Murat Nazli2025-10-0620241368-35001747-760310.1080/13683500.2023.2200922http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/13683500.2023.2200922https://gcris.yasar.edu.tr/handle/123456789/6706Turkey's economic impact has been severe due to the lack of international tourists and the Covid-19 pandemic. Specifically the tourist destination cesme has suffered economic fluctuations due to decreased international visitors the Russia-Ukraine war and insufficient domestic tourists to fill the gap. The study aims to identify deficiencies that help stakeholders manage tourism development amid Covid-19 and the Russia-Ukraine war. The data were collected through semi-structured interviews (n = 34) with local business owners operating for at least 25 years. The study provides insights into the recent tourism development during the pandemic and presents a high level of resilience among local businesses. The business owners perceive the current pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war situation differently psychologically. Most resilient business owners look for business opportunities by adapting their business models for long-term survival despite the pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war affecting international tourism.EnglishSustainable tourism, local business, cesme, COVID-19, Russia-Ukraine warCRISIS MANAGEMENT, RESILIENCE, TOURISM, RISKSArticle