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Poll: was bringing in a curfew the right move for Marmaris’s tourism sector?

News
Akin Koc
3 July 2025

A new set of curfew rules in Marmaris, Turkey, is creating a bit of a stir among residents and British holidaymakers. Late-night music has been banned, bars are closing earlier and there are limitations on table dancing.

Despite the authorities’ intentions, Akin Koc, the former boss of Anatolian Sky who set up Diamond Sky Holidays in 2017, has doubts the stricter rules will have the desired effect. 

Marmaris, July 2025

Marmaris is a popular destination for British holidaymakers (Credit: iStock/ Sergey Sokolnikov)

After reading the news and reactions in the British press regarding some of the recent events in Marmaris, I felt the need to share my views on this matter as a tourism professional who has been working in the sector for many years.

I have been a tour operator in the UK for more than 35 years, working particularly in the specialist sector. I am also based in the Solihull area, so I have a very good understanding of both the UK market and the people of Birmingham.