Mayor of Alanya, Osman Tarık Özçelik, and his team implemented one of their first projects immediately after taking office – opening a municipal tea garden in the İskele pier area: https://maps.app.goo.gl/V5eGrcpNSrHR6LJc9.
Despite the winter season, this spot already attracts between 3,000 and 5,000 visitors daily, and in the summer, the number of guests is expected to at least double.
Even in cold weather, thousands of people visit, and during peak season, the flow of visitors will only increase! This success is largely due to the Halk Kart system, which allows people to enjoy tea at prices 60–70% lower than in the city center.
Inspired by the success of this project, the mayor has planned further steps: soon, Alanya will have two more municipal tea gardens – one in the east and another in the west of the city. Additionally, there are discussions about converting the Occo Beach complex into a municipal tea garden. This location was previously rented by a foreign entrepreneur, but the rental price was disproportionately low for such a prime spot. Authorities have already informed tenants that they must vacate the area after their lease expires in February 2026.
Alanya is gaining more modern and affordable recreational areas for both residents and tourists!
Tea Gardens – An Essential Part of Turkish Culture
Municipal tea gardens (halk çay bahçesi) are more than just cafés; they are a true Turkish tradition that brings people together. These cozy venues can be found in almost every city in Turkey, from bustling Istanbul to the resort towns along the Mediterranean coast. Here, locals and tourists alike enjoy tea in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere, discussing news, playing backgammon, or simply admiring the view.
Unlike regular cafés, municipal tea gardens offer significantly lower prices. Tea here is more than just a drink – it is a symbol of hospitality and social connection. Turks can spend hours at a table, drinking several glasses of freshly brewed tea served in traditional tulip-shaped glasses.
Additionally, Turkey's Supreme Court recently ruled against the mandatory rental of sun loungers on beaches, even at private beach clubs. All beaches in Turkey are state-owned, and the coastline remains accessible to everyone. People can swim and relax by the shore without having to rent a sunbed, even in areas where private beach clubs are located.
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