Türkiye dazzled at the Outlook Traveller Awards 2024 as the Destination Partner, celebrating emerging travel destinations and regaling visitors with Turkish treats.
The vibrant Sunder Nursery in New Delhi became a hub of cultural exchange and celebration on November 30, 2024, as Türkiye Tourism Promotion and Development Agency joined the Outlook Traveller Awards and Carnival 2024 as the official Destination Partner.
Türkiye’s participation added a distinct charm to the event. Visitors thronged the GoTürkiye stall, drawn not just by the promise of exotic destinations but also by the tantalizing aroma of freshly brewed Turkish coffee and the playful theatrics of vendors serving traditional Turkish ice cream.
These culinary delights offered attendees a flavorful glimpse into Türkiye’s rich gastronomic heritage. The stall became a hotspot of activity, with curious visitors learning about the intricate process of making Turkish coffee, a UNESCO-recognized cultural heritage practice, and savouring the creamy, stretchy delight of dondurma—Turkish ice cream known for its unique texture and presentation.
One of the event’s most anticipated moments was the keynote address by Başak Önsal Demir, Counsellor for Culture and Tourism Affairs at the Embassy of the Republic of Türkiye in New Delhi. Demir’s speech offered an inspiring overview of Türkiye’s multifaceted appeal. She highlighted the country’s seamless blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a destination that caters to every traveller’s preferences.
Demir elaborated on Türkiye’s historical treasures, such as Ephesus's ancient city, Pergamon's well-preserved ruins, and the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia in Istanbul. She also emphasised the unique geographical landscapes, including the fairy-tale rock formations of Cappadocia, the pristine beaches of the Mediterranean coast, and the verdant, untapped beauty of the Black Sea region.
A significant portion of Demir’s address was dedicated to Türkiye’s culinary wonders, which form an integral part of its cultural identity. From the rich flavours of kebabs and mezes to the delicate sweetness of baklava, Turkish cuisine offers a sensory journey unlike any other. She encouraged attendees to explore Türkiye’s vibrant food culture, emphasizing its deep roots in tradition and its role as a bridge between Eastern and Western culinary influences. Highlighting its global appeal, Türkiye was awarded Best Food Destination for Indian Travellers at the Outlook Traveller Awards and Carnival 2024, underscoring its growing popularity among Indian tourists.
While Türkiye is renowned for its iconic destinations, Demir’s address encouraged attendees to explore emerging destinations that offer equally captivating experiences. Eastern Anatolia, with its rugged landscapes and ancient monasteries, and the tranquil Black Sea region, known for its lush greenery and tea plantations, are among the lesser-known gems waiting to be discovered.
Türkiye’s diverse offerings also extend to adventure and wellness tourism. From hot-air ballooning over Cappadocia’s surreal landscapes to rejuvenating in the thermal waters of Pamukkale, the country offers unforgettable experiences for thrill-seekers and those seeking relaxation alike.
Emphasizing responsible tourism, Demir highlighted Türkiye's focus on sustainable accommodations, nature-based experiences, and the integration of green tourism into its promotional campaigns. She also drew attention to the government-level National Sustainability Program in Tourism, launched in 2023 in collaboration with the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC). This ambitious initiative aims to transform the entire accommodations sector into a 100 per cent sustainable business model by 2030 and has already reached its second stage.
In her address, Demir also highlighted Türkiye's growing reputation as a premier wedding destination. From luxurious ceremonies in historic Ottoman palaces along the Bosphorus to intimate nuptials amidst Cappadocia's otherworldly landscapes, Türkiye offers an unparalleled blend of elegance and cultural richness. She noted that the country's turquoise coasts, opulent resorts, and unique heritage sites provide stunning backdrops for weddings, making them unforgettable for couples and their guests alike. Demir also underscored Türkiye's focus on convenience, with excellent connectivity and personalized services ensuring that couples can enjoy their special day stress-free in one of the world's most captivating destinations.
The Outlook Traveller Awards and Carnival 2024 brought together a mix of travel enthusiasts, industry leaders, and cultural connoisseurs. The event featured panel discussions, cultural performances, and workshops. As the Destination Partner, Türkiye Tourism played a central role in fostering meaningful dialogues about emerging destinations and sustainable travel practices. The event’s success underscored the importance of collaboration in the tourism industry. By partnering with platforms like the Outlook Traveller Awards, Türkiye Tourism Promotion and Development Agency not only showcased its rich heritage but also strengthened its connections with the Indian travel community. With India being one of Türkiye’s growing source markets for tourism, the event provided an excellent opportunity to deepen cultural and people-to-people ties.