Fethiye News Highlights – A Week in June 2025

Fethiye Hosts Sea Life Awareness Event for Local Environmental Conservation

Fethiye recently hosted a significant event focused on raising awareness about marine life as part of Turkey’s Environment Week. This special gathering aimed to highlight the vital role of sea turtles and the importance of environmental conservation.

Prominent speaker Dr. Doğan Sözbilen from Pamukkale University gave an enlightening talk titled “Fethiye’s Sea Turtles and Their Importance.” He elaborated on how these marine creatures are crucial for maintaining balanced ecosystems and discussed ongoing initiatives aimed at their protection.

Additionally, Dr. Kerem Gökdağ from the Mediterranean Conservation Society provided insights into current research aimed at safeguarding endangered marine species. Important species mentioned include dusky groupers, sandbar sharks, seagrasses, and the rare Mediterranean monk seal.

Moreover, Selver Hatice Kabak, Climate Change and Zero Waste Manager, reinforced the message by urging attendees to actively participate in safeguarding marine habitats. A sign showcasing the dusky grouper, crafted in collaboration with the Mediterranean Conservation Society, was installed on Çalış Public Beach as an educational tool for both locals and visitors.

Children Revel in a Joyful Kite Festival at Şehit Fethi Bey Park

During Environment Week, a delightful Kite Festival was organized for children at Şehit Fethi Bey Park. The event was a vibrant gathering where families came together, and colorful kites danced in the sky, creating an atmosphere filled with joy.

Children were educated about environmental cleanliness and the necessity for nature protection throughout this fun-filled day. The festival seamlessly combined enjoyment with learning, fostering a sense of environmental responsibility from a young age.

Book Signing Event Featuring English Author Louis de Bernières in Fethiye

Renowned English author Louis de Bernières, famous for his novel Birds Without Wings, made a special appearance in Fethiye during his holiday. He participated in a book signing and interview event at the historic Paspatur Bazaar, with support from local second-hand bookseller Cumhur Durmaz, attracting attention from literature enthusiasts.

A Tribute to Kayaköy’s Cultural Heritage

In Birds Without Wings, Bernières narrates the story of Kayaköy, the erstwhile Greek town of Levissi, touching on themes of peaceful coexistence between Muslim and Christian communities before the population exchange. His narrative reflects on the early Turkish Republic years and the influence of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, alongside personal tales of love and loss.

During the event, he shared insights into the novel’s themes, artistic depth, and historical references, discussing complexities like secret romances and cultural clashes against the backdrop of a region defined by beauty and transformation. Having introduced Birds Without Wings in Kayaköy back in 2011, he has returned to Fethiye many times since.

Bernières disclosed that he usually writes during winter in England, and besides contributing short stories and essays, he hinted at an upcoming unpublished work.

A Celebration of Literature within Paspatur

Bookseller Cumhur Durmaz reflected on the event’s warm atmosphere, saying, “We celebrated literature and history, with Louis de Bernières sharing his memories of Kayaköy and signing books for fans.”

Regulatory Actions on Illegal Rentals in Fethiye

In a recent crackdown, authorities imposed fines amounting to 5,757,200 TL on 40 villas discovered to be operating illegally without necessary tourism rental documents in Fethiye. This enforcement action is part of enhancing inspection efforts to regulate short-term rentals and ensure compliance with established tourism legislation.

• Each villa received a penalty of 143,930 TL for the first offence.
• A second offence incurs a hefty fine of 719,650 TL per villa.
• A third violation will result in a fine of 1,930,000 TL for each property.

Authorities have issued warnings against evasion tactics, underscoring that any attempt to present fake long-term rental contracts for properties rented short-term will face steep penalties. Inspections will continue to ensure a fair rental market, supporting a healthy local tourism sector.

Fethiye’s Emergence as a Sports Tourism Hub

Beyond its natural beauty, Fethiye is establishing a reputation as a vibrant location for sports tourism. With investments in sports infrastructure and its unique geography, Fethiye showcases its potential for hosting both national and international sporting events.

Harun Reşit Yiğit, the Fethiye Youth and Sports District Manager, emphasized the growing relevance of sports in alternative tourism. In the recently concluded academic year, over 4,000 athletes participated in school sports events in Fethiye, which significantly enhanced local overnight stays, thereby bolstering the economy.

Yiğit remarked, “Fethiye’s stunning landscapes position it as a favored destination for various sports federations.” As the region continues to attract sporting organizations, local authorities and institutions are working in tandem to foster this development.

Touristic Karaelmas Express Launches Its Inaugural Journey

The Touristic Karaelmas Express made its inaugural journey to showcase the Western Black Sea’s cultural and natural richness, marking a significant addition to the region’s travel offerings. The journey commenced with the signing of a protocol among relevant authorities, establishing a touristic train service along the Ankara-Zonguldak route.

Designed to accommodate 120 passengers, the train consists of various dining and sleeping cars. During its journey, it made stops at several key locations, giving passengers a chance to explore cultural landmarks.

Fethiyespor Updates

Fethiyespor Club continues its ambition of nurturing young sporting talent. Registrations for the Fethiyespor Sports School are ongoing, offering courses in football, gymnastics, swimming, and tennis.

In organizational news, Esat Bakırcı has been re-elected as president during a general assembly, reinforcing stability within the club as it prepares for the upcoming season.

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