Marmaris Tourism Strategy Board Held Its First Meeting

The Marmaris Tourism Strategy Board, established to increase Marmaris' brand value in tourism, extend the season throughout the year, and boost its international competitiveness, held its first meeting. Representatives from the tourism sector came together at the meeting organized under the leadership of Marmaris Municipality. New target markets, sustainable destination management, international promotional activities, and changing global tourism trends were discussed. It was announced that the board will meet regularly and work on projects that will guide Marmaris' tourism vision.

Marmaris Tourism Strategy Board will draw a roadmap with common sense

The Marmaris Tourism Strategy Board was formed to plan the district's tourism future not only from the perspective of the municipality or a single sector representative but with the contribution of all stakeholders. At the first meeting, the current state of tourism, the district's strong points, and areas needing improvement were thoroughly evaluated.

The board's main goal is to ensure Marmaris gains a stronger brand identity in tourism. Therefore, methods to extend the season, reach new tourist profiles, and increase the district's visibility in international markets were discussed. Moving beyond Marmaris' perception of sea, sand, and sun was also among the board's priorities.

Strategies to spread the tourism season throughout the year were discussed

One of the prominent topics of the meeting was extending the tourism season in Marmaris. It was emphasized that the district should be positioned not only as a holiday center busy during summer months but as a destination offering different experiences year-round.

Within this scope, it is aimed to highlight areas such as nature, culture, healthy living, social life, and marina tourism more strongly. Marmaris' geographical advantages, natural beauties, and Mediterranean lifestyle culture are regarded as the core elements of the four-season tourism vision. Thus, it aims for a more balanced distribution of tourism revenues in the district and to support the local economy year-round.

New target markets and international promotional activities were evaluated

International promotional activities were also on the agenda at the Marmaris Tourism Strategy Board meeting. According to changing global tourism trends, discussions focused on in which markets the district can position itself more strongly and how to reach new target audiences.

The board members unanimously agreed on promoting Marmaris as a safe Mediterranean lifestyle destination offering social and cultural experiences intertwined with nature. This approach aims not only at visitors seeking short-term holidays but also at tourists traveling for experience-oriented trips. Projects to be prepared in the coming period are expected to be shaped within this framework.

Mayor Acar Ünlü emphasized a new model in tourism

Marmaris Mayor Acar Ünlü stated in his evaluation of the meeting that the district should not be seen only as a destination dependent on the summer season. Ünlü emphasized the importance of all sector stakeholders acting together to spread tourism throughout the year.

Mayor Ünlü said they came together for a model that will increase Marmaris' competitiveness, extend the season, and create higher added value. He expressed that their goal is to make Marmaris a destination that stands out not only with sea, sand, and sun tourism but also with its nature, culture, social life, and healthy living opportunities.

Tourism stakeholders gathered at the same table

The meeting hosted by Marmaris Mayor Acar Ünlü was attended by representatives from the tourism and transportation sectors as well as local government officials. Attendees included Marmaris Chamber of Commerce President Mutlu Ayhan, GETOB President Cengiz Aygün, TÜRSAB Marmaris Regional Board President Suat Esin, Marmaris Drivers' Chamber Vice President Şenol Selçuk, and Dalaman YDA Airport Operations Trade and Strategy Director Orçun Songur.

Also present were Deputy Mayor Sedat Kırt, Municipality R&D Director Assoc. Dr. Didem Gamze Işıksal, and Orhaniye Martı Marina General Manager Barış Korkmaz. It was stated that with regular meetings, the board will work on strategies to develop Marmaris' tourism vision.

Source: News Center