Turkish investors on hunt for hotels in Europe

The post-pandemic financial climate has also paved the way for growth opportunities for investors. According to experts, the recession in Europe has caused investments to change hands, especially in the tourism sector, and Turkish companies are among those looking for hotels in this environment.

According to Çiğdem Türkyılmaz, chairman of Servus International Türkiye, an international tourism investment consulting company, Turkish investors are taking concrete steps in this regard.

Türkyılmaz emphasized that Turkish companies have been aggressive in buying or operating hotels in Europe.

"Tourism brands with strong financial structures have been focusing on city hotels in Europe to diversify their portfolios," Türkyılmaz said, adding that Europe is currently a market where all global tourism investors, especially those from the U.S., are looking for opportunities.

"Many investors are willing to invest in markets where the returns are more visible so as not to put all their eggs in one basket," she said.

"We're seeing that in Europe right now, a lot of tourism investors are looking at Europe. Local investors in Europe have stopped. As soon as they stop, the Americans come into Europe. China was there a while ago with very heavy investment, but the Chinese government is suppressing its investors. The U.S. has found a favorable environment, and giants like Starwood and Blackstone are investing in Europe."

The opportunity environment Türkyılmaz mentioned has also whetted the appetite of investors who have made a name for themselves in 5-star and luxury hotel management in Türkiye.

"Since November 2022, there has been a lot of interest from Turkish investors. They come to us and ask for advice on how to enter prestigious...