In line with the gradual easing of restrictions imposed to stem the tide of the coronavirus pandemic, Turkey has started to receive new holiday bookings, with tourism industry representatives targeting a 70% occupancy rate for July.
Turkey has allowed for the reopening of hotels and other touristic spots, last week resuming domestic flights and intercity travel last week. The country is set to open its doors to foreign tourists as of mid-June.
Hotels countrywide continue preparations in line with the notice on mandatory measures issued by the Culture and Tourism Ministry and have been redesigning their facilities to ensure social distancing at buffets, beaches, lobbies and pools.
“As the world normalizes and fears are alleviated, new bookings will slowly start coming in. The movement starts in July and continues gradually in August, September and October,” said Turkish Hoteliers Federation (TÜROFED) Vice President Tacettin Özden.
Only a small portion of pre-season overseas bookings for July, August, September and October were canceled, Özden told Anadolu Agency (AA).
“Some of those who couldn’t make it in April and May have moved their bookings to the next year. Some have postponed it to July and August this year. Currently, reservations are coming from the U.K., Germany, the Netherlands and the Balkan countries,” he added.
If rapid normalization occurs, July and August will mark the high season, Özden, who also serves as the Chairman of Kuşadası Hoteliers and Investors Association (KODER), said.
