The recent outbreak of pandemic Covid-19 has put many countries into the spotlight. Turkey as a central hub for regional and international flights and as a country that receives millions of tourists every year is unfortunately being affected by the new virus. Among the concerns is of course how this new pandemic outbreak influences the popular tourist destinations of the country. Marmaris is one of those holiday resorts that receive millions of visitors every year, both locals and foreigners. The broader area of Marmaris, also known as the Turquoise Coast, includes also some smaller towns such as Turunc and Icmeler which are common options when it comes to holidays.
In an effort to stabilize the situation and control the outbreak of this new virus, the government has stepped in and taken some precautionary measures that will help the general population and the system to overcome this emergency situation in a smoother way. In this article, we present to you some information about how the government and the local authorities in Marmarisare trying to cope with Covid-19 and how this situation can influence your holidays.
Are there any Covid-19 cases in Marmaris?
There’s no actual report for any Covid-19 Case in Marmaris. (Last Update – 25/06/2020)
Precautionary measures
In an effort to facilitate a smoother and more powerful response to the outbreak of Covid-19, Turkish authorities decided and actually applied a series of measures that, among others, can possibly affect people’s everyday life. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued travel warnings for several countries that are actually on a daily update to include every possible destination that can be characterized as high risk. In addition, a 24-hour coordination support centre is available to Turkish nations and foreign nationals in the country who seek more information.
Another important measure that targets to limit the high concentration of people into one place has been put in effect by the Department of Religious Affairs. More specifically, people are not allowed to visit Mosques and other worship places. In fact, people can follow the prayers from home and practise their religion safely avoiding the interaction with other people in a close setting.
Disinfections of public areas and buildings are also taking place all over the country. In what regards Marmaris, the municipal authorities have taken relevant actions to protect the local population and the foreign visitors of the city. In general, the area is not in the spotlight of the outbreak however, these measures are necessary to keep the community safe and minimize the negative effects of this emergency situation.
Is Marmaris on a lockdown?
Although there is not an official government order for an absolute lockdown around the country, people are highly advised to remain at home and avoid any non-necessary outings. The very same rule applies to Marmaris as well. In an effort to minimize the spread of coronavirus, all bars and nightclubs in Marmaris are temporarily closed since 16th of March. Furthermore, restaurants, cafeterias, cinemas, gyms, playgrounds and other venues are also being closed since 17th of March.
As a popular year-round holiday destination, Marmaris has been affected by these measures, even in the absence of an official lockdown. However, the city and the locals maintain the positive vibes and the incredible atmosphere that characterizes Marmaris. The streets, even without the masses of people, have their own charm in the wake of the spring season. The absolutely gorgeous surroundings of the city give people the sense that at the end, everything is going to be back to normal.
Flights and ferries
If you are planning to visit Marmaris for your holidays, it is likely that your travel itinerary has been affected. According to the latest updates, there are no ferry crossings from and to Greece and in particular, from the nearby Greek Island of Rhodes. Ferries and catamarans will not operate until further notice from the Greek authorities. In addition, if you are planning to enter Marmaris through Greece with a yacht, please note that this is also not allowed according to the measures imposed by the Greek government.
In what regards flights, Turkish authorities imposed travel bans from and to certain countries. Among others, there is a ban for flights from and to Italy, China, Iran, Iraq, France, Spain and the UK. The list includes many other countries so in case you wish to visit Marmaris, please make sure that you are eligible to fly by checking the official list of countries for which there is a flight ban. In case you are a national of these countries, you are free to return back home. However, Turkish nationals are advised not to travel to any of these countries. The travel restrictions in relation to ferries and flights apply until further notice from the official authorities.
Shall I cancel my holidays?
Due to the current developments regarding Coronavirus, it is likely that your holidays are being affected due to the ferry and flight bans. However, the situation is expected to stabilize and be under control based on the measures imposed by several countries. In answering this question, there is no need to cancel your holidays. To be more accurate, you can reschedule or postpone and visit Marmaris in the summer months or during the early autumn months during which the city is absolutely beautiful. If you already made travel plans, you can contact the flight operations and hotel in Marmaris to rescheduled your holidays when everything is back to normal.
