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The coastal tourism hub of Cesme, Izmir, is experiencing a significant rise in hotel bookings following President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s announcement that the Eid al-Adha holiday has been extended to nine days, triggering strong domestic travel demand ahead of the peak summer season.
Tourism operators in the region report that hotel occupancy has already reached approximately 50%, with expectations that this figure will increase rapidly in the days leading up to the holiday. Industry representatives forecast occupancy rates of 70% within the next week and near full capacity across all accommodation facilities during the holiday period.
Speaking to Ihlas News Agency, Alacati Tourism Association President Kerem Unsal said the sector is experiencing strong momentum ahead of the holiday period.
Unsal noted that seasonal preparations had already been completed earlier in the year, particularly following the Alacati Herb Festival, which served as an early indicator of demand.
“Currently, our reservation levels are around 50%. However, in Alacati, guests tend to make last-minute bookings. We expect this rate to rise to around 70% next week and reach full occupancy during the holiday period.”
In the nearby tourism center of Alacati, stakeholders report positive early-season indicators. The region’s performance during the Herb Festival is being viewed as a strong signal for the upcoming summer season.
Unsal added that favorable weather conditions are also expected to contribute to a busy holiday period.
Highlighting the broader tourism strategy, Unsal emphasized that Alacati is not limited to seasonal tourism.
“We are a destination where visitors can find activities throughout the year. We are among the world’s top three windsurfing centers. We also host tennis events, half marathons, and various sports and cultural activities,” he said.
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