Experiencing Self-Vacation: Holiday Adventure in Turkey in 2025
Vacationing in Turkey: 2025 Cost Breakdown and Insider Tips
Prepare for a surge in numbers as Turkey greets an estimated 10% more Russian tourists this summer compared to last year. With the crystal-clear waters of Antalya, Kemer, and Belek, combined with the minimal language barrier, it's no surprise why this country remains a favorite among Yakutians. But how much is a Turkish getaway going to cost you in the new season? Let's dive in!
Pricing Trends for the 2025 Tourist Season
Experts predict that luxury five-star hotels will increase accommodation prices by an average of 10%. Meanwhile, budget hotels have barely seen any changes from last year. To get the best deals, consider planning your trip during the shoulder season (late May to early June), where the weather remains pleasant and the prices are lower than the peak season.
Hotel Tiers and Costs
A two-person vacation package in Alanya, one of the most affordable resorts on the Anatolian coast, can be found ranging from 120,000 to 140,000 rubles for 12-14 days, with flights from Moscow included. Though these would typically be second-line hotels, with a distance of 500 meters to 2 kilometers from the sea. A week-long trip would be cheaper, but for Yakutians, consider the distance and time zones as the brevity might not make it cost-effective.
For those preferring high-end five-star accommodations, expect to pay at least 500,000 rubles or more for two people for 12-14 days, with a flight from Moscow. For instance, a stay at the Kempinski Hotel The Dome 5* in Belek would cost at least 750,000 rubles.
A New Departure City?
You might find choosing your departure city becoming a deciding factor for your family. In the past, many traveled from Moscow, but for the last two years, we've been opting for Siberia's capital, Yakutsk, as flying from Yakutsk to Novosibirsk and then to Antalya takes around the same time—six hours—as from Moscow. Though tours departing from Novosibirsk will cost more, you save on travel time and enjoy more convenience.
Staffing Challenges and Service
The increasing demand for Turkish vacations has led to a shortage of staff, causing some slow services, such as long waits for cutlery, cleared tables, and other amenities. It's worth noting that the staff, mostly migrant workers from the post-Soviet Middle East, strive to keep the hotel running, but the service level has taken a dip compared to previous years.
All-Inclusive: A Culinary Paradise, No More?
If you're expecting an array of meat, fish, kebabs, fruits in the "all-inclusive" restaurant, you might be in for a surprise. Many report a reduced variety of food options, with less attention paid to beef and other meats. The good news is that if you express your dissatisfaction (and even threaten a less-than-flattering review), you might find yourself enjoying complimentary cherries and upgraded accommodations.
Excursions: Be Aware and Plan Ahead
While both tour operators and street vendors offer trips, be wary of the latter, as they may overcharge you. It's advised to book long excursions, like to Cappadocia, through a guide or tour operator to ensure a quality experience. Additionally, you can visit the ancient city of Phaselis on your own, but it's recommended to go right after breakfast, taking water and light snacks with you, as there are no facilities nearby.
Currency and Payment
Russian rubles are not widely accepted in Turkey. Instead, locals prefer dollars, euros, and their own currency, the Turkish Lira. Keep an eye out for UnionPay cards issued by Russian banks, such as Rosselkhozbank and the "Asian-Pacific Bank," as they are accepted in Turkey and offer favorable exchange rates.
Shopping in Turkey remains appealing with various opportunities for haggling, especially when it comes to leather goods and textiles. Don't shy away from asking for a better deal; a little negotiation can save you plenty!
Now, all set for a fantastic trip! Just remember to stay informed about international relations and local sentiments towards Russian tourists in Turkey, and enjoy your well-deserved vacation.
explore a luxury lifestyle during your travel to Turkey, as the increase in five-star hotel prices may cost around 500,000 rubles or more for a two-person vacation package, especially if staying at the Kempinski Hotel The Dome 5* in Belek.
to fully enjoy the local cuisine and excursions, be mindful of the currency preferences and overpricing from street vendors, and consider booking through guide or tour operators for a quality experience, while haggling can save you money during shopping trips, particularly for leather goods and textiles.
