Why are Bahrainis flocking to Turkey?

TDT | Manama                             

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Reported by Julia Cassano

The combination of breathtaking natural beauty, culture, great food, nightlife, safety, affordability, and proximity makes Turkey, straddling Asia and Europe, one of the top tourist destinations and second homes for Bahrainis.

The Daily Tribune previously reported that Turkey is the top travel destination for Bahrainis during the Eid Al Fitr holiday; however, travel agencies revealed to The Daily Tribune that the demand for travel to Turkey remains throughout the year.

"Turkey is like a second home to Bahrainis, as it is similar in culture, affordable, and a close country to travel to," Haris PT, managing director of Travel Knits and Vacanza Bahrain, told The Daily Tribune. Aaliyah, a Bahraini and frequent tourist in Turkey, relayed to The Daily Tribune that Bahrainis enjoy the vibrant beaches, rich history, and glistening coastal hotspots that Turkey has to offer.

"There’s something for everyone," she said. Holidays can be expensive, and travel can be a hassle, but with cheap flights and affordable pricing in Turkey, it makes for an uncomplicated yet memorable holiday for Bahrainis.

"During the day, there are various historical sites to discover, as well as soaking up a tan at the beach. But there is also a buzzing nightlife that Turkey accommodates, from electrifying parties to dance shows at pubs and restaurants, sure to keep everyone entertained," Aaliyah said.

Most of all, she said that Bahrainis feel safe there, especially women, being surrounded by similar cultures and values but also feeling as though they are experiencing a new country. Haris confirmed this to The Daily Tribune, citing similar culture and values as a central reason for Bahrainis not only visiting Turkey but purchasing property there as well.

"Some Bahrainis even buy property in the country, substantiating the claim that Bahrainis view Turkey as a second home, as they are comfortable and accustomed to the way of life there," he said. But why Turkey when there are other countries that resemble it? "There is so much to see," Haris said.

Although Turkey is home to some of the most beautiful and attractive cities like Istanbul and Antalya, Haris said that people have started to adventure into the serenity that the Turkish villages have to offer. Even though there are countries that may resemble Turkiye, it remains the popular pick amongst Bahrainis, he said.