Terrorist attack in Istanbul affects Turkish tourism

The Islamic State operated explosion near the historic Blue Mosque in Istanbul raises concerns about tourism in Turkey

The recent explosion that left 10 tourists dead came after the Oct. 10 terrorist bombings in Ankara in which more than 100 people lost their lives.

Following tense situation in the country, Turkey travel specialists raise concerns about the future of Turkish tourism.

Several owners of local tour agencies already complain about cancellations, because of impact of terrorism in the region.

Karen Fedorko Sefer, owner of Sea Song Tours, explains:

“Bookings were already slow for 2016 because of a combination of what’s going on in the region and the attacks in Paris last year, but now, I expect them to be at a standstill.

“While France is a familiar destination and may be more appealing for people to go to, Turkey is considered somewhat exotic so people aren’t going to immediately rush here.”

International agencies offering group trips to Turkey in the peak season (March-October) are also having difficulties, due to clients that still have time to change their minds about their trips and get a full refund.

“People might be waiting to see if they still want to go depending on what the situation in Turkey will be like over the next several weeks,” Michael Sadowski, spokesman of Intrepid Travel in Australia said.

Even if Turkey experiences what is called “a sensitive period”, Nick Doyle, terrorism expert and managing director of the security risk management practice at Kroll, thinks that the risk of traveling here is the same as any other destination:

“Terrorism is striking many destinations, and we can’t give into it by not traveling. I would go to Turkey tomorrow and allow my family to as well.”

The impact on Turkish tourism is expected to become more visible in the weeks to come, when bookings to Turkey's destinations might significantly decrease.