Turkey (Türkiye)

Carlson Turner, seven, suffered the nasty injury backflipping into a swimming pool on holiday in Antalya, Turkey, and needed urgent treatment at Konakli Medical Centre

A mum was forced to fork out £1,500 when her son split his head open backflipping into a pool on holiday – as the hospital didn’t accept her Asda insurance.

Rhiannon Dunn, 32, was left “panicking and I was crying” when little Carlson was rushed to a medical centre to treat the 1.5cm gash on the back of his scalp following the accident. The seven-year-old lad had four stitches put in his head under local anaesthetics and an X-ray on his skull to make sure there were no fractures.

Rhiannon had secured insurance with Asda before the trip to Antalya, Turkey at the start of September, but the hospital would not accept the cover. The mum of four had to cough up £1,532.27 for the treatment before Carlson could be discharged from Konakli Medical Centre.

After Asda was approached by journalists, it said it has paid Rhiannon in full and “surprised and disappointed” the medical centre would not accept the £40 Superior Asda travel insurance.

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The accident happened on the first day of the trip, which Rhiannon had booked as a birthday present for Carlson. The youngster hit his head with such force it split open, causing severe bleeding.

Rhiannon, a full-time carer, said: “His cut was so wide open and deep, he needed stitches and to go to hospital. The wound was very deep and black and because he’s a red head it stood out.

“Everything was fine but then they shut us in a room and told us we had to pay the last bill. I told the hospital we had travel insurance from Asda. It was a premium travel insurance with unlimited access as I know kids can be clumsy.

“I was more worried about my son. He was looking at me and he was scared and frightened. I was more upset as you buy travel insurance for a reason and they wouldn’t accept it.

“In the end I had to borrow money from a friend. I don’t know what would have happened if I didn’t pay. Asda were shocked that they [the hospital] wouldn’t accept it.

“Asda spoke to the Turkish hospital and the hospital still point blank refused to accept the travel insurance. We were [put] in an office box room until we paid up. Asda were very distressed with the hospital and said they tried everything they could. I was panicking and I was crying.”

READ MORE: Brit who cracked his skull in horror holiday accident trapped overseas as ‘flying could kill him’

Konakli Medical Centre has apologised the mum felt “distressed” but said treatment is prioritised and “never delayed” over insurance matters. The hospital confirmed that ‘not all policies or insurers are accepted for direct cashless billing’, and in those instances patients are expected to pay the bill.

Rhiannon, who is from Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, is now speaking out about her experience to warn holidaymakers to check their travel insurance is accepted at hospitals near to where they stay.

“It’s annoying because you buy travel insurance for a reason… He told me he’d hit his head, [then I spotted the blood] and started panicking,” Rhiannon, a mum of four, continued.

“I just want to warn other parents to check your insurance and what hospitals it covers. The hospital said they don’t work with Asda travel insurance but Asda said they hadn’t been notified that they didn’t work with them.

“It’s affected me financially as you pay for holiday insurance for a reason and expect to pay the excess [if you need to claim], but I’ve never known to have to cough up the whole amount.

“I want to raise awareness to other families to make sure they do thorough checks and to make sure the local hospital near to where you are staying is covered through your insurance.”

A spokesperson for Konakli Medical Centre said: “Firstly, we take all patient feedback seriously, and we are sorry to hear that Ms Dunn felt distressed during her visit.

“We work with many travel insurance providers; however, not all policies or insurers are accepted for direct cashless billing, particularly when there is no prior agreement or contract in place.

“In such cases, patients are generally required to pay for treatment and seek reimbursement from their insurer. This is standard procedure at many private healthcare facilities internationally.

“Our medical centre always prioritises the urgent care and well-being of the patient. Treatment is never delayed due to insurance matters.

“Once the patient is stable and treatment is complete, administrative steps regarding payment or insurance are handled. No patient is ever held against their will at our facility. Payment is processed in a separate administrative area from the patient registration desk.

“Additionally, before any treatment is carried out, the full medical process and associated costs are clearly explained to the patient (or guardian), and informed consent is obtained prior to proceeding.”

After being contacted by journalists, Asda said they were ‘surprised and disappointed’ that the hospital didn’t accept the insurance details but said they had now processed Rhiannon’s claim.

An Asda Travel Insurance spokesperson said: “We are disappointed that Ms Dunn had this experience on her holiday, and we wish her son a speedy recovery.

“Ms Dunn’s insurance claim has now been accepted and paid in full. We were surprised and disappointed that the hospital did not accept her insurance details, which was the cause of this problem and, had the hospital followed normal process, the challenges experienced could have been avoided.”

A woman recently booked a holiday to Turkey and she can’t believe how much it cost. Suzanna was floored when she saw her bill for her recent trip away in the sun

A woman booked a holiday to Turkey, but was left floored when she realised how much it cost, and it’s not the only thing that’s left people stunned at the holiday hotspot recently. Suzanna, known as suzannatravelsolo on TikTok, recently admitted she jetted off for a few days in the sun to have a break from “rainy Liverpool“.

Even though she enjoyed her time away, she admitted she was taken aback when she realised how much it would cost her to spend the weekend in Turkey. In a candid video shared online she claimed she bagged a weekend away in Turkey for “less than £200.00”, and this included taxi fees, so it was pretty good.

The news may surprise some people as it’s been heavily documented that, in recent years, tourists think Turkey has become expensive. Just a few months ago, Brits admitted they were looking for “cheaper options”, as they claimed the hotspot has witnessed such high levels of inflation.

However, Suzanna said she had a bargain break away and she opened up about it in a few videos. However, she did warn it can be come expensive when you actually land at the destination.

In a different video, Suzanna explained whether she thinks it’s cheaper in Turkey or Hurghada, Egypt. She said she did notice it was pricey when she was out and about.

Suzanna explained: “The beach clubs in Hurghada are much better and a lot cheaper. I mean, if you drink, you’re going to spend a lot of money, because it was £12.00 for a cocktail.

“If you wanted vodka and Sprite, a vodka was just £11.00 on its own without a mixer. £11.00 for a vodka. I found local restaurants in the area I’m staying – the food has been lovely.

“You can get good value if you shop around. Tourists spots are just so, so expensive. Turkey will always be a part of my life, but Hurghada wins hands down for value and for what you get for your money.

“I mean, to just go on a boat trip here you’re talking €60.00. In Hurghada, we do it for €30,00, so there’s a big difference in the price. Turkey is still there in my heart.”

In the video, Suzanna also stated she had bed and breakfast, and people were quick to comment and share their thoughts. Some had similar views.

One said: “Love Turkey but my favourite will always be Egypt. We used to go to Luxor for two weeks and then go to Hurghada for a few days in between.”

Another added: “Definitely stay away from tourist spots, but I prefer that anyway – wherever I go.” Some people love Turkey though, as someone else wrote: “I’d personally choose Turkey – we’ve had the best holidays there, twice last year.”

One more commented: “Just came back from Hurghada and absolutely loved it – can’t wait to return. Great people – fab holiday.”

Is Turkey becoming expensive?

There are a few reasons why prices are said to have shot up in parts of Turkey. If you’re wondering about the situation, Statista has offered an explanation as to why it may be happening.

The website reads: “Domestic producer price indices have been continuously rising, which has directly resulted in a price increase in all consumer goods and services. Accordingly, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) in all commodity groups increased extremely since 2022.

“In the same year, the food and non-alcoholic beverages category had one of the highest inflation rates in the CPI. This particularly affected Turkish consumers, as these products accounted for the highest share of household expenditure in 2023.

“Since 2020, food prices have increased significantly around the world, and Turkey is no exception. Although inflation has started to slow down recently, food prices in Turkey continue to go up steadily, increasing by 48.6 percent in November 2024 compared to the same month in the previous year.

“It is not surprising that food inflation has not simmered down, as the producer price index (PPI) of agricultural products followed a constant increasing trend in the country over the past few years.”

However, it’s said Turkey is taking steps to help boost tourism, including addressing rising prices, making tourist offerings more diverse and investing in infrastructure. The Government is said to be working to reduce inflation, and some people are also promoting niche tourism areas like spas and health care.

A woman recently went to a restaurant in Turkey, and was floored by the cost of a three-course meal. When you’re abroad, you never know what to expect to pay

It’s no secret that the cost of visiting Turkey has risen, with various tourists having brought the matter to people’s attention in recent months. However, a woman who lives in Turkey recently revealed she was floored when she discovered how much it is to enjoy a three-course meal at a restaurant at the popular holiday destination, and Brits are equally as surprised.

The woman, known as lifeoflottss on TikTok, recently drew people’s attention to the food discovery in a candid video, and she was left pretty stunned. When you’re willing to look around, it turns out you can really find some bargains, with many people being left stunned by the price of the meal.

She explained she found the eatery in Marmaris and felt she had to show it off. It seems not everything is super expensive at the destination, despite reports of Turkey being “dead” due to inflation.

In the clip, Lotts said: “Hello everyone, if you’re staying in the Armutalan area in Marmaris then you can actually get a three-course meal for £3.50. If you really want to try traditional Turkish kitchen food then I would really recommend coming here.

“I’ll show you inside to show you what the food looks like. You can sit in and eat, or you can just get a takeaway. I absolutely love this food – all freshly made.

“Really nice, traditional Turkish kitchen food. Chef’s kiss. You’ve got puddings, drinks. You can get three courses for £3.50, or you can buy them separately. Honestly, it’s so cheap and the food is unreal.”

After she shared the video, people had all sorts of questions. In the comments, she confirmed the prices stay the same “all year around”, and she told intrigued holidaymakers to look for Anadolu Yemek Evi, Marmaris, when they visit.

One person said: “Love this place. My husband goes here to get us food all the time. Lovely food.”

Another added: “The food is the best type of food. Unbelievably cheap.” A third replied: “Tried this place in June when we were over. Great value. The food was really nice, and all the bread on the table was unreal.”

Meanwhile, a fourth commented: “I went there in May. Cheap as chips.” Someone else also chimed in with: “Bargain.”

Anadolu Yemek Evi also has rave reviews on TripAdvisor too. It has an average rating of five stars, with one customer saying it serves up the “best meal” in Marmaris. It just goes to show you can find affordable dining at the destination when you look around.

Is Turkey becoming expensive?

Even though Lotts’s story is positive, there are a few reasons why prices are said to have shot up in parts of Turkey. If you’re wondering about the situation, Statista has offered an explanation as to why it may be happening.

The website reads: “Domestic producer price indices have been continuously rising, which has directly resulted in a price increase in all consumer goods and services. Accordingly, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) in all commodity groups increased extremely since 2022.

“In the same year, the food and non-alcoholic beverages category had one of the highest inflation rates in the CPI. This particularly affected Turkish consumers, as these products accounted for the highest share of household expenditure in 2023.

“Since 2020, food prices have increased significantly around the world, and Turkey is no exception. Although inflation has started to slow down recently, food prices in Turkey continue to go up steadily, increasing by 48.6 percent in November 2024 compared to the same month in the previous year.

“It is not surprising that food inflation has not simmered down, as the producer price index (PPI) of agricultural products followed a constant increasing trend in the country over the past few years.”

However, it’s said Turkey is taking steps to help boost tourism, including addressing rising prices, making tourist offerings more diverse and investing in infrastructure. The Government is said to be working to reduce inflation, and some people are also promoting niche tourism areas like spas and health care.

Families are being warned of several dangers

The Foreign Office has issued new advice for people travelling to Turkey. New guidance was published regarding swimming and beaches on August 22. The advice is crucial to note if you are heading to the coast as there have been fatal incidents.

The advice says: “Every year, people drown in the sea and in swimming pools in Turkey. Always supervise children, even if they can swim or there is a lifeguard present.”

Families are warned of several dangers when going for a swim in the ocean in Turkey. The guidance says: “Take care when swimming in the sea. Some beaches may have strong undercurrents.

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“Hidden rocks or shallow depths can cause serious injury or death. Do not dive into unknown water. Follow local advice if jellyfish or urchins are present.”

Holidaymakers are also advised that many beaches have a flag system that you may want to look out for. The Foreign Office advises: “Make sure you understand the system and follow any warnings (a red flag means you must not enter the water). Follow instructions from lifeguards.

“Take extra care and seek local advice if there are no lifeguards, flags, or signs.” Another rule you may want to note if you are in Turkey is that it’s illegal not to carry some form of photo ID.

The Government guidance says: “Always carry your passport or residence permit. In some busy areas, especially Istanbul, the authorities may stop people for ID checks.

“There are also several police checkpoints on main roads across Turkey. Cooperate with officials conducting checks.”

What travel restrictions apply in Turkey?

The Foreign Office advises against any travel to within 10km of the border with Syria. This is due conflict in the area and “a heightened risk of terrorism”.

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The guidance explains that most terrorist attacks to date have happened in southeast Turkey, and in Ankara and Istanbul. Visitors are advised: “You should remain aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.”

The advice page includes further information about the risks and restrictions that apply in certain regions of Turkey.

A man who was in Turkey on holiday has shared a word of warning – but other people have said that they disagree with his assessment of the country and its prices

Turkey remains amongst the most favoured holiday destinations for Brits, with an impressive 4.4 million UK tourists flocking to the nation in 2024. Time Out reported this positioned Turkey as the eighth most sought-after tourist hotspot for UK holidaymakers, trailing behind destinations such as Spain, France, and Greece, though visitor numbers continue climbing annually.

Nevertheless, if you’re considering Turkey as your next getaway, one Welsh bloke has a stark warning: “Don’t bother”. The individual, who shares content on TikTok as @northwalesboii, revealed he’d travelled to Turkey for his summer break only to be left thoroughly disheartened by one particular aspect.

In his clip, the tourist grumbled that everything had become “too expensive”, urging potential visitors that if they’re determined to experience Turkey, they’d better be ready to pack “a lot of money”.

He didn’t specify his Turkish location, though some of the nation’s premier attractions include the capital Istanbul, alongside Cappadocia, Antalya, and seaside destinations like Marmaris.

The holidaymaker declared: “Just to let you know, if you’re coming on holiday to Turkey, bring a lot of money. You will spend it. Everything has gone up.”

Warning: The below video contains strong language.

“It never used to be so expensive; it used to be so dirt cheap to come here. To eat out, to drink out.

Not no more. It is f***ing expensive.”

Opinions were divided among those commenting on the video. Some concurred that prices had indeed risen, with numerous individuals recounting their recent holiday experiences of being charged 400 Turkish Lira for a beer, equating to roughly £7.30.

One commenter remarked: “I go three times a year, and you are correct, it’s gotten expensive. It will go up again. Next year, we’re looking at different places.”

Yet, there were those who maintained that their latest trips were “cheaper than the UK”.

A user countered: “Don’t know what part you went to. We have just got back from Antalya, had a great time, and it was cheaper than the UK. “

Another chimed in: “I don’t know where you guys are going, but it’s really cheap in Turkey. I do a lot of shopping and the food is cheap as well. “

By 2024, travellers were warning that unchecked inflation might render Turkey a “ghost town” within a few years, with one person lamenting that tourist spots were “becoming like London prices.”

He expressed at the time: “I’m sat in this place now – for a burger it’s £12. For a water it’s £2 – it’s becoming like London prices.

“My sister, and her little family, said they’re not going to come back again. “”I’ve seen some posts on here where people are saying, give it a few more years, and Turkey’s going to be dead.”

Swathes of UK holidaymakers are being urged to do one key thing before jetting off to Turkey this year, after the country has reportedly issued a sudden ban impacting tourists

Thousands of UK holidaymakers heading to Turkey this year could get stung the second they get off the plane following a major update. Around 4.8 million Brits are slated to visit the country this year, as it braces for a record-breaking boom in international visitors. Enticed by endless stretches of golden beaches, a ubiquitous history, and impressive architecture – Turkey appears to be capitalising on anti-tourist sentiment currently rocking countries like Spain and Greece.

However, the country’s Information and Communication Technologies Authority (BTK) has reportedly blocked access to more than a dozen international eSIM providers. According to Holafly, the move means tourists will be prevented accessing the websites and apps of the affected companies.

eSIMs have spiralled in popularity in recent years, providing travellers with a cheap and convenient way to access the internet on their phone – as well as to be able to make phone calls and texts. The alleged ban means Turkish residents aren’t able to purchase international eSIMs until they’re out of the country.

For tourists, it’s a little less black and white. You will still be able to use your eSIM if you purchase it and install it before you arrive in Turkey. Fail to do this, and you may struggle to get online.

In a statement sent to the Mirror, travel expert at Holafly Juan David Soler said: “Turkey’s sudden ban on eSIMs has caught many travellers off guard, and it’s vital that UK holidaymakers heading there this summer take action before they fly. eSIMs have become the go-to option for Brits wanting affordable mobile data abroad without the hassle of physical SIMs or costly roaming. But now, travellers will no longer be able to activate a new eSIM once they arrive in Turkey.”

To avoid getting ‘caught out’, the experts have urged Brits to ensure their eSIM is fully downloaded and activated before leaving the UK. “This means setting up your digital SIM while still on UK networks, and confirming it’s working properly before departure,” Juan added. “Otherwise, you could be left without internet access the moment you land, which can be a serious issue if you rely on your phone for maps, transport, or bookings.”

Earlier this year, Brits were also warned of a little-known rule when visiting Turkey which could land them in hot water. While technically not a new rule, purchasing or distributing e-cigarettes and liquids is prohibited in the country. According to Reuters, many people still buy vaping products in the country online.

“We’ve heard of so many travellers returning from Antalya, Marmaris, and Bodrum saying they were caught completely off guard,” Mike Byers, a vape expert over at WickdUp explained. “Shops that once stocked basic vape gear now won’t sell it at all — and if you’re used to picking up supplies on arrival, you could be left without.”

If you’re a serious vaper and can’t give up the juice for the entirety of your trip – you are allowed to bring your ‘personal supply’. This tends to be classed as ‘one device, spare pods or refill bottles no greater than 30ml in volume, or up to 10 disposable vapes per person’.

Do you have a story to share? Email us at [email protected] for a chance to be featured.

Brits are said to be “ditching” a popular holiday destination as prices to visit continue to soar. They instead seem to be opting for a cheaper alternative

Brits are reportedly giving a once-beloved holiday spot the cold shoulder as sky-high prices make trips to the destination increasingly unaffordable. Reports suggest that the cost of a holiday in Turkey is on the rise, with inflation hitting the tourist favourite hard.

In recent times, disgruntled travellers have been vocal about the escalating costs, with many considering a boycott in favour of more budget-friendly sunny escapes. Now, it appears a new destination has caught their eye, as viral posts suggest holidaymakers are swapping Turkey for Albania, and they’re loving the change.

A TikTok user by the name of ahmadsquad1 shared her bewilderment in a video post-holiday in Turkey, pondering over the noticeable lack of bustle. She acknowledges the inflation issue but is curious about why certain spots remain deserted.

In her video, she queries: “So we just got back from Turkey, and [in] every single shop we went to they were complaining about how quiet it is, and how there’s not that many people on holiday and, if they are on holiday, they are broke and don’t do loads of shopping – us included, but why is it?

“Where are people going? Why is that you have stopped going? One thing we did notice when we were there was like, for example, any kind of can – whether it’s branded or local brand – they would be like £4.00. Ice cream was like £4.00. Everything was so expensive.”

She mentioned that a typical meal such as a kebab and chips would set you back roughly £8.00, leading her to wonder whether the sparse crowds are down to inflated costs. Alternatively, she suggested that holidaymakers might simply be hunting for more budget-friendly getaways.

When she invited viewers to share their opinions, many disputed her claim that Turkey had ever been the top choice for British tourists. Nevertheless, some confessed they’ve sworn off returning to the country.

One person responded: “Been going to Turkey for years, but last year was different. Inflation hit hard, prices were high, getting overcharged. Hospitality didn’t feel the same. Not surprised fewer people are going now.”

Another suggested: “Should try the Balkan countries. Bosnia and Albania are lovely and very affordable.”

A third chimed in with: “Turkey has gone more expensive now, especially in Istanbul which makes it not worth it. People are now going to Bosnia or Albania.”

Meanwhile, a fourth contributor noted: “Turkey has gone expensive and a lot of people are choosing cheaper options like the North African countries, Balearic Islands or Greek islands.”

However, not everyone was convinced by the complaints, with one person writing: “Turkey isn’t that expensive – I don’t see what everyone is moaning about.” Another countered: “Of course the tourist areas are expensive, but decent places are cheap.”

Why is Turkey becoming so expensive?

There are a few reasons why prices are said to have shot up in Turkey. Statista has offered one explanation.

The website reads: “Domestic producer price indices have been continuously rising, which has directly resulted in a price increase in all consumer goods and services. Accordingly, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) in all commodity groups increased extremely since 2022.

“In the same year, the food and non-alcoholic beverages category had one of the highest inflation rates in the CPI. This particularly affected Turkish consumers, as these products accounted for the highest share of household expenditure in 2023.

“Since 2020, food prices have increased significantly around the world, and Turkey is no exception. Although inflation has started to slow down recently, food prices in Turkey continue to go up steadily, increasing by 48.6 percent in November 2024 compared to the same month in the previous year.

“It is not surprising that food inflation has not simmered down, as the producer price index (PPI) of agricultural products followed a constant increasing trend in the country over the past few years.”

Nevertheless, Turkey is reportedly implementing measures to revitalise tourism, tackling escalating costs, diversifying holiday experiences and pumping money into infrastructure. Authorities are allegedly working to curb inflation, whilst some are championing specialised tourism sectors such as wellness retreats and medical tourism.

Former flight attendant Kristina Galvydyte has lifted the lid on some of the shocking things she’s witnessed on planes and the holiday destinations that are “horrendous” for flight attendants

A former flight attendant has exposed three top holiday destinations favoured by British tourists as “horrendous” to fly to. In an eye-opening discussion about the less glamorous side of commercial travel, ex-air hostess Kristina Galvydyte, 32, opened up about some of the most appalling incidents she’s encountered 30,000ft in the skies.

The ex-flight attendant shared hair-raising tales either experienced personally or recounted by colleagues during her stint in the industry. Incidents involving intoxicated passengers “screaming”, possible drug activity in lavatories, verbal assaults, overdoses and cases of sickness were among the alarming stories mentioned.

Talking to the Telegraph, Kristina, who was described as “no-nonsense” and ultimately decided to hang up her wings at a British airline, pinpointed certain hotspots as exceptionally troublesome.

She singled out Ibiza, Turkey, and the Canary Islands, especially Tenerife, for having particularly challenging flights – dubbing them “horrendous” to travel to.

In the year leading to September 30, 2024, it was found that one in five summer visitors to Ibiza were from the UK, with a hefty 833,259 Britons landing on the party isle.

Statistics coming out of the Canary Islands show British nationals represented 40% of all overseas tourists in 2024. This translated into a whopping 6.3 million individuals picking the Canaries for their break, showing an increase of half a million compared to the year before.

In February, Turkey saw a 16.6 per cent surge in UK holidaymakers in 2024 compared to the previous year, with over 4.4 million Brits soaking up the sun. Meanwhile, last year, Spanish residents were reportedly fuming over “boozy British tourists” wreaking havoc on flights.

A flight from Manchester to Ibiza was forced to divert after a drunken Brit downed a bottle of vodka, assaulted crew members, and even spat at fellow passengers.

Ryanair, the low-cost carrier caught up in the chaos, has since announced measures to curb such antics. CEO Michael O’Leary has called for a two-drink limit per passenger, stating: “It’s not that easy for airlines to identify people who are inebriated. As long as they can stand up, they’ll get through. Then, when the plane takes off, we see the misbehaviour.”

Last month, Ryanair announced it would fine passengers removed from flights due to their behaviour a minimum of £500 and will continue to pursue civil damages.

In April, Brits jetting off to Spain were alerted to a law that could land them with fines up to £25,000. This regulation targets noisy parties in tourist accommodations across the Balearic Islands, which includes Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza, and Formentera.

The law could mean people would be hit with fines of £1,283 to £2,567 for any parties in tourist homes that generate a nuisance for neighbours between 11pm and 8am.

Indeed, as per Diario de Mallorca, repeat offenders could be slapped with a fine of up to £25,000. At the time of the report, Josep Castells, a deputy from Més per Menorca, anticipated the bill to be put forward for a vote in the first half of 2025.

The intensity of the Turkey wildfires has grown as the week continues, with more than 50,000 people having to flee their homes from across İzmir and surrounding provinces

Tens of thousands of people have fled their homes as ferocious wildfires rage across Turkey.

For the past three days, forest fires whipped up by robust winds have wreaked havoc in İzmir, which sits in the west of the country in an area loved by British tourists. Those flying into the region have captured videos of the sky burning orange above the city of 2.9 million, with great plumes of smoke billowing up off the tinder-box dry countryside.

The intensity of the fires has grown as the week continues, with more than 50,000 people having to flee their homes from across İzmir and surrounding provinces.

Have you been impacted by the fires? Email [email protected]

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In Sakarya, 230 people have had to leave behind two neighborhoods, while seven villages have been deserted by 609 people in Bilecik. İzmir’s Seferihisar district is the worst-impacted. There, 42,300 have had to flee an area that is made up of 80% summer houses, CNN Türk reported.

Helicopter pilots and on-the-ground firefighters are working side-by-side with teams of citizens who are determined to save as much of their land and as many of their homes as possible. They used tractors with water trailers and helicopters carrying water to douse the charred hillsides.

Minister of Agriculture and Forestry İbrahim Yumaklı said that 342 forest fires have broken out since Friday.

Mr Yumaklı said on Monday that the blaze was fanned overnight by winds reaching 40-50 km/h in Kuyucak and Doğanbey areas of İzmir. The first fire broke out on Sunday between the districts of Seferihisar and Menderes in İzmir, spreading rapidly due to winds of up to 117 km/h, according to Governor Süleyman Elban.

Residents in the village of Ürkmez were forced to cut trees to create firebreaks and protect their homes.

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On Sunday, no flights could land at or take off from Adnan Menderes Airport, which serves the coastal city of İzmir, for several hours. The airport’s departure board showed all flights due to leave on Sunday evening were either suspended or canceled.

Since then, the airport has been running as normal, with the departures and arrivals boards today showing no delays or cancellations.

The area was also hit by wildfires last year, as were many of Turkey’s other coastal areas. It is likely that this will become a more and more regular occurrence in the country, as climate change increases the irregularity of weather patterns and raises temperatures.

Turkey is not the only European country impacted by blazes this week. Right now, a sweltering ‘heat dome’ is sitting across swathes of Europe including France, Portugal, Spain, and Turkey, with forecasts from European meteorologists warning that more roasting days are on the horizon.

“Extreme heat is no longer a rare event — it has become the new normal,” declared U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres via Twitter from Seville, Spain, where the mercury was projected to soar to a blistering 42 Celsius by Monday afternoon.

Echoing his oft-repeated plea for dramatic measures to curb climate change, Guterres proclaimed: “The planet is getting hotter & more dangerous — no country is immune.”

Turkey has always been a holiday spot I consciously avoided – I’d heard a number of negative things and I suppose those just stuck with me.

Turkey was always a holiday destination BelfastLivereporter Sheena McStravick deliberately steered clear of — she had heard a fair share of negative reviews that seemed to have stuck. As such, she has always chosen the familiar territories of Spain and France for family getaways.

However, she said around the block enough times now to realise that she should visit places firsthand before forming an opinion, so that’s precisely what my family and Sheena did. They set off from Belfast International to fly to Dalaman, a region of Turkey she admitted that she had never come across.

As it turns out, it’s a rather popular tourist hotspot, and two flights were departing from Belfast on the same afternoon they took off. The newly revamped Belfast International Airport was a brilliant kick-off, with the fresh new look and impressive duty-free zone finally fitting for an international airport.

“It was a bustling Monday afternoon with hundreds of others also jetting out of the airport, so it was an absolute blessing to be booked into the Causeway Lounge, avoiding the extremely lengthy queues for the food outlets,” Sheena wrote.

The lounge was “ideal relaxed beginning” to the holiday, with reserved seating, plenty of room for the kids to watch the planes, a nice selection of soups, wraps, and sweet treats, hot beverages, and a fully stocked bar.

“I’d certainly recommend booking this in advance, as the airport was packed that day. Many folks were unable to gain entry because it had reached capacity with bookings.”

Sheena’s entire holiday was booked via TUI, so everything was sorted, from her flights to transfers to the hotel. They stayed at the TUI Blue Sensatori Akra in Feithye, which was about a 45-minute transfer from the airport and situated in a “really tranquil and serene spot, nestled among a forest and a beach.”

Upon arrival in Dalaman, everything from TUI was very quick and straightforward, the App pinging with their bus number as they exited the plane and collected luggage.

“The TUI Blue hotel had everything we desired and so much more. With two children aged seven and three with us, it was perfect,” she wrote.

“Upon check-in we were presented with a checklist of items for ‘Little Travellers’ that the hotel could provide if needed, it had everything from pushchairs to nappies, wipes, baby baths, baby monitors, potties, and so much more, I’ve never seen a hotel so well equipped for families with young children.

“Situated right next to the beach, our room on the second floor had absolutely stunning views across the hotel. The hotel also features some incredible swim-up rooms on the ground floor, which looked incredibly relaxing.”

With five swimming pools, including a superb children’s splash pool, water slides, and an adults-only area, there was genuinely something for everyone. Unsurprisingly, Sheena’s two children were glued to the water slides, which were open for two hours each morning and afternoon, perfect for dodging the day’s peak heat.

The hotel also prides itself on a fantastic kids’ club suitable for youngsters aged 3 to 12, as well as a dedicated baby club with a fully equipped nursery.

When it comes to entertainment, this hotel was never short. The evening entertainment provided by the TUI Blue cast team was particularly outstanding, with the nightly appearance of the TUIBots being a major highlight for the kids.

“From Disney-inspired performances to dazzling shows filled with incredible music and dancing, this team ranks among the best I’ve ever seen on holiday. Their patience and kindness towards all the children were truly remarkable.”

No matter your preference, there was entertainment for everyone, whether you preferred a more chilled live music setting in the Piano Bar or cool beach vibes with a nightly DJ at the Caretta Cocktail Bar. Conveniently located next to the brilliant outdoor children’s play park, the latter an “absolutely genius idea”.

She added: “Another standout feature was the food. I don’t reckon I’ve ever seen such a variety at an all-inclusive resort! The separate children’s buffet was a massive hit, allowing the little ones to pick their own food and serve themselves.

“The Restaurant offered a vast array of top-notch fresh produce for breakfast, lunch and dinner, along with special themed menus each evening. And if that wasn’t enough, there are an additional five restaurants on site, including Chinese, Turkish and Italian – you certainly won’t be short of options!”

There was “genuinely no need to leave this fantastic resort”, as it included shops, a spa, a gym, tennis courts, a football pitch, and so much more.

However, if you fancied a bit of exploration, the market town of Feithye was just a 15-minute shuttle boat ride away, where you could browse the shops and grab a bite in the cafes and restaurants. You can also get there via a public bus, which picks up right outside the hotel.

The Sensatori Akra, while perfectly suited for families, is also a brilliant spot for a couples getaway or if you have older teenage children.

There are specially designated rooms, a large pool area, restaurant and bar that are adult only and suitable for those aged 16 plus, allowing you to enjoy a more relaxing child-free zone.

“Despite my initial reservations about holidaying in Turkey, this trip has completely dispelled any fears or concerns I had,” Sheena said.

“The numerous individuals I chatted with during my stay echoed the same sentiment: once you’ve experienced Turkey, you won’t want to holiday anywhere else, and I can certainly understand why.

“While other tourist hotspots in Spain seem to actively discourage tourists, Turkey embraces them with open arms and a warm disposition. I’ll definitely be returning!”

TUI holiday deals

Use code EARLYBIRD when logged into your myTUI account, at your local TUI store or agent. Plus, combine with a Free Child Place for even better value.

Valid on summer 2026 holidays departing from Belfast between 1st May 2026 and 31st October 2026. *T&Cs apply.