Tourism Values ​​and Application Areas of Balıkesir Province and Strategies for Development of Underwater and Surface Tourism in Ayvalık

Abstract

Balıkesir possesses significant tourism potential at both national and international scales, owing to its strategic geographical location, diverse natural resources, and an extensive network of protected areas within its territory.

Balıkesir and its surrounding region hold a significant position in Turkey due to their rich tourism potential. However, the area has yet to secure its deserved share from the international tourism market.The main reason for this is that the region is not sufficiently recognized either domestically or internationally. In this regard, it is essential to promote the region’s unique tourism assets to the public through effective promotional activities carried out with the participation of both the public and private sectors. However, before promoting the region, it is essential to complete the necessary infrastructure and superstructure developments. Once the deficiencies are addressed, promotional efforts carried out within a well-structured plan will lead to an increase in both the number and quality of visitors to the region, ultimately benefiting the local population and Turkey as a whole.

The tourist potential of the city of Balıkesir and its districts, which are among the most important tourism centers of the Marmara Region, should be assessed. By evaluating this potential, it is possible to transform the region into a tourism hub and utilize tourism as a factor in regional economic development.

            The primary goal of this study is to highlight the tourism values of Balıkesir province, promote them both nationally and internationally, and provide a positive contribution to Balıkesir's tourism and economy. To achieve this, a conceptual approach has been made regarding the extent to which tourism types with implementation potential in the Balıkesir destination have reached their current dimensions, influenced by changing holiday preferences worldwide. In order to promote and expand the tourism types with implementation potential in Balıkesir, necessary actions have been evaluated and strategies have been developed.