Core Viewpoint - Turkey has recently waived visa requirements for Chinese tourists, leading to a surge in travel interest and related searches, but the cost of living and travel expenses in Turkey have significantly increased, making it less affordable than before [5][7][75]. Group 1: Travel Interest and Search Trends - Following the announcement of visa-free travel for Chinese citizens, travel-related searches surged, with Qunar seeing a 3.2 times increase and Tongcheng experiencing a 235% rise compared to the previous day [7]. - Many travelers have shifted their plans from traditional family visits during the Spring Festival to exploring attractions like Cappadocia and Istanbul [8]. Group 2: Cost of Living and Travel Expenses - Prices in Turkey have escalated dramatically, with a can of Coca-Cola priced at 210 Turkish Lira (approximately 33.9 RMB) and a simple salad costing around 500 RMB [12][41]. - The cost of dining out has also increased, with meals at fast-food chains like McDonald's reaching 210 Lira and Starbucks drinks costing around 203 Lira [23][25]. - The overall cost of tourism in Turkey has risen by 100% in less than six months, with significant price hikes in entrance fees to popular attractions [75][81]. Group 3: Currency and Economic Factors - The Turkish Lira has depreciated significantly, with the exchange rate changing from 7.4 Lira per USD in early 2021 to 43 Lira per USD currently, leading to increased prices for tourists [88]. - Many businesses have started quoting prices in Euros or USD to mitigate currency risk, making travel expenses comparable to those in major European cities [92]. Group 4: Tourism Industry Impact - The tourism sector is crucial for Turkey's economy, projected to contribute approximately 5.2 trillion Lira (around 12% of GDP) by 2025, supporting over 3.3 million jobs [123][124]. - Despite rising costs, Turkey remains an attractive destination due to its unique cultural and natural offerings, which continue to draw tourists [128][130].