After the terrorist attacks in favorite holiday destination for German tourists, such as Turkey and Egypt, bookings recorded by large German tour operator look rather disappointing. Only two and a half weeks ago before Berlin ITB, the most important international tourism exhibition in the world, opens its doors, German travel agencies record reduced bookings by 8% compared to the same period last year, but higher than in 2013, according to GfK research company.
Expert Roland Gkasner from the German research firm, claims that in Germany a trend towards shorter holidays has for some time now been established: “Despite the limited market interest there is no evidence that the Germans will stop traveling. Consumers are currently hesitant because of developments in the southeast Mediterranean, without this of course meaning that they will not take a holiday, “says Mr. Gkasner.
Yet, the fact is that after the terrorist attack in Istanbul in January, which killed 11 German tourists, Germans bookings for the summer season in Turkey have collapsed. TUI, one of the largest tour operator, registered by the beginning of the month reductions of around 40%.
The Turkish state subsidizes tourism
The Turkish government appears determined to support tourism, which contributes decisively to the country’s GDP. Following the recent terrorist attacks, and tensions between Russia and Turkey and, consequent reduction of tourists by 14% in the last quarter of 2015, Turkish Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu announced Monday 80 million euros grants for tourism businesses affected by the drastic reduction in Russian tourists mainly . In addition, the Turkish Government undertook facilitating travel agencies to enable them to meet their outstanding financial obligations to the Turkish state.
Source: Deutsche Welle
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