Lifestyle
Gaziantep: Türkiye’s food capital and gateway to opportunity
Whether you are an adventurous traveler or simply looking for a relaxing holiday, if you have not yet visited Türkiye’s “food capital,” a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, and the jewel of southeastern Anatolia, it is time to pack your bags.
I experienced Turkish hospitality the moment I arrived at the airport. Ali Küncülü, a Gaziantep-born Swedish resident, kindly offered me a comfortable ride to the hotel in the city center.
Gaziantep is a fascinating blend of ancient history, world-renowned gastronomy, Roman mosaics, centuries-old stone bazaars, legendary pistachio desserts, traditional Turkish baths and countless remarkable attractions.
In 2023, I explored Gaziantep’s historic treasures, including its majestic mosques, fortress, centuries-old bazaars and museums. This time, however, I wanted to experience the city’s community spirit. What followed became an unforgettable travel memory.
Şahinbey Millet Camii (Millet Mosque) beautifully reflects Islamic architectural traditions while incorporating modern facilities designed to serve the entire community. The city’s electric tram provides convenient access, with a stop located directly beside the mosque. As I stepped off the tram, I noticed a young female driver confidently operating the vehicle – a reflection of modern Türkiye.
The mosque offers a wide range of community facilities, including spaces for marriage ceremonies (nikah), condolence gatherings, children’s play areas, cafes, souvenir shops and vendors dressed in traditional Ottoman-style attire. These tea sellers, known as çaycı, are a familiar sight around tourist attractions, serving freshly brewed Turkish black tea while proudly preserving Ottoman traditions.
Later, around Gaziantep University, I noticed that many neighbourhood mosques follow a similar community-centered design. They provide separate seating areas for women and children, outdoor exercise equipment, playgrounds, green spaces, ablution and restroom facilities, cat shelters and social gathering areas.
Among the many features that make Gaziantep such a vibrant and modern city to visit, study or retire in are its people-friendly municipal services. I personally witnessed free tram and public transport during Eid celebrations, comfortable public spaces around parks, hospitals and city centers for people observing Ramadan, discounted municipal markets held every Saturday across the city’s districts, and Diyanet centres equipped with study-friendly facilities.
While exploring the city, I learned that Şahinbey Municipality provided food assistance to more than 28,000 low-income families during Ramadan.
Gaziantep continues to develop rapidly. The upscale district of Gazi Osman Paşa features Prime Mall, modern high streets, international brands, thriving businesses and impressive new developments, including the luxurious Iconova residential skyscraper complex.
Its seven iconic towers feature distinctive geometric rooftops that, from above, are said to resemble the Arabic calligraphy of the name Allah. Gaziantep native Husameddin Musab Destan explained the city’s growing investment potential, highlighting its strategic location at the crossroads of regional trade.
Destan showed me several newly developed residential districts, including Ibrahimli, whose modern skyline resembles parts of Dubai and Abu Dhabi. During our journey, we also discussed the remarkable history of Turkic peoples, whose influence stretches from Bosnia-Herzegovina, Serbia and Hungary to China, Pakistan and India, where Turkic dynasties once established powerful kingdoms.
Recent geopolitical developments, including conflict involving Iran and the voluntary return of many Syrians to help rebuild their country, have created new opportunities for businesses operating between Syria and Türkiye. Gaziantep, located near the border, is well positioned to benefit from these changing economic dynamics.
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s recent investment incentives and tax benefits for foreign investors further signal Türkiye’s commitment to attracting international business. Combined with Mayor Fatma Şahin’s long-term vision of transforming Gaziantep into a regional economic hub, these policies continue to stimulate growth in the city’s property and construction sectors.
Gaziantep street life
A stroll through Gaziantep reveals cafes and restaurants named after famous European cities, reflecting the city’s cosmopolitan character. The city is highly tourist-friendly; visitors can simply press the yellow buttons installed on roadside poles to summon a taxi.
Tourists should note that taxis charge a minimum fare of approximately TL 200 ($4) regardless of distance, with fares displayed on the meter. Using Google Maps to plan journeys is therefore highly recommended.
Stray cats are an integral part of life in Gaziantep. Friendly and well cared for, they often wait outside supermarkets and restaurants, where regular customers feed them. It is common to see residents leaving bags of bread beside rubbish bins for animals, reflecting the city’s strong culture of sustainability and compassion.
Despite the warm atmosphere, visitors should remember that smiling at strangers is less common than in places such as Yorkshire. It is not considered rude. Rather, it reflects local customs and social traditions.
Turks enjoy gathering over coffee or tea, particularly in the evenings. Nearly every cafe, restaurant and tea house is filled with people, especially around weekends and near the university district.
Many establishments are decorated with themes inspired by Turkish history and culture. Bread is rarely baked at home. Instead, each neighborhood typically has traditional clay ovens producing a wide variety of breads, including lavaş, simit, katmer, full-grain breads and wheat bread. I also visited popular student restaurants, including Gözde Kebap.
The Turkish Ministry of Agriculture has recently promoted its Whole Wheat Bread Campaign to encourage healthier eating habits. Baking traditions remain deeply rooted in Turkish society. Families often prepare large pots filled with meat and vegetables before taking them to neighborhood ovens, where they are professionally baked for a modest fee.
Like many European countries, Türkiye has a deep passion for football. During April and May 2026, I witnessed Gaziantep FK supporters celebrating their club’s victories by waving flags and chanting enthusiastically throughout the city.
While walking through Gaziantep’s neighbourhoods, my host, Syrian English teacher Fatema Zahra Salem, shared fascinating stories about mixed marriages and the emergence of a unique Syrian-Turkish cultural identity. Through her, I met several Turkish entrepreneurs working in partnership with Syrian businesspeople.
Together, we enjoyed lahmacun, yalanji (stuffed vine leaves), stuffed grape leaves and many other dishes that beautifully combine Syrian and Turkish culinary traditions.
Today, dishes such as kebab, şiş köfte and halwa remain living reminders of the cultural exchanges that flourished under Turkic dynasties across South Asia, Central Asia, the Middle East, Eastern Europe and the Balkans. Their influence continues to shape food, language, clothing and customs across these regions.
I also met Gaziantep’s respected scholars and welcoming hosts, Hanifi Çanakcı and Hasan Aksut. The city proudly honors its historical figures, whose statues can be found throughout its streets and public spaces.
Gaziantep remains a second home to thousands of Syrians, many of whom will one day serve as informal ambassadors for Türkiye abroad. Although the return of many Syrian refugees has affected parts of the local economy, it has also created new opportunities in construction, trade, and services. As Türkiye’s gateway to Syria, Gaziantep continues to offer significant investment potential.
Fatma Şahin’s vision for Gaziantep
Gaziantep’s growing reputation as one of the world’s leading tourist destinations reflects the vision and leadership of its first female reelected mayor, Fatma Şahin, who previously served as a Cabinet minister and now chairs several national platforms.
During my visit, I admired the city’s libraries, universities, modern shopping centers, beautifully designed parks, colorful amusement facilities and elegant mosques. Above all, Şahinbey Millet Mosque stands as a magnificent reminder of the grandeur of the Ottoman Empire, symbolizing its architectural excellence, nation-building tradition (millet) and enduring cultural legacy.
Located in the heart of the Balkans, Bosnia-Herzegovina is a country where history, spirituality, culture and nature come together in remarkable harmony. As one of the most significant heirs to the Ottoman legacy in Southeastern Europe, the country offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore centuries-old monuments, sacred sites and breathtaking landscapes while experiencing the coexistence of different religions and cultures. From the bustling streets of Sarajevo to the peaceful rivers of Herzegovina, Bosnia-Herzegovina remains one of the region’s most rewarding travel destinations.
The journey often begins in Sarajevo, the country’s capital, where Baščaršija serves as the historical and cultural center of the city. Established during the Ottoman period, this lively bazaar continues to preserve its authentic atmosphere with traditional copper workshops, artisan shops, cafés and local restaurants. Walking through its narrow stone streets allows visitors to experience the architectural and cultural legacy of the Ottoman Empire that still shapes Sarajevo’s identity today.
Only a few steps away stands the magnificent Gazi Husrev Bey Mosque, one of the finest examples of Ottoman architecture in the Balkans. Built in the 16th century, the mosque remains an active place of worship and an enduring symbol of Bosnia’s Islamic heritage. Adjacent to it is the Gazi Husrev Bey Madrasa, one of the oldest educational institutions in the region, which has trained generations of scholars and continues to represent the Ottoman tradition of learning and public service.
Sarajevo is also celebrated as one of Europe’s most diverse cities. Historic mosques stand alongside Catholic cathedrals, Orthodox churches and synagogues, reflecting centuries of peaceful coexistence among different faiths. This unique cultural landscape has made Sarajevo an important symbol of religious tolerance and mutual respect, where visitors can witness how diverse communities have shared the same urban space throughout history.
Among Bosnia-Herzegovina’s most important spiritual destinations is the Blagaj Tekke, located beside the spectacular spring of the Buna River beneath towering limestone cliffs. Founded by Anatolian dervishes known as the Alperens, the tekke combines remarkable Ottoman architecture with one of the country’s most beautiful natural settings. Its peaceful atmosphere and historical significance attract visitors from around the world, making it a place that few travelers leave Bosnia without experiencing.
Near Mostar, visitors can also discover the Hacı Aliya Mosque, an elegant example of classical Ottoman architecture designed by Mimar Hayreddin, one of the most distinguished students of the legendary architect Mimar Sinan. The mosque reflects the refined craftsmanship and aesthetic principles that made Ottoman architecture renowned throughout the empire.
Bosnia-Herzegovina’s natural beauty is equally impressive. The Kravica Waterfalls, surrounded by lush forests and crystal-clear waters, provide one of the country’s most spectacular landscapes. During the summer months, the waterfalls offer visitors a refreshing escape while showcasing the harmony between Bosnia’s rich natural environment and its historical heritage.
No visit would be complete without seeing the iconic Old Bridge of Mostar. Constructed during the Ottoman era by Mimar Hayreddin, the bridge became a masterpiece of engineering and a symbol of connection between cultures. Although destroyed during the Bosnian War, it has been faithfully reconstructed and today stands as a powerful symbol of reconciliation, resilience and the preservation of cultural heritage. It remains one of the Balkans’ most recognizable landmarks and an essential stop for every traveler.
Bosnia-Herzegovina is also a paradise for food lovers. Traditional dishes such as ćevapi, pljeskavica, Bosnian börek and Begova soup reflect centuries of Ottoman culinary influence while showcasing the country’s warm hospitality. Sampling these local specialties is an essential part of understanding Bosnian culture.
For those interested in history, museums dedicated to the Bosnian War and the Srebrenica genocide offer meaningful insights into the country’s recent past. The Kovači Martyrs’ Cemetery, where the first President of independent Bosnia-Herzegovina, Alija Izetbegović, is buried, is another place of deep historical and spiritual significance, attracting visitors wishing to pay their respects.
Beyond its monuments and landscapes, Bosnia-Herzegovina offers an experience that deeply touches its visitors. Walking through cities that still bear the scars of war while witnessing a society rebuilt through resilience and hope creates a profound psychological impact. At the same time, the call to prayer from centuries-old mosques, the peaceful atmosphere of historic tekkes and the country’s many sacred sites remind visitors of the enduring values of faith, patience and solidarity. These places encourage reflection, inner peace and a deeper appreciation of Bosnia-Herzegovina’s rich cultural identity.
With its Ottoman heritage, multicultural character, remarkable architecture, magnificent natural scenery and welcoming people, Bosnia-Herzegovina is far more than a tourist destination. It is a living testament to the enduring legacy of history, faith and cultural coexistence. For travelers seeking both historical discovery and spiritual enrichment, this remarkable Balkan nation deserves a place at the top of every travel itinerary.
Some journeys begin with a destination. Others begin with a road. Our Moroccan adventure started behind the wheel, leaving the vibrant port city of Tangier behind as the landscape slowly transformed into the dramatic peaks of the Rif Mountains. There is something liberating about a girls’ road trip the laughter gets louder with every winding road, conversations become deeper somewhere between mountain passes, and every stop turns into a memory worth keeping. We weren’t simply driving toward Chefchaouen; we were driving into the heart of Morocco.
As part of the Amarok Adventure Tour, our route covered nearly 150 kilometers (90 miles), combining modern highways with steep mountain tracks that challenged both driver and vehicle. Climbing higher into the Rif Mountains, the scenery became increasingly spectacular. Rocky cliffs, endless valleys and villages clinging to the hillsides unfolded before us. At one point, our convoy left the paved road for an off-road section that felt less like a test drive and more like an expedition. Sitting high above the clouds, surrounded by untouched nature, I realized that sometimes the road itself becomes the highlight of the journey.
Discover the ‘Blue City’
Nothing prepares you for your first glimpse of Chefchaouen. Appearing almost like a watercolor painting nestled between the mountains, Morocco’s famous Blue City immediately feels surreal. Every street, staircase, doorway and window seems to wear its own shade of blue powder blue, cobalt, indigo, turquoise and soft sky blue blending effortlessly together. Founded in 1471 and shaped by Andalusian and Sephardic Jewish influences, Chefchaouen carries centuries of history while maintaining an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in the world. Walking through its peaceful medina feels wonderfully slow. Unlike Morocco’s larger cities, there is no rush here. Every corner invites you to pause, photograph, sip mint tea and simply admire the beauty surrounding you.
The city’s blue walls do more than create beautiful photographs – they create a mood. The color softens the sunlight, cools the narrow streets and somehow encourages visitors to slow down. It is easy to understand why Chefchaouen has become one of Morocco’s most photographed destinations, but experiencing it in person is something no social media post can truly capture.
Road through Rif Mountains
One of the most unforgettable moments of the trip wasn’t inside the city, it happened long before we reached it. As a guest of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, I recently had the chance to try off-road with their cars, and it was more than just a drive. It was something you felt rather than analyzed. Driving through the Rif Mountains with our group of women felt empowering. The Amarok handled steep inclines, rocky paths and narrow mountain roads with remarkable confidence, supported by its advanced 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system. At one viewpoint, we stopped high above the valleys where silence replaced the sound of the engine. The mountains stretched endlessly beneath us while the crisp air reminded us how wonderfully far away we were from everyday life. It wasn’t just another scenic stop; it was one of those rare travel moments that stays with you long after you’ve returned home.
What to eat in Chefchaouen
Moroccan cuisine deserves its own journey. A traditional lunch quickly became one of the highlights of our day. Slow-cooked chicken tagine infused with preserved lemons and olives, fragrant vegetable couscous, freshly baked khobz bread and colorful Moroccan salads filled the table. Of course, no meal in Morocco is complete without endless glasses of sweet Moroccan mint tea. We found ourselves sitting together on colorful rugs, sharing dishes, laughing over stories and enjoying the simple pleasure of eating slowly. There is something magical about Moroccan hospitality; it makes every visitor feel like an old friend.
Places you shouldn’t miss
Chefchaouen may be compact, but every corner reveals something memorable. Wander through the blue-painted medina without a map, explore the historic Kasbah, browse the peaceful souks filled with handmade textiles and woven baskets, and make time for a walk to Ras El Maa, where mountain water flows into the town. As the afternoon light begins to soften, climb to one of the panoramic viewpoints overlooking the entire city. Watching hundreds of blue rooftops glow beneath the surrounding mountains is an unforgettable sight.
Why women should take a girls’ trip
Travel feels different when shared with women who celebrate every little discovery. Some of my favorite memories from Morocco had nothing to do with landmarks. They were the spontaneous moments laughing together during the off-road climb, sitting cross-legged around a generous Moroccan table, sipping countless glasses of mint tea and watching the mountains fade into the evening light. There is a special kind of freedom that comes with a girls’ trip. No schedules, no pressure, just curiosity, friendship and the excitement of discovering somewhere extraordinary together. Morocco gave us beautiful photographs, breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable roads. But above all, it reminded me that the best journeys are never measured by kilometers. They are measured by the stories you bring home.
One of the ancient world’s most important oracle sanctuaries is welcoming visitors after sunset as the Temple of Apollo on Türkiye’s Aegean coast extends its opening hours under a nighttime museum initiative.
Illuminated after dark, the roughly 2,500-year-old temple in the seaside town of Didim offers visitors the chance to explore its monumental ruins and mythological heritage in the cooler evening hours during the peak summer season.
Built in the Ionic architectural style, the Temple of Apollo was one of antiquity’s most renowned centers of prophecy, second only to the Oracle of Delphi in ancient Greece. It is also regarded as the third-largest temple in the ancient Greek world.
Located in the heart of modern-day Didim, the archaeological site has undergone excavations and restoration work since 1905. The work has been overseen by the Milet Museum Directorate since 2024.
Evening visits
As part of the Turkish Culture and Tourism Ministry’s Legacy for the Future project, the temple joined the country’s nighttime museum program last year.
From June 1 to Oct. 1, visitors can tour the site between 7 p.m. and 9 p.m., allowing many tourists – who often spend the hottest hours of the day on nearby beaches – to visit one of the region’s best-known ancient monuments in more comfortable temperatures.
The illuminated ruins reveal the scale of the sanctuary, where 112 columns once surrounded the naos, or sacred inner court. Some of the surviving columns rise to about 17.5 meters (57 feet).
The temple is also known for its carved depictions of Medusa, the snake-haired figure from Greek mythology whose gaze was said to turn people to stone. Illuminated at night, the reliefs take on an even more dramatic appearance.
Dedicated to Apollo, the Greek god associated with music, poetry, the arts and prophecy, the sanctuary was once a destination for rulers and pilgrims seeking guidance from its famous oracle.
Mysterious night atmosphere
Acting Milet Museum Director Arife Aslan said the temple dates to the 7th century B.C. and went on to become one of the most influential oracle centers of the ancient world.
“After the Temple of Delphi in Greece, it was the most famous oracle sanctuary of its era,” Aslan told Anadolu Agency (AA). “It received support from kingdoms and attracted large numbers of visitors. That is one of the main reasons its reputation endured for centuries.”
She said the nighttime museum program offers visitors a different way to experience the site’s history and mythology.
“This is already one of the most visited archaeological sites in Aydin province during the day,” Aslan said. “We launched the nighttime program last year, and it has increased both visitor numbers and the site’s popularity.”
“Rather than exploring the temple in the midday heat, visitors can experience it under carefully designed lighting in the evening. The night has its own mystery, and that creates a completely different atmosphere.”
Once celebrated as a charming Aegean escape, Bodrum has quietly transformed into one of the Mediterranean’s most coveted lifestyle destinations. Today, the Turkish peninsula attracts an international mix of entrepreneurs, creatives, celebrities and discerning travelers drawn by something far richer than beaches and sunshine.
Part of Bodrum’s appeal lies in the way it effortlessly brings together luxury, culture, gastronomy, art and history. Unlike many resort destinations built solely around hospitality, Bodrum offers an experience shaped by layers of civilization, contemporary creativity and world-class experiences.
The region’s thriving art scene has become one of its greatest attractions. Throughout the summer, galleries, sculpture parks, seasonal exhibitions and cultural events bring together local and international artists. This creative energy has helped transform Bodrum into a destination that inspires as much as it entertains. Increasingly, art is no longer confined to galleries. It has become part of the hospitality experience itself. A notable example is Ruins Luxury Resort, where contemporary glass sculptures and curated art installations are seamlessly woven into the architecture and outdoor spaces. These striking works transform the hotel into an open-air cultural experience, blurring the boundaries between hospitality, design and artistic expression.
Beyond its art and culture, the exceptional dining scene has become another defining part of Bodrum’s identity. Over the past decade, the peninsula has attracted some of the world’s most celebrated chefs and restaurant concepts. Visitors can dine at internationally renowned venues such as Zuma Bodrum, enjoy Spanish-inspired cuisine at Spin within Ruins Luxury Resort or discover exclusive gastronomic experiences across the peninsula’s luxury resorts and marinas. Maxx Royal Bodrum has further strengthened the region’s reputation by bringing together a collection of high-end dining concepts that attract international travelers and culinary enthusiasts alike. Fine dining has become an essential part of the Bodrum experience, placing the destination firmly on the global gastronomic map.
Luxury hospitality has also played a major role in shaping Bodrum’s international reputation. Iconic properties including Mandarin Oriental Bodrum, Scorpios Bodrum, Maçakızı and Maxx Royal Bodrum have elevated expectations of what a Mediterranean escape can offer. Many have embraced collaborations with globally recognized brands, creating experiences that extend beyond accommodation. At Mandarin Oriental Bodrum, guests can explore boutiques from luxury fashion houses including Dior, Chanel and Hermes, seamlessly combining hospitality, fashion and lifestyle. Meanwhile, collaborations such as Ruins Luxury Resort’s partnership with Mercedes-Benz demonstrate how luxury travel is becoming increasingly interconnected with global brands, design and innovation.
This international appeal is reflected in the guests Bodrum attracts. From business leaders and artists to internationally recognized figures such as Gigi Hadid, Kate Moss and members of Europe’s social elite, the destination has become synonymous with understated luxury and cultural sophistication.
Perhaps Bodrum’s greatest strength is its ability to remain authentic despite its international success. Ancient ruins, historic landmarks and traces of past civilizations are woven naturally into everyday life rather than isolated behind museum walls. Whether viewed from a waterfront restaurant, encountered during a stroll through whitewashed streets or admired from a luxury terrace overlooking the sea, history quietly accompanies visitors throughout their stay.
It is this effortless coexistence of heritage and modernity that sets Bodrum apart. Here, world-class gastronomy, luxury shopping, contemporary art and centuries of history exist side by side, creating an atmosphere that is both sophisticated and deeply rooted in history.
As global luxury brands continue to invest in the destination and internationally acclaimed hospitality concepts choose Bodrum as their Mediterranean home, the peninsula is no longer simply competing with traditional summer hot spots. It is increasingly being discussed alongside Saint-Tropez, Mykonos and Ibiza as one of the world’s leading lifestyle destinations.
For many international visitors, that unique combination of authenticity, creativity, cultural depth and understated luxury is precisely what makes Bodrum impossible to resist.
Culture and Tourism Minister Mehmet Nuri Ersoy said the first phase of maintenance and safety work at Sümela Monastery, located in northern Türkiye’s Trabzon province, has been completed and the historic site has reopened to visitors.
In a statement released on Thursday, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism said the work was carried out based on scientific data, expert assessments and decisions by relevant conservation boards. The project included rock surface cleaning, protective applications and surrounding site improvements to reduce risks and improve visitor safety.
Officials said the monastery is being reopened while comprehensive restoration efforts continue under a planned, ongoing program.
Specialized mountaineering teams conducted extensive cleaning on difficult-to-access cliff faces in the monastery’s inner and outer courtyards. In the outer courtyard, 6,350 square meters of rock surface were cleaned; in the inner courtyard, 1,225 square meters were treated to mitigate potential hazards.
To further improve safety, workers installed a second layer of fine wire mesh across 935 square meters in an interior section prone to minor rockfalls. Repairs were also carried out on damaged slate stone walkways and courtyard flooring.
At the site entrance, roof tiles on the ticket office building were replaced to preserve structural integrity and visual consistency.
In a social media post, Ersoy said the project reflects efforts to protect both visitors and cultural heritage.
“We have completed the first phase of maintenance and safety work at Sümela Monastery and reopened it to visitors,” he said. “Through rock cleaning, protective measures and environmental arrangements carried out in line with scientific data and expert opinions, we have made this unique heritage site safer.”
He added that the government aims to preserve the monastery’s natural setting and historical value while ensuring it remains safe for visitors.
The Gulf of Saros in northwestern Türkiye is preparing for a busy summer season, offering visitors clear waters, secluded coves and extensive natural landscapes, according to local tourism officials.
Saros Gulf lies along the North Aegean coast between Türkiye’s Edirne province – particularly its Keşan and Enez districts – and the Gelibolu peninsula of Çanakkale. The gulf stretches roughly 60 kilometers (37 miles) and is known for strong currents that help it self-clean, making it one of the few marine areas with naturally high water circulation.
Officials say the gulf’s clear waters and rich underwater biodiversity have made it an increasingly important destination for diving tourism. The region includes numerous coves, beaches and camping areas, many of which see heavy visitation during the summer months.
Popular seaside spots include Erikli, Yayla, Danişment, Gökçetepe, Mecidiye and the coastal areas of Enez. These beaches and villages are part of a growing network of tourism locations along the gulf’s shoreline.
Beyond beach tourism, the region also supports outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, canoeing, sport fishing and birdwatching. Located about two hours from Istanbul, the area is especially popular for weekend getaways.
Bülent Bacıoğlu, president of the Edirne Tourism Promotion Association told the state-run Anadolu Agency (AA) that tourism activity is expected to accelerate as schools close for the summer.
He said the Gulf of Saros is one of the few areas in the region that has largely preserved its natural structure, adding that it offers strong potential not only for seaside vacations but also for nature and sports-based tourism.
“The region has hosted many visitors in past years with its clean sea, beautiful coves and golden beaches,” Bacıoğlu said. “The Gulf of Saros, stretching from the Greek border to Çanakkale, is one of the most important centers of maritime tourism in Thrace, together with the Keşan and Enez districts and surrounding coastal villages.”
He added that the area’s proximity to Istanbul, Tekirdağ, Edirne and Balkan countries provides a transportation advantage, making it a preferred destination for families seeking quiet and peaceful holidays.
Bacıoğlu emphasized the importance of sustainable tourism development and said efforts continue to protect natural areas and maintain environmental cleanliness.
He also noted that tourism investment in the region has been increasing each year, with a growing number of hospitality and food-service businesses improving the area’s appeal.
Looking ahead, Bacıoğlu said he expects increasing interest from visitors from Balkan countries, adding that the region remains relatively undiscovered despite its accessibility.
“We want more people to discover this beautiful corner of our country, which is not widely known but very easy to reach,” he said. “Accommodation and food services are improving every year. We encourage visitors to experience both the natural beauty and local cuisine during the summer season.”
He also highlighted the availability of campsites catering to a range of budgets, noting that tent and caravan tourism have become important alternatives for visitors seeking more flexible travel options.
Bacıoğlu said the Gulf of Saros is not limited to beach tourism, pointing to a wide range of activities available across the region.
“Many activities such as nature walks, cycling tours, canoeing, sport fishing and diving can be carried out here,” he said. “With its rich underwater life, Saros is among Türkiye’s leading diving destinations. Visitors can spend time in close contact with nature and experience a variety of tourism activities.”
TBMM Başkanı Numan Kurtulmuş’tan “Terörsüz Türkiye” mesajı: Artık bu dağlarda ağıtların sesleri yükselmeyecek”
NATO Summit activity in Ankara! Turkish stars had their last rehearsal, public order inspections continue
Trump plans to meet with Ukrainian and Syrian presidents at the NATO summit
TBMM Başkanı Numan Kurtulmuş’tan “Terörsüz Türkiye” mesajı: Artık bu dağlarda ağıtların sesleri yükselmeyecek”
NATO Summit activity in Ankara! Turkish stars had their last rehearsal, public order inspections continue
Trump plans to meet with Ukrainian and Syrian presidents at the NATO summit
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