Marmaris Mayor Acar Ünlü discussed Marmaris' advantages in winter tourism and the quality of life it offers to aging individuals at the Rhein66 Best Ager Forum held in Bingen, Germany. Ünlü said, "We don't just offer tourism; we offer long-lasting friendships."

"Best Ager" tourism, targeting aging individuals in Europe, was discussed at the Rhein66 Best Ager Summit held in Bingen, Germany. Marmaris Mayor Acar Ünlü, attending the event from Turkey, attracted attention with his presentation. Mayor Ünlü emphasized that Marmaris, with its all-season suitability for tourism, natural beauty, and climate advantages, is an exemplary destination for "best ager" tourism.

The summit, hosted by Bingen Mayor Thomas Feser, was attended by Mainz Consul General Mehmet Akif İnam and representatives of nearly 40 German experts and companies from the tourism sector. At the meeting, moderated by Hüseyin Baraner, Secretary General of the World Sister Cities Tourism Association, Mayor Ünlü outlined Marmaris's vision in this area. Mayor Ünlü was accompanied by Marmaris Municipality Council Member Fahri Tan, Deputy Mayor Sedat Kirt, GETOB President Cengiz Aygün, the Dalaman Airport manager, and representatives from accommodation facilities and agencies in Marmaris.

Marmaris is a Best Ager-Friendly City

Mayor Ünlü stated that a group of 3,000 Best Agers from Austria stayed in Marmaris for two months last April, adding that this was the result of deliberate tourism planning. He said, "As Marmaris, we are making a serious effort to take part in Best Ager tourism. With its flat terrain, walking and cycling paths, clean air, rich nature, and year-round mild climate, we offer a safe and healthy environment suitable for this age group." In his presentation, Ünlü described Marmaris as a "giant holiday village," stating that the district, with its 12-kilometer coastline, marinas, hotels, restaurants, and shopping spots, is ready to welcome guests year-round. Ünlü explained, "With 300 days of sunshine, Marmaris is an ideal haven for those seeking an escape from Europe's gray and cold weather, especially during the winter months. With its mild weather even in winter, year-round outdoor walking opportunities, nature activities, pine forests, sea views, clean air, and healthy environment, Marmaris enhances the quality of life. For top-tier tourists seeking a healthy lifestyle, peace, and a vibrant social life, Marmaris offers everything they need."

Winter to be a vibrant season

Mayor Ünlü stated that they have prepared various activities for tourists to enjoy during the winter season, adding that the Seafood Festival, OctoberFest, and New Year's Fest will offer a rich variety of entertainment and gastronomic options. Mayor Acar Ünlü stated, “The Seafood Festival, which we will hold from October 1st to 5th, will highlight our region's seafood and gastronomy. This year, we will elevate the Yacht Races, which have been going on for 36 years, to a festive level, bringing October Fest to life from October 25th to 31st. We will also be organizing Turkey's largest New Year's festival from November 29th to December 31st. We will spend a month filled with New Year's events at the Marmaris New Year's Fest. With these and similar events, we will introduce our holiday guests to the unique beauty of Marmaris and offer them a packed calendar of events.”