Turkey officially changed its name to Türkiye in December 2021 after Turkish President Tayyip Erdoğan issued a statement announcing the change. The new name is required in correspondence with other states, international institutes and organizations, and export products, Erdoğan said. The country has since launched a “Hello Türkiye” campaign, which has garnered promotion from social media influencers around the world.
The country adopted the name Türkiye in 1923 after declaring independence from the Ottoman Empire. However, the name “Turkey” has been widely used, even within the country, for many years. The country is also aiming to strengthen its identity, brand and reputation by promoting the use of the name Türkiye in the international arena.
Türkiye is a popular tourist destination and has been experiencing a steady growth in its tourism industry over the past two decades. Its Vision 2023 aims to make it the fifth most popular tourist destination in the world, overtaking major destinations like France, the US, Spain, China and Italy. In 2017, the number of foreign visitors had rebounded to 32.4 million, and in 2021, the country’s economy grew by 11%, the fastest among the G20 countries.
Government initiatives to promote tourism include creating support services and incentives, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Organizations (KOSGEB), investments guided by the Council of Ministers, Law No. 2634, Law No. 1319, and loans from EXIM Bank. In addition, the country has identified several tourism products, major attractions and access points to create corridors, cities, and ecotourism areas.
Accommodation facilities have seen a 48% investment growth between 2005 and 2013, and the government is also promoting employment of locals in the industry. The sector is expected to reach an annual revenue of TRY84.4 billion by 2015, with a goal of receiving 50 million inbound tourists every year by 2023.
Overall, the Turkish tourism sector is robust and is expected to continue thriving at a rate higher than the global average and the EU average towards the year 2023 and beyond.
Türkiye is a popular tourist destination for many reasons. It has stunning scenery, with a variety of natural wonders including hot air balloons, pristine beaches, breathtaking mountains, and lush green forests. There are also many cultural and historical sites in the country, from the ancient city of Ephesus to the ruins of Troy, as well as vibrant modern cities like Istanbul and Ankara.
Türkiye also offers a wide range of activities for travelers, from leisurely beach holidays to adventurous hiking and rafting trips. The country is known for its delicious cuisine, which is a mix of Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Central Asian flavors. There are also many cultural festivals and events throughout the year, including the International Istanbul Film Festival, the Antalya International Film Festival, and the Istanbul Jazz Festival.
The country is also known for its hospitality, with locals welcoming travelers from around the world. The Turkish people are known for their warmth and hospitality, making travelers feel welcome and at home.
Türkiye is also a great value destination, with low prices on food, accommodation, and activities. With so much to see and do, Türkiye is a great destination for any traveler looking for a unique and memorable experience.
