Welcome to our pick of last week’s news from Fethiye and around Türkiye.
Curated from various news sources.
NEWS
Beachgoers delighted by dolphin in Ölüdeniz lagoon
Holidaymakers at Kumburnu Beach in the famous Ölüdeniz Lagoon were treated to a rare and captivating sight as a dolphin fish swam close to the shore, providing a visual spectacle for beachgoers. The dolphin, which was spotted in the morning, swam near the shore for several minutes, delighting visitors who captured the moment on their mobile phones.
The dolphin’s playful jumps and smooth movements in the pristine waters of Ölüdeniz drew the attention of both local and foreign tourists. As one of Türkiye’s most iconic beaches, Ölüdeniz has held its prestigious Blue Flag status for 23 years, and the dolphin’s appearance further highlighted the area’s clean and vibrant marine environment.
Some citizens suggested that the dolphin may have followed a school of fish into the lagoon, as it’s uncommon for dolphins to venture into such shallow waters.
Burak Ardahan, General Manager of Ölüdeniz Kumburnu Beach, commented on the rare occurrence: “This morning, a dolphin was spotted by guests for the first time in Ölüdeniz. Dolphins don’t usually come this close to shore, but it may have followed a school of fish. Our beach, which has held the Blue Flag for 23 years, has once again proven its cleanliness with the presence of the dolphin.”
The dolphin’s surprise visit not only enchanted beachgoers but also reaffirmed the environmental quality and natural beauty of Ölüdeniz, continuing its reputation as one of Türkiye’s most treasured coastal gems.
Source: https://www.sabah.com.tr/mugla/2024/09/28/fethiye-oludenizde-yunus-baligi-surprizi/Fethiye TV
Rainwater lines in Fethiye cleaned to prevent floods
The Muğla Metropolitan Municipality Water and Sewerage Administration (MUSKİ) General Directorate has intensified its efforts to prevent potential flooding in light of the upcoming rainy season. As part of these preventive measures, MUSKİ teams have begun cleaning streams and rainwater lines throughout the province, with a focus on Fethiye in recent days.
In order to avoid disrupting traffic and daily life, MUSKİ teams have been working at night on key streets like Fethiye Çarşı Street. Their efforts will soon extend to the industrial area in Taşyaka Neighborhood. Cleaning operations will continue over the course of a week, with night-time work focusing on high-traffic areas, and daytime operations planned for less busy parts of the district.
The cleaning process involves removing all types of debris—such as garbage, sand, gravel, leaves, and cigarette butts—from rainwater grates using vacuum vehicles. This prepares the system for the heavy rains expected in the winter months.
In a statement, MUSKİ warned against littering, stressing the importance of keeping rainwater grates and stream beds free from waste: “Despite regular cleaning, waste, debris, and cigarette butts continue to block the drainage systems, leading to flooding risks. We urge citizens to refrain from discarding litter in rainwater grates and stream beds to ensure efficient water drainage during heavy rains.”
MUSKİ’s proactive work is crucial to safeguarding Fethiye from potential flood damage, and their appeal to residents emphasizes the role everyone plays in keeping the drainage systems clear.
Source: Fethiye Haber Bülteni
Neighbourhoods compete in Gastronomy Festival
On the final day of the 2nd International Gastronomy Culture and Friendship Festival, panels on “Sustainable Gastro and Tourism” and “Zero Waste” were held in Beşkaza Square, discussing important issues surrounding food culture and environmental responsibility.
Following the panels, neighbourhoods participated in a food competition, showcasing traditional dishes unique to Fethiye. A jury made up of Turkish and Greek delegations evaluated the dishes and awarded points to the contestants.
Çamköy Neighborhood secured first place with their lamb spit roast, a regional specialty. Yeşilüzümlü Neighborhood came second, while Karagedik Neighborhood took third place in the competition.
In her closing remarks, Fethiye Lycian Women’s Initiative Cooperative President Çiğdem Karaca highlighted the cultural connections between Türkiye and Greece that were revived through the festival. She emphasized their commitment to expanding the event in future years to make it even more inclusive and impactful.
The day concluded with vibrant Tango-Salsa, Sirtaki, and Folklore dance performances, followed by a performance from the ‘operatical group.’ Hundreds of attendees enjoyed a day filled with food, culture, dance, and music, marking an unforgettable celebration of Fethiye’s gastronomy and heritage.
Source: Fethiye Haber Bülteni
Greek descendants visit Kayaköy: emotional return after 1922 population exchange
The grandchildren of Greek citizens who migrated from Kayaköy to Athens during the 1922 population exchange have returned to the village of their ancestors in an emotional visit.
Among the group was Eva, who moved many to tears when she shared her feelings in fluent Turkish.“We feel very sad when we come here,” Eva said, visibly emotional. “Our father’s side is from here, and there are very sad memories in every family.”
The visit highlighted the lasting effects of the 1922 population exchange, when thousands of Greek Orthodox Christians were forced to leave Türkiye for Greece, while Muslims in Greece were relocated to Türkiye. Kayaköy, once a thriving Greek village known as Levissi, was abandoned during this time, and its ruins now stand as a poignant reminder of the past.
The group spent time visiting the empty homes, churches, and narrow streets, reflecting on the deep cultural and emotional ties their families once had with the land. Their journey marks a symbolic gesture of reconciliation and remembrance, bridging the painful memories of displacement with a hope for shared understanding between communities.
This visit is part of a growing trend of descendants from both sides of the population exchange seeking to reconnect with their ancestral homelands, fostering a sense of unity across generations.
Source: Fethiye Haber Bülteni/Fethiye Belediyesi
Türkiye signs UN agreement to protect marine biodiversity
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan signed a UN agreement on Friday to protect and sustainably manage marine biodiversity beyond national borders during the UN General Assembly in New York.
The agreement, part of the “United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea,” focuses on safeguarding marine biodiversity outside territorial waters, continental shelves, and Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs), according to diplomatic sources.
It highlights the importance of marine protected areas, management tools, and environmental impact assessments for planned activities. Fidan’s signing marked the start of the process for countries to join the agreement.
The deal ensures fair sharing of benefits from marine discoveries, promotes responsible governance of the high seas, and supports capacity-building for developing nations.
Türkiye is committed to international efforts on environmental protection and maritime law, sources said.
Under international law, the high seas are open for all countries to use and are considered global commons, not owned by any nation. However, only 1% of these areas, which cover two-thirds of the world’s oceans, are currently protected. Unregulated activities in these regions are harming marine ecosystems.
Türkiye launches digital nomad visa
The Turkish government launched a new digital nomad visa that allows recipients to live and work in the country for up to one year with the option for renewal via a residence permit.
Key Points:
- Originally announced in mid-April, applications are now available for foreign nationals from specific countries who meet Türkiye’s income threshold.
- To be eligible, an individual must be a college graduate between the ages of 21 and 55 and a citizen of one of 36 eligible countries.
- Applicants must be employed by a company outside of Türkiye or self-employed and able to prove they earn at least US$36,000 per year.
Additional Information: Prospective digital nomads can submit documents proving they meet all of the requirements to Türkiye’s online platform. Eligible travelers will then be issued a Digital Nomad Identification Certificate so they may visit a Turkish visa center or consulate to complete the application process. In-country applicants can apply for a residence permit online after receiving the certificate from the system.
Application requirements for Digital Nomad Identification Certificate
Source: B.A.L/GoTürkiye
SPORT
Thank you to Brian Lloyd for the Fethiyespor update.
Fethiyespor
Fethiyespor has announced the ticket prices for upcoming matches.
Match Results
Fethiyespor drew their away match against Altay on Sunday. The final score was 3-3.
Fethiyespor remains in 14th position on the league table.
League Matches
Saturday 5th October at home against Karaköprü Bld. The kick-off time is at 19:00.
For more information about Fethiyespor please visit:
Join the Fethiyespor Yabancilar group on Facebook for more news and updates
You can also follow Fethiyespor on Twitter and Instagram
Turkish Lira (TL) exchange rates
The British Pound bought 45.67 TL by the close of business on Friday. The week before it was selling for 44.44 TL.
The US Dollar bought 34.16 TL by the close of business on Friday. The week before it was selling for 34.12 TL.
The Euro bought 38.16 TL by the close of business on Friday. The week before it was selling for 38.13 TL.
Source: exchangerates.org.uk
Weather Forecast
Here’s your weather forecast for the week ahead.
Source: Living Earth
