The latest peace talks being accepted by both sides could bring many things to North Cyprus.. one of them guaranteed is TOURISTS.
Currently the tour operators offering North Cyprus are mainly Turkish origin, or have ties with Turkish Cypriots. Airlines are also mainly Turkish with Turkish Airlines, Pegasus Airlines, AtlasJet Airlines.
The recognition of North Cyprus would mean that it is instantly introduced to the worldwide spectrum. Companies such as ThomasCook and TUI would be inclined to offer the destination, as a new and alternative hotspot in the Mediterranean. With the lifting of the embargoes the other change would be direct flights to North Cyprus, and that would be shorter flight times, and more convenient flight routes from the UK and other countries. Airline such as Monarch, EasyJet, British Airways may well offer flights to Ercan. The interest would be huge, and so would the influx of holidaymakers. There would be an influx of companies offering the destination, with increased competition and more choice for consumers.
For the transition to be successful, North Cyprus would need to set-up its infrastructure accordingly and be ready for the increase in demand. North Cyprus would need more hotels, as it currently accommodated 20,000 beds, this will need to be increased to the proportionate scales of southern Cyprus which has around 120,000 beds. The airport would need to be revamped, and possibly a new runway added.
More restaurants would eventually start opening, bars, shopping outlets, and local travel agencies, taxis would be busier, and roads would also be busier in turn.
The important thing to note here, is that North Cyprus is at the start of something big. A natural place, with relatively unspoilt beaches, and an amazing coastline, and mountain views. North Cyprus needs to maintain its outlook for the future and have a clear strategy of how it will protect its natural assets. If it does not, there is the risk of being over populated, unstructured, and eventually a concrete jungle. North Cyprus has the benefit of being able to look at its neighbouring markets, and see what policies and regulations have and haven't worked, and to ensure it maintains its gorgeous landscape and offering.
Exciting times for North Cyprus, and in fact the whole island..
How do you think North Cyprus tourism would change?
