Anke Budde, President of the ASR Federal Independent Travel Agents Association in Germany, emphasized the serious travel demand from Germany to Turkey, stating, “I believe Turkey will be a leading country in tourism from Germany.” Budde pointed out that Turkey has adapted very well to all the new tourism trends in Western Europe and has a very serious tourism infrastructure in Europe.

Budde highlighted how especially the appeal of Turkish tourism options such as health tourism, fitness tourism, sports tourism, family tourism, art tourism, and cultural tourism attracts German tourists’ attention. She indicated that in Turkey, apart from commercial activities, meetings, and conferences in tourism, very serious products are being developed.

Referring to the close cultural relations between the two countries due to the dense Turkish population in Germany, Budde shared that for years both countries have had very warm cultural relations, especially in the tourism sector and among travel agents, where thousands of Turks are employed. She suggested the need for more events to bring the Turkish and German people together through NGOs.

Explaining the “workation” program, combining work and vacation, Budde emphasized its popularity among Europeans, mostly targeting EU countries. Budde stressed that Turkey offers a serious alternative in terms of hotel infrastructure and technology, underscoring the need for more thorough work on the implementation of the “workation” program in Turkey.

Looking ahead to tourism expectations in 2025, Budde indicated that these expectations depend on two reasons – the outcomes of the US election and how the two ongoing wars will conclude. Budde expressed belief in Turkey becoming a leading country in tourism from Germany, noting the country’s strong demand. She praised the excellent promotions of Turkey, stating that it is prominently visible everywhere and that travel ticket sales are high, acknowledging the Turkish people as very hardworking in the tourism industry.

Budde concluded by sharing her optimism for significant growth in tourism if no disasters or wars occur, expressing appreciation for the strong dedication of the Turkish tourism sector.