Evren Oktay: Increase in Chinese Tourists' Interest in Turkey Will Set New Records
Turkey is gearing up to break new tourism records, with a particular focus on attracting visitors from the Far East. Last year saw around 50,000 Chinese tourists visiting, but forecasts predict this number will soar to 350,000 this year. Chinese tourists, who typically spend an average of $1,000, make a significant contribution to local businesses.
High Demand from Chinese Tourists
Chinese tourists' interest in Turkey continues to be robust, according to Pax2Night's co-founder, Evren Oktay. These travelers prioritize comprehensive information about hotel facilities, including essential amenities like water heaters. They show a notable preference for cultural tourism, favoring locations such as Istanbul, Çanakkale, Kuşadası, Pamukkale, Antalya, Konya, Cappadocia, and Safranbolu over coastal tourism hotspots.
Economic Impact of Tourism Spending
Chinese visitors typically stay in Turkey for around 8 nights, frequently visiting museums and historical sites. Their spending per person ranges between $800 and $1,200, which significantly bolsters local economies through tourism-related purchases. There has been a marked increase in interest for tours in Southeast Anatolia, especially to places like Adıyaman Nemrut, Urfa Göbeklitepe, and Gaziantep.
Boosted Tourist Numbers from the Far East
Increasing Tourist Numbers
Gareth Matthews from DidaTravel forecasts a rise in tourists from the Far East as the world recovers from COVID-19 restrictions. Last year, approximately 475,000 tourists from countries such as China, Japan, Taiwan, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore, Hong Kong, India, Vietnam, and the Philippines visited Turkey. This year, this number might exceed 1 million.
Increased Flights
To meet the growing demand, Turkish Airlines (THY) and major Chinese airlines have increased their flight frequencies. THY now operates flights to Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Hong Kong, and Taipei. Additionally, China Southern and other key airlines have expanded their services, ensuring seamless travel between Turkey and China.
Most Asked Questions About Chinese Tourists Visiting Turkey
Why has interest from Chinese tourists in Turkey increased?
Several factors have driven the growing interest of Chinese tourists in Turkey. The declaration of 2018 as "Turkey Tourism Year" was pivotal. Turkey's rich history, cultural heritage, and stunning natural landscapes allure Chinese visitors. The lifting of travel restrictions post-COVID and the reintroduction of tour packages in 2023 have further stimulated this growth.
Where do Chinese tourists visit in Turkey?
Chinese tourists predominantly prefer cultural and historical sites. Besides Istanbul, they often visit Çanakkale, Kuşadası, Pamukkale, Antalya, Konya, Cappadocia, and Safranbolu. The Southeast Anatolia region, including Adıyaman Nemrut, Urfa Göbeklitepe, and Gaziantep, also garners significant interest due to its cultural richness and natural beauty.
How much do Chinese tourists spend while visiting Turkey?
Chinese tourists in Turkey spend an average of $800 to $1,200 per visit. With a stay lasting about 8 nights, their expenditures cover accommodation, museum, and historical site fees, as well as shopping. Their emphasis on purchasing local products and souvenirs significantly benefits local businesses economically.
Most Frequently Asked Questions About Turkiye's Rising Appeal to Chinese Tourists
Why has the interest from Chinese tourists in Turkey increased?
Interest from Chinese tourists in Turkey has heightened due to several key factors. Declaring 2018 as "Turkey Tourism Year" significantly raised awareness and showcased Turkey's rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes. Moreover, the lifting of travel restrictions post-COVID-19 and the introduction of new tour packages in 2023 played crucial roles. These initiatives highlighted Turkey's historical sites, natural beauty, and cultural richness, making it a top choice for travelers seeking unique experiences. The blend of history, culture, and scenic views has turned Turkey into a highly attractive destination for Chinese tourists.
Which places do Chinese tourists visit most frequently in Turkey?
Chinese tourists in Turkey predominantly visit cultural and historical landmarks. Major attractions include Istanbul for its iconic sites like the Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace. Visitors often travel to Çanakkale, Kuşadası, Pamukkale, Antalya, Konya, Cappadocia, and Safranbolu. The Southeast Anatolia region, featuring Adıyaman Nemrut, Urfa Göbeklitepe, and Gaziantep, also holds a significant allure due to its cultural and historical importance. These areas offer a unique glimpse into Turkey's rich past and diverse cultural landscape, making them essential stops for Chinese tourists.
How much do Chinese tourists typically spend while visiting Turkey?
Chinese tourists in Turkey generally spend between $800 and $1,200 per visit, with an average stay of about 8 nights. Their expenditures include accommodation, entrance fees to museums and historical sites, and shopping for local products and souvenirs. This spending significantly benefits local businesses, as tourists purchase unique items that represent Turkey's rich cultural heritage. The economic impact of Chinese tourism is substantial, as their spending habits contribute to the sustained growth of the local economy and support countless small enterprises throughout the country.
Who is Evren Oktay?
Evren Oktay, born in Adana in 1981, is a well-established professional in the tourism sector with 25 years of experience. Graduating from Muğla University in Tourism and Hospitality, Oktay has worked with noteworthy brands like Hilton, Marriott, Ritz Carlton, and Six Senses. He became a partner and COO at Yuppi Travel in 2020 and founded Pax2Night in 2023, bringing innovative online solutions to the industry. As an expert in business development and strategic partnerships, Oktay holds a notable position within the tourism sector.
