'I visit Turkey every year - new curfew rules will be the end'

Wales Online

18 hours ago

'I visit Turkey every year - new curfew rules will be the end'
Rebecca Kitchener, from South Wales, says it will 'ruin' the popular destination
Rebecca Kitchener
(Image: Rebecca Kitchener/SWNS )
A Brit holidaymaker said new curfew rules in Turkey - involving early bar closures and no late music - will "ruin" the region as more than 25 venues have been forced to close. Tourist Rebecca Kitchener, 38, goes to Marmaris every year - but reckons this year could see "the end" of the popular holiday destination.
Previously, Brits have flocked to the area to enjoy the late-night entertainment and vibrant nightlife. But after this year's introduction of new rules - including no late music and venues empty by 12.30am - Rebecca said this could be its downfall.
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In addition, tabletop dance performances and sparklers are banned. The crackdown is thought to be to reduce harassment and inappropriate behaviour in the area as well as show greater respect to residents.
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But Rebecca - who posts on TikTok as @rebeccaeliza86 - visited Armutalan earlier this month for a fortnight-long holiday with her children and some friends, as the restrictions kicked in, and reckons "it's had it".
Rebecca, a medical secretary from the Valleys, said: "I think it's really sad, I love all of that. When I went in June, we still had a good two weeks but the rules did put a dampener on it.
"The sparklers, the bar dancing - that's Marmaris. You couldn't be out in a bar much later than 12am in the UK, but you expect different when you're on holiday.
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"One minute you're having an amazing time, then 12am hits and it's boom, music off, lights out, your night is over."
Police patrolling the streets in Marmaris, Turkey
(Image: Rebecca Kitchener/SWNS )
There is now just one street in Marmaris - Bar Street - which can remain open until 4am, while most other venues have to be empty by 12.30am, which is enforced by the authorities.
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However Rebecca's favourite region has always been Armutalan - which has been hit heavily by the restrictions. According to Turkish news outlet Marmaris TV, 25 businesses have been closed - temporarily or permanently - across Marmaris for not complying with rules.
The report, translated, reads: "Sanctions continue to be applied against rule violations starting from three days [enforced closure] and repeatedly leading up to license cancellation."
Rebecca said: "When I went, at 12am you hear this siren thing and the police were driving along warning people. They were handing out fines."
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While Rebecca reckons she'll still return to the area, she said it's "completely different".
Rebecca Kitchener
(Image: Rebecca Kitchener/SWNS )
She added: "It's dead compared to what it was. You used to have to book a seat to get to sit down in a bar - now they're empty.
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"People go for the atmosphere and the good vibe - everyone sings and dances and makes friends. It's ruined Marmaris for the young people and I think the area will lose a lot of money."
According to Turkiye Today, Marmaris District Governor's Office has confirmed that inspections will continue throughout the summer to ensure all establishments operate within legal and ethical guidelines.