Turkey, Bosnia are Bahrainis’ favourite destinations
TDT | Manama
The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com
Turkey and Bosnia are the favourite destinations for Bahraini tourists this summer, according to an owner of a leading travel agency. Mohammed Al Hamad, who owns Spring Travel and Tourism, revealed to DT that Turkey is topping the list among Bahrainis who are looking for recreation away from home, followed by Bosnia which is attracting a greater number of Bahraini tourists this year thanks to the facilities it is providing and the attractions it is offering.
“90% of the Bahraini tourists are heading to Turkey and Bosnia because it’s easy to travel there as you don’t need a visa to enter Bosnia, while it takes only three minutes to obtain a visit permit to Turkey online and it costs only BD30,” Al Hamad said. “Bosnia’s increasing demand among Bahrainis has been triggered by Gulf Air’s initiative to launch direct flights to the country,” he added.
Al Hamad revealed that Ukraine has been the surprise package this summer season and many consider it as an alternative to other European countries. “In our list, Ukraine is now in the third position and this was a pleasant surprise for us. Many consider Ukraine as a substitute for other European destinations, and all the vaccines are accepted there.
So, this plays a key role in handpicking it while planning for your holiday,” he explained. When asked what are the factors that mainly decide where to travel amid the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, he replied: “Nobody wants to face all obstacles and restrictions. Hearing about home quarantine upon arrival isn’t pleasant, therefore, tourists choose destinations that offer them a normal and easy life. People travel to enjoy themselves and hearing about obstacles will push them away.”
Comparing ticket prices before and after the pandemic, he pointed out: “There is a minimal increase in airfares. For example, the price to Turkey in 2019 was BD170. Now it’s BD200.”
Al Hamad uncovered that Tourism in Bahrain has recovered by 30% in comparison to the pre-COVID era. “We operated 139 groups in 2019, and this year we are managing 40 groups. But let’s not forget that 60% of our customers were Saudis. This of course has impacted the numbers,” he concluded.
Related Posts