Türkeye?

[HotTiredDog]

DH wants us to go to Turkey for a week’s (well deserved) AI R&R.
I’ve always had a problem with the repressive government of this
country, no matter how hard they’re working on the Middle Eastern diplomatic front. But it does tick lots of DH’s boxes.
So AIBU to go there?

All inclusive resorts are so far removed from any culture you wouldn’t know what country you’re in anyway 😂

I feel a bit the same. I had a great holiday in Istanbul as a younger adult and it’s a beautiful city. But going to an AI there these days just doesn’t sit well with me.

It's a very interesting country with some lovely people and fascinating historical sites. The fact that it has a repressive government wouldn't put me off, because tourists are contributing to the local economy, jobs etc.

Don’t go if you don’t feel comfortable, it’s a shame though as it’s my favourite short haul destination.

The UK have been arresting journalists and criminalising people holding signs. UK is also sending daily surveillance flights to provide intel to a regime that is most likely engaging in a genocide. I wouldn't judge anyone for deciding to travel here (UK).

Turkey is a beautiful country with friendly welcoming people. They do not represent the regime. If you feel strongly enough to consider politics in your choice of holiday make sure you also think about the ethics of AI and look at the hotel group you go with - sustainability, rates of pay, community integration etc.

That's true. The Turks are suffering massively with inflation, their economy is on its knees. AI resorts aren't staffed by Turks and tourists don't use restaurants or facilities outside them.

The main thing putting me off would be people asking if I was going there to get my teeth done.
That and the repressive regime, obviously

AI resorts aren't staffed by Turks

Not true.

I’m curious as to what specifically you do not like? Turkey is a secular country? My parents have lived there for 15 years. Inflation is sky high and it’s right that the locals are experiencing eye watering price hikes.

We visited last year and I was surprised at how many more women were in working roles than we’d seen before.

Really appreciate your answers, they’re making me think more.
I always try to make ethical choices for holidays & in fact as many purchases as possible, @Downplayit& do appreciate that I’m speaking from a very privileged position.
Maybe a better option would be a lower standard of board with the opportunity go outside of the resort and contribute more to the local economy?

My experience two years ago (first time) was not in an all inclusive, involved local restaurants and a hotel staffed with Turks and Kurds.
Its a beautiful country but I will not visit again. The way I was treated by men - consistently, everywhere- was disgusting. My BF was more shocked than me.
There are other threads on MN about Turkey from other female travellers and their experiences to take a look at.

When I have a week’s all inclusive holiday I usually go on 3 longish days out, a couple of half days out with a coffee/lunch and 2 or 3 evening meals out or boat trips.
I couldn’t go somewhere and not see the sights. I would hate to miss places such Pamukkale or Ephesus. Istanbul is fabulous too.
Turkey offers so much to do.

I felt the same. I went to Turkey in 2007 and have never been back and am not planning to return.

Same. That being said, my hairdresser goes almost every year and loves it!

We went to turkey last year,won’t return,they don’t like the English,even though we paid more for our holiday than the Germans,the holiday cost 5.5k for 10 nights,I couldn’t wait to come home!the weather is beautiful though.