not be maintained in the other provinces by years. Particularly, the declines which were
experienced in Isparta after 2010 cannot be ignored. There has been a decline in especially Eastern
Mediterranean provinces in 2012. When the reason behind this decline is examined, it can be considered
that the reason is the Syrian civil war which broke out on 5 March 2011 and the Turkey-Syrian crisis
which began after a Turkish jet was downed by Syria on June 2012. This is because, the nationals of
Syria, Iran and Iraq often visited Eastern Mediterranean and Southeastern provinces in order to do one-
day shopping until 16 September 2009 when the visa requirement between Turkey and Syria was
effectively and mutually lifted, and then the visa requirements with Iran and Iraq were also lifted.
However, this upward trend in 2011 was reversed with the impact of the crisis in 2012 and the number
of the tourists coming from Syria decreased by 33.1% as it is seen (Çay, 2016).
Marmara Region
According to the Table 1-2014 data, Marmara Region is ranked as the second in terms of
accommodation choice. The most important reason behind this is surely the region’s natural, historical
and cultural richness (WEB-4). Apart from this, there are other features which increase the
attractiveness of the region. For instance, there İstanbul (Bosporus) and Gallipoli Straits (Dardanelles)
in the region (WEB-5) and this region is located on important transportation routes (WEB-6). However,

4
the following reasons have caused that this region is preferred as the 2nd accommodation location: the
visits to the region are for one-day, and the accommodation periods are short, this region is the point of
entry (airline and highway) for the tourists, and the tourism centers in the other regions are used as
transit while leaving (Hacıoğlu et. al., 2008: 78).
Table 4: Distribution of the Foreigners Accommodating in the Marmara Region by the Provinces and
Districts
Number of the Number of the
Provinces Districts Provinces Districts
arrivals to facility arrivals to facility
Fatih 1,627,085 Edirne Down-town 29,250
Istanbul
Beyoğlu 1,072,043 33 222 Others 3.972
5 078 949
Others 2,379.821 Yalova Termal 22,369
Bursa Osmangazi 167,216 32.645 Others 10.276
225 588 Others 58,372 Sapanca 16,154
Sakarya
Balikesir Ayvalık 86,990 Adapazarı 9,985
28.690
114 929 Others 27.939 Others 2.551
İzmit 35,147 Tekirdağ Çorlu 11,306
Kocaeli Gebze 28,102 21 260 Others 9.954
79 653 Bilecik Bozuyük 1,440
Others 16,404
2 694 Others 1.250
Source: Ministry of Culture and Tourism- Accommodation Statistics
The most important tourism destination of the region is İstanbul which has a share of about 87%
and named as a world city. İstanbul is an important tourism center where every pleasure and desire can
be satisfied thanks to its historical places, museums, palaces, fortifications, mansions, natural beauties
and faith centers, which are the accumulation of the 8000-year of history. Furthermore, İstanbul as the
capital of culture is the city where the visits particularly for business, congress, meeting, and fair
purposes are organized. Moreover, the other important reasons why tourism activities are intensely
experienced here are that it has the biggest port of importation of the country, it has the characteristics to
be the starting point of sea transportation in the country, and it is the biggest center which provides
airline connection with the other countries throughout the world (WEB-7). When the districts where
tourism is intensely experienced in İstanbul are analyzed, Fatih and Beyoğlu are the districts where the
cultural places such as mosques, palaces are centered around. According to Table 8 data, it is seen that
the other provinces of the Marmara Region fall behind İstanbul in terms of tourism, despite the fact that
they hold many historical, cultural and natural beauties within. While Bursa which is ranked as the
second comes into prominence with its Osmangazi districts, it is seen that Çanakkale which is ranked as
the third is in the forefront with its down-town. The other provinces and their prominent districts are
respectively Balıkesir- Ayvalık, Kocaeli-İzmit and Gebze, Edirne – Downtown, Yalova- Termal,
Sakarya-Sapanca, Tekirdağ-Çorlu ve Bilecik- Bozuyük and down-town.
It is possible to say that Bursa attracts tourists with its history and natural attractions, and also with
Uludağ which hosts winter sports. The fact that the most important thermal springs are in Bursa and
Yalova in the region moves these provinces to an important point in terms of medical tourism. Manyas,
with its “Bird Sanctuary”, is in the limelight for the tourists who are interested in bird watching.
Southern coasts including Balıkesir constitute the most favorable parts of the Marmara Region in terms
of sea tourism (WEB-8). It is thought-provoking that the important coastal areas such as Erdek, Avşa
Island, Zeytinli Ada which can lead to sea tourism of Balıkesir; and Ören, Burhaniye in Aegean coast
cannot get share as much as Ayvalık does. Although Çanakkale which is another important tourist
destination of the region is rich in terms of historical and natural beauties, it attracts rather less tourist
than it should do. Tourism focuses on Gallipoli (Gelibolu) which hosts Trojan War and where the
Ancient City of Troy and Assos lived and Gallipoli Campaign (Dardanelles Battle) occurred In
particular, thousands of tourists from Australia and New Zealand rush into the region in Anzac Day
which is held on 25th April every year. In addition, Gökçeada (Imbros) and Bozcaada (Tenedos) are
important tourist destinations in terms of sea tourism. Although this province is suitable for sea tourism,

5
it is seen that there is not a structuring activity in this regard. Such that, the number of 5-star hotel
within Çanakkale provincial border is only 1 (WEB-9). Moreover, the other destinations of the region
such as Kocaeli, Edirne, Sakarya, Tekirdağ and Bilecik can be mentioned as tourism destinations and
have many historical, cultural and natural values which can improve the region. When the related trend
is examined, it is seen that İstanbul and Bursa, which are the most important tourism centers, maintain
stability increasingly by years.
Table 5: Distribution of the Foreigners Accommodating in the Marmara Region by the Provinces in 2010-
2014
Provinces 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014
Istanbul 3,371,952 3,832,035 4,416,608 4,475,838 5,078,949
Bursa 112,340 130,338 160,559 188,736 225,588
Çanakkale 154,647 162,658 179,870 172,791 192,878
Balikesir 111,425 195,948 124,160 136,730 114,929
Kocaeli 35,460 45,527 52,766 82,007 79,653
Edirne 17,228 16,482 13,359 16,788 33,222
Yalavo 12,948 15,486 - 21,697 32,645
Sakarya 558 7,077 13,525 23,136 28,738
Tekirdağ 9,924 16,439 16,374 23,281 21,260
Bilecik 2,449 2,931 2,348 4,064 2,694
Kirlareli 439 444 750 690 720
Source: Ministry of Culture and Tourism- Accommodation Statistics
However, it is not the same in the other provinces. Especially, Çanakkale which maintained its
place as the second important tourism destination until 2013 has lost its place, and Bursa has become
the second important tourism destination, and Çanakkale fell to third place. One of the most important
factors which causes this situation is the fact that there has been an influx of the Arab tourists to Bursa
recently. A large part of the incoming tourists, (30%), to the region for holiday purposes is Arab
tourists. Even if this situation is a pleasing development for Bursa, it is worrisome that Çanakkale could
not catch the same increase rate when Çanakkale’s potential is taken into consideration. Furthermore, it
is obvious that the other provinces, which may be important tourism centers with their numerous
features, cannot get enough share.
Aegean Region
According to the data of Table 1-2014, Aegean Region is ranked as the third. The fact that it was a
cradle to many civilizations throughout the history as one of the oldest residential areas is among the
factors which increase the cultural and historical attractiveness of the region (WEB-6). Historical
artifacts remaining from Ancient civilizations and Turkish States in the region are the other tourist
attractions (WEB-10).On the other side, the fact that the mountains run perpendicular to the coastline
form a very indented coastal strip (WEB-11). Therefore, it has plenty of bays and gulfs which are
suitable for swimming (WEB-6/WEB11). Mediterranean climate prevails in the region (WEB 11). For
this reason, tourism season can continue during 7-8 months (WEB 6). The factors such as the winter’s
coming late, sunbathing opportunities in the summer, the convenience of the sea water temperature
attract many tourists. This situation has led to preferability of the region in terms of the sea tourism
(WEB-11). When the region is examined on the basis of the provinces, it is seen that Muğla destination
is in the position of a tourism center. The province draws attention with its Bodrum, Marmaris and
Fethiye districts in terms of tourist traffic, as well. Another destination which has importance in terms of
particularly sea tourism of the region is Aydın.
Aydın is at the forefront with particularly Kuşadası. The districts which come into prominence in
terms of tourism in the other provinces that are full of historical and natural beauties are respectively
Denizli-Pamukkale, Manisa-Yunusemre, Afyonkarahisar –down-town, Uşak–down-town. However, it
is seen that these provinces serve for tourism quite limited despite their tourism potential.
When the related trend concerning Aegean Region is examined, it is seen that Muğla province
maintains its stability since 2010, and it is seen that Aydın province which was ranked as the third or

6
fourth before 2013, takes the second place in 2013. İzmir province continues to increase its tourist
share; however there was a decrease by % 13 in 2013. It is stated in the news sources that one of the
biggest factors causing İzmir province’s tourism potential to decrease is that some values such as
Kadifekale, Agora, and Kemeraltı are poorly groomed and they have lost their attractiveness (WEB-12).
The same situation is also seen in Denizli. Denizli lost its second place in 2012, which was maintained
in 2010 and 2011. According to news sources, it is seen that the most important reason behind this
situation is that Pamukkale travertine face the risk of losing its characteristics because of the
unconscious water consumption especially by the five-star hotels and the increased structuring around
the Pamukkale travertine. However, the measures taken have prevented this deterioration, and the
increase of % 15 in the statistic of 2014 compared to the previous year proves this point (WEB-13). It is
seen that the share obtained from tourism by the other tourism destinations such as Manisa, Kütahya and
Uşak provinces are up-and-down by years and the balance cannot be maintained. It can be seen that the
underlying reasons for this are lack of promotion and insufficiency of the facilities. It attracts attention
that Afyonkarahisar province gets higher amount of share from tourism especially by the years 2013 and
2014. It can be stated that the reason behind this situation is that Afyonkarahisar is in the position of
thermal tourism destination for the tourists travelling for health purposes (WEB-15).
Table 6: Distribution of the Foreigners Accommodating in the Aegean Region by the Provinces and Districts
Number of the Number of the
Provinces Districts Provinces Districts
arrivals to facility arrivals to facility
Bodrum 869,847 Denizli Pamukkale 514,816
Muğla Marmaris 600,958 518,176 Others 3.360
1,935,104 Fethiye 348,626 Manisa Yunusemre 13,677
Others 115.673 17,824 Others 4.147
Kuşadası 658,146 Afyon Down-town 13,488
Aydin
Karahisar
728,549 Others 70.403 Others 4.174
17 662
Konak 202,201 Kütahya Down-town 5,102
Izmir Menderes 170,314 5 473 Others 371
688,148 Selçuk 139,050 Uşak
Others 176.583
Down-town 2757
2757
Source: Ministry of Culture and Tourism- Accommodation Statistics
Table 7: Distribution of the Foreigners Accommodating in the Aegean Region by the Provinces in 2007-
2014
Provinces 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014
Muğla 1,713,645 1,672,772 1,661,475 1,661,453 1,935,104
Aydin 461,123 599,016 677,490 721,342 728,549
İzmir 509,771 717,653 683,331 596,875 688,148
Denizli 679,215 813,993 677,490 496,231 518,176
Manisa 10,223 10,584 7,800 19,546 17,824
Afyonkarahisar 8,785 6,521 7,720 14,906 17,662
Kütahya 2,606 2,643 2,208 3,289 5,473
Uşak 2,438 2,079 2,059 1,820 2,757
Source: Ministry of Culture and Tourism- Accommodation Statistics
Central Anatolia Region
According to the Table 1-2014 data, Central Anatolia Region is ranked as the fourth place in
terms of accommodation. There are some factors which ensure a dynamic tourism in this region but not
as much as the other regions. For instance, Turkey’s capital province, Ankara is located in this region
and is the political center of the country (WEB-6), Kapadokya that is the natural area (the region which
covers Nevşehir, Ürgüp, Göreme valley) favorable for long-term accommodation tourism after the

7
coasts is located in this region; and Konya as the center of cultural tourism of the region is also located
here (Hacıoğlu, 2008: 79, 81). Meanwhile, the region is rich in terms of historical tourism because it
hosted a great variety of civilizations. The settlements which belong to Neolithic period, and the various
artifacts from Hittites are among the important tourism attractions. Seljuk monuments in Konya and
Mevlana Mausoleum set a good example of these attractions (WEB-15).
Medical tourism is also developed in the region. There are hot springs in particularly Eskişehir,
Ankara, Konya, Niğde, Kayseri provinces. There are recreation and accommodation facilities
established for this purpose in these settlements. Mount Erciyes and Elmadağ in the region are the
developed places in terms of ski tourism. Most particularly Anıtkabir, Atatürk Museum, Ethnography
Museum located in Ankara in the region are among the most commonly visited places by the people.
Kayseri Anatolian Fair and Konya Fair which are held annually in the Central Anatolia Region are the
major tourism and trade activities. There are also tourism areas which are preserved from historical and
natural aspects such as Boğazköy Alacahöyük National Park, Göreme Historical National Park and
Yozgat Pine Grove National Park (WEB-16).
Table 8: Distribution of the Foreigners Accommodating in the Central Anatolia Region by the Provinces and
Districts
Number of the Number of
Provinces Districts arrivals to Provinces Districts the arrivals to
facility facility
Ürgüp 272,989 Tepebaşı 12,144
Eskişehir
Nevşehir Down- Odunpazarı 3.600
268,613 15 744
town
613 392
Down-
Others 71.790 Aksaray 7,703
town
8 473
Çankaya 300,904 Güzelyurt 770
Ankara Down-
Altındağ 117,743 Yozgat 728
458 842 town
730
Others 40.195 Others 2
Down-
Konya Selçuklu 105,354 Sivas 643
town
140 463 657
Others 35.109 Zara 14
Kayseri Kocasinan 18,688 Kirşehir Down-
460
25 556 Melikgazi 6,868 460 town
Source: Ministry of Culture and Tourism- Accommodation Statistics
Table 9: Distribution of the Foreigners Accommodating in the Central Anatolia Region by the Provinces in
2010-2014
Provinces 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014
Nevşehir 571,650 535,028 492,758 501,507 613,392
Ankara 296,558 360,107 423,782 416,053 458,842
Konya 164,335 151,865 129,897 146,057 140,463
Kayseri 14,332 23,760 30,389 30,216 25,556
Eskişehir 7,254 10,279 9,786 12,656 15,744
Aksaray 21,337 11,020 10,014 7,483 8,473
Niğde 1,275 2,950 777 1,175 788
Yozgat 619 866 381 475 730
Sivas 2,447 998 446 657
Kirşehir 21 441 345 414 460
Source: Ministry of Culture and Tourism- Accommodation Statistics
The tourism center of the region is Nevşehir. The most important reason for this is undoubtedly
nature’s wonder fairy chimneys, crater lakes, Ihlara Valley and Kapadokya area which is famous for its
underground cities in Derinkuyu in the region (WEB-16). Accordingly, the most important tourism

8
places in the province are Ürgüp and its down-town. When the tourism destinations which are central
locations in the other provinces are examined; it is seen that Ankara is at the forefront with Çankaya and
Altındağ districts; Konya is at the forefront with its Selçuklu district; Kayseri is at the forefront with its
Kocasinan district; Eskişehir is at the forefront with its Tepebaşı district; and Aksaray, Sivas and
Kırşehir are at the forefront with their down-towns. The provinces which particularly remain inactive in
the region are Kayseri, Eskişehir, Niğde, Yozgat, Sivas and Kırşehir. Nevertheless, these provinces
possess many historical, cultural and natural beauties. Kayseri which is particularly the trade and
industry center of Central Anatolia, and located on the junction point of the highways and railways
(WEB-17) has great importance with regard to business tourism. Furthermore, the fact that Erciyes Ski
Resort exists here results makes this province rather favorable for winter tourism (WEB-18). However;
despite these values, it is highly thought-provoking that this province gets quite low share from tourism.
When, the trend between 2010 and 2014 of the concerned provinces of the region, it is seen that the
number of the incoming tourists to all provinces except Ankara, which is at the forefront with its
political identity, decreases as of 2012. According to news sources, it is determined that there has been a
decrease in the number of Japanese tourists and western tourists visiting the region (WEB-19) and it is
stated that this is because of the decreasing number of Japanese tourists due to the Arab Spring, the
emergence of ISIS, and murder of two Japanese by ISIS (WEB-20).
Southeastern Anatolia Region
When the statistics of the region in the Table 4 are analyzed for 2014, it is seen that this region is
ranked as 5th in terms of accommodation. It is the region where the oldest settlements of Anatolia have
existed (WEB-6). Therefore, its tourism potential is very high (WEB-21). It is in the central position
especially with regard to faith tourism (WEB-22). The region is full of many sightseeing places, and
historical, cultural and natural beauties such as Adıyaman-Mount Nemrut, City of Prophets Urfa,
Historical Harran University, Harran houses, Mardin houses. There are important tourism attractions in
the region such as the traces of Commagene Civilizations on the Mount Nemrut where the sun rises in
the most beautiful way in the world, and the Pool of Sacred Fish (Pool of Abraham) in Şanlıurfa.
However, the region which has been exposed to terrorism for many years has not got a share from
tourism it deserves (WEB-21)
Table 10: Distribution of the Foreigners Accommodating in the Southeastern Anatolia Region by the
Provinces and Districts
Number of the Number of the
Provinces Districts arrivals to Provinces Districts arrivals to
facility facility
Gaziantep Şahinbey 73,744 Artuklu 12,198
Mardin
107,205 Others 33.461
17,225 Others 5027
Sur 16,935
Diyarbakir Kahta 2,255
Adiyaman
24,584 Others 7.649 Down-
4,209 1,831
town
Haliliye 17,549 Down-
Batman 3,220
town
Şanliurfa 3,444
Others 224
23,486 Others 5.937
Siirt Down-
503
503 town
Source: Ministry of culture and tourism- accommodation statistics
According to the data on the Table 12; the most important tourism center of the region is Gaziantep.
The reason for this is that Gaziantep province, which is a settlement area and the center where various
religions developed and spread since ancient times, is an important tourist attraction and has a central
position in the region, where the numbers of accommodation is highest (Hacıoğlu et. al., 2008: 81). The
province is at the forefront with its Şahinbey district. Subsequently, Diyarbakır with its Sur district;
Şanlıurfa with its Haliliye district; Mardin with its Artuklu district; Adıyaman with its Kahta district and

9
its down-town districts; and Siirt with its down-town are at the forefront respectively.
Table 11: Distribution of the Foreigners Accommodating in the Southeastern Anatolia Region by the
Provinces in 2010-2014
Provinces 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014
Gaziantep 38,546 64,013 90,658 119,879 107,205
Diyarbakir 19,680 20,006 13,871 22,582 24,584
Şanliurfa 7,760 8,899 13,245 21,113 23,486
Mardin 9,855 8,399 10,495 15,499 17,225
Adiyaman 7,742 10,741 7,495 6,775 4,209
Batman 585 4,773 1,229 4,557 3,444
Siirt - - - - 503
Source: Ministry of Culture and Tourism - Accommodation Statistics
However, when the statistical data in this region are analyzed by years, it draws attention that the
arrivals and accommodations which showed an increasing trend until 2014 visibly decrease by the year
of 2014. One of the biggest reasons for this situation is Syrian civil war which began which arose in
2012. Turkey-Syrian relations which developed rapidly with regards to trade and tourism in the past, has
regressed because of the war, and the economies and tourism of especially Gaziantep, Mardin and
Şanlıurfa provinces which are near Syria have begun to be affected negatively (Çay, 2016). The other
important reason, or even the main reason is terrorism problem. Terrorism showing its presence less or
intense from time to time, has caused that the share which the provinces get is both less and draws an
unbalanced table by years.
Black Sea Region
The region has an important potential in terms of tourism with its lush vegetation, mountains,
plateaus, natural beaches along the coast, hot springs, mineral springs, historical and natural beauties
(WEB-23) (WEB 24). However; this region is ranked as 6th in terms of accommodation according to
Table 5-2014 data, despite the fact that it has natural, cultural, and historical attractions; and it is a safer
region compared to Southeastern Anatolia regions. The important reasons for this situation are that the
mountains run parallel to the coastline; there are a few beaches due to the absence of protrusions and
indentions along the coast; and the summer season lasts a short time when compared to the other regions
because of its climatic condition which receives rainfall in every season (WEB-6)(WEB-23). This
situation directs tourists who want to benefit from sea tourism towards mainly south and west.
Furthermore, the other reasons are as follows: the important entrance gates are located in the west,
this region is far from the major tourist roads, and the tourists prefer visiting the region without
accommodating here or have a tendency to stay for a short period of time instead of accommodating and
spending their holidays in this region. The fact that total bed amount is inadequate for holiday tourism,
and foreign organized tours regard the Black Sea Region as the transition area can be considered as the
other reasons (Hacıoğlu et. al., 2008: 81).
The most important tourism center is Trabzon which is at the forefront with its Ortahisar and Yomra
districts. The most important feature which makes Trabzon a tourism center of the region is that there is,
one of the oldest structures of the history, Sümela Monastery in Maçka district within this province
(WEB-25). Sümela is one of the oldest and most important monasteries of Christianity and especially of
Orthodox sect in Anatolia. Therefore, it is regarded as one of the leading holy places by Orthodox
Christians. That’s why it constitutes a huge potential with regard to faith tourism. Moreover, it is a
tourist attraction thanks to its spectacular view, because it was built in a geographical area which is
composed of a quite steep and green nature (WEB-26). When the other tourism destinations in the
region are analyzed, it is seen that Bolu gets share from tourism mostly with its down-town and
Mudurnu district; Karabük with its Safranbolu district; Samsun with its Canik districts; Rize with its
Pazar, Fındıklı and Ardeşen districts; Ordu with its Altınordu district; Düzce with its down-town and
Akçakoca district; Artvin with its Hopa district; Zonguldak with its Ereğli district and its down-town;
and the other provinces get share from tourism mostly with their down-towns.

10
Table 12: Distribution of the Foreigners Accommodating in the Black Sea Region by the Provinces and
Districts
Number of the Number of the
Provinces Districts Provinces Districts
arrivals to facility arrivals to facility
Ortahisar 30,879 Artvin Hopa 4 186
Trabzon
Yomra 20,185 5 907 Others
65,468
Others 14.404 Zonguldak Ereğli 2 999
Down-town 27,991 5 768 Down-town 2 631
Bolu
Mudurnu 10,883 Amasya Down-town 4.399
41,217
Others 2.343 4 399 Others
Karabük Safranbolu 26,842 Giresun Down-town 4 123
Canik 10,321 4257 Others
Samsun
17,398 7.077
Others Çorum Down-town 1 122
1806
Pazar 4,175 Others
Rize Fındıklı 2,152 Kastamonu Down-town 1 129
10,363 Ardeşen 1,985 1.531 Others
Others 2.051 Sinop Down-town 863
Ordu Altınordu 5,978 892 Gerze 29
7.733 Others 1.755 Tokat Down-Town 619
Down-town 3.257 674 Others
Düzce
6,437 508
Akçakoca 3 180 Çankırı Down-town
Gümüşhane Down-town 405 Bartin Down-town 129
440 Kelkit 35 209 Amasra 80
Source: Ministry of Culture and Tourism - Accommodation Statistics
Table 13: Distribution of the Foreigners Accommodating in the Black Sea Region by the Provinces in 2010-
2014
Provinces 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014
Trabzon 23,363 41,036 57,313 52,279 65,468
Bolu 26,561 25,815 29,732 33,187 41,247
Karabük 7,923 12,859 12,729 19,384 26,842
Samsun 5,919 7,239 5,995 6,176 17,398
Rize 731 4,327 1,535 3,966 10,363
Ordu 2,268 3,440 4,527 6,215 7,736
Düzce 2,912 2,950 3,125 4,523 6,437
Artvin 20,183 16,322 7,127 3,949 5,907
Zonguldak 2,208 2,930 1,687 6,888 5,768
Amasya 2,087 6,801 5,716 5,206 4,399
Giresun 807 2,719 3,114 2,758 4,257
Çorum 4,265 3,063 2,534 1,991 1,806
Kastamonu 280 944 1,236 3,310 1,531
Sinop 607 1,264 1,570 1,154 892
Tokat 638 511 2,066 473 674
Çankiri 93 1,077 400 253 508
Gümüşhane 1 176 165 216 440
Bartin 207 249 564 310 209
Source: Ministry of Culture and Tourism - Accommodation Statistics

11
 However, it is apparent that the share they get is rather limited in comparison with the historical,
cultural and natural beauties. When the related trend for the region is examined; it can be said that most
provinces (except for the year 2012) apart from some provinces in the region, draw a quite balanced and
increasing trend by years. When the 2014 data in the Table are examined, tit is seen that there has been
a considerable increase in the most provinces of the region. It can be said that the most important share
of this increase belongs to Arab tourists. According to news sources, the Black Sea Region is the
leading region where Arab tourist influx recently. According to the same news source, it is stated that
Uzungöl and Sümela Monastery in Trabzon; and Ayder Plateau in Rize are the places receiving plenty
of visits. Furthermore, it draws attention that this region is mostly preferred particularly by the Saudi
Arabians, and it attracts the tourists coming from the United Arab Emirates and Kuwait, and it is stated
that the number of Arab tourists who visit the Black Sea Region was 190 thousand in 2013; and it
reached to 260 thousand increasing by 75% (WEB-27). However, the relevant news sources lay
emphasis upon that the intense demands of the Arabs are not fulfilled, the facilities fall short, and the
universities’ private dormitories get involved in activities in order to meet this demand; but it is strongly
emphasized that this situation adversely affects the quality of service, and this region may lose its charm
for all these reasons (WEB-28).
Eastern Anatolia Region
According to the Table 1-2014 data, Marmara Region is ranked as the seventh in terms of
accommodation choice. Historical and cultural richness of the region has significant appeal. Especially
because of its large holding mountainous areas where mountain tourism is an important potential (WEB
29).
Table14: Distribution of the Foreigners Accommodating in the Eastern Anatolia Region by the Provinces in
2010-2014
Number of Number of the
Provinces Districts the arrivals to Provinces Districts arrivals to
facility facility
Van İpekyolu 32 680 Şirnak Silopi 1.940
38 478 Others 5.790 2474 Down-town 534
Erzurum Palandöken 23 760 Bitlis Tatvan 2 267
28.240 Others 4.480 2 431 Others 164
Iğdır
Down-town 11.757 Erzincan Down-town 2061
11.757
2121
Battalgazi 3 429 Refahiye 60
Malatya
Yeşilyurt 2 957 Tunceli Down-town 707
6.699
Others 313 916 Others 209
Ağrı Doğubeyazıt 3.320 Down-town 420
3 576 Down-town 256 Hakkari
Elazığ Down-town 2 842 647 Yüksekova 227
2963 Sivrice 121
Source: Ministry of Culture and Tourism - Accommodation Statistics
However, long duration of the winter months in the region, due to the abundant snowfall, tourism is
not very lively (WEB 7) tourists in this region tend to be more day to visit the coastal zone and marine
tourism that can not or prefer to spend their holidays However, plant diversity and the scarcity of beds
and foremost security issues in the region to tourists prefer to stay long-term are among the other
causes. In addition, lack of transportation has hindered the development of tourism (WEB 30). The most
important tourism center of the region is Van. Subsequently, Erzurum with its Palandöken district;
Malatya with its Battalgazi district; Ağrı with its Doğubeyazıt district; Kars with its Iğdır district; and
Erzincan, Tunceli, Hakkari, Muş with theirs down-town are at the forefront respectively.
According to the data in the table 15 when examining trends related particularly bumpy because of
security issues has been experiencing a trend.

12
Table 15: Distribution of the Foreigners Accommodating in the Eastern Anatolia Region by the Provinces in
2010-2014
Provinces 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014
Van 13.771 18.184 11.413 18.527 38.478
Erzurum 18.811 21.511
Iğdır 8.494 6.615 12.341 9.256 11.757
Kars 11.920 13.084 9.445 6.741 10.051
Malatya 2.625 3.228 3.764 3.540 6.699
Ağrı 1.774 1.966 3.794 4.115 3.576
Elazığ 1.167 2.092 3.230 2.747 2.963
Şırnak 395 1.565 1.638 1.790 2.474
Bitlis 2.183 1.012 1.739 1.868 2.431
Erzincan 311 881 905 945 2.121
Tunceli 57 325 235 158 916
Hakkari - 12 688 1.127 647
Ardahan 574 375 1154 957 601
Muş 458 1.429 951 364 391
Bingöl 56 84 185 144 143
Source: Ministry of Culture and Tourism - Accommodation Statistics
Table 16: The Destinations Which Are Preferred by the Foreigners According to their Nationalities and the
Reasons of their Preferences.
Visits to historical places and cultural tours, city
İstanbul, Kapodokya, Kuşadası
USA tours, guided tours, gastronomy tours, spa and
(Ephesus), Bodrum
wellness packages
Sea-sand-sun, entertainment, shopping, health, Mediterranean, Marmara-İstanbul,
Germany
business, package program Aegean, Central Anatolia-Kapodokya
Historical, cultural, hiking, climbing, alternative İstanbul, Kapadokya, Muğla, Antalya,
Australia
tourism types and shopping Ankara, Pamukkale, İzmir, Çanakkale
Recreation, trade (suitcase trading), winter tourism,
İstanbul, Kemer, Antalya, Bodrum,
Azerbaijan fair, exhibition, job interview and science-oriented
Çesme
trips
Culture/City Tours, Wellness, Sea Vacation, Far
Austria Antalya, Muğla, İstanbul, Kapadokya
Destination/ Luxury Vacation
United
Arab Shopping, Nature, Culture and History İstanbul, Bursa, Yalova
Emirates
Sun/ Sea Vacation, Sightseeing, Nature, Mountain Antalya, İstanbul, Bodrum, Kuşadası,
Belgium
and City Tours Kapadokya, İzmir, Marmaris
Bosnia Mass tourism (sea-sand-sun), Culture tourism İstanbul, Antalya, Marmaris, Bodrum,
Herzegovina Kuşadası, Side, Bursa
Kuşadası-Ephesus (because of the
Bulgaria Sea, Culture, shopping, religion interest in Virgin Marry) Antalya,
Bodrum, İzmir, İstanbul, Kapadokya
İstanbul, Kapadokya, Pamukkale,
China Urban tourism, Culture tourism, Shopping
Kuşadası, İzmir, Antalya
Denmark Sea-sand-sun, culture, sports, health and ecology Antalya, South Aegean, İstanbul
Visiting historical, cultural and religious places, İstanbul, Kapadokya, Bursa, Ankara,
Indonesia
shopping Konya, Pamukkale, İzmir ve Çanakkale
Alanya, Marmaris, İstanbul, Fethiye,
Sea-sand-sun, urban tourism, golf, cultural areas,
Finland Belek, Bodrum, Side, Antalya, Kemer,
sailing, paragliding, yachting and nature
Kaş, Kalkan, İzmir
Bodrum, İzmir, Antalya, İstanbul,
France Sea, culture, shopping, urban and medical tourism
Kapadokya
South History-Culture, Religion, Nature, Unesco World İstanbul, Antalya, İzmir, Kapadokya,

13
Korea Heritage Denizli-Pamukkale Pamukkale,
Ankara, Konya, Çanakkale
Croatia Recreation, sight-seeing İstanbul, Kapadokya, Antalya
Sight-seeing and relaxation, Shopping, History and
India İstanbul, Antalya, İzmir, Kapadokya
Culture, Honeymoon, Congress tourism
Sea-sand- sun, culture, city, nature and sports Alanya, İstanbul, Side, Antalya,
Holland
activities Marmaris, Bodrum, Nevsehir
Nice climate, culture and history, clean beaches,
Britain Muğla, Antalya, İstanbul, İzmir, Aydın
reasonable rates
Kapadokya, İstanbul, Aegean,
Spain Culture/faith tourism and sea tourism
Mediterranean
Antalya, Marmaris, Bodrum, Kuşadası,
Iran Sea, shopping, culture, faith and sports
İstanbul, Konya, Ankara
Sea-sand-sun, culture, thermal, nature Antalya, Aegean Coasts, İstanbul,
Israel
and adventure tourism Kapadokya, the Black Sea
Mass tourism (sea/sun/sand), culture tourism, Antalya, Bodrum, İstanbul, Muğla,
Sweden
thermal tourism and golf tourism Marmaris, İzmir
Sea-Sand-Sun, culture tourism, golf, yachting and
Antalya, İstanbul, Aegean Region,
water sports
Switzerland Bodrum İzmir, Kapadokya, Eastern
Anatolia Rwgion
İstanbul, Kapadokya, Bodrum,
Italy Sea, culture, faith, urban and shopping tourism Marmaris,Çeşme, Pamukkale, Ephesus,
İzmir, Muğla, Antalya
Antalya, Marmaris, Bodrum, Kuşadası,
İran Sea, shopping, culture, faith and sports
İstanbul, Konya ve Ankara
İstanbul, Kapadokya, Konya, Denizli-
Japan History, Culture, Nature, Unesco World Heritage Pamukkale, Çanakkale, Safranbolu,
İzmir
Kazakhstan Sea-sand-sun, shopping Antalya, Bodrum, Marmaris, İstanbul
Vacation, trade (suitcase trade), culture, faith İstanbul, Kemer, İzmir, Antalya,
Kyrgyzstan
tourism Pamukkale and Erzurum, Ankara
Marmara Region, Aegean Region,
Macedonia Culture, nature tourism and business
Mediterranean and the other regions
Visiting historical, cultural and religious places, İstanbul, Kapadokya, Bursa, Ankara,
Malaysia
shopping Konya, Pamukkale, İzmir, Çanakkale
Egypt Culture, shopping, faith and sea İstanbul, Antalya, Muğla, Bursa, Konya
Mass tourism (sea-sand-sun), Culture tourism,
Norway Antalya, Bodrum, İstanbul, Marmaris
thermal tourism and golf tourism
İstanbul, Kapadokya, Bursa, Ankara,
Recreation, trade (suitcase trade), fair, exhibition,
Uzbekistan Konya, Denizli-Pamukkale, İzmir,
job interview and science-oriented trips
Çanakkale
Antalya, Bodrum, Dalaman, İzmir,
Sea-Sand-Sun, Nature tourism, Wonder and culture
Poland Kapodokya, İstanbul, Fethiye,
tours
Marmaris
Antalya (Kemer, Belek, Side, Alanya),
Marmaris, Fethiye ve Bodrum,
Romania Sea, culture, shopping, religion Çanakkale, İstanbul, Kuşadası
(Çanakkale, İstanbul, Kuşadası are
preferred from Bucharest by roads)
Russia Sea tourism, Entertainment Antalya, İstanbul, İzmir
Visiting historical, cultural and religious places, İstanbul, Kapadokya, Bursa,
Singapore
shopping Pamukkale, İzmir and Çanakkale
Antalya, İstanbul, Kuşadası, Marmaris,
Serbia Sea-sand-sun, Culture tourism
Çeşme, Bodrum
Slovenia Recreation/sight-seeing İstanbul
Saudi Tableland tourism, Thermal tourism İstanbul, Yalova, Bursa, Doğu

14
 Arabia Karadeniz-Bolu-Trabzon Hatay,
Mersin, Antalya
Hatay, Mersin, Adana, Gaziantep,
Sea, thermal, nature, shopping, entertainment and
Syria İstanbul, Antalya, Konya, Muğla,
faith, business, health and honeymoon tourism
Bursa, Yalova, Kapadokya, Karadeniz
Antalya (Kemer, Belek, Alanya, Side)-
Sun-sand-sea, culture-history, winter tourism
Ukraine İstanbul, Muğla (Bodrum, Fethiye,
Marmaris, Dalaman) -
Culture, religion, sea-sand-sun, affordable price
İstanbul, Kuşadası, Bodrum, Çesme,
Greece (cultural and religion tours draw attention much
Marmaris, Black Sea
more than sea vacation)
Source: Koder/ Ministry of Culture and Tourism
4. RESULTS AND SUGGESTIONS
When the findings regarding the examination into the international tourism movements towards
Turkey on the basis of destination are evaluated, it can be said that tourism in Turkey actually rotate
around only 7 provinces. According to 2014 data, the number of the foreigners who accommodate in the
facilities with Tourism Operation License in Turkey is 23,609,016 and when the share which the
provinces get are considered, it is seen that Antalya where 11,944,480 people accommodate is ranked as
the first with its share of approximately 57%, and İstanbul is ranked as the second with 5,078,949
accommodation number and 22% a share. of Following these provinces, Muğla province with 1,935,104
accommodation number having a share of 8%, Aydın province with 728,549 accommodation number
having a share of 3%, Nevşehir province with 613,392 accommodation number having a share of 2.6%,
Denizli province with 518,176 accommodation numbers having a share of 2%; and Ankara with
458,842 accommodation number having a share of 1.9% come respectively. It is seen that 96.4% of
total are only these provinces (İstanbul, Antalya, Muğla, Aydın, Nevşehir, Denizli, Ankara), and the
others remains at a share of 4.6%. The fact that 4 provinces among the 7 are seaside destinations is an
indication of that tourism in Turkey focuses highly on sea-sand-sun trio. However; when the travel
motivations of the countries on the Table16 are taken into consideration, it is seen that Turkey has many
provinces and districts which are full of historical, natural and cultural beauties which can appeal to the
nationalities of a great deal of countries. When an answer is sought to the question “So why these
provinces and districts could not find an active place in tourism?”, it is possible to get the results written
below.
 Turkey’s image problem (According to “National Brands Research” conducted by a marketing
expert, Simon Anholt, Turkey is on a rather unsuccessful position in respect to become a “brand-name”
throughout the world. The participants evaluate Turkey as “the country where extremist Islamist
currents and violations of human rights exist” in this research in which approximately 10.000 people
participate and in which ten countries’ attraction as national brands are evaluated (Çerçi, 2013: 17).
 Security problem in the country (Turkey is located in a place in the world, where the balances
generally change due to its geographical location. This situation results in many countries which are
border neighbors living war. The most recent example is Syrian civil war. Apart from this, Turkey is a
country which has been fighting against terrorism for many years. Especially, Southeastern-Eastern and
Eastern Mediterranean provinces are the places which are most affected by this situation.
 Political Relations (When transnational political problems occur, many nationals of that country
do not prefer the country where the political problem exists, and they tend towards alternative
destinations. This problem cannot even remain between two countries and it can also affect the other
countries with which these countries having such problems establish close relations. Recent Turkey-
Russia tension constitutes an example for this. When the relevant data are examined, there has been a
17% decrease in the number of tourist arrivals from Russia, and Antalya which is preferred as a holiday
resort mainly by the Russians is the most affected region.)
 Lack of facility, infrastructure and transportation (These shortcomings limit the tourism
development of many destination areas. The biggest example for this has been experienced in the Black
Sea Region. At the present time when the inflow of Arab tourists is high, the dormitories have been

15
used for accommodation because of the fact that the facilities fall short, and consequently this situation
has reduced the quality of service and created dissatisfaction.)
 Shortcomings in promotion and marketing and wrong marketing methods (Turkey is known as
a country which is cheap and only consists of sea-sand-sun. This situation causes that countries which
have high income levels, high international tourism expenditures, and whose tourism volume is high
cannot be attracted towards Turkey. Turkey has a higher market share than the countries such as
Georgia and Bulgaria. However, when it is considered that these countries come with the purpose of
visiting relatives and acquaintances, business visit, and their expenses are quite low, it will be
understood that Turkey is ranked as 6th in terms of arrivals, and ranked as 10th in terms of incomes.)
The following measures can be taken concerning the abovementioned problems. First of all,
Turkey’s security problem must be solved. Otherwise, many actions and works which can be done will
be wasted. There are some important points in this regard. For example; providing training for the
people for public awareness by national and local administrations in this struggle, providing training on
terrorism and tourism offenses for all personnel including the security forces who work in tourism
destinations about, increasing security measures against possible terrorist acts, conducting international
cooperation in this regard are important.
Instead of the cheap country image of Turkey, it should be emphasized that Turkey is the country
which has in fact a mixture of cheap and suitable-quality, and expensive but high-quality destinations,
all of which can appeal to people from all strata thanks to the destination, labelling, and then marketing
and promotion activities that can be made.
Another issue that can be done in order to revive the idle destinations is to determine the target
countries which can be directed to these destinations, and to carry out promotion and marketing
activities in order to ensure that the targeted people are drawn to these destinations. For example, the
idle places of Marmara, Aegean and Mediterranean regions and the Black Sea Region should be of top
priority considering that the security in these locations can be intensely ensured. Within this context, the
people of the countries who mainly travel nature, culture, shopping-oriented can be directed towards
this region. The people of the countries who mainly travel sea-sand-sun-oriented can be directed
towards the idle places of the Aegean, Mediterranean and Marmara regions. The ones who travel for
medical purposes can be attracted towards the regions where the hot springs such as Afyonkarahisar,
Yalova etc. exist intensely. However, the demographic, psychological and socio-cultural characteristics
of the countries should be of course thoroughly studied in these types of guiadences, and required
investments should be made in the destinations which can be suitable for these characteristics. Within
this context, there is a need for the studies which define tourist profile including the data such as
demographic, socio-cultural psychological characteristics as well as the facilities the they prefer, the
type of booking, booking duration, the most effective advertising type, average vacation period, the
average tourist spending, the number of people travelling, the time for going on holiday, based on the
countries. When the relevant literature is analyzed, any comprehensive study has not been encountered
in this aspect. It cannot be ignored that the activities which can be carried out for the tourism
development are extremely important.
When these problems, which Turkey experiences about being a strong trademark, are considered
all together, the unseen part of the trademark (slogan, logo, and symbol etc.) should be focused on rather
than the seen part of it. Structuring the products with high-quality, brand personality, spirit of brand,
unlimited customer satisfaction guarantee, and the most importantly with a completely different feature
that cannot be imitated by its competitors should be ensured (Doğanlı, 2006: 185). Ensuring particularly
security issue, which is the most important factor while choosing destination, is the most urgent and
sensitive component. Otherwise, it would not be possible for the labelling activities to gain success.
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