Made in Bursa

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EMITT, 18th East Mediterranean

International Travel & Tourism Exhibition, opens for another record-breaking edition companies from 70 countries will showcase their most competitive products and services for about 130 thousand visitors. Exhibitors include tour operators, travel agencies, ho-

tels, airlines, cruise operators, national tourist boards, transportation services, medical tourism providers and other tourism institutes. Page 15

ISSN 1300-2260

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MITT, East Mediterranean International Travel & Tourism Exhibition, is proven to be a key component of this, as over 4,500 travel

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“Origin Bursa” project supports Bursa brands in the world

BURSA: A shining star in tourism

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project was introduced in a press conference held in Bursa with the participation of deputy governor of Bursa and provincial representative in the EU program Ahmet Hamdi Usta, president of Uludag fruit exporters union Dr. Salih Cali, Cuneyt Sener, member of Bursa chamber of industry and trade, Tamer Degirmenci, general secretary of Bebka, Bursa Eskisehir, Bilecik Development Agency, the supporting body for the project.Page 3

Initiated by metropolitan municipality of Bursa, major projects are on the way in tourism from Uludag to Uluabat, from Merinos to historical remains. Mayor Recep Altepe says that fruits are ripening in tourism investments, the main course of the city.

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nce known as an industrial center, the new vision of Bursa has been determined to be based on tourism with the investments of the municipality. Transformations are in Uludag. Uludag, one of the major winter tourism centers in Turkey, is getting its share from investments of Bursa municipality and becoming a four season tourism center with on going projects for sewage, running water and rain water drainage systems. Cable car project will connect the city with hotels area in the mountain comfortably. The longest cable transport system of 8.84 km. is being built and increases capacity up to ten fold. The system will carry passengers to the top in 22 minutes with 175 cabins each having 8 people. With the words of Recep Altepe, “Uludag can be another

Davos. It is even better than that. Davos is good only in winter. But Uludag fascinates its visitors all year long, with monasteries, lakes, floras, faunas. We try to improve physical conditions to attract more visitors to Uludag. Viewing Bursa from Bakacak on the mountain is becoming more joyful and inspiring. Viewing bank we made on the spot has become an attraction point for visitors who want to enjoy the view and to get photo of the city from above.” Page 4

Ahmet Hamdi Usta, Deputy Governor of Bursa and provincial representative in the EU program

Recep Altepe, Mayor of Bursa

“Bursa, driving-force of Turkey!”

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r. Ibrahim Burkay, implementing outstanding projects at Bursa Chamber of Trade and Industry (BTSO) and Uludag Textile Exporters’ Association, where he is the chairman, to make

Tourism in Bursa

Ibrahim Burkay, Chairman of Bursa Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BTSO) and Uludag Textile Exporters’ Association:

Bursa city, which is one of the leading actor cities of Turkish economy, as the locomotive of 2023 development targets of Turkey, says, “We are going through a new process which builds the dynamics of development over cities. Page 10

Contemporary urban Nilufer to be referred with tourism

Turkey grows if Bursa does!

M. Haluk Beceren, Chairman of the Board, South Marmara Touristic Hoteliers and Businesses Association

Mustafa Bozbey, Mayor of Nilufer

By Vehbi Varlik President of Bursa SKAL, Association of Travel and Tourism

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L.E.D illumination tech offers solutions against energy problems

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.E.D Technologies that exist since 1962 has become a material in use for our life and industry as soon as complete its efficiency evolution. The most important cause of this fast evolution is energy efficiency. Page 10


Made in Bursa Economic Newspaper, February 2014

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Contemporary urban Nilufer to be referred with tourism Preparing to leave the third period behind, Nilufer Mayor Mustafa Bozbey continues works to keep alive and save the historical values in planned Nilufer city.

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eginning to serve as a city manager in Nilufer in 1999, Mustafa Bozbey said, “When asked about which project I care most, I answer that the most Ana-

Mustafa Bozbey, Mayor of Nilufer

tolian Bazaar during my 15 years of service, that’s why the project is a world project, which represents not only Nilufer or Bursa but also Turkey.” Bozbey declares that Anatolian bazaar project embraces not only Anatolia but also all relatives cults from the Balkans to the Caucasus. Introducing the entire

region, Anatolian Bazaar will make economic activities with tourism at the same time in this region, where cultures lived and formed in these areas. The project will serve Bursa people as a unique leisure-cultural center, and allow foreign guests to recognize values of our civilization. Nilufer Mayor Mustafa Bozbey, “We believe that the project will attach great interest from all of our people who want to introduce common culture for next generations. After our restoration Özlüce church serves as cultural house. St. Panteleiman Church opens its doors for special events as Gölyazı cultural house. This region is visited most for photo enthusiast tourists. We plan to hold projects for bike tours recently.” A passion, Misi Bozbey recorded that they perform to make a caravan camping area in, Gumustepe region, one of the most beautiful regions in which green and water come together in an area of 12 thousand 360 square meters. With the project a full-fledged resort with 70-sqm administrative building, 360 square meters of social property, a building of 154 square meters area for cooking, washing, showers and toilets, and caravan park areas and tent camping

area gained in cooperation with Bursa Camping and Caravan Association. With 40-caravan capacity, another very important feature of the facility is to provide a safe environment for parents who want to introduce camping and nature for their children. Ayvaini Cave Recalling that they invite nature and history enthusiasts for city, Municipality Mayor Mustafa Bozbey said that Nilufer has many beauties to visit. The Ayvaini Cave is a cave located inside the borders of the Ayva village of Bursa, Turkey. Except for the entrance section, the cave is horizontally developed. There are two entrances to the cave; one at Doğanalanı, the other at Ayvaköy. Entering the cave

Turkey grows if Bursa does!

By Vehbi Varlik Chairman of the Board of Inoksan and President of Bursa SKAL, Association of Travel and Tourism

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n Turkey where the tourism industry has been growing every year the tourism paradises and nongovernmental organizations play important roles. Although the importance paid for domestic and international travellers are not sufficient, the projects developed for this purpose and the improvement studies have a great share in the development of the sector. The top priority for developing the tourism industry, which helps the national economy a lot, should be given to protecting and maintaining tourism values and promoting the industry properly. The Bursa branch of SKAL, where the world tourism professionals stride to promote the global tourism as the most spread and most experienced non-governmental tourism organization, has been realizing

remarkable works on the way to protecting the historical and cultural wealth of Bursa and to develop the tourism of this great city. Turkey takes a 2.5% stake in the world tourism pie. According to the data of 2012, Turkey ranks 6th in the number of tourists and 12th in the tourism income, the country attracted 34 million tourists in 2013 with an income volume of 32 billion dollars. It is estimated that this tourism attraction will host 37-38 million tourists leaving 35 billion dollars in 2014. Among its 2023 major targets Turkey plans to attract 50 million tourists yielding 50 billion dollars. In line with these figures it is possible to see the light in the future of the industry. Still I believe that we should do more than trusting the statistics. For this reason we, the Bursa SKAL Association, should do more

than our best to contribute to the tourism of Turkey and Bursa. Bursa cares for its values! Functioned as the capital city of Ottoman Empire for many years, Bursa, the fourth largest city of Turkey with its population of 2.5 million, hosts approximately 150,000 tourists in a year. The tourists prefer cities which are rich of historical and natural beauties instead of concrete buildings. Bursa is, of course, on top of these cities. That’s why we, as SKAL, have an important responsibility. We are conscious of the fact that we should work hard to promote historical and authentic places of Bursa, its tombs, walls, historical buildings, spas, traditional hamams, mosques, skiing resorts, proverbial green and forests… We should adhere more value on our city which can be reached by fliers, new highways and alternative road choices. On the path where we will maintain our strictness on protecting our touristic values, we should raise the awareness of the Bursa inhabitants. In short, we should

make them feel the privilege of living in Bursa. Bursa, the city satisfying for history and taste! This historical city, which also appeals to the gourmet palates in addition to all of these beauties, embraces all gourmets who are in search of different tastes. It is impossible for you to leave Bursa without being satisfied to history and tastes of Bursa which is offering a lot of tastes such as Inegol meatballs, Kemalpasa sweet, Gemlik olives, black figs, artichokes, pears and chestnuts with a way special to itself and with the most natural way. We are ready to protect the touristic values of green Bursa which is surrounded with beauties all around in order to contribute to the tourism of Bursa as well as tourism of Turkey. The objective of the works and projects of SKAL Association for this purpose is to promote Bursa, which I can identify as a brand city. We are aiming at contributing to the national economy by offering better attractions to attract more tourists. Because Turkey grows if tourism grows in Bursa!

from one point and leaving the cave from another is possible. At the Doğanalanı

entrance of the cave, there is a vertical downward descent of 17 meters.


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“Origin Bursa” project supports Bursa brands in the world Historic Buildings of Gursu

Utmost impetus given for tourism projects in Gürsu

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ÜRSU/BURSA Gürsu Municipality was granted 1 million TL by BEBKA (Bursa Eskisehir Bilecik Development Agency) for the project “Alternative Tourism Center” totalling 1,35 million TL. The project particularly focuses on the cultural and historic riches of Gürsu. Within this framework, construction of the Boutique Hotel and the School of Tourism and Nature Sports are underway. Furthermore, the infrastructural Works for Ericek Lagoon of the region and Amphiteatre, including the construction of the road of the platform designed for paragliding are underway. In 2013, The Turkey Championship of Paragliding was carried out in Gürsu. The two historic building located in the İstiklal District of Gürsu would be transformed into a Boutique Hotel and The Center for Nature Sports and Tourism for the benefits of the tourists preferring the region.

Ericek Lagoon, the nearby amphitheater and paragliding platform would be connected to Gürsu a new road. As for the far-reaching tourism projects of Gürsu, a promotional movie in three languages is prepared to publicize the historic and cultural riches of the region. Mr. Orhan Özcü, Mayor of Gürsu pointed out that BEBKA approved four projects of the Municipality that particularly focus on preserving the historic heritage of the town. He added that Gürsu had been planning its future by preserving historic heritage. “ Our development Project is based on Green Energy, Alternative Tourism, Environment and Agriculture Friendly Industry, thereby contributing to development of the region,” he disclosed. Mr. Hüseyin Özmen, Coordinator for Project and Strategic Planning said that the project “Alternative Tourism Center” would contribute to the development of the region considerably. “We are confident that our

projects would be instrumental to upgrade not only the tourism sector but also the basic public services of the region,” he added. There are 56 historic buildings registered by the Council of Monuments. Within this framework, a series of restoration and renovation works are planned, including the restoration of the

Historic Mill of Gürsu. Gursu is a town 12 kilometers away from Bursa. It is surrounded by Kestel at south east and Yıldırım and Osmangazi at the west and Gemlik located north of the town. The district has a historical look with oak trees, Ottoman houses, baths and mosques. Gürsu has fertile agricultural

lands. Industrial organizations in the district are an important source of income for people living nearby. Developing and prospering day by day in the field of nature sports, the district is suitable for parachute sports. The district is looking forward to become an alternative to Fethiye in parachute sports.

Under the framework of European Union Fiscal Support Program, a project of Bursa Governorship was accepted to support thermal, historical and culture tourism potential of Bursa province.

Ahmet Hamdi Usta, Deputy Governor of Bursa and provincial representative in the EU program Continued from Page 1 osting about 200 thousand TL the project covers a time span of seven months. Deputy Governor Usta said, “Origin Bursa project will support branding activities of local products and other assets of the province in both national and international markets. It aims to develop an awareness of about two thousand businesses, sellers and producers who produce value originating from Bursa. In the framework of the project a gastronomy festival will also be held. In the festival, local produces and producers will compete and an international summit of chefs will be convened.” By emphasizing on the importance of Bursa as a local brand source, deputy governor Usta said, “Another project, namely, educational platform for local producers, was also accepted by the agency in the innovation transfer category that has a budget of 400 thousand Euro for two years.”

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Golden Age in transportation in Bursa With its motto of “reachable Bursa”, metropolitan municipality of Bursa realizing dreams of 108 years in inner-city travel by investing in both inner city transportation and in seaway and airway systems for intercity transports. “Seabus and seaplane transportation between Bursa and Istanbul has been well accepted by people and now we are working on Bursa airways,” said Recep Aktepe, Municipalitan Mayor of Bursa

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ursa metropolitan municipality established Bursa Ferry Services (BUDO) in January 2013. Since then the line has attracted ever-growing demand because it provides comfortable travel between Istanbul and Bursa. Started with two daily services between Bursa Mudanya and Istanbul Kabatas ports are made in weekdays, now reciprocal services have increased to five. About 618 thousand passengers have been carried out since at the beginning. Sea plane passages have been started on 1st April that reduces the travel time between Istanbul and Bursa to 18 minutes. One of the important investments in transportation to and from Bursa, sea plane services are done two from Halic to two from Gemlik. Now there are six daily services, with 100 percent of utilization ratio. Since from the beginning 13 thousand passengers have been carried out. Recep Altepe, Bursa metropolitan mayor, said, “Time is an important asset. Businesspeople and managers whose times are very limited, are now able to go and back to Istanbul whenever they needed and solve their problems in same day. We can increase the number of flights when needed.” Bursa metropolitan municipality has established a new airline company with the 95 percent participation of Burulas, and 5 percent share of Besas. The company has applied for the transpor-

tation ministry to be registered as a regional carrier. Mayor Altepe said, “We have talks for the purchase of two airplanes. Lack of airport facilities in Bursa costs

much for the city’s economy. We want to fly from Bursa to Trabzon, Erzurum, Gaziantep, Antalya, Bodrum and Scopia with planes of 80 or 95 passengers.

In the future, direct flights may start to Istanbul. Business circles in Bursa are eager to be served by Bursa Airlines that will improve business relations and the

efficiency of both managers and experts coming to Bursa.” Record investments are done in railroad systems in Bursa. The largest investment of Bursa

greater municipality of its history, goes trail system. Following the present line of 22 kilometers of BursaRay, additional lines to Gorukle, 6.5 km., and Emek line 2.5 km. were made operational. Works on Kestel line that has 7 stops of 8 km. have been fastened. T1 Heykel Garage tram line of 6.5 km. the first main line throughout the city is about to be operational. Test runs are done. Operations will be started in October 15th. With all these projects Bursa will have 48.5 km. of rail line with the additional 26.5 km of new lines. Cablecar is another transport service actively used in Bursa. With an aim to revitalize the attraction of Uludag, new cablecar projects are underway in Bursa. With this projects Uludag will be a destination for the whole year round contributing to the economy of the city. Older lines were removed to replace them with modern lines that will reach up to hotels area on the top of the mountain and will be one of the longest lines in the world with its 8.84 long lines. Each carriage is for 8 passenger and 175 cages will be operational on the line that can run up to 70 kilometer per hour even in windy days. The municipality is also working on road transport in the city. New routes and roads and streets are opened or expanded. A total of 450 kilometers of roads are renovated and rearranged. With several projects major congestions and traffic problems are solved.

BURSA: A shining star in tourism

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Continued from Page 1 ile model for Uluabat For metropolitan municipality that aims to utilize all assets of the city, historical, touristical, agricultural, economical and industrial, Uluabat lake basin is a rare opportunity with its natural and pristine geography. An ecological tourism park projects aims to connect Uluabat lake with Marmara Sea with 38 km. of Kocadere waterway that will host boat tours for tourists. The second leg of the

project covers about 4 million sqm area for ecological tourism park. It will protect all natural habitat and ecosystem. Wooden bench, hobby gardens, rural living centers, cycling and walking pavements, selling stands for regional fruits and vegetables, endemic plant gardens, bird viewing towers, wild life protection and promotion centers, botanic and zoological gardens, water sports facilities and camp areas are to be built. A great stride for congress tourism Built by metropolitan municipality

and that hosted many of events by now Ataturk congress and cultural center, aka, Merinos AKKM, is a major step taken for the development of congress tourism in Bursa. As a part of activities aiming to attract international meetings to the city, Merinos AKKM has been accepted as member of the Association of International Congress Centers, AIPC, that has 170 members in 53 countries in the world, with other centers, Lutfi Kirdar congress and exhibition center and Ataturk cultural center Istanbul.


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Helitaksi flies Bursa Bursa Metropolitan Municipality has started to offer rent-a-helicopter service notably to Istanbul and to all parts of the world.

“Silkworm”, pride of Turkey Test runs are on for the first domestically produced tram “Silkworm”, with the initiative of Bursa Metropolitan Municipality.

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ince its first run in 15 October 2013, the tram attracted great interest of people and has carried 720 thousand passengers in Bursa. The national tram has been manufactured by Durmazlar Machinery Co. and is the first domestically certified vehicle, now runs day and night on its line in Bursa. Recep Aktepe, metropolitan mayor of greater Bursa, is proud to initiate this project that solved traffic problem in the city. With the addition of highspeed train line that will be realized

in the future, the tramline will cut the travel time in the city from one end to another. Travel from Kent Square to Heykel line takes only 20-22 minutes. Presently we have only four vehicle, each can carry 282 passengers, but in the near future they will be six. Hundred percent of made in Turkey; they were constructed at world standards. The company will sell its future manufacture in world markets. We have plans for 8 additional lines for trams. We aimed to cover all of Bursa with rail systems.”

Helitaksi, offered by the Municipality who has been striding to make Bursa an easy-to-reach city, has made the Bursa-Istanbul route a short-cut by air to reduce the time to 25 minutes.

950 passengers used Helitaksi since its launch on November 15 the beginning of January.

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URSA – Helitaksi, a rent-a-helcopter service of Bursa Metropolitan Municipality to make Bursa closer to other cities of Turkey as well as to the world, started its operations. Bursa Metropolitan Mayor Recep Altepe said that they aimed at promoting and developing Bursa at all aspects when he delivered a speech at a conference at the Burulas helicopter field of Helitaksi rent-a-helicopter services. Pointing out that they developed and offered new services on the way to make Bursa a more reachable city, Altepe further added, “We take pride of realizing another first in Bursa and meeting another need of the city. We make our city more adventageous in using airline to and from Bursa.” Bursa-Istanbul 25 minutes “Bursa steps into new age. Our target in Bursa is development at every field” says Mayor Altepe and point out the values which launch of Helitaksi adds on the city. He says, “As a strong city Bursa has made it known to the world with its

new vision in transportation. Helicopter taxi, that is, helitaksi was put on the agenda upon the call of Bursa Chamber of Trade and Industry (BTSO) and the business world. Landing at any point in Istanbul in 25 minutes was an important demand of the business world and a requirement of Bursa. This requirement is met by BURULAS. Mayor Altepe says that they could reach to 100 different destinations in

Istanbul with 6-person 13 helicopters. Planned initially as 4 daily flights, 2 in the morning and 2 in the evening, the number of flights will be increased depending on demand and requirement. There are scheduled flights from Heliport, the landing field of BURULAS, to Istanbul every morning and evening times. This revolutionary opportunity saves time and contributes to the economy and tourism of Bursa.


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Historical transformation in Bursa The Ottoman Monuments, which have become ruins due to the lack of maintenance and been complained by the citizens up until yesterday, are coming to daylight today one after another as the most important values of the city. While Metropolitan Municipality of Bursa is restoring the Ottoman Empire’s first-period monuments most of which stand dilapidated and ruined to their former glory, the regions where monuments exist are gaining ground with respect to both architectural structures and social and cultural aspects.

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n Bursa, which incorporates traces from many periods especially in architecture, due to hosting Bithynia, Roman, Seljuk and Ottoman civilizations, most of the monuments standing dilapidated and ruined have developed into magnificent historic sites guiding the social life, thanks to the restoration works of Metropolitan Municipality of Bursa. Metropolitan Municipality of Bursa restores the city skyline to its former glory with their ongoing restoration works on the 3,400 meter-long walls, containing 14 towers and 6 gates, which were built in the Bithynian period 2,300 years ago. In Bursa, where almost every side of the city is adorned with first period Ottoman monuments due to it’s history as the capital of Ottoman Empire for about 130 years, historical places which had been doomed after the Republic Period, are today adding value to their locations in architectural, social and cultural aspects. Great Transformation with Metropolitan Municipality Thanks to the investments of the Metropolitan Municipality putting over 260 proj-

ects on its agenda in order to reinvigorate the historical sites that constitutes the architectural memory of the city, the historical architecture of the city has started coming into daylight. Mahkeme Bath and Candarli Ibrahim Pasha Cultural Center are among the two of the major monuments rising with their former glory between the contemporary houses in the city center. The historic building that was built by Candarli Ibrahim Pasha in 1421 and having restored twice in 1490 and 1953 restored to its former glory of 592 years ago, thanks to the investments of Metropolitan Municipality. Whereas the women’s bath section of this historic structure, incorporating all the beauties of the Ottoman architecture, has been faithfully restored to its original glory as a bath again, the men’s bath has been turned into a living environment as a cultural center. 6 centuries old architecture Kutahya Inn, which was built for providing revenues for Emir Buhari (Emir Sultan) Endowment in the Murat the Second period, suffered extensive damage in 1608 Jelali revolts and

it was redesigned in 1742. It was renovated again in 1770, following the fire in 1754. The double-storey Inn with a courtyard in the middle that had lost its original identity in each restoration, were revived once again thanks to the restoration works of Metropolitan Municipality of Bursa. The historic building attract attention with it’s structure similar to today’s shopping malls, displays shopping mall architecture of 6 centuries ago with the rows of shops on the storeys and a wide communal area just on the middle of the Inn. Kayhan’s skyline is changing As part of the extensive restoration efforts carried out mainly in Kayhan, Reyhan and Hanlar districts, the skyline of the historic district Kayhan has started to change. The Metropolitan Municipality is also restored Kayıhan Bath that was built in the second half of the 15th century by Vizier Koca Mehmet Nizamuddin Pasha, who had been promoted to Grand Vizier after Sultan Murad the Second’s accession to the throne, to its former glory. Renovation works have been completed in the bath having an area of around 1,400 square meters, which was greatly destroyed by the fires on 1727, 1763 and 1870, respectively. The historic building, which is re-designed as a dining venue authentically to the structure of the location, has already started to welcome its guests. Historical touch to urban transformation Each restoration work being carried out by the Metropolitan Municipality of Bursa, brings a new dimension to urban transformation at the same time. While the

Thermal and spa tourism in Bursa

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YPERLINK “http:// w w w. l o n e l y p l a n e t . c o m / t u r key/ b u r s a” Bursa was once the heart of the Ottoman Empire. It sits in a geothermal area that boasts a number of hot springs. This is a place to come if you want a traditional experience because Turkish baths are known throughout the world. Classic bathhouses with intricate tile designs and arching ceilings can be found all around the central Çekirge District of Bursa. These HYPERLINK “http://www.turkishbathsinturkey. com/?p=bursa_hamams” bathing venues are definitely atmospheric. The minerals in the waters of Bursa are thought to have healing properties. Water is also pumped into a number of area hotels, which operate their own mineral pools for guests. In addition to the bathhouses, Bursa is home to a number of large mosques and palaces inherited from the Ottoman Empire, so history buffs and sightseers will have plenty of options in between bathing sessions. For centuries, people from all over the world have come to the thermal/hot springs of Bursa for

healing. The thermal springs are Hamams with an extra hot water pool inside and acquire hot water from nature without any heating. All thermal spring waters of Bursa benefiting different illnesses was written by several medical doctors. Bursa thermal spring waters come out at the Bademli Bahce and Cekirge regions. Chemical analysis of the water extracted from

both the regions is different and the waters of Cekirge are called steely waters and the waters of Bademli Bahce are called sulfurous waters. In order to find healing from these waters, there are many tourists that visit regularly every year. People discovered the therapeutic powers of Bursa’s thermal springs centuries ago. The SPA holiday with its pampering and its health and beauty treatments may seem like a relatively new phenomenon, but the health giving properties of Bursa’s natural springs have been renowned since the early ages. With one of the best climates in the world, with a unique variety

historical values, which are in ruins surrounded by buildings built in years, are being reinvigorated with restoration and the surrounding buildings are being wrecked via expropriation, little squares are being introduced to the regions. Whereas the area that Emirsultan Bath and Emir Bukhari Cultural Center located has been surrounded by Emirsultan Square, also Incirli Bath that is also surrounded by buildings, added an additional value to the region with its day and night scenery following the completion of the restoration works. Following the restoration works, Incirli Turkish Bath, which was built in 1488 by Qadi ‘asker Alaaddin Fenari son of Yusuf Bali son of Mollah Semseddin Fenari, was reintegrated into Bursa as a cultural center. The bath section of the venue that had been kept lock for 28 years is put into service as a multi purpose saloon and activity area. The building, which is a sample of civil architecture, is reconstructed as 190 square meters frame house with access roads for ground and first floors, whereas the upper floor is redesigned as an inner garden. Streets meet aesthetics As well as the historic buildings, main streets that are the showcase of the city also meet aesthetics thanks to rehabilitation works. Facade rehabilitation works which have been started also in Altiparmak Street, following Atatürk Street and Cumhuriyet Street, helps the buildings to get stronger and also to get rid of the ugly view one after another. The best samples of transformation are being displayed with the facade

rehabilitation works on the streets. Sehbenderler Mansion is renovated as a library Bursa mansions, which are also one of the precious sites of the city, are also being renovated one after another. Mansions that are both private and public have been reintroduced to the city after being restored. Şehbenderler Mansion, which is one of the best examples of Bursa mansions, has started serving as a library following its renovation by Metropolitan Municipality of Bursa. 30 thousands books those are one more valuable than the other, donated by Bibliophile Murat Aksel to the newly renovated library, offer a vast knowledge to the students in the region. Historical mosque is restored to its former glory Bursa Metropolitan Municipality, which is advancing with confident steps towards the goal of entering the list of UNESCO World Heritage List, is also

restoring the 500-year-old Davut Pasha Mosque in the Bat (Second-Hand) Bazaar to its former glory. Putting enormous efforts to restore all the sites including first period Ottoman monuments, Republican period civil architecture structures, 2300-yearsold Bithynian walls to 8500-years-old archeological structures in order to turn Bursa into a living museum, Metropolitan Municipality is renovating one more site in the heart of the bazaar. Metropolitan Municipality, which is a candidate for UNESCO World Heritage List with Historical Bazaar Hanlar Region, has accelerated the restoration of 500-years-old Davut Pasha Mosque in Kayhan Reyhan region. The historical mosque, which was built by Davut Pasha, the vizier of Sultan Beyazit the second, located at the Bat Bazaar, will add further value to the bazaar that the traditional handicrafts are being kept alive.

Fabra International, a recognized multi-national sourcing, producing and trading company of nature, as well as one of the healthiest diets in the world, Bursa is the ideal proposal for psychological and physical health and the search for well being. Eski Kaplica (Old Thermal Spring) is Bursa’s oldest and the largest Thermal Spring. You can relax your body that got fatigued from the intense pace and revive and renew your worn-out soul and health at the thermal springs where the healthy and healing waters are. Bursa thermal spring waters, which have healed the emperors and queens and cured patients for centuries, are being compared to amber which is believed to have high energy healing effects. Able to survive up until today, most recognized thermal springs in the center of Bursa are Eski Kaplica/ Armutlu (Old Thermal Spring) built by Sultan Murad I., Kultuklu Thermal Spring built by Sultan I. Bayezid, Yeni Kaplica (New Thermal Spring) built by Rustem Pasha, the vizier of Sultan Suleyman the Magnificent and the Kara Mustafa Pasha Thermal Springs which was built in his own name. Outside the center of Bursa, there is Oylat Thermal Springs and Citli Mineral Water in Inegol, Tumbuldek Thermal Springs in Akarca Village, Terme Thermal Springs on the highway of Umurbey Village in Gemlik and Agachisar and Sadag Thermal Springs in Orhaneli and they all have continued to deliver healing for centuries.

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abra International was established in 2012, in Bursa, the heart of the Turkish textile industry. The company was founded by Mr. Engin Alemdar, an engineer graduated from universities in Turkey and Great Britain. His academic background and professional experience is a guarantee of the highest quality of company’s products. At the beginning Fabra was founded only for trading. “Our original mission was trading goods all around the world. Later on, under the pressure of the customers we started to produce our unique fabrics to satisfy the most demanding customers. That’s why now Fabra is multi-national sourcing, producing and trading company,” said Mr. Alemdar. Fabra’s team is preparing fabrics from the beginning to the end. Everything starts with the idea of de-

sign. Research & Development team follow fabric fairs and fashion shows very carefully to catch next season trends. Fabra’s designer makes the project and gives it to the factory team. Engineers chose the best composition and make a sample of the design. Fabra has its own machinery equipment mostly with electric jacquard units. After that fabric is dyed or printed. If the final result satisfies Mr. Alemdar, it’s offered to the customers. What’s more, Fabra has its own quality control department, which is responsible for checking every roll before shipment to the customer. Mr. Alemdar takes pride: “Our mission is to be always an innovative and dynamic company that will be profitable for our customers, employees, shareholders and suppliers. Our biggest target is customer satisfaction. We do our best to provide the highest quality customer

care. We have multi-languages team, that can easily communicate in English, Turkish, Polish, French and Russian languages. Our employees are well-educated in marketing and International trades.” Fabra offers their customers many types of fabrics notably high quality Jacquard forever fabrics. Fabra has 10 fully automatic computer aided jacquard weaving machines. The company uses mostly polyester, cotton, polyamide and viscose. Second type of products are cotton energy fabrics produced by high quality cotton yarn, high density and excellent finishing techniques. Fabra is able to weave up to 220 cm width. Fabra offers also expressive prints on viscose jersey, chiffon, satin and cotton jersey. The only thing needed is the photo and every picture can be printed on the fabric. In addition to rotation print, Fabra is able to produce digital prints, panel prints and border prints. The last type is Fit Knit Fabrics, which are produced on knitting machines. That kind of fabric is very soft and elastic. Last month Fabra finished their first full collection – Spring-Summer 14, which includes more than 50 designs. “It doesn’t mean we are not working now. Every week we create lots of new samples and we’re developing our fabrics all the time. It’s a endless process,” added Mr. Alemdar. “We have a lot of ideas and now we are working hard to produce high quality fabrics to satisfy our customers. Our winter 14 collection will be very good.” Fabra will show their collection at the Texbridge textile fair in Istanbul, in February 2014.


Made in Bursa Economic Newspaper, February 2014

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Turkey's project: Anatolian Bazaar

Held under the leadership of the Municipality of Nilüfer, with the contribution of fellow countrymen associations from Bursa, Anatolia Bazaar will be the first project, which features the entire common cult from the Balkans to the Caucasus, in Turkey.

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natolian Bazaar, which Nilufer Municipality Mayor Mustafa Bozbey attaches great importance to, and declared as “A peace and brotherhood project”, will serve as a recreation center, also provides foreign guests the opportunity to learn the values of our civilization through the campus. Inspired by the traditional market concept of Anatolia, Anatolian bazaar project embraces not only Anatolia but also all relatives cults from the Balkans to the Caucasus. Intro-

ducing the entire region, Anatolian Bazaar will make economic activities with tourism at the same time in this region, where cultures lived and formed in these areas. For this purpose, by Nilufer Municipality, with the active participation of fellow countrymen associations, representing all 81 provinces, the Anatolian bazaar will be the first project in Turkey and perhaps the in world as well. The project will serve Bursa people as a unique leisure-cultural center, and allow foreign guests to recognize values of our civilization.

Nilufer Mayor Mustafa Bozbey, “ We believe that the project will attach great interest from all of our people who want to introduce common culture for next generations. In addition, Anatolia bazaar will be a popular center due to recreational areas. Anatolian culture has extremely interesting details for foreign tourists and us as well. The project also will contribute to promotion of Turkey through the world. That’s why, this project is a unique event even in the world. In short, we think that we will contribute both domestic and foreign tourism with Anatolian Bazaar project. At this point, our main target is to be noted domestic tourism. For example, spending their time in shopping malls our countrymen, will have more pleasant moments with their children in Anatolian Bazaar.” Local markets to be formed as well Anatolian Bazaar to be located in a closed area of 163 thousand square meters in the west of Bursa-Mudanya Road, near Balat river. The area in question is also was conceived as a “culture and tourism” project due to its land in the leisure corridor of Bursa city. Anatolian Bazaar is also in extremely convenient area strategically. The Bazaar has a great advan-

Intensive night shift at Covered Bazaar Functioned as the most important trade center of Bursa throughout its history the Covered Bazaar is subjected to a comprehensive renovation work. Bursa Metropolitan Municipality spares no efforts to add value to the historical, tourism, social and economic treasures of the city.

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oof mounting works at Covered Bazaar, the most important leg of restoration works continuing at the historical street and inns zone, which is a candidate for the UNESCO world heritage list, continue throughout the night up until the first lights of the new day. When Recep Altepe, Metropolitan Mayor of Bursa, inspected the works at a midnight, said that the vaulted roof works were about to finish, the mounting tiles on the roof were continuing fast and the Bazaar would gain its original vision when the works from the roof to the ground are finalized. Starting over 150 projects in total in the Walls, Streets and Inns Zone and Kayhan-Reyhan region in addition to the suburban towns, in an effort to recover historical and cultural heritage the Bursa Metropolitan Municipality accelerated the works at the Covered Bazaar. Functioned as the most important trade center of Bursa throughout its

history the Covered Bazaar is subjected to this much comprehensive renovation works for the first time. The roof is completely renewed as a vaulted roof appropriate its original and historical nature and the sides, floor and signs will also be renewed

completely. In order not the businesses in the Bazaar aggrieved, the works completely stop during the day and start at full speed again as soon as the tradesmen close their doors in the evening time.

tage that’s why it is 10 minutes from the Mudanya ferry pier, 5 minutes from Bursa motorway and also 35 minutes away from Yenisehir airport. Serving regional characters for common use, bazaar will offer an environment that will economically meaningful squares in order to market and promote for local products. Depending on the destination mainly for the local products, possibility of booth is scheduled for Bursa companies that could serve in this regard, citizen associations as well. Reflecting 81 provinces, original architectural structures, which whether have

association in Bursa or not, will be used as accommodations facility, which will be formed with buildoperate-transfer or funding opportunities. Venues which, reflects ‘Caravanserai’ architecture, for functions such as meetings, events, shows and displaying, ‘Toy (game-wedding) garden for regional summer wedding, and necessary units are located in the Anatolian bazaar projects, which will have eating and drinking facilities to serve summer and winter for regional type market different from the local market, handicraft production and

training venues, merchandising and sales units, , sports fields, spaces for activities, and areas planned for riches such as local cultures, languages, dialects, music, traditions, folk tales, legends and plays from the Balkans to the Caucasus with a scientific perspective by considering research-review-publication will be organized in the bazaar. Last works of Anatolian bazaar, which can be named as associations campus and its infrastructure works carried out, continue under Anatolian Bazaar Tourism Development and Cooperative roof.


Made in Bursa Economic Newspaper, February 2014

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Bursa, a center of science and technology

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etropolitan Municipality’s Science and Technology Center has become an education base not only for students from Bursa but students of neighboring cities as well. Taking its place as Turkey’s most comprehensive science center with its quality favorable for scientific practical education Bursa Science and Technology Center has become a place where adults learn entertainingly as much as students do. Great interest from citizens Emphasizing that Science and Technology Center has been attracting great interest since the day it has opened President Altepe said that the students find the opportunity to test the knowledge they learnt at school in Science and Technology Center directly and thus providing an opportunity for students, who are interested in science, to improve themselves. Claiming that there are 150 experiment apparatus in Merinos campus of Bursa Science and Technology Center President Altepe stated that the number of experiment apparatus will increase to 250 with the completion of Center’s main building residing next to TUYAP Exhibition Area. Most comprehensive center of Turkey “Bursa Science and Technology Center is the most comprehensive science and technology center of Turkey” said President Altepe and emphasized that they care about Bursa’s being leader in scientific practices and being a role model for other cities. Noting that students from neighboring cities along with Bursa may also benefit from this center as well President Altepe said:

“We want people of Bursa to benefit from these opportunities. Bursa Science and Technology Center is the most comprehensive among all the other centers in Turkey. We visited and observed all the scientific centers in a wide range of countries from South Africa to Kuwait and from Asia to Europe in order to build up this center.” Noting that a few of the experiment apparatus in the center were imported and few of them are domestic product President Altepe explained: “Facilities were founded for production of these experiment apparatus. This is a long term study. Domestic production system was established in order to provide the needed substructure to renew and repair the experiment apparatus which are currently used.” Education Center Adding that the studies conducted by Bursa Science and Technology Center are carried on by Kultur A.S., one of the subsidiaries of Metropolitan Municipality, President Altepe denoted that the center is an educational field. Rifat Bakan, Bursa Kultur A.S. General Manager, said that the system, which is compiled by researching the education program at schools by Turkey Science Centers Research and Development Institute, is prepared at Bursa Science and Technology Center. Bakan called attention to the situation that this way the students could practically perform, what they learnt at school, at the center. Center of science is being completed Building of Science and Technology Center, which is among the monumental structures built in the city this term by Metropolitan Mu-

nicipality, residing next to BUTTIM Exhibition Area has come to completion process. Claiming that Science and Technology Center, which is still functioning in Ataturk Congress Cultural Center, is closing an important gap in Bursa President Altepe said that starting from the first day the center was extremely visited in particular by primary and secondary school students. Telling that the students can come and see the theoretical information they learn at schools as practical in this center Altepe spoke as follows: “Almost 250 experiment apparatus will be exhibited here when the building process ends. Thus we expect an increase both in capacity and number of visitors. We searched the entire world about this. Bursa Science and Technology Center will be among the first 5 centers in terms of capacity and technical equipment. Here students will learn the theoretical information by trying, seeing and living. In here they will practice and see how an engine works, how a helicopter flies, how it winds and rains for themselves. This center will be an important center which not only serves for Bursa but the neighboring cities as well. We are aiming to bring our center, which will make Bursa a brand city, into full service in the shortest time possible.” The new building of Bursa Science and Technology Center will open with a special exhibition named ‘Sultans of Science’. Science and Technology Center, which is planned to open on 25th January, Saturday, is counting the days for opening. ‘Sultans of Science’ exhibition, which will be available to visit on the opening day of the center, comprises first Islam scholars’ discoveries and it will be available for visiting for 6 months at the center.

Tea served at the Mahfel Mahfel (gathering place) allocated to the Metropolitan Municipality by Bursa provincial assembly, has been opened as its original to the service of Bursa people. Bursa Metropolitan Mayor Recep Altepe said they took pride of opening and offering another important historical value of Bursa to the service of the citizens.

Faruk Celik, Minister of Labor and Social Security, said that the youth of Bursa knew Mahfil very well. “I congratulate Recep Altepe for putting this important place into service as its original.”

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he Mahfel (gathering place) allocated to the Metropolitan Municipality by Bursa provincial assembly, has been opened appropriate with its original identity to the service of Bursa people. While renovating Bursa physically the Metropolitan Municipality of Bursa has been regaining the values of Bursa. Mahfel is one of those values. This social plant was subjected to maintenance and repair works and was opened to the service of Bursa people. Delivering a speech at the opening ceremony, Mayor Altepe said, “The Mahfel has an important place in the history of Bursa. Today is a historical day. The Mahfel in Setbasi has always been an important meeting point and become the pupil of the eye of Bursan people. As the 27th social plant we open and put into

service the Mahfel, which has been one of the important spots of the city since 1800s.” The Mahfel first started with the name Varpahnam Refreshment Bar in 1870. Operated by non-Muslims until the Liberty War, it was taken by Turks and named “Republican Family Tea House” and was named “Mahfel” on November 12, 1913 and became a meeting point for almost 150 years for the Bursa people. Mayor Altepe noted that the Municipality continued its activities to recover the values of the city and said, “The pulse of Bursa has always beaten at the Mahfel. It is a pleasure for the Bursa people to tour at Heykel, get some rest at the Mahfel and enjoy a cup of tea. We invite all guests visiting this beautiful city to enjoy this pleasure.”

Coming together in Buttim

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he Turkish home textile industry is one of the world leaders with its wide range of products and superior quality in home textile production, especially in the production of towels, bed sheets and covers, curtains, tulle, embroidery, guipure and quilt covers. Turkey has the largest machine park for the production of both embroidery and guipure in the world. In Europe, the largest factory producing quilt covers is in Turkey. Bursa, known as the city of textile for years, has become a base for home textiles in particular. It is one of the most important manufacturing centers in textile field in the world and it is mostly concentrated on the manufacture of curtains, curtaining and upholstery fabrics, decoration fabrics, bedding products, towels and bathrobes as well as other textiles. There are hundreds of companies which are active in manufacturing and trading on all kinds of textiles in Bursa. It is no accident that Bursa leads in exporting quality home textiles. Bursa's

competitive advantage lies in its ability to innovate and produce products and services at the frontier of global technology. New and modern designs and unique motifs, all produced by home textile designers, keep a finger on the pulse of world home decoration fashion and meet most tastes and preferences. Many of these companies have been organized very well and come together in “Bursa International Textile and Shopping Centre”, called Buttim shortly. In Buttim, there are about 850 textile companies, most of which are active in the sector of home textiles, curtaining and upholstery fabrics. In Buttim, there are about 320 showrooms where every kind of home textiles and textile products are presented to thousands of visitors from home and abroad. Buttim is such a huge center that it has a daily visitor capacity with 20 thousands. Therefore, visitors abroad looking for upper quality and a wide range of home textiles, curtains, curtaining and furnishing fabrics etc. should not go back home without visiting Buttim.


Made in Bursa Economic Newspaper, February 2014

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2300-year history of Bursa comes in sight Works undertaken by Bursa Metropolitan Municipality to bring the 2300-year history of Bursa in sight are coming to an end. Metropolitan Mayor Recep Altepe states that the reconstruction works at 4 of the 6 gates of the city have been completed and the works at the other two are continuing. Altepe explained, “When the Bursa Castle of 2300 years ago and the Bey Palace built by Ottomans era are completed, the Bursa people and tourists will set out on a pleasant journey in the time tunnel.”

Nilufer Municipality writes name of Bursa on caravan tourism Nilufer Municipality offers Misi Kamp caravan area project, which will make Bursa a favorite area for caravan holidaymakers with European Camp and Caravan Federation maps. Bursa did not have such facility so far.

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mplementing important projects for bringing Bursa forward with people-oriented studies as well, Nilüfer Municipality made one more significant project, which will complete a lack of city and contribute to the tourism in the city. Located on 12 acres of land in Gumustepe region, the first camping and caravan sites of Bursa opened in the past months. Caravans and tents tourism, which has an important share in European and U.S. tourism, started to spread in our country in recent years by increasing nature and cheap holidays seeking. Although many camping and caravan sites are organized in Turkey, Bursa was outside of holidaymakers

route until today due to lack of facilities. Dedicated to address the missing, Nilüfer Municipality performs to make a caravan camping area in, Gumustepe region, one of the most beautiful regions in which green and water come together in an area of 12 thousand 360 square meters. With the project a full-fledged resort with 70 sqm administrative building, 360 square meters of social property, a building of 154 square meters area for cooking, washing, showers and toilets, and caravan park areas and tent camping area gained in cooperation with Bursa Camping and Caravan Association. With 40 caravan capacity, another very important feature of the facility is

to provide a safe environment for parents who want to introduce camping and nature for their children. Planned in world-class, some units are also included to meeting campers’ energy and communication needs in the park. Hosting an average of

10 guests with caravans per day, 100 per month although it is fall, the resort has become a favorite facility for locals and foreign caravan. Opened in October, Misi Kamp Caravan Area was also included in the route of the European rally.

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URSA – Works undertaken by Bursa Metropolitan Municipality to revive the 2300-year history of Bursa have come to the end. With a number of Bursa Metropolitan bureaucrats Mr. Recep Altepe, Metropolitan Mayor of Bursa has recently inspected Bey Palace ruins, which is located over Tophane hills which hosts 2300-year walls of Bursa and is reportedly the palace where Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror was born. Mayor Recep Altepe states that the reconstruction works at 4 of the 6 gates of the city have been completed and the works at the other two are continuing. Altepe explained, “When the

Bursa Castle of 2300 years ago and the Bey Palace built by Ottomans era are completed, the Bursa people and tourists will set out on a pleasant journey in the time tunnel.” Mayor Altepe pointed out that they made good time at historical and cultural heritage works and one of the most important works at this regard was the walls of 2300 years and stated, “We are close to the end at works to revive the walls and bastions at the wall area which was a residence zone for Ottomans and before. Reconstruction works at 4 of the 6 gates of the city have been completed and the works at the other two are continuing.” Bey Palace full steam ahead!

Stating that they functioned the walls again on the one hand and they intensified on the activities to regain the real shape of Bey Palace, which is the main target of the wall project, Mayor Altepe said, “Only the wall facing the clock tower at the east survived. In front of it, the tower at the corner of the palace rebuilt after centuries. This tower is one of the towers protecting the palace at the same time. Works at the bastions located at the northeast of Bursa walls are continuing. Everything including the roads, links and support units will be placed on their places. This place will be a very different appearance when the works are completed.”


Made in Bursa Economic Newspaper, February 2014

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“Bursa, driving-force of Turkey!”

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İletişim Magazin Gazetecilik Sanayi ve Ticaret A.Ş. Adına Sahibi ve Sorumlu Genel Yayın Müdürü (Publisher and Editor in Chief): Mehmet Söztutan (msoztutan@img.com.tr)

Editor Ibrahim Kupeli (ikupeli@img.com.tr) Advertising sales marketing Talha Elitez, talha.elitez@imgajans.com Tel: (90.224) 211 44 50

Correspondents: Anıl analan (anil.analan@img.com.tr) Technical Manager: Tayfun Aydın (tayfun.aydin@img.com.tr) Chief Accountant: Mustafa Aktas (mustafa.aktas@img.com.tr) Subscription: İsmail Özçelik (ismail.ozcelik@img.com.tr)

Ibrahim Burkay, Chairman of Bursa Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BTSO) and Uludag Textile Exporters’ Association:

LIAISON OFFICES: BURSA: Ömer Faruk Görün Buttim D Blok Kat: 4 No: 1267 BURSA Tel: (90.224) 211 4450 , 51 Fax: (90.224) 211 4481

IHLAS MAGAZINE GROUP Please mention “Made in Turkey” when writing to advertisers

We realized exports to 193 countries and free zones in 2013. We exported 28 different items. Our main export items are automotive, textile and raw materials, readymade and apparel, machinery and equipment, steel, wood and forestry products, chemicals and chemical products, iron and non-ferrous materials. How did you end up with exports figure of 2013? What is your export target for 2014? Bursa’s exports in 2013 totaled 12.856 billion dollars representing 7.9% increase over the figures of 2012. We realized an increase more than the country average. Our export target for 2014 is 14.5 billion dollars. We take almost 30 thousand members abroad by supporting financially in line with our Global Fair Agency Project under the roof of Bursa Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BSTO). We will carry almost 3 thousand compa-

nies to the fairs we make arrangements with their organizers according to our show calendar 2014. In other words we contribute and support our companies to compete better in international markets by assuming national participation organizations and trade delegations of organized by UTIB. What is your export target for the 100th anniversary of the Republic? Our country has come to a level to set 10-15 years of targets. This is a big advantage. You may realize 500 billion but 650 or 400. There is no such thing as to realize exactly what you set before but if you have a target and have a road map, you will definitely locate yourself at a respectful level. With this approach I consider the target of 500 billion dollars for the country very important. As an all-time locomotive of the Turkish economy, our city Bursa will make remarkable contribution to the 2023 targets of Turkey.

L.E.D illumination tech offers solutions against energy problems

HEAD OFFICE: İhlas Medya Plaza, 29 Ekim Cad. No: 23 34520 Yenibosna - ISTANBUL / TURKEY Tel: (0.212) 454 25 00 Pbx Fax: (0.212) 454 25 98 www.img.com.tr E-mail: img@img.com.tr

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Continued from Page 1 e have a slogan which directs our activities. We say that ‘Turkey grows if Turkey does!’ In line with this principle we stride fast by activating the common sense of the city. I believe that the future of Bursa will be better than its present.” Mr. Burkay answered questions about the details of their operations. Full text of the interview follows: How many countries does Bursa export? What are your major export items? When we look at Bursa, the heart of the national economy, we notice a surplus in foreign trade. In the classification arranged in six categories by the Ministry of Development, Bursa is classified at the 1st category in the socio-economic classification of provinces and regions set. We, as Bursa people, ranked first by overtaking Istanbul in per capita export volume in 2013 and took the lead.

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Continued from Page 1 oday, energy is one of the most important problems of our country and of the world as known. Especially there has been necessity to use the more efficient products due to incremental of energy deficit in the winter months. Along with developing economics of countries; the foundation has already begun to prefer these A-class, strong, reliable and eco-friendly products. AŞAN Family’s own Ledaktif Lighting Industry and Trade. Inc., a firm which occu-

pies trade fully since 1956, has been using its experiences to generate the sales activity of Odsel Electronic Co., Ltd.’s products that own Luxar march in Bursa and Odsel Electronic Co., Ltd. is a leading name of the electronics sector that has large string capacity. Alparslan AŞAN, chairman of the board in Ledaktif lighting Industry Trade Inc. specified to professional support services to companies and shared the examples of their works. The firm that reinforcing their references in a short time has rendered services to big firms as Özdilek – Carrefour Shopping Center, A101 Supermarkets, Bursa&Ankara Coca Cola Company, WIN communication and Turkcell call center. There will the amazing solutions of the cause of offers in choosing the Luxar and Ledaktif for L.e.d Lighting. The happiness of saving for everybody L.E.D light resources are extremely efficient for lighting. L.E.D lamps consume energy 30% - 40% less than fluorescent lambs and again 50% - 80% less than incandescent lamps. An incandescent lamb’s life is 1 or 2 years when it is used 12 hours a day but a L.E.D lamb life is 12 year in the same situation.

In other words, we can say 50,000 hours. Saving in maintenance and easy application Due to long life of L.E.D, this kind of luminaire supports super saving because no changing problem, no repair, or no maintenance. L.E.Ds are very practical in the projects that have some difficulties as high building or bridges. Sure, implementation and maintenance are expensive in these kinds of projects. L.E.Ds can use a lot of place despite to incandescent with them slim,compact built. In new installation, you can save your money unless payment to thick copper wire. Strong and Reliable L.E.Ds are stronger against temperature change and vibration so you can get light continuity. Due to not containing any glass component, they are used in construction area, companies and some vehicles. L.E.D lambs are not fragile and this quality makes them different from other lambs. Eco- friendly L.E.Ds are recycling and eco-friendly. Fluorescent and C.F.L have contain mercury

and electromagnetic wave this is dangerous for human health. L.E.Ds don’t contain these things. Aşan says that there has been the equivalent luminaire though all of the luminaires and he continues: There has been equivalent for all luminaire in the market. We supply 50% to 80% saving. We supply 4 years long life. The most important thing is light continuity. All of this advantage is incredible good for the country’s economy. Commenting on the situation of the sector Aşan said, “I hope this country will not become a L.E.D dump site. Uncontrolled production and import of poor quality production from China becomes a danger for the sector. Alright, high quality products can be produced in China but uncontrolled import damage a lot of people. I want to remember to ask quality specification and standardization. It has to have test report. We make product under all quality standards and test situation in Manisa with suitable ındustrial condition.

Inoksan, a world brand in industrial kitchen sector One of Turkey’s rising stars, the industrial kitchen sector has been showing a fast development in recent years. The sector develops in parallel to the gastronomy sector and its leaders keep offering brand new equipment to the professionals of the sector. Mr. Vehbi Varlık, Chairman of the Board of Directors of İnoksan, a company which has kept its position as the sector’s leader after 33 years, told us about the sector and the company.

Mr. Vehbi Varlık, Chairman of the Board of Directors of İnoksan

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t is essential to keep ahead of competitors in a market where competition defines who will sit in the leader’s couch. It may not always be enough to undersign striking projects for a brand. The success comes through updating and adapting oneself to the technological innovations. For example, the most important criteria in determining the competitive power of a country

is not to compare its present with the past but to compare it to other countries in its present situation. You will fall behind in competition if your competitors show faster development than you. A business which takes innovative action will always update itself to the developments and distinguish itself from its competitors. İnoksan’s story started in Bursa, in

1980, and after a long challenging journey it has become the pioneering leader of the industrial kitchen sector in Turkey. We are continuously improving and developing our business to offer the best products and service to our customers. Flawless project service, superior product quality, innovative technologies and new product designs as well as a reliable after-sales service network are our strongholds. With 33 years in the industrial kitchen sector, İnoksan’s team consists of highly specialized staff. Our leadership in the sector has been gained through our market and customer oriented business performance, production technology and customer-satisfaction principles. We are a large family of 400 members who are all excited to offer a flawless service to all shareholders of the business. “Hard competition in global markets” It is quite challenging to be a producer and industrialist in the industrial kitchen sector. There is a great competition going on in the global market with world giants who are a hundred years old. Global brands are usually specialized in one specific equipment of the industry, for example, ovens or coolers; whereas, we, the Turkish manufacturers try to produce all these items under one facility. Global brands are specialized in a single product group and have more practical and simple work lines from purchasing to production plan-

ning. On the other hand, we are having great challenges in all these processes since our sector volume is on a level hard to compare to those of global brands. We have to produce small quantities as much as possible of each item. “Quality-oriented production” Although faced with various problems the industrial kitchen sector has come a long way to gain an important place in the international competition. The raw material of the sector is heavily dependent on foreign markets. Due to the 1996 customs union agreement, kitchen equipment requires CE marking and therefore stainless steel and other materials are purchased from outside the country. The economic crisis, instabilities, and negative approaches to foreign exchange poli-

cies are challenges we have to face in competing with international firms in the Turkish and global markets. We maintain advanced technology production lines and our production is quality-oriented. In Turkey, the highest quality sheet is used by

İnoksan. Our company generates employment for 3,000 people in the Turkish economy where we export to five continents and maintain 40 local dealers, and 80 authorized technical services that overall determine the dynamics of the sector.



Made in Bursa Economic Newspaper, February 2014

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Culinary culture in Bursa region Served as the capital city for the Ottoman Empire for 130 years, Bursa now offers much talked about delicacies to its guests. Originated from Ottoman Culture, the rich cuisine of Bursa is famous for its Iskender Kebab, Inegol Meatball, Kemalpasa sweet, Chesnut sweet and Mihalic Cheese.

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skender Kebab A very famous kebap that is well known throughout the country. Started by Master Iskender at the end of the 19th century, this revolving kebab is served with other barbeques on thinly sliced pitas that were covered with yogurt and hotly served with hot pepper and butter. Inegol Meatball Brought by the immigrants from the Balkans in 19th century, this dishes that are made of little meatballs have become famous again in 1930s in the small restaurant of Mustafa Besler, who started to sell its meatballs under Inegol Kofte label. Kemalpasa sweet Earlier known as cheese-sweet, it started to be produced in Mustafakemalpasa province in the 1930s and then began to penetrate in other

parts of the country. The sweet is made of sheep cheese by combining flour, semolina and eggs. The sweet is then cooked in furnace. Sold in packages, the food is than treated with warm and sugary liquid and served with additional toppings.

sipsi, ogmac soup, meaty celery, olive oil chestnut cabbage fill, mumbar fill, liver cover, damat paca, milky pumpkin, chestnut lokum and others.

Mihalic cheese Produced in the Karacabey province of Bursa, is made of sheep and cows milk. Highly porous, higly salty and has its own unique flavor and aroma. Chesnut sweet Made of quality chestnuts collected from the skirts of Uludag, the product is made by boiling them in the sugar. It has variety of flavors and kinds for this sweet. Other food and dishes is also famous in Bursa, among them ara tarhana soup, grandfather soup,

Bursa’s crescents, stars decorate mosques across the world

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BURSA - Anadolu Agency lems, the crescents and the stars on top of the minarets i n mosques, do not turn black thanks to a special mix discovered by the artisan Ayhan Savut, who has been dealing with this business for long years in the

northwestern province of Bursa. These alems are also sent to various countries abroad to adorn the tops of the domes and minarets. Savut said he produced the alems, which are essential decorations of Islamic architecture, by processing silver plates in a three-storey mansion where he was born and grew up. He said that his grandfather was an apprentice of an alem and silver artisan and took his mastership in Ulu Mosque in 1889. “My father did the same business and I am also doing it,” he said. “My father was working as an executive assistant in the district

governor’s office and left his job at the age of 30 to get involved in this alem business. I have been getting involved in it for 50 years, too.” Savut said that the art of the alem was seeing hard days and artisans had difficulties finding apprentices and qualified workers. “When we get old and sick, we will have to close this workshop. But we will try to make this business survive for as long as we are in good health. There are only 14 artisans who are producing alems in Turkey. Thanks to a mixture of mine, these alems do not turn black and have been sparkling for many

years. Producing an alem is both hard and expensive. Outsiders are working, and leave when their work is done. I can’t keep a worker for a long time. I am struggling due to my love for this art,” he said. Savut said that he was sending his alems to many countries. Noting that he had produced the alems of the mosque, which the Saudi Arabian king built in 1979 in Riyadh, Savut said, “I am sending alems to the Netherlands, Germany, U.S., some African countries as well as Turkish provinces of Hakkari, Adana and Diyarbakir.”

Silver alems more enduring He added that alems were more enduring if they were made of silver, and the material did not decay even if it was kept underground for 1,000 years. Savut said that it was easy to process silver, and continued: “Some historic mosques bring their alems to me for maintenance. I receive 550-year-old alems. Our ancestors made those alems using silver. “The price for alem changes between 100 and 1,000 Turkish Liras. To produce an alem, I first give shape to a silver plate with a knife and

then boil it. The next step is to process it in lathe. Then I give its design and polish it. After cleaning it, I apply my special mixture on it. In this way, the alem does not turn black. When it dries up, i t can decorate a d o m e . ” S a v u t a l s o noted that they received m a n y demands particularly in the summer months and he was working hard.

Bursa’s new stadium to glare 7000-ton roof will be the first at a stadium in Turkey. The new stadium gained to the city by Bursa Metropolitan Municipality is Turkey’s first stadium in which ‘stretched membrane’ system based on stretching 7 thousand tons weighing steel material with ropes is implemented. Satisfying UEFA standards the stadium will be a living attraction center in terms of both its architecture and dynamic structure.

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Continued From Page 16 fter the completion of steels carcass, Teflon material will be coated. Teflon coating, which is fire, minus 35 and plus 80 degree resistant, non-shrink, unbreakable and rigid construction material, will be implemented in Turkey in Bursa for the first time. As Teflon coating is expected to last for 2 months, all the construction is expected to be finished up until the New Year. Recep Altepe, Metropolitan Municipality Mayor, is following all the phases of stadium construction, which is the biggest monumental construction they brought in this term, closely. Providing information regarding roof installation Altepe mentioned that the rough construction is completed and elaborate work and facing works are going on fast. Mayor Altepe denoted that steel roof installation and Teflon material coating will soon be completed. “Stadium to be a model in Turkey” Claiming that the stadium is the biggest investment of Bursa with its 185 thousand meter square construction area Mayor Altepe said: “We are trying to make Bursa a world brand. At this point, Bursa’s biggest trump is Bursaspor. This project is done after examining lots of stadiums in the world. The construction is going on with strict attention. The best technology is used. Our stadium

has a capacity of 45 thousand people. It is possible to clearly see the field from every seat. A model to be stadium in Turkey is being constructed. It will suit Bursa very well. It is a very important project for Bursaspor’s future. Right now elaborate work is being done. Our roof construction has commenced. It is done using German technology. We should make Bursaspor not only Turkey’s team but also a world brand. I suppose we will attract our guests coming to Bursa with this stadium.” Mountain climbers will install the roof Stadium’s roof, one of the most important projects of Bursa, is constructed in Istanbul with 7 thousand 200 tons of steel of which 80% imported. 150 mountain climbers coming from Switzerland will install the Teflon based fireproof Crocodile figured covering, which is prepared in Germany and complete the construction. Stadium’s entrance will be glass curtain. Glass will be installed on ropes. On the other hand, the roof, in which 24 earthquake isolators brought from Germany will be used, will be magnitude 8 earthquake resistant. The stretching of the ropes will be done by special mountain climbers; special hydraulic jacks brought from Switzerland will be used. Prestigious project The stadium, one the most prestigious projects of Bursa, is con-

structed in accordance with the latest criteria of UEFA and with the equipment to host international organization. The stadium, which is covering nearly 179 thousand 611 meter square reinforced concrete construction field and 6 floors in total being 3 floors having 68 x 105 meter field area in velodrome and 283 x 212 meter shell sizes, 2 basements and 1 platform floor, comprises 8 blocks. There are 207 seats for disabled people in the stadium with a capacity 45 thousand people. As the

parking garage has a capacity of 652 cars and 2 autobuses, an area of 96 thousand 151-meter square area will be constructed along with the landscaping including open area which will serve 1562 cars and 256 autobuses. The roof of the stadium, which is one of the rare stadiums to be conceptualized with the symbol of the team in the world, will look like a crocodile, which is Bursaspor’s symbol. There will be 60 turnstiles and 84 stadium entrances doors in the stadium.

Standards needed to be set for İznik tile, artisans say

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Continued From Page 16 ou cannot remain behind something which has no criteria. For a few times, I went to the owners of some leading İznik ateliers in İznik and asked them to come together to an atelier chain. I told them ‘We can set standards for the İznik tile there. We can also exchange ideas with university academics.’ But this request of mine was not realized, too,” he said. Güven said that İznik tiles were a nostalgic type of ceramics, but in the present day, cheaper and semi-industrial ceramics were being produced. “We should support and produce nice and enduring tiles. Others are cheap products, which are sold with economic concerns.” Europeans fail He said that Europeans tried to make tiles resembling İznik tiles but they failed, adding that the business of the İznik tile was a unique one. Noting that the material of İznik tiles existed in İznik only, Güven continued: “Most producers do not use this material right now.

This material is not known enough. It has not been formulated and does not have a standard. We do our best to use it. With the establishment of a research institute here, it will be revealed how the traditional İznik tiles should be made. Original İznik tiles cannot be produced because its criteria are not known.” He also said that artisans could not also conduct research because of economic difficulties and the art could not progress. “Like a painting of a famous painter, the İznik tile should have attached value. It is the ‘identity’ of Turkish culture,” he said.


Made in Bursa Economic Newspaper, February 2014

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Traditional art of Bursa: Bursa towels

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eing one of the great values of Bursa, the Towel is a gift of velvet touch that Bursa presented to the world. It is an absolute must in our daily lives and the place it was born and raised in Anatolia is Bursa. How people dried themselves in the past and in which ways are recorded in the pages of history. However getting enjoyment out of it with soft and fluffy towels probably had been lived by the Bursa people first. But

of course, what could be more natural than Bursa inventing the towel where it is famous for its waters, fountains, Hamams and thermal springs? The history of the towel in Bursa goes back 300 years. Towel making was born as a spin-off of velvet weaving. This beautiful approach was started in the beginning of the 18th century, at the primary hand looms by making five or ten towels a day, has developed and continued for three centuries. Usually made from the cotton yarns, the Bursa towels were being weaved on the hand looms in the past, but with establishment of modern facilities of towel making by the efforts of the Towel Making Cooperative founded in 1941, it started to develop and open up to the world and over time manufactured by a strong industry. In time, towel industry became very powerful. Turkish Towels, which are generally made of cotton, were exported to India, Iran, Syria, Egypt and Balkan countries in the 18th and 19th centuries.

If you're in the market for a few fluffy towels or one of those luscious Turkish bathrobes, the prices and selection at Bursa's Covered Bazaar can't be beat. Silk fabrics, such as scarves, blouses, and tablecloths, are available in shops on the upper level of Koza Hani, the historic bedesten (covered market) next to Orhan Camii. Towel cakes for your friends! You can benefit from Bursa’s pure cotton towels whenever you want to prepare towel cakes. February is a month when you may find yourself searching for the perfect gift for one of numerous occasions that mark the start of a new chapter in someone’s life. Whether you have a relative who is graduating and living on his own for the first time, a dear friend who is getting married or someone who is buying their first home, a towel cake is a great way to turn a gift of necessities into a chic, charming masterpiece that other guest will envy and the recipient will surely appreciate. Towel cakes can be a variety of sizes and can be made to fit any theme, taste or budget. To begin, you will need to organize your ingredients. The following description is for a moderately sized three-layer “cake.” However, the “recipe” can be tweaked to make other variations. 2 large bath towels 3 hand towels 3 washcloths Large Safety pins Long straight pins (decorative pins, those with pearls or colorful balls for heads are ideal.) Ribbon – Satin or organza work well Decorative items and finishing touches that only you can add 1. For the base layer, you will use the large HYPERLINK "http://

Bursa: Rising economic power in home textiles and automotive exports

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Continued From Page 16 he home textile exporters operating in Bursa are very conscious about fashion and design which enables them to gain a competitive edge in international markets. Innovative and modern designs and unique motifs, all produced by designers keep the pulse of world home decoration fashion and meet all tastes and preferences. The home textile exporters exhibit her full potential in home textiles in major specialized fairs both in Turkey and abroad. Bursa, known as the city of textile for years, has also become a base for automotive industry thanks to rise in exports from the automotive companies of the city. Hundreds of foreign companies have settled in Bursa’s industrial zones, which have become centers of Turkey’s automotive and textile industries. Almost two-thirds of the roughly 900,000 vehicles that Turkey is expected to export to foreign markets are assembled in Bursa. Thousands of people work in giant car factories that produce vehicles for global companies like Renault and Fiat to be sold on the growing Turkish market or to be shipped to Europe. The car industry in Bursa is hugewith Renault and Fiat vehicles manufactured in factories to be sold in Turkey or exported to Europe. More recently, government officials and businessmen have been trying to promote Bursa as a tourist destination. The Turkish automotive and spare

parts industry is concentrated in the Marmara Region, mainly in Bursa. Two major car factories and two “Organized Industrial Zones” are located in Bursa. The automotive supplier industry of Bursa produces almost all types of parts, components and spare parts such as engines and engine parts, power train parts and components, brake and clutch parts and components, hydraulic and pneumatic systems, suspension systems, security systems, rubber and plastic parts, chassis, frames and parts, casting and forging, electrical equipment and parts, lighting systems, accumulator bat-

teries, seats etc. The auto parts industry of Bursa has developed rapidly as a consequence of developments in the automotive industry. The auto parts industry with its large capacity, wide variety of production and high standards, supports automotive industry production and the vehicles in Bursa and also has ample potential for exports. The automotive and auto spare parts industry have prospered dynamically in line with ever increasing demand from abroad . So, business people operating in the industry have become outward oriented more than ever before.

www.towelselections.com/11-bathtowels" \o "Bath Towels" bath towels. Each one needs to be folded in half lengthwise twice. Pin the ends together then roll it into a tight coil, using pins to anchor it. Then repeat with the other HYPERLINK "http:// www.towelselections.com/6-towels" \o "Towels" towel. 2. For the second layer, use the hand towels and the washcloths will serve as the top layer. For each layer repeat the folding, rolling and pinning. 3. Place each coiled layer on top of the larger layer and pin it to the previous one, to add stability. Be sure you are using a tray or cake stand so it can be easily transported. The tray or stand can be another gift for the recipient. 4. With the foundation complete, add ribbon around each layer for aesthetics and add any other decorative items that will complete your theme. 5. In addition to towels, you can add kitchen utensils, decorative soaps, scented candles, toiletries, tools, office supplies, or any other items that strike your fancy and may be useful to the receiver. There are no rules about what can or cannot be added, have fun with it and use your imagination to make it a one of a kind gift that is both attractive and practical and not likely to be found anywhere else.

Agriculture in Bursa

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ursa has also great importance in the country’s agriculture with its fertile valleys and plains. In Bursa, where almost every kind of fruit and vegetables can be produced in very high quality agricultural products are in much favor both in the domestic and export market. A major part of the fruits produced in Bursa are exported with black figs, peaches, cherries, strawberries, chestnuts and apples coming high on the list. Bursa is also renowned for its quality olive and olive oil production. In recent years, an important development has been made in animal husbandry with the implementation of projects in the regions of Harmancık, Büyükorha n, Orhaneli and Keles, an area which is known as mountain region and also in Karacabey, Mustafa kemalpaşa, Yenişehir and İznik. Bursa is founded on a unique geographical position with its natural resources. Tens of natural monuments such as İnkaya Çınarı, Kavaklı Çınarı, Koğukçınar, Ağlayan Çınar, the caves such as Ayvaini and Oylat, and Saidabat and Suuçtu Waterfalls have continued to fascinate their visitors for centuries on the four sides of the city. Bursa is rich in agriculture but its world famous fresh fruits are peaches and figs. Velvety fruit of Bursa: Peach City of Bursa is famous for its juicy peaches. There are many varieties of peach in Bursa and it is one of the most popular fruits during the summer months. Thought to be spread throughout the world from China, the peach is seen as

the symbol of long life and immortality. The peach trees live an average of 30 years but they are removed after 15-20 years at the most in Bursa. It is very juicy and the most important feature this sweet fruit is its furry skin. For those that are not too fond of the velvety texture, a hairless smooth kind called nectarine in Bursa is being widely produced in recent years. Kernel of the peach that is easily removed is called “yarma” (split) and the one that is stuck to the pulp is called clingstone peach. Split peach is usually consumed as fresh fruit. Clingstone peach is canned. There are two types known as white and yellow plump in our country. With Bursa Plain being opened for construction, peach production is being reduced little by little.


Made in Bursa Economic Newspaper, February 2014

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Looking for excitement?

Best time to go to Uludag! Uludag mountain is a popular destination for winter skiing.

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he Mount Uludag ski resort has become an attraction center in the Bursa province and Marmara region of Turkey and is now part of the Uludag National Park. Many tourists are extremely surprised to find the opportunity to enjoy winter skiing so close by and flock here from Bursa. Mount Uludag literally means the 'Grand Mountain' and offers a range of winter sports, including both skiing and snowboarding, and during the warmer summer months, lends itself to an array of recreational activities, such as hiking, mountain biking, horse riding and camping. Featuring an altitude of more than 2,500 meters / 8,200 feet, whatever the time of year, you can be assured exceptional views from Mount Uludag, which stretch well beyond Bursa on a fine day. Uludağ Ski Centre consists of two seperate parts. It has a 1st and 2nd Zone. There are 16 hotels up and operating in the Ist Zone where the investments have been completed. In the 2nd Zone where it had been declared as a "Tourism Centre" in 1986 has a 3300-bed capacity, a parcel of land for 11 hotels has been arranged and allocated to the Investors. There are numerous state-owned facilities and a hotel in Uludağ Ski Centre, 12 Public and 15 owned by the private sector. In total 27 accommodation facilities exist and a 3000 bed capacity. In addition to the hotels, shopping and entertainment centers, a health clinic also serves in Uludağ Ski Centre. In Uludağ Ski Centre there are Ski Rooms for hire, skiing kits for sale and ski trainers available for ski courses. In Uludağ Ski Centre the ski tracks are about 20km long. In order to make Northern and Alphine Style

Skiing, tour skiing and snowboarding there are suitable areas available also for Heliskiing. In Uludağ Ski Centre the height of the snow can reach up to 3 meters high during the winter. In Uludağ Ski Centre there are 8 chair lifts and 7 teleski serving. The best time for skiing in Uludağ is during the period between December 20th and March 20th. Uludağ Ski Centre gets about 3 meters of snow under normal winter conditions displaying powdery snow at the beginning and dewy snow towards the end of winter. Uludağ's Ski Centre's hotel region includes 8 chair lifts and 7 teleskis in the 15 mechanical facilities there are 11000 person/hour capacity existing and 13 various ski tracks in the ski center. Tra nsportation to Uludağ Ski Centre can be accessed both by land and teleferic. There are in total four ropeway lines two of them in Bursa Kadıyayla (1235m) and two in Kadıyayla Sarı Alan (1621m). On every line a cable car carrying 30 people runs. However it is forbidden to convey the skiing kits by ropeway. Minibuses work from Sarı Alan to Uludağ Ski Centre to the hotel region. The distance between Sarı Alan and Uludağ Ski Centre's hotel region is 7 km. Moreover in the summer time from Sarı Alan to Çoban Kaya (1750m) can be accessed by chair lift. The trip takes nearly 45 minutes.

The road from the center of Uludag to the National Park entrance is 22 km, from the National Park to Uludağ Ski Centre the hotel region is 12 km. A Minibus and taxicab from Bursa city central to Uludağ can be found any hour of the day during winter. Climbing up to Uludağ Ski Centre by minibus takes on average about 1hr 3o minutes. If accessing Uludağ Ski Centre by private vehicle Çekirge route is the appropriate option from Bursa. In winter chains, chock and towrope should be carried in all vehicles. On the way to

Uludağ there are stores to buy or hire chains. In the summer, the mountain is also very popular with tourists and daytrippers. Uludağ is within a national park, there is easy walking up the gentle slopes, beautiful glacial lakes and forests and Alpine meadows to picnic by, plenty of hotels, cable cars and fantastic food. In winter, Uludağ is transformed into a very popular and busy ski resort.

Yıldırım, traces of history Bursa. You can take the bus to go there. If you go there with a group of people you can stay in one of the houses in the village and have a chance to try different tastes, taking photos while experiencing the routines and lifestyles of people. In Cumal›k›z›k there is an annual “Raspberry Festival” at the 3rd week of June.

“Most preferred” hotel of South Marmara Region, Almira Hotel Thermal Spa & Convention Center

General Director of Almira Hotel Thermal Spa & Convention Center, Ersin Yazıcı

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erving as a thermal hotel of 5 star category in Bursa city centre, Almira Hotel Thermal Spa & Convention Center is 35 kilometers to Uludağ, 20 kilometers Mudanya / Güzelyalı ferryboat dock, 40 kilometers to Yenişehir Airport and has the sight of Merinos Park, Atatürk Congress and Culture Center, Uludağ and city. General Director of Almira Hotel Thermal Spa & Convention Center, Ersin Yazıcı stated that Almira Hotel has entered into a period of renovation, and the room with new concepts of park and nature sights, french balcony and special details will be very liked by their guests.

Having its variety of tourism activity within itself by the Thermal Investment they have carried out a few years ago, Almira Hotel presents its guests natural health cures, SPA services besides the luxury and comfort, also it meets the needs of its guests who travels with health purposes. Ersin Yazıcı also shared the knowledge that they are quite assertive with their 12 differently sized and specialized meeting halls, technical equipment, professional staff who is aware of the power of details and a quarter century’s experience of meeting and congress tourism. Having carried out many organizations about catering services, Almira Hotel serves its guests at its best when it comes to catering services both inside and outside the hotel with its certified service quality, safe food which is prepared by its awarded cooks. Stating that they have hosted particular events with in the honor of Elizabeth II the Queen of England and her spouse, our President of the Republic, our Prime Minister being in the first place, many wedding ceremonies, circumcision feast, company dinings as successful catering organizations, Ersin Yazıcı said that they will continue to stand as the top-brand and choice of Bursa with the service they present.

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ıldırım is a metropolitan district in the center of Bursa in Turkey. The district was named after Ottoman Sultan Bayezid I. It was founded in 1987 and it has a size of 399 km². The Sultan Bayezid I’s nickname was Yıldırım, which means thunderbolt in Turkish. Yıldırım, which is located at the foot of the Mt. Uludağ is 399 square kilometers (km²) and 150–155 meters in elevation. Kestel and Gürsu are located west of Yıldırım, and Demirtaş, a sub district of Osmangazi, lies to the north. South of Yıldırım is Mt. Uludağ and to the north are relatively flat lands. The BursaAnkara highway passes through the Yıldırım district. Cumalıkızık Festival Cumalıkızık is one of the five villages outskirts of the Uludağ, located in the east of Bursa, 13 km to Bursa on road to Ankara. It is partof the foundation Orhan Gazi. Cumalıkızık, one of the most important examples of rural ar-

chitecture from the Ottoman Period, has preserved its traditional fabric for 700 years. It was kept under protection by regulation in 1980. Preparations for converting rooms in every house in the village into house motels have been carried on. Brochures of Cumalıkızık are presented both in national and international fairs. Houses in Cumalıkızık have two or three floors. They can be entered through the courtyard by the wooden gate. The base of the courtyard is made of stone and soil. The color of walls are generally yellow, blue, white, purple and green. There is no window at the entry due to privacy. Windows are found in unoccupied rooms. Fifty seven houses out of two hundred and seventy are examples of certified civilian architecture. Besides, there is a mosque, a bath and two sycamores and a fountain found in Cumalıkızık. We advise you to have breakfast in the 700 year old Ottoman village just 20 minutes away from

“Ottoman Village Living in The Third Thousand Years” Project Carried out restoration work on the historic buildings, Yıldırım Municipality organizes “Ottoman Village Living in The Third Thousand Years” Project within the scope of urban renewal and restoration work dedicated to be transferred to future generations. Municipality will complete restoration of totally 270 historical places including 176 registered in order to carry them to the third thousand years. The historical texture of the village has been well protected and the civilian countryside architectural structures of the early Ottoman period are still intact. Because of this, Cumalıkızık has become a popular but still unspoiled center for tourists. Smelling history Molla Yegan Madrasah It was built by Kara Eyne Bey who was one of the notables during the Yildirim Bayezit era. Because Molla Yegan taught for a while at the madrasah Kara Eyne Bey built and he took care of the madrasah and the foundation, it was referred to by its second founder a lot more and received the name ‘’Molla Ye-

gan Madrasah’’. It is situated on the left of the inside street that extends from the Tatarlar Street to the Yildirim Complex. The madrasah was repaired by the Yildirim Municipality and rented out to businesses. Within the scope of protection of heritage sites and historic cities, bu carrying out the restoration work of Molla Yegan Madrasah, Yildirim Municipality completely transformed the venue into a cultural center. The Cumalıkızık ethnography museum in the village’s square displays historical objects from the village. Every June there is a raspberry festival. The famous Cumalıkızık houses are made out of wood, adobe, rubblestones. Most of them are triplex houses. The windows upstairs are generally latticed and with a bay window. The handles and knockers on the main entry doors are made of wrought iron. Cobblestone streets are very narrow with no sidewalks, but a typical medieval gutter in the center for rain and waste water. Zeyniler opened for tourism Hosting ‘Çalıkuşu’ novel by Rashad Nuri Güntekin, one of the oldest settlements in Bursa, Zeyniler came back to life again with the restoration work of Yıldırım Municipality. one of the most significant historical value of Bursa, the region was frequented by local and foreign tourists after restoration work. In addition, impressive Bursa view, runway with wind for paragliding lovers of sports makes sport tourism more active in the region.


Made in Bursa Economic Newspaper, February 2014

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Tourism in Bursa

Mehmet Haluk Beceren, Chairman of the Board, South Marmara Touristic Hoteliers and Businesses Association

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ursa is the next important center in terms of tourism potential after Istanbul. With a wealth of historical and cultural assets Bursa is an important destination. Bursa and neighbouring Iznik have ornamented by unique works of early Christianity and Ottoman era. Uludag Ski Center, winter tourism center of Turkey is 40 minutes away from Bursa and has all the facilities for winter tourism. Shores of the sea of Marmara in Turkey, has been a preferred holiday destination for many years. Uludag National Park is

an ideal environment for daily excursions, camping and trekking. The skirts of the mountain offer magical beauties for jeep safari or off-road vehicles. Many places to explore the natural beauty of authentic Ottoman villages, waterfalls and caves are located. Bursa health spas have been utilized since the Roman era. Cekirge, in the downtown, is a center for spas, that have been visited by people all year round. Iznik and Uluabat lakes are ideal for water sports, kayaking and surfing. One should stay in Bursa at least two days to get to know it sufficiently. Iznik, one of the most important centers of the Middle Ages and Nicene era, requires another day to explore. Bursa has all the people, the richness and hospitality facilities to host its visitors from all over the world an from Turkey. There are about 10.333 beds and 4.024 rooms in 68 tourism facilities all are certified tourism businesses. In other 17 investments are 3.400 beds in 1700 rooms. Bursa needs to become a valuable tourism

destination and a brand. With the works of restoration done recently Bursa have become an open-air museum. I have to mention our appreciation for the steps taken recently. In order to make Bursa a branded destination we should elaborate on the historical, cultural, touristic, urban, geographical and folkloric elements as well as the economic and industrial profile of Bursa. Special working groups should be assembled to develop a contemporary vision for Bursa and to increase the promotional efforts that will add to the brand value of Bursa. Bursa has a great potential in congress tourism as well. Realized by the cooperation with Bursa metropolitan municipality and Chamber of Commerce and Industry Ataturk Culture and Congress Centre should be given impetus. Every congress done in Bursa, means a serious contribution to Bursan economy. Its proximity to major cities, alternative sea transports, history, nature and current facilities make Bursa an ideal for congresses. We believe that effort

to promote our Convention Center should be stepped up. Participation to domestic and international tourism trade fairs is of great importance. With this aim, domestic and international fairs have been participated by the joint efforts and contributions of Bursa governor’s office of special provincial administration and Gumtop for years. The major fairs and events namely ITB Berlin, Moscow, Dubai, Emitt International Tourism Fair have been participated with the cooperation of Bursa Governor’s Office of Special Provincial Administration and products and services of tourism have been exhibited. All efforts for the development in tourism in Bursa aims to get more share in the tourism revenues. On behalf of our industry I would like to thank Bursa governorship for the efforts, supports and contributions. Thermal tourism is gaining momentum among the destinations in the world tourism. Thermal investments extend the tourism seasons and increases the spending of individuals. In recent years, efforts are increasing on developing health tourism in which Bursa has a serious potential in this field as well. With its growing number of private hospitals, Uludag University school of medicine and public hospitals, its high quality hotels, resorts and entertainment facilities, touristic certified facilities, historical and cultural assets, Bursa has all abilities to provide both treatment and holiday services to the health care seeking tourists. Bursa has to invest more in the thermal facilities and other

EMITT, 18th East Mediterranean International Travel & Tourism Exhibition, opens for another record-breaking edition

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Continued From Page 1 ighlighting EMITT’s key importance, the event is supported by the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the Turkish Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges and the Metropolitan Municipality. In addition, 6 professional chambers and 36 associations and foundations also support the event. A new feature at EMITT 2014 will be the inclusion of both a dedicated winter and health tourism hall. Hacer Aydin, EMITT’s Exhibition Director, states, “Participants and visitors will come across many new innovations at EMITT. The exhibition will provide cities, development agencies, tourism companies and professionals, key insights into the fast moving tourism industry, providing a platform to network and acquire further knowledge and contacts.” A private hall for the health care sector at the EMITT 2014 Fair! The EMITT 2014 Fair, aiming to raise the bar of Turkey’s health care, aesthetics, thermal and SPA tourism, is allocating an entire 2,000 square meter hall at TUYAP to all establishments of health care and healthy living industries. EMITT will assign an entire hall to health care, aesthetics, thermal and spa tourism. The EMITT 2014 Fair, seeking to raise Turkey’s health tourism status which encourages the country’s potential in sustaining a diverse tourism sector for future business ventures, further aims to become the venue

for Turkey’s leading hospitals and health care clinics, specifically thermal and SPA resorts, in addition to meet both domestic and international companies of the sector in order to provide a significant contribution to Turkey’s health care tourism industry. Lack of understanding the importance of health care tourism Touching upon how inaccurate the perception that health care tourism basically equates seeking low-cost medical care in other countries, Ekin Fair Director Hacer Aydin highlights that the industry has a far extending reach, extending from plastic surgery to aesthetic centers, from health care, SPA and thalassotherapy centers to physiotherapy resorts, from health care tourism agencies to assistance companies, and from health accommodations to health insurance companies, to also include all cosmetic agencies and even non-governmental organizations. Emphasizing Turkey’s high potential in health care tourism due its geographical location coupled with its strong health care infrastructure, Aydin affirms that the country is currently the leading health care tourism center throughout the Balkans, the Caucasus and the Middle East, highlighting that no obstacles stand in its way from becoming one of Europe’s leading health care headquarters in the light of its current strength. Aydin further maintains that health care tourism currently has the highest added value among its contenders and that the EMITT

Fair will ensure a first in this direction, becoming a leader in the sector. Going beyond regional boundaries to reach the global market Aydin has also addressed that all health care and healthy living agencies participating in the EMITT 2014 Fair, the 5th largest globally and the leading tourism fair regionally, will have the opportunity to directly meet more than 900 travel agency directors and 200 direct buyers, in addition to having the opportunity to participate in various symposia and seminars to become familiar with the most recent advances in the global health care tourism front. Health care industry present at EMITT All eyes of those who want to have their voices heard and advance towards global trademarks in this sector have already been set on EMITT 2014 Fair. All hospitals and clinics, vision and dental facilities, IVF centers, dialysis clinics, physiotherapy centers, plastic surgery and aesthetic centers, hair transplantation centers, weight loss clinics, health accommodations, SPA and thalassic resorts, mineral water sources and facilities, health tourism agencies, insurance companies, assistance companies, pharmaceutical companies, medical equipment supply companies, cosmetics companies, food and bio-natural beverage companies, non-governmental organizations and the media are getting ready to participate in the 2014 EMITT Fair.

thermal water sources that are rich in sulfur as was done in Afyon and other thermal centers. Current hotel district in Uludag, that started to be a winter sports center in 1950’s, was born initially as an extension of highland culture and after a short while skiing opportunities in the area was explored and investments have began. The first development area in Uludag is now able to serve 6 thousand people 5 thousands of them are accommodated. Famous facilities in the Uludag ski center have served for years to Uludag and Turkish tourism provided employment and contributed to the local economy. The problem with these winter-focused facilities is that they are idle mostly in summer season. A few of them are

in the service all year round. In line with the policies of Tourism ministry that started a project of expanding and diversification of tourism activities in the country, Uludag have to be given a special attention. It has all necessary features to be active all year long. Among the prospective activities for this purpose may be nature tours, trekking, highland tourism, and congresses that may expand the active seasons even more. Pluses of Bursa as a high potential destination can be summarized as: It is the first capital of Ottoman Empire. Fourth largest city in Turkey Having green, pastoral, sociocultural, industrial and economic potentials A city of science and universities Having powerful industries in

textiles, automotive and food fields Wealth of touristic facilities Uludag for winter, trekking and camping opportunities Hot water sources for health tourism Iznik and Uluabat lakes for water sports Religious tourism objects in Iznik Cultural services such as museums, theatre and exhibition halls Handcrafts, local foods and folks for folkloric elements Easy to reach to the most populous cities of Turkey Road, sea, ferry and air transportation facilities Convention Center Local media power Deep-rooted civil society organizations Support of local authorities with their entrepreneurial initiatives


Made in Bursa Economic Newspaper, February 2014

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Bursa’s new stadium to glare mented, will serve as a lively place of Bursa both in match days and other days. Recep Altepe, Metropolitan Mayor, said that the stadium, which is built satisfying UEFA criteria, will serve with a capacity of 45 thousand people. Altepe expressed that production of 5 thousand tons out of 7 thousand tons of material, which will be used for roofing, is completed.

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ained to Bursa by Metropolitan Municipality the new stadium will be the attraction center of the city in terms of both its architecture

and dynamic structure. The new stadium brought in by Metropolitan Municipality, which breaks grounds in every field in Turkey, Bursa attracts attention as a rising value at

the center of the city each passing day. Turkey’s first stadium in which ‘stretched membrane’ system based on stretching 7 thousand tons weighing steel material with ropes is imple-

Crocodile-like roof Installation of the roof is going on fast in the new stadium building, which is the biggest sports investment of Metropolitan Municipality, which brought in over 100 sports facilities this term in order to make Bursa a brand city in sports as well. Now it is turn to complete the roof of the stadium of which rough construction is complete and elaborate

work and facing works are going on fast. The stadium’s project is conceptualized with the symbol of the team, which makes it one of the rare stadiums in the world. The stadium will also be a first with its roof installation in Turkey. The ‘stretched membrane’ system, which is only used in 4 stadiums in the world, will be implemented first time in Bursa in Turkey. As 5 thousand tons out of 7 thousand tons of steel material’s production is made, installation has started on the other hand. While construction of temporary installation towers’, which will carry the parts weighing tons in the course of installation, are going on fast, afterwards, the stretching of all steel materials phase, which requires high engineering skills, will be proceeded. Page 12

Bursa: Rising economic power in home textiles and automotive exports

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ursa, a former Ottoman capital surrounded by olive groves and nestled in the green foothills of the Uludag mountain range close to the southern shore of the Sea of Marmara, has a long history as an industrial city. But now, strengthened by its share in Turkey’s rise as an economic power in recent years, the city of 2.2 million people has started to step out of the shadow of its giant neighbor, İstanbul. Bursa has joined several other Anatolian cities that challenge Istanbul’s dominance with their own increasing economic

power and a growing self-confidence. Bursa has already become a favorite destination for many visitors from Arab countries with its mixture of Ottoman history, a cool climate and thermal baths. It’s no secret that Bursa has become a rising economic power in the region. Its diverse economy includes textile exports, car manufacturing, agriculture and now a surge in tourism. Silk was big business in Bursa when it was part of the Ottoman Empire and the last stop on the lucrative Silk Road. Head to Bursa’s biggest bazaar, Ka-

pali Carsi, in the Koza Hani or “Silk Cocoon Hall” to see some excellent silk scarves. It was not

long ago that silkworms would be raised by farmers and fed mulberry leaves, before their

valuable silk cocoons would be sold in this market. What about today? Page 13

Standards needed to be set for İznik tile, artisans say

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BURSA - Anadolu Agency

amous İznik tiles should have a standard in order to prevent the production of cheap ones, which are not authentic in quality, according to the artisans of this craft. ‘Originality begins to be lost,’ they complain The artisans of İznik tiles, one of the most important elements in Turkish culture, say that standards should be set for the production of original works. “The İznik tile is moving away from its originality because of economic concerns,” the artisans say. Adil Cam Güven, the founder and former chairman of the İznik Tiles Research and Development Association, said that he had been involved in the art of ceramics for 42 years and contributing to the development of this art by teaching it to others. He said that he was giving classes in a vocational school in the district, adding that the art of tiles needed two elements in İznik, a district of the northwestern province of Bursa. “The first element is the establishment of a show center in the district,” he said. No request realized “This show center should be established on a land of 4,000-5,000 square meters. There should be four ateliers for the Byzantine, Seljuk, Beyliks and Ottoman terms. This is also very important for tourism. Tourists can see there how this art is performed. But this dream did not come true. The second and the more important element is that I insisted on the protection of the criteria of İznik tiles. Page 12


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