Strong year expected for tourism in Turkey

The tourist board of Turkey has predicted a strong year ahead and provided details on a number of events and developments that will be taking place in the country over the coming 12 months.

April is set to be a strong month in Turkey as both Izmir and Istanbul host film festivals, following a festival that will be held in Ankara in March.

Antalya will be the Turkish destination of choice for revellers in May as it hosts Sunsplash, a week-long festival featuring DJs and artists including Gilles Peterson, Norman Jay and Jamie Lidell.

Istanbul will host two major cultural events later this year – the IKSV Biennial from September 12th to November 8th and the Contemporary Istanbul festival between December 3rd and 6th.

There will be a number of new accommodation options for visitors to Turkey this year, including a Hilton spa and golf resort in Dalaman and a Sheraton hotel in Istanbul.

Plans are also in place to improve tourism infrastructure by enhancing Istanbul's Ataturk Airport.

According to the tourist board of Turkey, the country overtook Spain as the most popular package holiday destination for UK travellers last year.

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