Millions of Brits are set to snub holiday hotspot, Spain, this year and head to another tourism-dominated country instead.
From the insatiably popular Canary Islands to history-rich cities like Barcelona and Madrid – cries against over-tourism and rowdy Brits are becoming deafening. Last year saw thousands of fed-up residents take to the streets, arguing they’re being priced out of the property market due to skyrocketing demand for holiday homes and short-term rentals. Armed with banners demanding ‘tourists go home’, some locals even went as far as squirting holidaymakers with water pistols – and graffitied stark messages across the nation, including one shocking sign that threatened to ‘kill a tourist’.
After vowing to unleash misery for Brits this summer, with more demonstrations in the works, it seems many tourists are looking for more welcoming destinations. And what better place to bask in the sun than Turkey?
From stretches of pristine beaches with crystal-clear waters, to party-mad resorts, acclaimed water parks and ubiquitous history – Turkey really does offer something for everyone. Thanks to its balmy climate (exceeding 30C in June) and cheap accommodation, the country has been a popular hotspot amongst Brits (especially those looking for cheap pearly white teeth or a new hair transplant).
However, the country is now preparing for a record-breaking number of visitors, reaping the benefits of Spain’s anti-tourist rhetoric. According to local reports, Culture and Tourism Minister Mehmet Ersoy said after the ITB Berlin Fair that Türkiye was witnessing ‘signs of new records in tourism’.
“Türkiye has become the country with the highest number of early reservations in Germany,” the politician added. “We aim to welcome over 7 million visitors from both Russia and Germany this year. Additionally, we expect 4.8 million visitors from the U.K. in 2025″
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Turkey is around 3.2 times bigger than the UK in terms of land area, meaning there is plenty to explore. For example, Antalya is popular for families thanks to its endless water parks, soft-sand beaches and cheap restaurants – while Marmaris is much better suited for those wanting a wild night out – with a famous strip packed with karaoke bars, nightclubs, and cafes (perfect for your morning hangover)
Istanbul attracts history buffs from around the world, filled with plenty of breathtaking sights including the Hagia Sophia mosque – which was once the largest interior space in the world. Of course, a trip to this bustling city isn’t complete without visiting the iconic Grand Bazaar market, which was built by the Ottomans shortly after they conquered the city in 1453.
Flying to Turkey is a breeze from the UK, with most major airports offering direct routes to Bodrum, Dalaman, and Istanbul. The journey averages around four hours, and if you’re flexible with dates, you can grab return fares in July for as little as £51.
*Prices based on Skyscanner listings at the time of writing.
Put off from visiting Spain amid escalating anti-tourist sentiment? Email liam.gilliver@reachplc.com for a chance to share your story
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