As the conflict in Gaza and the broader Middle East continues, Turkish citizens are altering their travel plans and choosing to avoid countries like Israel, Iraq, and Palestine due to safety concerns related to the ongoing war. The escalating Israeli-Palestinian conflict has led to increased tensions between Turkey and Israel, with the Turkish government even imposing a ban on trade with Israel, further straining relations.
Instead, many Turkish travelers are now opting for destinations such as Greece and Bulgaria, which offer safer travel options in the current climate. The proximity of these countries to Turkey makes them attractive alternatives, particularly given the heightened risks in the Middle East. Greece has seen a surge in Turkish exports and an increase in vacation and business opportunities, despite ongoing tensions between Turkey and Israel.
There are several reasons why Greece and Bulgaria are preferred choices for Turkish travelers. First, both countries share close geographical proximity with Turkey, making them easily accessible. This factor is especially significant given the safety concerns surrounding travel to the Middle East. Both countries are within short flight distances or reachable by land, providing ease and flexibility for Turkish tourists. Additionally, both Greece and Bulgaria are politically stable, providing peace of mind to travelers who are looking to avoid the uncertainty and potential risks associated with conflict zones.
Both countries are renowned for their tourism infrastructure, with Greece offering a rich cultural heritage, islands, and beaches, and Bulgaria offering attractive destinations such as the Black Sea coast and historical landmarks at affordable prices. Both countries cater to tourists with well-developed hospitality services, making them ideal alternatives to more volatile regions. The favorable exchange rates and competitive pricing in both Greece and Bulgaria also appeal to Turkish citizens looking for cost-effective travel options.
Finally, Turkey, Greece, and Bulgaria share deep historical and cultural connections, which make travel between these countries attractive. Turkish citizens feel culturally comfortable in these countries due to shared aspects of cuisine, traditions, and historical relations, despite occasional political tensions. These factors contribute to a welcoming and familiar environment for Turkish tourists.
In a diplomatic initiative aimed at easing long-standing tensions between Greece and Turkey, officials on the Greek island of Rhodes have opened a new visa terminal designed specifically for Turkish visitors. The visa allows Turkish visitors to stay on Greek islands for up to one week without the need to apply for full access to the Schengen zone. While the visa does not provide unrestricted entry to the EU, it grants access to specific Greek islands.
Greece and Turkey, both NATO members, have made several efforts to resolve disputes over sea boundaries, mineral rights in the Aegean Sea, and the ongoing conflict over the island of Cyprus. These efforts reflect a broader diplomatic strategy, with a renewed focus on trade and tourism as a tool for easing tensions between the two nations.