Recent Developments in Fethiye and Turkey (Week Ending 18th May 2025)

LOCAL NEWS

Awareness Event at Akmaz Public Beach for Disability Week

In observance of Disability Week from May 10 to 16, Akmaz Public Beach in Fethiye hosted an awareness event that united disabled individuals and their families for a day filled with joy, inclusion, and community engagement.

This event aimed to raise social consciousness and promote solidarity among attendees, offering them the opportunity to partake in various activities in a friendly and welcoming setting. The gathering fostered moments of enjoyment, enabling the creation of lasting memories while emphasizing the critical need for accessibility and equal participation in society.

Moreover, organizers highlighted that support for individuals with disabilities should extend beyond a single event and voiced their continuous commitment to raising awareness and standing alongside disabled individuals throughout the year.

Source: Fethiye Belediyesi

Fostering International Relationships: A Visit to Scotland

A recent trip to Scotland by Fethiye’s mayor, Alim Karaca, alongside his wife, Çiğdem Karaca, featured several pivotal meetings designed to promote Fethiye and develop cross-border collaborations.

The visit explored potential joint ventures that would promote local Fethiye products in Scotland through a cooperative approach. Additionally, discussions revolved around cultural and economic partnerships, primarily in the tourism sector, aimed at benefitting the district.

The delegation received a warm welcome and considerable backing from prominent Scottish figures, enhancing the visit’s significance. Special acknowledgments were given to:

• Humza Yousaf, the former and first Muslim Prime Minister of Scotland.

• Demet Kayaoğlu, Consul General of Edinburgh.

• Alison Johnstone, Speaker of the Scottish Parliament.

• Lezley Cameron, Deputy Mayor of Edinburgh.

• Donald Wilson, former Mayor of Edinburgh.

• Foysol Choudhury, Shadow Minister of Culture.

• Neil Bibby, Shadow Minister of Sports.

• Şahin Vahap Fırat, President of the Turkish-Scottish Chamber of Commerce, along with Turkish entrepreneur Emin Can Bozkurt.

The meetings were characterized by mutual goodwill, signifying a shared aspiration for enduring collaboration.

This visit marks a notable initial step towards fortifying Fethiye’s international connections and establishing a groundwork for future economic and cultural partnerships, with ongoing efforts focused on converting discussions into tangible opportunities for the district.

Patara Lighthouse Poised for a Nighttime Revival

The historic Patara Lighthouse, originally erected by Roman Emperor Nero during AD 60-65, is set to regain prominence as a centerpiece of the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism’s Night Museums initiative. After a prolonged period of inactivity and extensive restoration over the past five years, the lighthouse is ready to once again serve as a beacon for guests keen on exploring history under the stars.

This ancient structure, situated adjacent to Patara Beach, suffered considerable damage from natural disasters throughout the years. Restoration efforts received an impetus in 2020 following the designation of that year as the Year of Patara by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, with renewed focus on preserving this heritage site.

With its full restoration underway, the lighthouse is gearing up for a new chapter. The edifice boasts captivating inscriptions, including one stating, “I am Emperor Nero. I built this lighthouse for the safety of sailors,” alongside dolphin reliefs and a dome structure, all exemplifying the architectural ingenuity of its period.

As preparations for its nighttime opening continue, including landscaping and lighting enhancements, the lighthouse will be an integral part of the Ministry’s Night Museums program, offering visitors an enchanting experience after dark and a deep dive into the region’s storied past.

Dr. Abdülkadir Baran Aktaş, the excavation head, underscored this site’s historical significance, stating:

“The lighthouse is the only one rebuilt from the Nero period, representing the engineering marvel of its time. Its reconstruction is globally acknowledged and a matter of pride for the region.”

With last year’s visitor number exceeding 350,000, expectations are high for this figure to double following the lighthouse’s relighting and night museum designation, illuminating pathways for tourists and enhancing the appeal of cultural tourism in the region.

NEWS FROM AROUND TURKEY

Expansion of Night Museum Program to Enhance Cultural Tourism

Beginning June 1, Turkey is set to expand its Night Museum initiative, facilitating extended evening access to museums and archaeological sites nationwide to further bolster cultural tourism. Major cities such as Istanbul, Ankara, and Gaziantep will significantly benefit, remaining accessible later to meet rising visitor demands.

UNESCO World Heritage Site Ephesus will open its doors until 11 p.m. from Wednesdays to Saturdays, while the monumental Hellenistic statues at Nemrut Mountain Archaeological Site in Adıyaman will be illuminated at night and open for visits from 4 a.m. to 9 a.m.

Archaeological sites in Antalya, including Aspendos, Patara, and Side, will remain open until 10 p.m., with the Müze İzmir Culture and Art Factory accessible until 9 p.m. Noteworthy sites extending visiting hours include the Galata Tower and the Istanbul Archaeological Museums.

This initiative demonstrates an unwavering dedication to enhancing visitor experiences and fostering tourism growth by providing flexible opportunities to delve into Turkey’s rich cultural legacy.

Celebration of Turkish Day Parade in New York City

Coordinated by the Presidency’s Directorate of Communications, the Turkish Day Parade and various cultural events took place in New York City on May 16 and 17. This year marked the 42nd edition of the parade, initially organized in response to events affecting the Turkish diplomatic community, aimed at reinforcing unity among the Turkish-American population and augmenting their economic and cultural connections.

The festivities commenced with a flag-raising ceremony at Bowling Green Park, followed by a panel discussion focused on contemporary U.S.-Turkey relations. An exhibition showcasing Turkish cultural heritage also opened at the Turkish House.

The parade featured a vibrant procession with musical performances, concerts, and activities catering to families, drawing thousands of participants and reaffirming its status as a focal point for the Turkish-American community’s cultural expression.

Fethiyespor Update

In sports news, Fethiyespor’s U13 team has advanced to the Muğla Playoffs, achieving an undefeated championship in the group stage. The team’s journey continues as they aim for championship glory ahead.

Turkish Lira Exchange Rates

The Turkish Lira exchange rates as of the last business day are as follows:

Weather Forecast for the Upcoming Week

Stay tuned for the weather forecast to plan your activities and excursions while enjoying the splendid offerings of the region.

Reflecting on the recent developments, the events held in Fethiye emphasize the essence of community connection, cultural initiatives, and efforts to enrich tourism potential. Even the most honest feedback can’t truly replace personal experience; at GetExperience.com, users can book verified experiences that cater to their preferences at reasonable prices. Benefit from convenient booking, affordability, and a vast array of options, making memories without unexpected expenses. Now is the perfect time to Book your Trip at GetExperience.com.

In conclusion, the various events and initiatives described showcase the lively spirit of Fethiye and its commitment to both local and international community engagement, while significantly enhancing cultural tourism prospects. With a blend of adventure activities, online virtual tours, museum tours with live guides, and unique cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Keep exploring the fascinating possibilities that await in Fethiye and beyond!