Fethiye Hosts Sea Life Awareness Event for Turkey Environment Week
A remarkable event unfolded in Fethiye in celebration of Turkey Environment Week, designed to elevate awareness about marine life and the vital importance of environmental conservation.
The event featured an enlightening talk titled “Fethiye’s Sea Turtles and Their Importance,” delivered by Dr. Doğan Sözbilen from Pamukkale University. Dr. Sözbilen showcased the crucial roles sea turtles serve in maintaining the equilibrium of marine ecosystems while detailing ongoing initiatives aimed at protecting these magnificent creatures.
In addition, Dr. Kerem Gökdağ, representing the Mediterranean Conservation Society, presented current studies focused on safeguarding endangered marine species. Highlights included dusky groupers, sandbar sharks, seagrasses, and the rare Mediterranean monk seal.
Echoing a message of community engagement, Selver Hatice Kabak, the Climate Change and Zero Waste Manager, spoke passionately about the ecological significance of sea turtles. She encouraged community members to actively participate in the conservation of marine habitats, emphasizing joint efforts to protect these environments.
To leave a lasting impression, an information sign dedicated to dusky groupers, developed with the help of the Mediterranean Conservation Society, was erected at Çalış Public Beach, educating locals and tourists alike.
Children Enjoy Kite Festival During Environment Week at Şehit Fethi Bey Park
Among the enjoyable happenings of Environment Week, a colorful Kite Festival for children took place at Şehit Fethi Bey Park in Fethiye. This vibrant event brought families together as kites danced in the sky, fostering a lively and joyful atmosphere.
While enjoying the festivities, children received insights on the importance of keeping the environment clean and the necessity of protecting nature’s treasures. The festival effectively merged fun with education, striving to instill a sense of environmental responsibility in young participants early on.
English Author Louis de Bernières Holds Book Signing and Interview in Fethiye
Renowned British author Louis de Bernières, famed for his novel Birds Without Wings, graced Fethiye with his presence during his holiday. The author hosted a book signing and interview at the historic Paspatur Bazaar, an event made possible with the support of local bookseller Cumhur Durmaz. This occasion drew interest from both Turkish and British literature enthusiasts.
A Tribute to Kayaköy and Turkish History
In his book, Bernières delves into the intricate history of Kayaköy, the former Greek town of Levissi, portraying its harmonious coexistence between Muslim and Christian communities prior to a significant population exchange. The narrative also reflects the early years of the Turkish Republic and the visionary leadership of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk amidst the backdrop of love, war, and personal tragedies.
During the event, Bernières offered insights into the foundational themes, historical nuances, and emotional depth embedded in his book. He articulated stories of clandestine love, cultural clashes, and the lives of two clergymen of differing faiths, all set against a landscape steeped in beauty and transformation.
Returning to Kayaköy for this event marked a special connection for Bernières, who has visited the area several times since first introducing his work there in 2011.
Shared Memories in Paspatur
Bookseller Cumhur Durmaz expressed his joy about the event, stating: “The author is here with us today at Paspatur Bazaar, where he shared insights about his book with both Turkish and British guests and recounted his memories of Kayaköy.”
The day itself became a celebration of literature and the collective cultural memory, vibrant within the heart of Fethiye.
5 Million 757 Thousand 200 TL Fine for 40 Illegal Villas in Fethiye
In a bid to regulate the short-term rental market, authorities in Fethiye have imposed a hefty fine of 5,757,200 TL on 40 villas found operating illegally without the proper tourism rental licenses. This crackdown forms part of intensified inspections to ensure compliance with tourism legislation.
During initial inspections, each of the 40 illegally rented villas was fined 143,930 TL, totaling the substantial penalty. Officials made clear this is just the tip of the iceberg:
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A second offense will incur a penalty of 719,650 TL per villa.
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A third violation could lead to a steep fine of 1,930,000 TL per property.
Some property owners attempted to circumvent rules by creating fake long-term rental contracts for properties rented out daily or weekly. Authorities cautioned that such actions would not be tolerated; violators risk immediate fines of 1,930,000 TL.
Inspections are set to continue and ramp up efforts, ensuring fair competition, preventing unregistered operations, and supporting the local tourism sector’s healthy growth. Property owners are strongly reminded to secure the necessary tourism rental documents and fulfill all legal obligations prior to listing their properties for short-term rentals.
Fethiye Proves Itself Not Only in Tourism But Also in Sports Activities
Fethiye, recognized for its stunning coastline and historical richness, is solidifying its status not only as a tourist haven but also as a burgeoning epicenter for sports tourism. With unique geographical advantages and increasing investments in sporting infrastructure, the district is becoming a magnet for national and international sporting events.
Harun Reşit Yiğit, Fethiye’s Youth and Sports District Manager, emphasizes the significance of sports as an alternative tourism venture, highlighting the influx of over 4,000 athletes for school sports events in the 2024–2025 academic year, excluding accompanying families. This influx resulted in an estimated 12,000 overnight stays, providing a notable economic boost and promoting the region on a larger scale.
Yiğit noted Fethiye’s allure for sporting organizations, stating, “Fethiye stands out as one of the most beautiful geographies not only in our country but in the world. This natural beauty places it high on the list of favored destinations for many sports federations.”
The district’s appeal continues to attract national and international sporting organizations, aided by coordinated efforts among local authorities, sports institutions, and governmental bodies. Yiğit also highlighted the pride in hosting young athletes from across the nation, creating opportunities for them to experience Fethiye’s offerings first-hand.
Touristic Karaelmas Express Made Its First Journey Between Ankara and Zonguldak
The Touristic Karaelmas Express recently embarked on its inaugural journey, showcasing the cultural and natural wealth of the Western Black Sea region, as declared by Transport and Infrastructure Minister Abdulkadir Uraloğlu.
During previously held announcements, the minister stated, “Our train will provide passengers with the chance to rediscover the cultural and natural heritage of the Western Black Sea region.”
The service officially launched after a protocol was signed by TCDD Taşımacılık AŞ, the Western Black Sea Development Agency (BAKKA), and the Zonguldak Special Provincial Administration, marking a new chapter in touristic train travel along the Ankara–Zonguldak–Ankara route.
The train accommodates 120 passengers and features two dining cars, four sleeper cars, and one couchette car. Departing from Ankara at 9:25 PM, it pauses for a four-hour break in Karabük/Yeşilyenice on Saturday before proceeding to Zonguldak.
The return journey kicks off at 11:55 PM on Saturday night, making sightseeing stops in:
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Two hours in Çerkeş,
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Five hours in Çankırı, and
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Two hours and 30 minutes in Kalecik, concluding at 7:02 PM in Ankara on the same day.
The Karaelmas Express aims to promote tourism and invigorate local economies by enabling travelers to encounter the scenic and historical landscapes of the region by rail.
Conclusion
Fethiye continually demonstrates its commitment to community enrichment and local development through diverse events, cultural initiatives, and increased oversight in tourism to maintain the integrity of its hospitality market. In addition, the growing emphasis on sporting activities enhances its standing as not just a summer getaway, but a year-round destination brimmed with adventure and dynamic experiences.
Fethiye, with its captivating charm and strong focus on fostering community engagement, heralds a bright future as a pivotal player in Turkey’s tourism landscape. The evolving dynamics here will not only impact local tourism trends but resonate in the broader context of Turkish aviation, particularly as travelers frequent the ever-bustling Istanbul Airport, seeking connections to Turkey’s gems. Keep your eyes peeled for ongoing developments in this vibrant region, where natural beauty and rich culture meet endless opportunities for adventure!