Turkish media reported that the district administration requested the ban and the municipality approved it. According to the decision, people will be prohibited from parking their motorhomes (caravans) or setting up tents in a variety of places, from beaches to parks. Parking for “caravans” is also prohibited.
Caravans and camping have become more popular, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic when people have been looking for more secluded options. Rising prices and interest in more “natural” recreation have also boosted demand. However, locals and other campers often complain that RV campers and tent campers often dump garbage indiscriminately, damaging the environment.
Turkey is also on high alert for wildfires after fires destroyed large swaths of land last year. Forest fires are often associated with flammable materials left behind by picnics and campers. Several forests across the country are already closed to camping for the summer.
An eclectic mix of pristine beaches, lively nightlife, windsurfing, and the quiet areas of Çeşme with spectacular sea views attract holidaymakers from all over Turkey and abroad every summer. This week, the resort is expecting an influx of tourists due to the nine-day Kurban Bayram (Eid al-Adha) holiday. More than a million people are expected to visit the city every day during the coming holidays.