Edirne, the second capital of the Ottoman Empire, an ancient city… Despite possessing a magnificent treasure of history today, it unfortunately receives far less attention than it deserves, almost becoming an obscure city…
Some might agree or disagree with these observations, and some might even get upset, but the truth is there to see. It’s as if there’s no kinetic energy over the city. Not many in the city seem to care (or even be aware) either. Everyone is caught up in their own world (focused on their own work, interests, daily concerns etc.).
When we look at the potential of “foreign tourists,” there is an influx of Bulgarians 3-5 days a week, and the shopkeepers are happy because they make money… However, the locals are unhappy, saying, “The shopkeepers treat us like second-class customers.”
So why don’t enough foreign visitors, especially from Western countries, come to this city? For example, British, German, French, Italian, Scandinavian, etc…
Doesn’t Edirne have enough attractions to draw their interest and ensure they return to their countries happy after experiencing this unique town? Of course, it does, but are we making enough use of them for this purpose?
The answer is no. Many issues can be touched upon at this point, undoubtedly. Foremost among them is the inadequate infrastructure. Yes, this is probably the most crucial issue; Tourist facilities that can be inspected, roads, water, electricity, proper eating places, parking areas, clean and orderly beaches, etc.
On the other hand, there is also the issue of the SAROS Gulf, which is a topic in itself. While benefiting from the historical and cultural beauties of this city, we almost “skip” the SAROS Gulf, where one can enjoy one of the most unique seas in the world. We’re not exaggerating when we say this; we almost ignore it.
It is truly painful that such a valuable region (practically a treasure to improve tourism capacity) is so neglected in terms of promotion abroad (by the relevant authorities).
This place is a treasure in itself. Just think, if this place were in the hands of many civilized and asset-valuing countries, what state would it be in now? The world would flock here—if there were a decent and sparkling infrastructure, and if its promotion could be done “properly” and not only in Turkey but primarily in Europe and even the entire world.
But that’s not the case; one cannot even find a proper SAROS VIDEO in the portfolio/archive of the official tourism branch in Edirne. And what answer would we get if we inquired? Would it be “there’s no budget”, for instance?
What a shame to see really that so many beauties/assets in this country are actually being wasted or not being utilized to their full capacity.
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