Tourism chiefs inTurkeyhave declared it is business as usual for its holiday industry despite the ongoing war in neighbouringIran. Turkish officials have looked to reassure holidaymakers that the country remains fully operational, with flights, hotels and package holidays running normally.
It comes after reports from travel companies of a sharp decline in bookings for EasternMediterraneandestinations including Turkey,Greece,CyprusandEgypt, amid fears they could be affected by theMiddle Eastconflict. Package holiday operator On the Beach last week said it had witnessed a "significant slowdown in demand following the onset of conflict in the region". It added: “The timing of when the conflict will end and the shape of recovery in demand to these destinations are unknown.”
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Holidaymakers who had been planning to visit the Eastern Med, as well as destinations in the Gulf like Dubai, are said to be increasingly moving their trips to westernEuropeand the Caribbean due to the conflict.
Countries such asPortugal,Italy,Spainand Jamaica are among those seeing an increase in demand.
As the Easter break approaches and more people think about their summer getaways, Turkish tourism officials have emphasised that Turkey — a popular destination for Brits — remains a safe option for visitors.
The Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Turkey, alongside Turkey's Tourism Promotion and Development Agency (TGA), said visitor activities across the country are continuing without interruption.
Authorities stressed that tourism is "proceeding as normal", theManchester Evening Newsreported.
NATOair defences have shot down three ballistic missiles fired from Iran towards Turkey since the war broke out three weeks ago, according to Ankara’s defence ministry.
Source: Daily Express :: World Feed
