TRNC tourism

Coachie



Joined: 29/07/2008
Posts: 2135

Message Posted:
27/12/2008 22:27

Good article in the Daily Mail paper holiday supplement bulling up TRNC as the Missed destination of many tourists. they are saying that because people are booking holidays out side the euro zone the TRNC will do very well this year..could possibly up tourism by 200%.......

cronos


Joined: 26/10/2008
Posts: 2093

Message Posted:
27/12/2008 22:33

In which case the hotels in the TRNC will manage a 75% occupancy level !



It's a start.....and long may it continue.

andysue


Joined: 12/11/2007
Posts: 891

Message Posted:
27/12/2008 22:36

coachie wished you have posted this earlier i could have got the paper



andy

Taz666


Joined: 21/12/2008
Posts: 180

Message Posted:
27/12/2008 22:39

Hope its right, only good for NC, but all I've talked to are doing the all inclusive package this year (sorry next year) if going away at all.

Coachie



Joined: 29/07/2008
Posts: 2135

Message Posted:
27/12/2008 22:42

Andy..Couldnt post any earlier as the wife only just brought it in from work..try your paper shop in the morning and see if they have any copies they havent sent back or have a glance at the mail on sunday they quite often have holiday supplements in..

andysue


Joined: 12/11/2007
Posts: 891

Message Posted:
27/12/2008 23:07

just read it coachie, very good article indeed, big head line MEDS HIDDEN GEM! my mates wife owns a small travel agents and she says bookings to turkey and egypt up loads from last year , says same in article "people looking outside the eurozone"



regards andy

Taz666


Joined: 21/12/2008
Posts: 180

Message Posted:
27/12/2008 23:26

Yes I agree but for all inclusive packages, people are looking out of E.U because its the only way to get a holiday next year with the state the U.K is in and your money goes alot further next to the euro, where in NC does all inclusive, even if there was coach after coach at the border now that would be fun. NC will not see this happen untill flights are direct to Ercran

andysue


Joined: 12/11/2007
Posts: 891

Message Posted:
27/12/2008 23:31

we stayed at the vuni palace kyrenia nov 07, booked thro geenisland hollidays , we had option to go all inclusive then



regards andy

Taz666


Joined: 21/12/2008
Posts: 180

Message Posted:
27/12/2008 23:43

not in your main brochure, never heard of them, we have always booked through owners direct / holiday rentals etc now if these sites offered a full booking service (Villa/Apartment, Flights, Tranfers, Car Hire) and ABTOL then more would come to NC, a new site goes active in Feb 09 which offers all this with free advertising for owners and is solely for NC which can only be good think its called outshinevillas.com, it by a company owned by a friend and you can contact them through my link http://www.outshineservices.co.uk at the end of the day people want the best deals but with protection so most stick with the high street dealers

chick


Joined: 02/07/2008
Posts: 323

Message Posted:
27/12/2008 23:55

Taz666,



Green Island Holidays have been operating holidays to Northern Cyprus for years, and a very good and competive company.

kenny b


Joined: 12/09/2008
Posts: 211

Message Posted:
28/12/2008 00:20

Any articles supporting the TRNC as got to be good news for all.

In these difficult economic times there are lots of families that will not be in a position to take a foreign holiday next year I for one normally visit euro zone at least once a year but I will not be returning due to lack of value for money.

I should imagine there maybe holidaymakers that would normally visit the south of the island that maybe looking to visit the north to get better value.

Thats got to be good news for the TRNC economy.

Kenny b

Taz666


Joined: 21/12/2008
Posts: 180

Message Posted:
28/12/2008 00:25

Chick



Been to NC 2/3 times a year for last 8 years, like I said never heard of them but will take a look, sorted for 2009 but now looking for 2010 thanks for the info

Taz666


Joined: 21/12/2008
Posts: 180

Message Posted:
28/12/2008 00:44

Chick

downloaded from Green Island looks good but still cheaper to book through http://www.ownersdirect.co.uk or http://www.holiday-rentals.co.uk get private villa for less than an hotel room every penny counts

WAZ-24-7



Joined: 18/10/2008
Posts: 695

Message Posted:
28/12/2008 03:44

TRNC will most definately capitalise upon the weak state of sterling.



To visit TRNC with sterling as your base currency will currently offer at laest a 30% saving over any Eurozone destination.



Cyprus as a holiday destination is getting excellent coverage in and on many UK media formats.

Thre will undoutably be some that will also discover TRNC when they google Cyprus holidays.



I will be a good year.. money talks.

The-Wicks


Joined: 27/05/2007
Posts: 2279

Message Posted:
28/12/2008 10:52

I agree that publicity is good, you know there is going to be a but, but this is not an article it's an advertisement feature accompanied by eight smaller adverts for different TRNC holiday companies. Although it may encourage people to holiday in the TRNC, I'm still looking for the restaurant where you can get a bottle of wine for four quid. This has been run in the Mail before, normally followed up the following week by a complaint from somebody sticking up for the ROC. It also states that tourism went up 200% in the past year, not as a prediction for next year. I very much doubt this is a true statment. I don't like pointing these things out but if I don't there are others who will, maybe dressed in a sailors suit.

The-Wicks


Joined: 27/05/2007
Posts: 2279

Message Posted:
28/12/2008 10:53

If the TRNC tourist board are going to issue adverts like this let them state facts not fiction or it will further hurt the tourist industry.

Paul

PtePike



Joined: 20/05/2008
Posts: 2334

Message Posted:
28/12/2008 11:29

The-Wicks: "It also states that tourism went up 200% in the past year, not as a prediction for next year. I very much doubt this is a true statment. I don't like pointing these things out but if I don't there are others who will, maybe dressed in a sailors suit."



No need to when you just did. Advertising features have to have a positive spin otherwise the businesses won't pay for the space. Anyone who thinks TRNC tourism isn't in crisis and facing terminal decline is a dreamer. Always a good idea to have one foot planted firmly in reality, eh?

negativenick


Joined: 10/11/2008
Posts: 6023

Message Posted:
28/12/2008 11:45

i'm trying to rack my brains to think why a Britt would want to holiday here ?



For a similar time on the plane and similar dosh, you could go to Florida...



Not trying to be negative, just realistic....







Nick

dixie normus


Joined: 22/02/2008
Posts: 820

Message Posted:
28/12/2008 12:28

Whats needed is companies to advertise free holidays for refuse collectors and driving instructors, we may get the place cleaned up and improve life expectancy on our local roads.

I can see Turkey doing well out of the present economic crises, as there prices are tourist attractive, services good and resorts clean and tidy, and accessable. When the muppets down at the ministry address some of these issues things may start to look up.

D.N

lovingcyprus


Joined: 02/03/2007
Posts: 1272

Message Posted:
28/12/2008 13:04

If there are no tourists now and a 200% increase is forecast that still means no tourists!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

newlad



Joined: 02/03/2008
Posts: 7819

Message Posted:
28/12/2008 13:22

Nick, mess 18 the last time i went to Florida it took around 10 hours.The last time i went to Cyprus it took half that time,

Paul.

Coachie



Joined: 29/07/2008
Posts: 2135

Message Posted:
28/12/2008 13:34

tHE WICKS..I was just thinking that about the price of wine and the costof living being 30% cheaper than UK. from what I have seen on this board about prices I think maybe a little over exageration has happened,but I still think that those who have been holidaying in the euro zone will still think its a good proposition and venture to the north. well I am one of them ,coming next jJUNE for two weeks to have a looksie...

joandjelly


Joined: 24/02/2008
Posts: 2953

Message Posted:
28/12/2008 13:36

I don't think you can compare Florida with NC and I don't think most people choose their holiday destination purely on flight time and cost. Personally speaking, even if I only had a specific sum of money to spend then I would still only be looking at the kind of places that suit my holiday requirements (sun, scenery, good food, nice people, etc). If Florida was the only place I could afford then I wouldn't bother going at all. I'd rather keep the money as it just isn't the kind of place I want to visit.

PtePike



Joined: 20/05/2008
Posts: 2334

Message Posted:
28/12/2008 13:44

dixie msg 19,



Spot on (again).

The-Wicks


Joined: 27/05/2007
Posts: 2279

Message Posted:
28/12/2008 13:54

Coachie- I think maybe they have used a bit of poetic license with the prices, but at the end of the day it still represents good value for money compared to the euro-zone. We will be there for 3 weeks in June, I hope you will enjoy the place as much as we do.

P

Coachie



Joined: 29/07/2008
Posts: 2135

Message Posted:
28/12/2008 18:11

The Wicks ..I certainly am not complaining about value for money,for what I have got.Two weeks in the sun in a nice penthouse apartment in TBV,flights and car for two weeks all for £1000,thats without food and drink mindyou,but I paid £2000 for two weeks in Crete halfboard,wihout carand drinks in June 2008.So I think I have done ok...

negativenick


Joined: 10/11/2008
Posts: 6023

Message Posted:
28/12/2008 18:31

What about the litter ?



What about the rip off prices ?



What about the 6 hour flight times ?



What about the lack of decent (free) beaches ?



What about the litter? - oh said that already, but there is a lot of litter about !





Nick

sylvie


Joined: 12/03/2008
Posts: 1081

Message Posted:
28/12/2008 18:44

what about you been............... positive !

Turtle


Joined: 28/05/2007
Posts: 2669

Message Posted:
28/12/2008 18:54

Nick, Ill take NC complete with litter anyday rather than go to Florida la la land yuck.

daveb


Joined: 06/11/2008
Posts: 52

Message Posted:
28/12/2008 19:16

NICK



come back to blighty there,s no rip off prices no litter and great beaches







db

Rotaciser


Joined: 22/11/2008
Posts: 39

Message Posted:
28/12/2008 20:23

Nick six hours flying time. What are flying in a lancaster bomber ?

Coachie



Joined: 29/07/2008
Posts: 2135

Message Posted:
28/12/2008 21:22

rOTACISER ...Take him a damn site longer than 6 hrs in Lanc.Itused to take us nearly 12 hrs to malta in a Shackleton which was just a more uptodate version of the Lanc.He is about right if you take into consideration the stop over in Turkey, or your transfer time from Larnaca...

The-Wicks


Joined: 27/05/2007
Posts: 2279

Message Posted:
28/12/2008 21:31

Coachie - hope you have a lovely time in TBV. It would have been nice to have met up, perhaps, but we are in Alsancak. However, we have been known to go to the Golf Club for lunch occasionally! If you need any help/advice, etc. please contact us via e-mail before you go.

With best wishes

Paul and Jean

pilgrim



Joined: 11/05/2007
Posts: 1404

Message Posted:
28/12/2008 21:34

Nick, Florida, full of americans, re NC, very few americans, no litter on malibu or salamis beaches ,both free and excellent.

Middle Easter


Joined: 13/06/2007
Posts: 146

Message Posted:
28/12/2008 21:47

In response to Negative Nick & Dixie Normus



I know the litter issue has been discussion 1000's of times, but I can cannot help coming back to it. No, I too don't want to go to Florida either (infact i'd rather boil my head!). NC has everything, good food, good people, great landscape....& even a good golf course.



However the litter, particularly on the so called idyllic beaches is so shocking, that I am sure may 1st time 'tourists' simply don't come back again. The brochures that advertise the unspolt NC, are simply lies.



If the authorities are so dim or apathetic not to act on this, then we really must worry.



I have bought property in NC based on a longer term optimistic view re the 'Cyprus situation' but i'm afraid the hotels need 'non-villa/apartment owners' to come back again & again........and based on the litter i.e. '1st impressions last' NC which is one of the most beautiful places you could imagine is (in holidaymaker tems) virtually ruined



...very very sad

newlad



Joined: 02/03/2008
Posts: 7819

Message Posted:
28/12/2008 22:01

What a great chance the trnc tourist board have to bring in the tourists in 2009.All the papers are going with the fact that people who want a bargain should travel outside the euro zone.Up to now there has been no mention of n.c.with the top destinations being Turkey and Egypt.If there is anyone on here involved with the tourist board then my advice to you would be to get your arse(s) into gear and make hay while the sun shines,

Paul.

harita


Joined: 14/08/2008
Posts: 1343

Message Posted:
28/12/2008 22:44

andysue

"my mates wife owns a small travel agents"

Could it be the Little Travel Shop, Higer Ince... About time I had email from them if it is...

Harry

sassycypgirl


Joined: 26/08/2008
Posts: 99

Message Posted:
29/12/2008 08:01

Middle Easter



Agree totally with yur comments



The tourism chiefs here should be looking into ways of attracting tourists



To incourage tourism you need to court the sellers ie travel agents/operators

and get them on side. The free trips offered to these companies to inspect the island always helps to sell the destination and would be a big advantage

but until the island is cleaned up and the half built properties completed

these people will not recommend the TRNC. Remember that the negative comments are the ones that people hear about.



We see the coachloads of tourists comming over from the south with Thomson etc but they obviously dont come back to the TRNC according to the tourism figures.



Until the government get their act together tourism will not improveregardless

of the euro rate



Sassy

deecyprus4


Joined: 27/07/2008
Posts: 3452

Message Posted:
29/12/2008 08:10

Sassy you are quite wrong, there is no way a tour operator that does business in the south will come to the north regardless of how they are 'courted' the south would boot them out and they won't risk upsetting the GC's, there is as much unfinished building in the south as there is here, and in parts as much rubbish.

Quarmby


Joined: 15/09/2008
Posts: 975

Message Posted:
29/12/2008 09:22

deecyprus4

I agree that the south may have rubbish around but not generally in the tourist areas and beaches, unfortunately you cannot say the same about the North. Also the government here needs to address the problem of the organising of the beaches, the attitude of some beach controllers who start closing down the facilities at the end of August just highlights how out of touch they are with the requirements of the tourists.

girne 29


Joined: 06/12/2007
Posts: 1488

Message Posted:
29/12/2008 12:19

The tour companies can advertise good holidays regardless of the litter and construction by emphasing the good points .However, there is no surer way to discourage returning tourists than by insulting their intelligence by describing their destination as "unspoilt".



Tourism has to be worked at, and the problem with excusing the litter on beaches etc is that the average tourist, especially with children, might presume that represents the general atitude on hygiene overall and wonder about things like food and drink .



best way to bring on tourism is get some of the people over who did such a good job with the turkish tourist industry .One wonders if patronage might be a problem.



I never seem to see any of these jobs advertised.

girne 29


Joined: 06/12/2007
Posts: 1488

Message Posted:
29/12/2008 12:29

The tour companies can advertise good holidays regardless of the litter and construction by emphasing the good points .However, there is no surer way to discourage returning tourists than by insulting their intelligence by describing their destination as "unspoilt",so leave that off the brochures.



Tourism has to be worked at, and the problem with excusing the litter on beaches etc is that the average tourist, especially with children, might presume that represents the general atitude on hygiene overall and wonder about things like food and drink .



best way to bring on tourism is get some of the people over who did such a good job with the turkish tourist industry .and give them authority to demand a clean up or anything else they deem necessary



I never seem to see any of these jobs advertised.

The-Wicks


Joined: 27/05/2007
Posts: 2279

Message Posted:
29/12/2008 12:36

Message 42. As far as I am aware, the TRNC Government insist on such jobs being offered to TRNC nationals. It is obvious to most of us that there are people, particularly in Turkey which has a booming tourist industry, who could turn the tourist industry around, but these jobs are not offered to them. I assume that if there isn't a TRNC national who is suited for the job, then it doesn't really matter - they're given the job anyway. I seem to remember that a couple of years ago the Head Honchos of the TRNC Tourist Board collectively knew nothing about the job they were appointed to do. And so it goes on ..............

J

JimmyG


Joined: 14/08/2008
Posts: 900

Message Posted:
29/12/2008 12:46

The article in question was an advertisement feature with the same content that's been trotted out for years....so much 'spin' it could have been written by Alistair Campbell!!

Coachie



Joined: 29/07/2008
Posts: 2135

Message Posted:
29/12/2008 13:39

Jean...Interesting bt on CNN this morning about the unification talks.Important peopletrying tohelp out inthe unification talks and the UNspokesman said NO outside plan would be considered only aplan worked out by both sides with theCypriotpeople on bothsides well being the main consideration

sassycypgirl


Joined: 26/08/2008
Posts: 99

Message Posted:
29/12/2008 17:12

Dee



I never said that Thomson etc would come over to the North. Thomson

were threatened by the Greeks several years ago that if they did start

packages to the North they would be kicked out of Greece and the south.



My point is that the people who come over on these day trips are not coming

back for a holiday in the north and I for one ask myself why?



The last time I went on holiday to the south there certainly was not the

rubbish etc there is here but that could have changed. I would not argue

the point about that one.



Girne 29 is right you have to work at getting tourism and they have not

got it right in the north but could learn a valuable lesson from Turkey.



However we know that they have a wealth of knowledge and expertise on their doorstep but are either too proud or stupid to benefit from it.



Sassy

Taz666


Joined: 21/12/2008
Posts: 180

Message Posted:
29/12/2008 17:31

Family's in the UK are looking for cheap all inclusive holiday's, with direct fights and low transfer times, NC needs to up its game, tidy up and stop ripping people off, like I said before we normally come over 3 times a year, this year we noticed a big drop of holiday makers to NC, NC has a charm that keeps my family comming back, but due to business requirments (in other words the state of the pound) we will only be coming over once for our main holiday in 2009, NC will find it harder in 2009 with less holiday makers going to the south lets hope 2010 is better but in the business world it's looking more like 2011 before we can breath again.

sassycypgirl


Joined: 26/08/2008
Posts: 99

Message Posted:
29/12/2008 17:50

2009 will be a difficult year for the tourism industry worldwide.



When money gets tight holidays are one of the first to feel the pinch.

This will also hit the Euro zone very hard and could possibly work in

Turkeys favour.



There will be less holidays on offer when operator take the decision to

cut the number of holidays on sale but for those willing to wait there

could be a last minute bargain.



IMO TRNC tourism will be in for a rough ride in 2009



Sassy

deecyprus4


Joined: 27/07/2008
Posts: 3452

Message Posted:
29/12/2008 17:56

Sassy one of us is cracking up cos here is what you posted





We see the coachloads of tourists comming over from the south with Thomson etc but they obviously dont come back to the TRNC according to the tourism figures.

Coachie



Joined: 29/07/2008
Posts: 2135

Message Posted:
29/12/2008 21:43

The Wicks..Contact you later on Jean by e-mail...

sassycypgirl


Joined: 26/08/2008
Posts: 99

Message Posted:
30/12/2008 15:17

Dee



They are day trippers on an excursion. The operators are allowed to bring them over for a day visit. So Thomson etc do come over from the south therefore I think your statement is in correct.



Perhaps the idea is the Greeks let them come over and see what the

place is like and then they can be sure they wont book a holiday in the

TRNC



There are a lot of specialist operators who would consider coming to the north if the place was cleaned up. You dont necessarily need the large operators such as Thomson.



Perhaps you should ask yourself the question as to why Thomson First Choice etc do bring tourists over for a day.



Sassy

Coachie



Joined: 29/07/2008
Posts: 2135

Message Posted:
30/12/2008 17:41

Sassy..you can rest assured of one thing girl,if the Greeks try and throwThomsons(TUI) out of southern Cyprus It will hurt the GC,s al otmore than it will hurt TUI. They ,TUI,will probably start taking there day trippers to north on longer stays,so I think its a bit foolish to say that they would consider banning TUI.Just remember TUI is a huge concern with a lot of travel companies within its organisation,and the loss to Cyprus would be enormous...

sassycypgirl


Joined: 26/08/2008
Posts: 99

Message Posted:
31/12/2008 14:17

Coachie



The threat to Thomson before TUI days was made and was common

knowledge within the travel industry. Then Thomson would have suffered

but I think you are right now. The days of holdng them to ransom are

over.



I personally would not like an influx of the mass market and see the TRNC

turn into the Ayia Napa style resorts but would welcome the more decerning

market who would appreciate the beauty hidden behind the rubbish and

concrete structures.



Happy new year to you all



Sassy

Coachie



Joined: 29/07/2008
Posts: 2135

Message Posted:
31/12/2008 17:22

Sassy.. I think you will see abig increase in holidays to the TRNC simply because tyhe euro zone countries are now far to expensive.I have a holiday booked in the TRNC inJune,and one in Egypt next November,both excellent value for money...

negativenick


Joined: 10/11/2008
Posts: 6023

Message Posted:
31/12/2008 19:12

it isn't going to happen..



it's too far and it's not clean and tidy enough for the die hard TRNC brigade.



also there is bugger all to do for "young" families (you can lie on a "clean" beach in spain for a 1/3 of the cost and 1/3 flight time).



The Govt needs to clean the place up before it's too late.





Nick

stewy


Joined: 18/10/2008
Posts: 279

Message Posted:
31/12/2008 19:17

Blimey TRNC a holiday destination??



Never considered the place good for tourists. Why on earth would people com here for a holiday?



I have another 2 months work here, and cannot wait to get away.



I cannot believe some people choose to live here full time out of choice.



But judging from this forum, everyone wants out. But cannot as their houses are worthless.



What a palver

cronos


Joined: 26/10/2008
Posts: 2093

Message Posted:
31/12/2008 19:21

Nick....Msg 55.....another negative post but nonetheless valid !



Money HAS to be spent on infrastructure,clean beaches and general cleanliness.

It is no good having little pockets of beauty and modern facilities,when they are surrounded by litter,builders rubbish,and rusting,half-finished concrete structures.



Anyone forming an opinion on the basis of a daytrip from the South would probably never return again.

stewy


Joined: 18/10/2008
Posts: 279

Message Posted:
31/12/2008 20:20

The Geek side is for Tourists.

The Turkish side is for those who want the unspoilt option.

However it has already been spoilt.



Dirty and starved dead animals everywhere.

WAZ-24-7



Joined: 18/10/2008
Posts: 695

Message Posted:
31/12/2008 20:41

It is correct that the TRNC has its difficulties in maintaining the atractive status that holidaymakers are atracted to.

However, It is very significant that the region remains excluded from the benefits of freedom to international trade, freedom of expression, access to European funding ( this is now clearly controlled by ROC), access and freedom of travel. The TRNC and its people remain persecuted and hindered by its neigbours and fellow inhabitants the ROC.



The sooner a Cyprus solution is arrived at the sooner the region can escape its impoverished imprisonment and flourish to its clear potential.

sassycypgirl


Joined: 26/08/2008
Posts: 99

Message Posted:
01/01/2009 09:25

NN



Dont usually agree with all you say but I think you are right.



Coachie



I would like to think that you are right but i doubt it.



Just my opinion.



Lets hope that things do improve here when a settlement is reached.



Stewy

I personally love living here and dont want to leave.

There has been many changes and not for the good since we first

came here but you have to accept what is happening. We unfortunately

are not in a position to change things as in my previous message I stated

the government either dont want outside help or are just stupid.



Sassy

dixie normus


Joined: 22/02/2008
Posts: 820

Message Posted:
01/01/2009 11:52

Hi Waz ref Mess 59,

Dont believe the the dumping of rubbish and littering has alot to do with the isolation of the TRNC or the persecution of the north of the Island. Its more about the attitude and education of its people, yes,they are living out of the begging bowl from Turkey and with that seem to have lost the value and respect for their homeland. Would also help if communal rubbish collection points were available well sign posted, and supervised.



D.N

Coachie



Joined: 29/07/2008
Posts: 2135

Message Posted:
01/01/2009 12:12

DN..you probably right,butit comes down to money,which they dont have alot off,so cleaning up rubbish and employing people to do it is well down the pecking order.Rubbish and litter dumping is not confined to the TRNC,It is wide spread throughout the middle eastern countries,and of course back here in the UK.Its people that have to be educated about leaving it instead of taking it home with them...

WAZ-24-7



Joined: 18/10/2008
Posts: 695

Message Posted:
01/01/2009 13:38

msg 61 and 62,

Thank you, very valid points.

I do not even know what rubbish collection and disposal systems are currently in place.

Perhaps some one could post this information so at least the procedures, if any are there.

RedSnapper


Joined: 12/08/2008
Posts: 540

Message Posted:
01/01/2009 13:56

Sassycypgirl and Negativenick, you are both totally right, that is why these new developements have to be presented and finished well so they are attractive, clean and welcoming to incoming holidaymakers so they will then go home and tell others how good it was and they had a gr8 time. It seems the developers are so short sighted they throw `em up and stick someone in to start raking the money in(off the owners)-and ballcocks to the rest.

dixie normus


Joined: 22/02/2008
Posts: 820

Message Posted:
01/01/2009 14:35

Hi Coachie, ref mess 62



If there is one thing we have well in excess is goverment employees, 70% of T/Cs are in the goverments pocket, and effort/graft in these gov positions is a joke.There will be employee's who are paid to keep places clean & tidy but no one will be kicking ass as they'll all be related.

A concerted effort has been made in cleaning the Catalkoy area and we have seen an improvment arround the village and its immediate areas, tourist areas, Beaches, pinic areas in the moutains, and in genral area's where tourists go are often out of the durastiction of the local Belydesi and seem to be forgoten about. Its not all about cost, a change in mentality and atitude would go along way.



D.N

ilovecyprus


Joined: 08/05/2007
Posts: 2880

Message Posted:
01/01/2009 14:48

msge 65



good post DN



It would seem it's a question of mentality and accountability

girne 29


Joined: 06/12/2007
Posts: 1488

Message Posted:
01/01/2009 15:20

Coachie Message 62

Dont give the litter louts an out.



Cost has very little to do with it.If rubbish is not left or thrown about it wouldnt need to be collected from beaches etc.



Our site has regular rubbish collection,and area is relatively clean but cant expect the men to stop every few feet to pick up litter on the roadside and beaches,otherwise they wouldnt have time to collect from sites like ours.



Sure ,in the uk there is litter dumping ,but it is not percieved as normal behaviour,and not excused. Also I think in a situation where 70% of the employed worked for a city council and at the same time there was a litter and hygene problems ,questions would be asked of the elected representatives.

Taz666


Joined: 21/12/2008
Posts: 180

Message Posted:
01/01/2009 17:32

come on lets face it NC opens 1st July and closes 31st August, last year we was in NC for 4 weeks, 3 weeks in August and 1st week in September, going out was great places where empty or half full max, the general public back home think Cyprus is Cyprus all part of the EU, adverts on tv say "Cyprus the all year Iland" it do not say "South Cyprus the All year Iland" the first time we came 8 years ago was by mistake, we booked through Owners Direct wanted to go to Cyprus booked a Villa at Lapta, fell in love with the north but a mistake all the same. People all around the world read these forums some of the posts are enough to put people of comming altogether, rubbish, rip off's etc all true but Greece, Algrave, Spain, Venice, South Cyprus to name a few all the same, theres something about North Cyprus we all love, otherwise we would not be on this site, 2009 will see further drop in visits to NC and poss 2010, come on say something nice for a change it mite catch on.

Lilli



Joined: 21/07/2008
Posts: 13081

Message Posted:
01/01/2009 17:49

hi DN it woud also be good if they could recycle this rubbish, we throw away cans, bottles, water bottles and it breaks my heart than it cant be recycled. Our rubbish is collected by the council at a cost but where it goes who knows, i also agree with stewey the animals are a big problem also.look at the number of us here who takes in strays. happy new year xx

girne 29


Joined: 06/12/2007
Posts: 1488

Message Posted:
01/01/2009 20:21

Taz

Sorry ,was merely saying that effort should be made to make the place more attractive to potential tourists,

For some of us self censorship is hard and the only way is to say nothing. You are right in reminding us that discussing these things can create a bad impression to people outwith this BB ,

flightholiday


Joined: 19/07/2007
Posts: 3217

Message Posted:
02/01/2009 11:11

Taz66

Msg 68 - I agree both that many parts of the rest of the world make the TRNC look incredibly good and although there are negative things (like the hidden poor and some litter - I have seen far worse elsewhere). Just have a look around the med and you will find countries with better tourist reputations that are far, far worse in real "holiday terms" and humanitarian ways.



We are tour op's who specialise in North Cyprus and like many other reputable Op's find it hard to sell the product as at peak times there are not enough seats and the reputation of the country is not being helped by this non stop barrage.



Why not be positive in 2009 as it will be a very hard year on everyone through the western and developing world.

girne 29


Joined: 06/12/2007
Posts: 1488

Message Posted:
02/01/2009 17:56

One possible solution would be to split this BB ,One section open to all, could be used purely for positive aspects and moderated thus.That way anyone thinking of moving to. or holidaying in the trnc, would not be put off.



The other section could be for those who wish to discuss the problems being encountered, or just debate issues good or bad, political or economical,positive and negative,That section would be blocked to all except members, who ,having a stake in NC, will want to discuss everything that affects ,or might affect their lives there, good or bad.

The Villa Owners site already splits into sections.

cronos


Joined: 26/10/2008
Posts: 2093

Message Posted:
02/01/2009 18:26

Girne29.....I can see the benefit of sectioning sites to make navigation easier.



But,what you are proposing would just present a rose-tinted,happy-clappy,heads -in-the-sand,viewpoint to non-members who come onto this site looking for information about property and tourism in the TRNC.



Should we deny them the knowledge and first-hand experiences (good AND bad ) that other members have had?

girne 29


Joined: 06/12/2007
Posts: 1488

Message Posted:
02/01/2009 20:07

cronos

I am on your side on this, but it would allow us to get on with discussing things as we see them instead of worrying about being perceived as being negative.Also , anyone looking in on the site would know pretty soon that the first section was only for positive postings .Personally I see no problem in a positve only section as long as people knew that was what it was.





Even if a rose tinted image was presented initially ,tho I dont think people are that naive ,anyone serious about coming to NC would soon apply to join the "warts and all" section,and would then have access to all the good and bad experiences on which to make a judgement.

Taz666


Joined: 21/12/2008
Posts: 180

Message Posted:
02/01/2009 20:59

Don’t think splitting the site will work, not been a member long but with just reading some of the post’s its seems to have all that a site of this nature should have, help, advise, humour, charity etc, the site is easily found with a search of google etc, so all I’m saying is paint a few nice pictures of the good points instead, the site has a few problems which could easily be sorted with a small annual charge say £5 per member, I would happily pay, this would get rid of the trouble makers or most and would put some money in the bank for things like this poor family who’s home has been damage by fire, Improve areas (planters etc) Christmas parties, Summer get togethers, the finances could be managed by the moderators, the annual amount with the members we currently have would be over £18K, yes this will drop when all the non serious members leave the site but would attract the type of members this site is looking for. Just an Idea, daft one but one all the same

negativenick


Joined: 10/11/2008
Posts: 6023

Message Posted:
02/01/2009 21:23

mess 75 - not daft - more like saft.....





Nick

Taz666


Joined: 21/12/2008
Posts: 180

Message Posted:
02/01/2009 21:28

you being rude Nick?? tut tut

negativenick


Joined: 10/11/2008
Posts: 6023

Message Posted:
02/01/2009 21:40

10 years ago the TRNC was an unspoilt paradise....



Now it's been spoilt and unless the gov't address the problem, the holidaying Brits will go elsewhere..



Times are tough and the countries that work the hardest are going to attract the most tourists...



Nick

Taz666


Joined: 21/12/2008
Posts: 180

Message Posted:
02/01/2009 21:51

NC never advertised on UK TV so where has all the visiters come from regards the UK??? word of mouth Nick, by being negative Nick on these Forums does nothing to help.



Try a new name positivenick

The-Wicks


Joined: 27/05/2007
Posts: 2279

Message Posted:
02/01/2009 21:52

Taz666 - message 75. Agree that in theory this is a very good idea. However, I can just imagine the flak that would result. A while ago, some members became embroiled in a matter that concerned collections for charity, auctions, etc. I won't bore you with the details, but an awful lot of back-stabbing and mud-slinging ensued.

I don't know about you, but I, for one, would not like to be in a position where I was handling people's money. If only half of us joined the scheme, it amounts to a lot of money.

The moderators have enough trouble with the posts, let alone distribution of funds! Regards. J

Coachie



Joined: 29/07/2008
Posts: 2135

Message Posted:
02/01/2009 21:56

N.N...Thats a good post,goes against the grain for you,but it is true. several years ago Salou in Spain had a shocking reputaion for all the wrong reasons and the local authorities decided to clean up the place and according to my daughter who went there in the summer says it is very nice now..So i say its up to the locals and residents and authorities to get together and sort it out if they wantthe tourists to return. because they will come and when they see the mess every one says is there they are not return.First impressions count alot to the average tourist...

cronos


Joined: 26/10/2008
Posts: 2093

Message Posted:
02/01/2009 21:58

Taz.....we have a place in TRNC and try to get out there 3 or 4 times a year.

However....I would say that over 90% of the time,whenever we have struck up conversation with "visitors" in bars,restaurants,hotels.....it turns out they are NOT there as tourists,but as potential property purchasers.



I expect to see even fewer "tourists " this year.



The TRNC really needs to get it's act together to avoid more years in the wilderness.

negativenick


Joined: 10/11/2008
Posts: 6023

Message Posted:
02/01/2009 21:59

Taz,



i#m not being negative for the sake of it - just telling it how it is......



Times are tough in the UK and with a typical Brit having to watch every penny, what does the TRNC have to offer a cost conconcious Brit ?



Chuck into the melting pot the long flight times and the expense of getting here, it doesn't stack up.



i know some of it isn't the TRNC's fault, but the litter and illegal dumping is disgusting, as are the dirty beaches.



It wouldn't take much - perhaps put a brit on a comittee to let the powers at be know the error of their ways.



Nick

Coachie



Joined: 29/07/2008
Posts: 2135

Message Posted:
02/01/2009 22:00

Tazz666..A lot of advertising going on in holiday supplements of most major UK newspapers. several companies you canget brochures off now...

Taz666


Joined: 21/12/2008
Posts: 180

Message Posted:
02/01/2009 22:01

The-Wicks like a said daft idea, I no it would need alot to sort out, I.E say someone asked for some money for a christmas party for excample, it would have to be say 80% of the moderators that agreed for it to go ahead. it was just an idea for us that love NC to help with improving it.

Hector


Joined: 26/08/2008
Posts: 2352

Message Posted:
02/01/2009 22:15

The reason for this type of post on this forum isn't just to let off steam surely? The reason we do, isn't because we are whingers as some only too quickly like to say, but because we care for the place. The problem IMHO is one of greed, lack of accountability and self preservation. Greed by those who have selfishly exploited the situation whether property developers/builders, land owners, businesses, politicians and lawyers. The almost total lack of accountability through the criminal or civil law or the ballot box means that no one is held to account for fraud, breach of contract, corruption,incompetance etc. Money that should have been properly used to enhance life in NC has been wasted or misappropriated.

Whilst the locals have benefited in the short term, now will be their winter, spring, summer of discontent.

As for tourism well, one has to wonder if that is a priority to the politicians other than ensuring the easy option, casinos can operate & bring in revenue.

negativenick


Joined: 10/11/2008
Posts: 6023

Message Posted:
02/01/2009 22:19

Hector - you've hit the nail on the head - but for the average British family, there is little to attract them here..



Nick

Taz666


Joined: 21/12/2008
Posts: 180

Message Posted:
02/01/2009 22:19

N/N sorry mate but long flight time??? 4hrs 30 come on, litter, illegal dumping, you been home or any other EU state recently, expence try getting a package holiday for 2 adults and 3 kids for 2 weeks in high season, we can have a private villa for 3 weeks in NC for less than tour operators can offer, think you would class me as a typical Brit, working for the council, (under 18k per year) trying to make ends meet, council tax £130 a month, Gas £120 a month, elec £70 a month, not to mention food, cloths, water rates etc etc, what made you leave UK in the first place, we meet up every summer in NC with groups of friends from all over the UK, all of which we have meet in NC in the first place, tell ya what do ya a swap, your home and life in NC for mine

Taz666


Joined: 21/12/2008
Posts: 180

Message Posted:
02/01/2009 22:22

coachie



Not in Sunday Sport

cronos


Joined: 26/10/2008
Posts: 2093

Message Posted:
02/01/2009 22:28

Taz....I understand that you are trying to inject a bit of positive realism into the debate......but where in the UK can you get a 4hr 30 min flight time to NC?

Surely you are talking about Larnaca flights.....the rights or wrongs of doing which are a seperate thread altogether!



Flights to Ercan are going to take 6 hours with stopover.....and if you live in the north like me it often necessitates a road trip to Stansted.

Taz666


Joined: 21/12/2008
Posts: 180

Message Posted:
02/01/2009 22:41

Cronos

yes mate your right fly into Larnaca, Yes live in North (Sheffield) Mancester to Larnaca 4h 35mins, Larnaca to North depends on taxi driver 1h - 1h 30 (the 1h one keeps you awake) takes me longer to get from one end of city to other in rush hour, booked our flights for August £247 return each, 3 bedroom villa for 3 weeks £1400, tranfers by friend no need for car hire so 3 weeks cost us under £2600 in high season get that with James Villas or a package holiday from operator

daveb


Joined: 06/11/2008
Posts: 52

Message Posted:
02/01/2009 23:31

long flight times ,you lot make me laugh ,especially the nick bloke ,dirty beaches ,fly tipping open your eyes you lot have you been to london recentty

last week on the m11 an hour trip took 7 hours due to a accident one accident the streerts are filthly and its one of the most expensive cities in the world

we pay through the nose for every thing and in return get sweet f a.



db

Taz666


Joined: 21/12/2008
Posts: 180

Message Posted:
02/01/2009 23:33

well said daveb

pilgrim



Joined: 11/05/2007
Posts: 1404

Message Posted:
03/01/2009 00:01

One thing NC dosn,t do to tourists is clamp their cars for parking while visiting bank, clamped today for parking incorrectly for 10mins in woolworths shoppers free carpark, private firm , police would n't help. 150 release fee paid. These clamping firms really are scum! hope TRNC never allows such despicable 'criminal' activity.

cronos


Joined: 26/10/2008
Posts: 2093

Message Posted:
03/01/2009 00:11

The directors of these clamping firms may well have big villas in the TRNC and be scouting for business opportunities in a country where money talks !

flightholiday


Joined: 19/07/2007
Posts: 3217

Message Posted:
03/01/2009 14:43

81 82 83 mainly yes to these points



Msg 83 "It wouldn't take much - perhaps put a brit on a comittee to let the powers at be know the error of their ways. "



It would be very hard to do this unless the "Brit's" were TRNC citizens and spoke / think in Turkish Cypriot ways - A lot of locals would agree but are up against the same problems on the the general apperance of the island.



One major problem is that it would not be cost effective to lay on more flights at peak travelling times which threfore restricts the number of seats that can be sold to tourists. (NB Tourists are not people visiting villas etc. but buying packages and doing site seeing etc. - thus contributing more to the economy).



For 2009 all tourist activity world wide from the UK will probably be restricted due to the fall of the good old £sd.

negativenick


Joined: 10/11/2008
Posts: 6023

Message Posted:
03/01/2009 16:45

mess 96 - forget extra flights, let the TRNC clean it's act up then start plugging the place..



if people start coming "in their droves" - it won't be long before the place is being rubbished (no pun intended !) on feedback sites like Holidays uncovered - then what ??





Nick

flightholiday


Joined: 19/07/2007
Posts: 3217

Message Posted:
03/01/2009 17:02

NN Every holiday company, destination and product gets some rubbishing it depends on what expectations the clients have.



If they were to listen to some people who post here (None Noted) their expectation would be so low that they would actualy report rave reviews.



The flights are still a problem and until that is sorted do not expect Tour Op's to invest too much in North Cyprus as it's no use selling a product you can't supply.

ilovecyprus


Joined: 08/05/2007
Posts: 2880

Message Posted:
03/01/2009 17:25

msge 86



Good posting Hector

girne 29


Joined: 06/12/2007
Posts: 1488

Message Posted:
04/01/2009 15:20

taz

message 88

" litter, illegal dumping, you been home or any other EU state recently, "

What EU country is as bad as NC, Germany?Holland?France?

Munich last year, you can eat your dinner off the streets.

Sure there is rubbish on our motorways ,but not much,And last time I looked, it wasnt dumped on tourist stopping points in the lake district.,nor on Blackpool beach.



There is a danger of this thread developing into "I love NC more than you do"



Again, the thread is about tourism ,not about us or what we feel about NC,so how much it costs me in my villa to holiday is irrelevant. Its what a family of 4 pays in the Pia Bella for a week ,flight times,( and they are a problem Tazz , 9-10 hours for some),how cheap it is ,the amenities and cleanliness,that matters.



If I am surrounded by rubbish on a beach in Portugal I am not interested in people saying that Spain has some beaches with rubbish,or a chip shop in Brixton has rubbish on the pavement.Or a meal costs more in London

cronos


Joined: 26/10/2008
Posts: 2093

Message Posted:
04/01/2009 15:38

Girne29......well said.



We should all do our best to support NC,but this doesn't mean we should bury our heads in the sand and turn a blind eye to all its problems....of which there are many !



As you say,I don't care that litter and half-finished buildings are also a problem in Spain....I didn't buy a place in Spain !



Tourism WILL suffer if issues are not addressed.

rocking


Joined: 05/11/2008
Posts: 421

Message Posted:
04/01/2009 16:02

My first trip to TRNC was 1979 and lived here for 22 yrs. absolutely love it, but have to say things are far worse now than when I first came to live here. As for tourism how can you count those who come from Turkey for junket weekends and have free accommodation, free food and drinks and spend nothing here - tourists. Also getting off the ferry to see family for 1 week classed as tourists. Perhaps prices of flights could help i.e. the national carrier CTA have over 800 staff and 5 planes!!!!!!! Now I hear they are upgrading Ercan Airport - what for? Do not believe anything the papers say about this upgrade anymore.

Taz666


Joined: 21/12/2008
Posts: 180

Message Posted:
04/01/2009 21:45

girne 29 lets get a few things right, you say "What EU country is as bad as NC" alot of for a start, but one main point NC IS NOT PART OF THE EU, take a look at a lot of E.U holidays NC is heaven compared, but this to the side take alook at my other post, without direct flights, better advertising, etc not to mention the non stop pulling down of NC on this site, NC has no chance of increasing its holiday trade, give you an example we meet with 8-10 families every summer thats some 30-40 people for NC for 4 weeks, this year only 2 families, 7 people are comming, so if families that have been comming for 10 years plus arn't comming then what chance of new visiters does NC have, less trade less income, less income higher prices and so on, all inclusive to non EU is the in thing, but NC is not on the list of 95% this year.

girne 29


Joined: 06/12/2007
Posts: 1488

Message Posted:
05/01/2009 12:50

Taz

Sorry , I didnt mean to say littering in ALL parts of the EU was better .I was querying where you said " you been home or ANY OTHER EU state recently, " I took it you were meaning the problem was no worse than UK or any other place.



You say "etc not to mention the non stop pulling down of NC on this site, NC has no chance of increasing its holiday trade, give you an example we meet with 8-10 families every summer thats some 30-40 people for NC for 4 weeks, this year only 2 families, 7 people are comming, so if families that have been comming for 10 years plus arn't comming then what chance of new visiters does NC have,



I agree ,but I doubt these families dont come back partly because of anything on this site,but rather based their decision 100% on the holiday they had.

No tourists look in this site,Holidays sites,yes.



Now property purchase, this site does influence that.



NC tourism is not up to the job and needs professional help from Turkey.



If thi

girne 29


Joined: 06/12/2007
Posts: 1488

Message Posted:
05/01/2009 13:10

104 cont



If this site were to close, as an experiment I will eat my hat if tourism increased by one.

Before the problem of tourism can be addressed then the authorities etc must accept there is a problem with litter ,building sites amongst others.



As for talking up the trnc ,relations holidaying couple of years back ,loved it, though not for children, and are not shy about recommending it.I have already recommended trying the golf to friends who normally have golfing holidays every year in Turkey, and have said they will give it a try after this year.The difference is, I am recommending only what I believe, and not to put a good light on things,or make false claims.

rtddci


Joined: 29/12/2007
Posts: 842

Message Posted:
05/01/2009 15:05

Tazz666

'this year only 2 families, 7 people are comming, so if families that have been comming for 10 years plus arn't comming then what chance of new visiters does NC have,'

Is this because of the credit crunch or because of their experiences in NC?

Taz666


Joined: 21/12/2008
Posts: 180

Message Posted:
05/01/2009 16:38

girne 29 I'm a tourists, not a property owner in NC, so tourists do read, take into account whats said and comment on this site.



rtddic

It's nothing at all to do with NC or the state its beaches or litter as some members think, it's as you say now to the credit crunch, money is tight so the other families have chosen to take all inclusive holidays elswhere for 2009 and poss 2010, we normally come over 3 times per year (2 weeks Easter, 3 weeks August and 1 October) but we will only be coming over once in August this year and next hopefully things should be better at home by then.

rocking


Joined: 05/11/2008
Posts: 421

Message Posted:
05/01/2009 17:02

Just phoned re flights back to UK in 2 weeks time. Turkish Airlines quoted £440 and CTA £345 (have to flight into Heathrow). What chance have we of tourism, and these are the winter rates!!!

Taz666


Joined: 21/12/2008
Posts: 180

Message Posted:
05/01/2009 17:04

booked lights from Mancester - Larnaca for August 2009 - £249 return

Quarmby


Joined: 15/09/2008
Posts: 975

Message Posted:
05/01/2009 17:23

Spent the 'cyprus summer' about 16 weeks on one of the beaches last year and what few tourists there were, about 98 percent said they would not return, main reason filth everywhere, not many happy with the standard of restaurants and found the place expensive.

Does the Ministry of Tourism exist? If so are you listening?

girne 29


Joined: 06/12/2007
Posts: 1488

Message Posted:
05/01/2009 22:27

Tazz

Didnt say tourists dont read, and if you come over 3 times a year I think that qualifies in having more than a tourists interest, I am a tourist and I read , you know I meant tourists, when planning a holiday to not look for sites like this but rather holiday sites. Of all the places I have been ,France is the only place I have checked sites like this and thats because of a property connection .Normally its Holidays Uncovered or Dooyoo.



Anyway,as I have an interest in a prosperous NC, I hope you are right in saying

"It's nothing at all to do with NC or the state its beaches or litter as some members think"

but down to the credit crunch,although that only explains tourist drought since sept 08 .

Even if you are right ,would it not be better for the tourist board not to take thechance but to rather work on the idea that there are problems and find out what the problems are and seek professional help.

We could go round in circles,best ask tourists what they thi

PIPIE


Joined: 05/01/2008
Posts: 5499

Message Posted:
06/01/2009 10:10

girne 29 , interesting points but ref message 111 ''Anyway,as I have an interest in a prosperous NC '' Could i ask you to expand on this , cheers .

girne 29


Joined: 06/12/2007
Posts: 1488

Message Posted:
06/01/2009 12:14

Pipie

Nothing important

Just meant that I am like lots , in this BB. I am hoping for a long and pleasant retirement in NC and believe my future along with all citizens, is helped by Govt addressing the problems of tourism, environment and property , amongst others, with a view to the long term future, rather than with a view to short term income as emphasised in the way the property industry has been operating