Istanbul 2010 European Capital of Culture

Visitors from all over the world, have been flocking to Istanbul in increasing numbers every year. Last year only, nearly 6.5 million tourists visited this city of beauty unmatched. Being the Capital of Culture, Istanbul will no doubt enjoy record influx of visitors in 2010.

Tourists visit Istanbul with different purposes. It has always been the destination of culture enthusiasts and art lovers for centuries. For many writers, poets, great composers and artists it has been the source of inspiration in the creation of their master pieces. Many tourists used to visit Istanbul because they appreciated great legacy of former capital of three empires; Roman; Byzantine and Ottoman. However, Istanbul today is a very much future oriented, dynamic; challenging modern city, while it honors and preserves magnificent traces and heritage of its glorious past. Istanbul in fact, offers extraordinary combination of ancient and modern; traditional and contemporary going hand in hand, in harmony.

These days Istanbul is in the process of preparatory works and implementation of major projects for the celebrations of being 2010 European Capital of Culture. These include multitude of events under the theme, “A city of Four Elements: earth, water, air and fire” such as musical events, performing arts, films, contemporary arts, major exhibitions and other events. Sustainable urban development and infrastructure, focusing on conservation and restoration of the heritage is naturally among the activities of great significance according the concept of overall project.

Participation of all those living in Istanbul, in the cultural life and activities is one of the main aim of the project. On the other hand we believe this great event will also be an opportunity to further promote tourism to Istanbul attracting, in particular, culture enthusiasts, art lovers and all those interested in history, cultural events and life of this city of international reputation. Istanbul, with its dynamic efficient tourist industry is now prepared to welcome record influx of tourists to share the joy and experience of Istanbul 2010 European Capital of Culture Celebrations and to help making this event a memorable one for all of them.

Belek: Best Golf Destination In Europe

Dear Golf Lovers,

We, as the Turkish Golf Federation, are very proud to organize the 2012 World Amateur Team Championship in Turkey. This great success following the selection of Turkey as the “Best Golf Destination in Europe 2008” by IAGTO is an important indicator of world’s appreciation for the dedicated efforts of Turkish Golf Federation, established in 1996 as one of the youngest federations in the world of golf as well as golf in Turkey that has made considerable progress in a very short time.

Some of the reasons for Turkey’s selection as the country to host this important organization, among many others, are as follows; Turkey’s experience in hosting international sports events, the fact that golf is the most rapidly developing sports branch, the increasing number of perfectlydesigned golf courses, the selection of Turkey as the most rapidly developing golf country in Europe and our treasures of young population, cultural heritage and natural assets.

This event to be organized in Belek, the golf paradise of Antalya where numerous historical and natural treasures are intertwined, on uniquely beautiful golf courses designed by Nick Faldo, the unforgettable name of golf and Michel Gayon, the famous architect, as well as the leading architects of European Golf Design will be an unforgettable experience both for players and golf lovers.

I believe wholeheartedly that the 2012 World Amateur Team Championship to be organized in Belek will serve as a model for future golf events in all aspects from the candidacy and the process of becoming the host country to competition and hospitality during the championship and I would like to state that I feel honored to host you in our country.