Life’s a beach in Turkey

Photo: Oludeniz Beach, Turkey

If you fancy an affordable sun holiday without compromising on luxury then east meets west could be your best bet writes Jenna Sweeney

Some countries boast about having a beach for every day of the year. In Turkey this claim could easily be proven given the sheer size of the coastline that is flanked by sandy shores, cosy inlets and secluded bays. Most of these have been sought out by intrepid tourists and glittering resorts now flank much of the coastline with luxury villas, boutique hotels and all inclusive resorts offering enticing deals to those interested in holidaying in a sunshine paradise. What’s more, a competitive exchange rate has further boosted the appeal for holidaymakers who choose Turkey over other summer hotspots. Given the popularity and affordability of all-inclusive hotels it is a popular way for many holidaymakers to experience the resorts that have become an integral part of Turkey’s holiday map.

Antalya is a well known thriving coastal city where crowds swarm to soak up the sun and Turkish culture. It is a modern city that has plenty of beaches and a picturesque old quarter. Marmaris is another popular resort in a stunning setting, with pine-clad hills dropping steeply to the sea, interspersed with jagged inlets and tiny rocky islets off the coast. Içmeler boasts the best beach in the area – a sweeping bay of golden sand, with an array of water sports. The beautiful beaches don’t stop there. Bodrum may be a well established resort with an eclectic dining scene and nightlife but some of its main attractions are the alluring bays and coves around the peninsula on the west coast. Just a short drive from the buzz of Bodrum, you can still encounter quaint fishing villages like Gumusluck. Here you can bathe in crystal clear water and enjoy platters of seafood in seaside restaurants that have no menus but simply expert chefs who will serve up whatever your palate craves.. While the Blue Lagoon of Oludeniz on the Aegean coast is the most photographed beach in Turkey, there are many others that compete for the title of most picturesque including Patara near Kalkan. Kusadasi is another of Turkey’s jewels with kilometres of fine sand, a beautiful harbour and an important centre for scuba diving and boat tours around the stunning coastline.

What makes Turkey a particularly appealing holiday destination is that it’s not just about beach culture. There is also plenty to discover whether your interest lies in food, cities, historic sites or activities. Istanbul is highly recommended for a day or overnight excursion; although in reality it takes several visits to discover the city’s beauty in its entirety. It is like an open air museum, with one of the most famous and striking skylines in the world. Straddling two continents, highlights include Hagia Sophia, the Topkapi Palace, the Grand Bazaar, the Blue Mosque and a scenic Bosphorus cruise. The Istanbul Modern Museum is rapidly carving out a name for itself as a leading outlet for European modern art while the historic sites of this vibrant and unique city have been awarded coveted UNESCO world heritage status.

When one needs time out from the beach, shopping is one of the most lucrative holiday activities. If you like haggling for bargains then you will revel in Turkey’s shopping culture. It is an experience in itself what with any self-respecting village, resort or town hosting its very own colourful bazaar. Goods are already excellent value for money and they often include textiles and leather goods, designer fakes, jewellery, handicrafts and spices. For those who rather stick to coastal activities, sailing is a popular pastime. Given its calm turquoise waters, it’s no surprise that sailing has become an integral part of holidays in Turkey. Gulet cruising is another sea based activity which involves traditional Turkish wooden vessels that cruise along the country’s most spectacular stretch of coastline. It is a chance to explore deserted bays, hidden inlets, pristine waters and gloriously unspoilt, tranquil beaches along the turquoise coast. Golf has also taken off in a big way in Turkey. The resort of Belek on the Mediterranean coast currently boasts seven world class golf courses, including the Cornelia Faldo, an 18 hole championship course designed by Nick Faldo.

Of course a holiday is never complete without some mention of food. There is much more to Turkish cuisine than kebabs, although admittedly, these are also excellent. Eating out in Turkey represents fantastic value for money and although international cuisine is widely available in tourist resorts and cities, you simply cannot beat the local food. Favourites include meze (a selection of hot and cold starters including yoghurt-based dips), hummus, and cheese filled borek (pastries). There are also Turkish variations on pizza, commonly topped with minced, spiced meat; delicious and fresh sea food. Mouth watering desserts include sweet and sticky baklava.

For more information on holidays in Turkey visit www.gototurkey.co.uk

To book a holiday in Turkey email bookings@unraveltravel.eu

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