Turkish Hotel Owner Reveals What Really Bothers Russian Tourists Now

A hotel owner in Antalya has lifted the lid on the main frustrations driving Russian tourists crazy at Turkish resorts—and it all comes down to money. Mehmet Usta Bilginer, speaking to RIA Novosti, said that while Russians still love Turkey, the rising cost of holidays and taxi fares, especially from airports, are their top complaints. "They start feeling irritated the moment they land," he explained.

Turkish authorities are monitoring the situation closely, according to a government source, and plan to take steps to keep conditions comfortable for foreign visitors. But for now, the sticker shock is real. Bilginer noted that social media and travel chats are flooded with negative reviews about transport prices, shaping a bad first impression before guests even check in.

Beyond taxis, tourists are grumbling about higher costs for meals, entertainment, and everyday purchases. Many compare current prices to those from a few years ago and conclude that Turkey is no longer a budget-friendly destination. As a result, Russians have become more careful with their spending. They're skipping extras, booking shorter trips, and choosing cheaper hotels or skipping the all-inclusive packages altogether.

Bilginer warned that Turkey's tourism sector needs to pay attention to these shifts to stay competitive against other popular vacation spots.