[**claire**]

The Turkish government are investing $100million into developing Izmir, Cesme and the surroudning areas into thermal & spa tourists destinations, this will also attract winter tourism.

for full report see
http://www.maxiturkey.com/showthread.php?t=142

[Hephaestion]

I can´t access to the full article but the idea seems brilliant.

The german tourist office published in 2003 their first "Wellness" tourism brochure listing all spa´s and health resorts and facilities accross the country.

The wellness industry growing like mad. The emphasis in our culture on health and beauty has just gone through the roof.
Turkey should really capitalize on this. I visisted the Balcova center in Izmir ten years ago - huge and impressive. Also there was a thermal spring pool near Cesme which was great too.

Yes, Turkey should really heavily invest in this area. Afterall they are already famous for the Turkish Bath and healthy food.
Investment in infrastructure, education and marketing is so key!

I know many people from Denmark who go to dentist´s in Kus, myself included.

It seems that the aegion region, tourism wise has stalled.
Izmir, Bodrum, Cesme and Kusadasi is in dire need of a helping hand!

It´s a pity that Marmaris and Antalya get´s all the focus.

[**claire**]

Ive posted the full article up on the same link as above!

I agree with everything you say ... The Aegean region has so much going for it, & with the world becoming so health concious, thermal tourism is the way forward!!