In this part we introduce to you people that are active in our Foundation. This time, we will tell you about Rita Meier, one of our volunteers.

Kaptan June, or simply “June” as friends use to call her, asked me if I would like to write a few lines for the News Letter and I agreed, of course.

About me: My name is Rita Meier Borne and raised in Switzerland I am 69 years old I moved to Dalyan 8 years ago My first visit to Dalyan was in 1986. Ever since, this place has engraved itself in my mind and in my soul like a first true love. I would go on vacation to Dalyan when ever I could. It was during this period when I met June and learnt about the turtles of Dalyan and started to help her with this important challenge.

While diving or snorkelling, have you ever had the chance to see a sea turtle in its element, the deep blue sea? It would be an unforgettable adventure. The animal glides through the waves with the elegance of a bird. Unfortunately these wonderful creatures often become abused as they are tourist attractions. More and more turtles are getting seriously injured by boat Propellers, fishermen nets, fishhooks etc.

The sad result you can see when you visit the Turtle Rescue Centre at Iztuzu beach.

A proverb says prevention is better than cure.

Kaptan June’s Foundation makes it possible, with your contribution, dear reader, to equip boats with the necessary propeller guards. Please help us to save the beautiful species, thank you.

Dalyan, a jewel, an untouched dreamy fisherman’s village surrounded by cotton fields, orange- and lemon groves. I have partially witnessed it with my own eyes exactly the way June experienced Dalyan and described it in her books. In those days any tourist was an exotic happening and was welcomed with open arms and hospitality. For many years Dalyan remained unknown until real estate agents discovered it and made a big business of selling land to foreigners.

Nowadays that dreamy, tiny village turned into a world famous holiday destination. People from different countries come here on vacation. Progress and development can’t be stopped and I wish a happy and care free vacation for everyone.

The consequences of tourism however are beyond measurement. Tons of debris and waste that are mindlessly thrown out, hundreds of boats that cruise the river. It’s a burden upon the river, the reed delta and the living area of the turtles and fish. Large plots of green are sacrificed to the real estate boom. Humans expand their living space, nature must give way. All of this makes me sad and often I wonder: “wouldn’t less be more?” Isn’t the meaning of life to give all that lives a chance to live, whether they are animals, plants, rivers or humans?

This is why I care for cats and dogs in Dalyan, that have been turned into strays by some of the locals that lack sense of responsibility. They simply throw them out in the street. These animals have no supporting lobby, some of them suffer from maltreatment and abuse, have been chased away and are doomed to find nourishment in waste bins. Consequently, many fall ill and only a few survive.

Dear reader, next time when you come to Dalyan, please keep in mind to buy some biscuits or give a donation for the stray animals. With your support you will help them to survive and you will make this planet to a better place. Thank you all for your kindness!

“Be grateful for all you have and for all you won’t need.”

From that perspective we wish you a wonderful time and maybe we will meet at your next visit here in Dalyan. Inshallah!