[jules]

Yes, it may be irrational, but I do think that's what many people fear. Even if you don't expect any real problems, the feeling that you are not appreciated in another country can easily make people decide to visit another country instead.

BTW, Turkey recently changed the rules regarding visas; now you cannot get a visum at the airport any more, you need to apply and pay online and print out the application form, which you exchange for a visum at the border. It's still easy, but these small hurdles do add up.