Welcome to our pick of last week’s news from Fethiye and around Türkiye.
Curated from various news sources.
NEWS
Festive cheer at Beşkaza Square: Mayor Karaca visits New Year and Christmas markets
Beşkaza Square in Fethiye came alive with festive spirit as it hosted two vibrant events: the New Year Market and the third Traditional Christmas Market. Fethiye Mayor Alim Karaca visited the New Year Market, engaging with tradespeople and celebrating an atmosphere of solidarity and hope. Handmade products, many crafted by women, were prominently showcased, reflecting the creativity and resilience of the local community.
Mayor Karaca highlighted the importance of entering the new year with optimism after a challenging year, stating, “Sharing this solidarity is very valuable to us. May the new year bring health, happiness, and hope to all of us.”
The Traditional Christmas Market, organized for the third consecutive year, also drew significant attention from locals and resident foreigners. With approximately 260 stands, the event offered a diverse range of foods, handicrafts, and souvenirs, creating an entertaining shopping experience. Fetav Director Dilek Dinçer noted that the market had grown richer and more colorful this year.
Social responsibility projects were a key feature of the Christmas Market, with proceeds from previous years providing scholarships to students in need. This year, stalls supported various causes, including care for stray animals. Notable contributions included natural soaps, creams, candles, and essential oils produced by Nurefşan Manav from Dalaman, which were highly popular with attendees.
The markets offered participants the chance to shop, support charitable initiatives, and come together as a community. As Beşkaza Square bustled with activity, locals and visitors alike embraced the festive season with joy and unity, looking forward to a brighter year ahead.
Source: https://www.fethiyetv.com/beskaza-meydaninda-noel-pazari-coskusu
We will create a much more beautiful Fethiye together” says Mayor Alim Karaca
Fethiye Mayor Alim Karaca has unveiled a series of innovative projects aimed at enhancing the quality of life for residents and fostering sustainable development in the region. Highlighting ongoing efforts in social support, education, zoning, and tourism, Karaca outlined his administration’s vision for a brighter future for Fethiye.
Strengthening Social Responsibility Projects
Mayor Karaca emphasized the municipality’s commitment to supporting vulnerable groups during challenging economic times. “We have established community centers, an Alzheimer’s Life Center, and an Autism Center,” he noted, adding that the Autism Center is set to open in the coming months. These initiatives aim to build a stronger culture of solidarity and sharing among residents.
Educational Opportunities for All
With Fethiye ranking first in the LGS on a provincial level, Karaca reiterated the municipality’s focus on education. Plans include the establishment of a youth center offering free study spaces, libraries, and music courses for students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. “Education is our priority. We want our young people to look to the future with hope,” he said, stressing the continuation of scholarships and other student support services like stationery aid, laundry facilities, and morning soup kitchens.
Economic Support Initiatives
The municipality has distributed nearly 40,000 eggs to families in need through its egg farm project. “These products, rigorously tested in laboratories, are helping us combat food insecurity,” Karaca said. He also highlighted the success of public beaches, which offer free access to the sea regardless of economic status, and announced plans to expand these facilities.
Expanding Tourism to 12 Months
To achieve year-round tourism, Karaca unveiled plans to promote cultural tourism, particularly targeting Chinese visitors. “Following our participation in the London tourism fair, we are preparing a major promotion campaign in China,” he said, emphasizing the importance of translating promotional materials into Chinese and showcasing Fethiye’s cultural and natural heritage. The initiative also includes promoting local products and crafts to diversify tourism offerings.
Smart Urban Planning
Karaca reported progress in zoning and planning efforts to curb irregular construction and create sustainable urban spaces. Collaborating with the Muğla Metropolitan Municipality and the Ministry of Environment and Urbanization, he said, “Planning urbanization without harming nature is our priority.”
Improved Infrastructure and Transportation
Key infrastructure projects include a 600-vehicle parking lot, smart intersection systems to ease traffic, and alternative routes to address transportation challenges. “Our goal is to deliver world-class roads between Ölüdeniz-Taşyaka and Hisarönü-Kaya,” Karaca stated. Additionally, plans for connecting electric vehicles to the city center are underway.
A Vision for the Future
With projects also focused on animal shelters and recreation areas, Karaca expressed optimism about Fethiye’s potential. “These services gain meaning with the support and love of our citizens,” he said, adding, “Together, we will create a much more beautiful Fethiye.”
Karaca concluded by affirming his commitment to working in harmony with institutions and residents to position Fethiye as a shining star in Türkiye and the world.
Source: https://www.fethiyetv.com/alim-karaca-hep-birlikte-cok-daha-guzel-bir-fethiye-yaratacagiz
Controversy surrounds transfer of Marmaris Bozburun marina and yacht slipway without tender
Muğla’s coastline has become the centre of another heated debate following the transfer of Marmaris Bozburun Marina and Yacht Slipway without a tender process. This contentious move was finalised shortly before MUÇEV, a coastal management company, rebranded itself as “Kıyı Yönetim ve Çevre Koruma AŞ.”
At the heart of the controversy is Hacı Abdullah Uçan, the AK Party’s Sultanbeyli mayoral candidate, who occupies dual roles as the President of MUÇEV and General Director of the Protection of Natural Assets. Allegations suggest that Uçan, in his capacity as General Director, facilitated the transfer of the marina and slipway to MUÇEV, the organisation he leads.
In a puzzling turn, MUÇEV reportedly handed over the lucrative facility to “Asia Marina Turizm İşletmeciliği,” a company established with just 1 million TL in capital, only 13 days prior to the transfer. The company, founded by Serkan Yurtsev in Fethiye, has drawn scrutiny for its rapid acquisition of such a valuable asset.
Adding to the intrigue is Yurtsev’s connection to Özgür Peker, a businessman notable for his involvement in major TOKİ construction projects. Yurtsev serves as the finance manager in one of Peker’s companies, raising questions about potential conflicts of interest in the transaction.
The absence of a transparent tendering process and the timing of the transfer have sparked widespread backlash, with critics calling for accountability and clarity. The public remains eager to see how this contentious situation unfolds and whether authorities will intervene to address concerns over fairness and propriety.
This incident has amplified ongoing discussions about the management and allocation of Turkey’s coastal resources, with many questioning the mechanisms of oversight in such high-value transactions.
Source: https://www.fethiyetv.com/marina-ve-yat-cekek-yeri-ihalesiz-olarak-verildi
Turkish airlines breaks Guinness World Record for most countries served
Turkish Airlines has officially claimed the Guinness World Record for flying to the most countries, solidifying its status as a global leader in the aviation industry.
The achievement was certified at Santiago’s Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport, following the airline’s inaugural flight to Chile. This milestone expands Turkish Airlines’ extensive network to 131 countries, with 120 active routes verified in the past year by Guinness World Records.
CEO Bilal Ekşi celebrated the recognition, stating, “It’s an honour to receive this award here in Santiago. This milestone reflects our dedication to connecting people, cultures, and destinations across the globe.”
Guinness World Records official Talal Omar commended Turkish Airlines for its vision, describing the achievement as a testament to the carrier’s significant role in global aviation.
Founded in 1933 with a modest fleet, Turkish Airlines now operates 491 aircraft, serving 352 destinations worldwide. As a member of the Star Alliance network, the airline continues to expand its reach, reaffirming its mission to unite the world through Türkiye.
Source: Anadolu Agency
Heavy fog and ice cause multi-vehicle accidents on Ankara-Kırıkkale highway
Early morning heavy fog and icy road conditions on the Ankara-Kırıkkale Highway, near Elmadağ, triggered over 20 chain-reaction accidents involving more than 50 vehicles. Several drivers and passengers sustained injuries.
Emergency services, including medical and police teams, responded swiftly to the scene following reports from witnesses. Injured individuals received first aid before being transported to nearby hospitals. Authorities have launched investigations into the incidents and implemented measures to prevent further accidents.
The accidents disrupted traffic flow in the area, with multiple vehicles losing control due to the slippery road surface. Some drivers reported skidding and colliding with barriers or other vehicles, while others were caught in larger pile-ups further along the highway.
Fortunately, no critical injuries have been reported, but the incidents serve as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by adverse weather conditions.
Source: Daily Sabah
Orient Express Corinthian: World’s largest sailing yacht to set sail in 2026
The Orient Express Corinthian, the world’s largest sailing yacht, is set to debut in 2026, offering luxury cruises across the Adriatic, Caribbean, Mediterranean, and Aegean Seas. The itinerary includes stops at iconic destinations such as Istanbul, Bodrum in Muğla, and Kuşadası in Aydın.
Built at the Saint Nazaire shipyards in Nantes, France, the 220-meter-long yacht features three towering 100-meter masts and a spacious 4,500-square-meter surface area. Its eco-conscious design allows it to reach speeds of up to 17 knots using wind power, significantly reducing fuel consumption and protecting marine ecosystems.
The yacht’s interiors, designed by acclaimed architect Maxime d’Angeac, blend Art Deco elegance with modern luxury. Ionic-style columns, opulent marble and leather finishes, and accents of silver and gold create a timeless ambiance. The palette features bold oranges, creamy neutrals, and deep browns, enhancing the yacht’s sophisticated aesthetic.
With 54 rooms ranging from 47 to 950 square meters, the Orient Express Corinthian provides guests with unparalleled comfort. Amenities include eight bars, five gourmet restaurants, and a 1930s-inspired speakeasy, ensuring an unforgettable experience for its passengers.
This state-of-the-art yacht promises to redefine luxury sailing while championing sustainability and innovative design.
Source: Hürriyet Daily News
SPORT
Fethiyespor
Thank you to Brian Lloyd for the Fethiyespor update.
Fethiye city stadium undergoes maintenance during mid-season break
Fethiye City Stadium, the home ground of Fethiyespor competing in the Nesine 2nd League White Group, is undergoing significant maintenance work during the mid-season break. This comprehensive effort includes planting approximately 1.5 tons of grass seed to prepare the field for challenging winter conditions.
Stadium Manager Bülent Kargın shared details of the maintenance process, highlighting their goal of readying the field by December 26. “After a busy season, our field experienced natural wear and tear. With winter approaching, we’ve taken steps to repair and strengthen it. We completed vertical aeration and seeding, followed by sanding. This intensive work ensures the pitch will be at its best for the second half of the season.”
The maintenance process involved using 1.3 tons of grass seed, exceeding standard amounts to enhance durability against winter weather and training sessions. Kargın expressed confidence that both the pitch and the team would be fully prepared for the second half.
Fethiyespor Technical Director Selahaddin Dinçel echoed Kargın’s optimism, stating, “We aim to play on a much-improved pitch. We will avoid using the field until the Beykoz match, allowing the new grass to take root and fortify. Intensive work has been carried out, and the team is committed to maintaining the pitch’s quality throughout the season.”
The meticulous attention to detail in maintaining Fethiye City Stadium underscores the club’s commitment to providing optimal conditions for players and fans alike.
Source: https://www.fethiyetv.com/fethiye-sehir-stadi-bakima-alindi
League Match Results
Fethiyespor drew their away match against Sincan Belediyesi Ankaraspor on Sunday. The final score was 1-1.
Fethiyespor remain in 9th position in the league table.
League Matches
Sunday 19th January 2025 away against Kastamonuspor. The match is scheduled to kick-off at 14:00.
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Turkish Lira (TL) exchange rates
The British Pound bought 44.21 TL by the close of business on Friday. The week before it was selling for 44.11 TL.
The US Dollar bought 35.17 TL by the close of business on Friday. The week before it was selling for 34.95 TL.
The Euro bought 35.17 TL by the close of business on Friday. The week before it was selling for 36.71 TL.
Source: exchangerates.org.uk
Weather Forecast
Here’s your weather forecast for the week ahead.
Source: Living Earth
