Turkey is said to be “deserted” as tourists are allegedly “put off” returning to the popular holiday destination. It comes as some say hotels and sunbeds have been “empty”
A popular holiday destination is reportedly “deserted”, with claims that tourists are giving the country a wide berth, and it’s not the first time such suggestions have emerged. Videos circulating online show near-empty hotels and beaches, with some suggesting that the ongoing conflict in the Middle East may be deterring visitors.
In recent years, however, other factors have also been cited as having an impact, with holidaymakers pointing to the rising cost of visiting as an additional concern. The travel story came to prominence on TikTok when one tourist shared footage from their hotel, describing it as “silent”.
The clips make it plain to see just how quiet things appear, with barely a soul by the pool and sunbeds sitting vacant. Having visited Turkey recently, the tourist suggested that visitors appeared to be staying away in droves.
The social media user wrote alongside the footage: “The war in Iran has definitely affected tourism. I’m in Turkey right now, and the hotel feels almost deserted.
“Only around 10 guests here. Even the weather hasn’t helped, so the whole place feels unusually quiet.”
One commenter was quick to note that it isn’t yet summer, to which the tourist replied: “The hotel staff said they’d usually have around 400 guests at this time of year, but due to regional conflicts affecting tourism, business has dropped significantly.”
Adding to this, several weeks ago a social media user known as Sophie Does Thingz described the popular holiday destination as “super quiet” during her stay. She noted that “all the tourists decided not to come to Turkey this year”, a comment that sparked considerable discussion online.
In response, one person wrote: “I hate it. I want to leave.” Another added: “Girl, the weather is a bit cold here compared to other years. I think tourists will begin to come in a month or two.”
Several others pointed out that the peak season had yet to begin. One commented: “The season hasn’t started yet that’s why.”
Another similarly suggested: “It’s not even season.” The subject clearly struck a chord with many.
What is happening?
According to reports, Turkey’s tourism sector has experienced a downturn since March in certain areas and industries, largely attributed to the conflict in Iran.
There has reportedly been a surge in booking cancellations and a halt in travel from neighbouring Middle Eastern countries. While eastern border regions have been severely affected, major coastal resorts such as Antalya and Bodrum are said to have remained comparatively stable.
Furthermore, demand from European and British tourists is reported to remain robust. Nevertheless, in recent years, visitors have admitted to being “put off” travelling to the destination for other reasons.
Some holidaymakers have claimed that Turkey has become “too expensive” in the past few years. This is largely due to the country experiencing rampant inflation and a dramatic collapse in the value of the Turkish Lira.
As a result, many no longer consider the once-beloved hotspot to be a “cheap” holiday option. Despite this, it remains a firm favourite with some travellers.
Figures suggest that millions make the trip each year, with some holidaymakers saying they’re “booking flights now” such is their eagerness to visit.

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