The distribution of recreational activities in Antakya province

The urban population rose by industrialization and urbanization in cities; the growth population led to the problems such as concretion, traffic, noise and environmental pollution, and thus made the living conditions of the urban person difficult. When the difficulties emerged in the production activities and labor conditions were added to the above mentioned situation, the need for the rest and refreshment arose. The recreational activities were developed in order to meet the requirements like "refreshment", "breathing spell" and "having fun" of the person as the biopsychosocial being. The recreation areas needed by urban people are created in all big and small cities. In this thesis, the recreational activities in Antakya province and peri-urban areas were studied. Antakya province as being home to the different civilizations has various sources for the recreational activities with its historical legacy, cultural heritage, natural beauties and rich cuisine. This study about the reactional activities in Antakya province and peri-urban areas consists of four chapters. In the first chapter, the concept of recreation (definition of recreation, the relationship between leisure time and recreation, and the relationship between distance-recreation, classification of recreation); in the second chapter, the geographical location of Antakya, its history and traditional recreational activities of the local residents; in the third chapter, the recreation areas, where the recreational activities are done, in Antakya province and peri-urbans; and in the fourth chapter, characteristic of the local residents and visitors as well as participation of the people in recreational activities with the underlying factors and accommodation opportunities were analyzed. Finally, the recreational importance of Antakya province was emphasized, the deficiencies observed in recreation areas were noted, recommendations and solutions for protection and development of the recreation areas after filling the deficiencies were stated. Keywords: Turkey, Antakya Province, Recreation, Recreation Activities, Tourism