Turkey Holidays - Cheap Holidays To Turkey - Kalkan Resort

Kalkan is a town on the Turkish Mediterranean coast. This is an old fishing town. Most of the surrounding area is undeveloped. Until 1970 it was an important harbor town. However after construction of Fethiye road its importance as a harbor port declined. Now it has emerged as a tourist resort. In the absence of mass tourism, Kalkan resort town has remained unspoilt and is a charming town on the brilliant blue sea coast. It lies snugly curled up at the foot of the Taurus Mountains overlooking the beautiful bay.

Kalkan's economy is now entirely dependent on tourism. The town has proudly and painstakingly preserved its historical distinctive Ottoman Greek Architecture. Kalkan resort town has preserved the old historic architectural style. The houses line up the narrow streets winding up from the harbor. Houses are often covered with bougainvillea of different colors and they look so pretty. Most houses are two storied and are built of stone. They often have courtyards and gardens. The houses are built so as to keep cool in summer. The windows and balconies on upper floors open facing the sea so as to get the cool breeze from the ocean. The ground floors are generally used for shops or for storage; residence is generally on the first floor. You notice decorative elements on sills between floors and on top of windows.

Good dining has always been a tradition of Kalkans and this has reflected in the very large number of restaurants in Kalkan; in fact it is said Kalkan has probably the highest number of restaurants per inhabitant as compared to other Turkish coastal towns. Roof terrace restaurants and bars of Kalkan are renowned in Turkey; it is so nice to sit at one of these harbor side restaurants and watch the pleasure boats and fishermen go about their business in the morning, or to watch them returning in the evening with their catch of fish.

Tourists generally spend the day time strolling along the bay and the marina. Swimming, diving and snorkeling in the bay quite enjoyable. There are many boat trips also available. By night time, Kalkan transforms into a bustling town; there is so much you could do. There is shopping, dining and generally strolling around by the sea side or doing window shopping. In the evening, shops come alive with T-shirts, boxes of Turkish delight, silver jewelry being sold. Turkish rugs are famous for their designs and craftsmanship, and many shops sell the rugs. Tourists find a lot of typical old style Turkish articles to buy.

Tourists and visitors to Kalkan resort town come to enjoy the laid-back relaxed life style in this Turkish sanctuary. There are a few good hotels catering to the tourists. One of the popular hotels is Hotel Pirat; it is only 80 km from Fathiye or 130 km from Dalaman airports. Pirat Hotel is overlooking the harbor and the bay of Kalkan, right at the front of hilly resort islands backed by hills and mountains. The view of the bay from the balcony is enchanting. This 136 room hotel has all modern amenities. Excellent outdoor swimming pool, children's swimming pool, sports facilities such as table tennis and billiards are available. There is provision for diving school, parasailing, jet ski, canoe, sailing and all water sports are available at the beach for a modest fee.

Sam is a travel writer. You can find more information about Turkey at Turkey Holidays

Hotels in Turkey : Icmeler Hotels and Gumbet Hotels

A Turkish Winter

For many, when it comes to family holidays, Turkey is the ideal destination for a beach break. With sun, sea and sand ticking all the boxes for a relaxing destination, it is no wonder so many people head to Turkey for their summer holidays. But if you struggle to be a beach bum, you'll be pleased to hear that there are some aspects of Turkey that are much better seen in the winter.

Snowshoe Tours

The landscape of the central Anatolia region of Cappadocia is a sight to behold in the summer months. However, it is even more so if you choose the winter months to take your family holidays. Turkey's true culture and spirit can be experienced as the snow sets in. The cones and crevasses of the Cappadocian landscape become coated in white powder, but whilst snow ball fights and snowmen will keep the children amused for a short while, a snow-shoe tour will keep them entertained for a whole lot longer. Snow-shoe tours are led by a small, local and authentic company and incorporate a number of traditional villages where you will be invited to stay with families. On the last night of your trip, you will spend the night in a converted monastery at Guzelyurt, where you will dine as the Monks once did, at long tables. Enjoy the traditional Turkish fare, as you listen to the kids swapping ghost stories in this old building, and get a taste of traditional Turkish life.

Going Underground

If it gets too cold for you above ground, then be sure to go underground on your family holidays. Turkey's geological formations are some of the most intriguing, and the various caves you can visit are much more pleasant in the cooler months than in the height of the summer. From the Caverns of Antalya, to the Caves of Zongulduk, there is a wealth of geology just waiting to be explored. The children won't even notice the educational element of your holidays as you teach them about stalactites and stalagmites; they'll be far too busy exploring the dark corners of the cave and letting their imaginations run wild.

The Turkish Slopes

It is true that when you think of planning your skiing family holidays, Turkey is not the first destination to spring to mind. However, that is not to say that there are not some fantastic opportunities for winter sports. Turkey is in fact the perfect destination for young and inexperienced skiers, as the slopes are much less crowded than your average European ski resort. Mount Uludag is the warmer of the ski areas, and also the best equipped. However, Mount Erciyes, standing at 12,848 feet is guaranteed to have snow even in the mildest of winters. Visit in the month of March and you and the family can enjoy the winter tourism festival. Whilst the kids enjoy watching the locals take to the slopes in impressive displays, you can sip on a glass of mulled wine and watch the world go by.

So though it is generally thought of as a summer destination for family holidays, Turkey can be just as much fun in the winter. Swap the beaches and coastlines for the mountains and snow, and treat yourself to a winter in Turkey.

Davide Smith is the Destination Expert for Bargain Holidays Online, a unique holiday website which specialises in cheap, last-minute deals for family holidays Turkey as well as giving you access to over 20 million other bargain holiday deals. Book your bargain holidays with BargainHolidaysOnline.com today and save.

A Holiday of Turkish Delights

Turkey is a Eurasian country which stretches across the Anatolian peninsula in south eastern Europe. It is geographically divided into Asian Turkey (which makes up 97% of the country), and European Turkey (making up 3% of the country), with beautiful coastal areas touching the Mediterranean Sea, the Sea of Marmara and the Black Sea. Its coastal regions are perfect for luxury holidays in Turkey, with the Mediterranean climate providing hot, dry weather ideal for basking in the sun on the beach.

Intriguing in its own right, the arid inland area of Turkey has a harsh, continental climate, with sharp contrasts between the seasons. Though not designed for a typical Mediterranean Turkish holiday, the stark beauty of the plateau is breathtaking.

The Grace and Beauty of the Blue Mosque

The Blue Mosque of Sultan Ahmet Camii is situated in Istanbul, and is considered to be one of the most beautiful mosques in the world. It is a truly unique site to visit while on a Turkish holiday, and is also a place of spiritual worship.

It was completed in 1616 by the architect Mehmet Aga, who was a student of the famous and brilliant architect, Sinan. It gets its name from the beautiful blue tiles which decorate the inside, and when the light filters through some 260 windows, the blue and green Iznik tiles lining the walls create a glorious spectacle of light.

It was the Supreme Imperial Mosque of the Ottoman Empire, and its beauty, grace, and elegant proportions represent the Islamic religion. It is a great way to experience the spirituality of the land, and is a beautiful addition to a Turkey holiday.

In the evenings, light and sound shows are held in the grounds, providing night time entertainment for you on your Turkish holiday.

The Ancient City of Pergamum

This intriguing city was established during the 8th century BC, when Aeolian Greek colonies settled in the area. As a result, its architecture is superb, and its hilltop position affords stretching views over the Caicos plain.

It was during the reign of Eumenes II in the 2nd century BC that Pergamum established itself as one of the great cultural and intellectual centres of the day. This was largely owing to the invention of pergamena (parchment) which significantly enlarged its library, the great library of Alexandria. This is an ideal place to include on a Turkish holiday as it is such a culturally rich city.

It is home to some historical greats, such as the famous Roman physician, Galen, who was born and studied in Pergamum. It is also the home of the Altar of Zeus, adding to its rich cultural history and providing some great sightseeing while on a Turkey holiday.

The Spectacular Commagene Kingdom

Situated in Mount Nemrut, the Commagene Kingdom houses one of the most spectacular sights to be seen on a Turkish holiday. In 62 BC, Antiochus I became King of Commagene, and established the region as an important destination on the central trade route, generating an interest in the area.

He decided to build a grand funerary monument for himself, now considered a famous sanctuary. The colossal heads of Apollo, Zeus and Antiochus I rise out of the ground, along with giant conical pillars of 50m in height and 150m in diameter. This magnificent spectacle is an excellent addition to any Turkey holiday, and it is sure to be an awe-inspiring site.

Jane Wilkinson is the marketing manager for Cadogan Holidays. This multi award winning travel company has been providing tailor made Turkey holidays [http://www.cadoganholidays.com/destination.aspx?Id=F516853E-8911-49CB-B3FB-90180B00618B&show-tips=false&type=country] with inspirational experiences and the very best luxury hotels in Turkey.

Authentic Holidays to Turkey

If culture is your interest, you will perhaps crave to take a visit to the capital city and the hub of ancient civilizations as part of your holidays to Turkey. Istanbul is a miraculous city where the olden times are personified in the old stone walls, palaces, mosques, domes and minarets.

Of the many attractions in holidays to Turkey, you will undeniably desire to tour the Dolmabahce Palace, a huge Ottoman grand palace once taken by the Sultans. There is numerous to glimpse here to take up the whole of your holidays to Turkey; you can travel around scores of elaborately decorated chambers with high ceilings, chandeliers, tall pillars and magnificent cascading staircases. The fort has roughly three hundred rooms, and looking out the gigantic windows on the shore-facing side, you may even see dolphins in the Bosporus River, which washes against the walls of the palace.

Closer to the heart of the Istanbul, you'll find the Galata Tower, one of Istanbul's most famous attractions. No sarcastic spire, this is a robust stone cylinder mounting over the city. At its top, you can glance out over city from under its doorways and take in one of the preeminent viewpoints of the city; what's more, you can take a meal near the peak too. Even though from the exterior the Galata tower shows its age, having been raised in the mid-1300s, the interior is surprising, with elevators, and floors fanatical to shops, a tavern, and a night club on the top floor. Here you can fill your holidays to Turkey with the fun of cultural Turkish music, costume and folk dance that makes up the 'Turkey Show'. The programme of entertainment even includes a belly dancer and a harem show.

Holidays to turkey will advantage from the picturesque setting and the crystal blue water hardly a few steps from your hotel. The nightlife is diverse and wide spread, but stress-free and cosmopolitan, superb eateries! If you would like a wider option of eateries, nightlife and shopping head up the hill to city where prices are cheaper, and just wait for the magnificent view on the way back down to Olu Deniz Resort. The local oludeniz people are enormously obliging and welcoming and very genuine.

Hotels in Turkey has spacious air conditioned single and double bedrooms with all needed amenities. All rooms has attached with modern bathroom/shower, WC, satellite TV, telephone, fridge and hairdryer. The main bistro serves buffet style meals, and a self service poolside bar serves drinks and snacks. If you are scheduling for a beach holiday, Turkey is the top place to travel on. Keep in mind, when you organize your holidays to Turkey many of the beaches which have no lifeguards, but you can adhere it harmless by keep away from swimming alone. You will come back home with unbelievable colorful memories and sense more relaxed than you ever expected. When you take holidays to Turkey you must book a boat tour to see the coastline better also you can map your nights at a range of clubs for some added entertainment. Holidays to Turkey have been sound eminent for nightlife.

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Enjoying a Holiday and Preserving Turkish History

Exploring the rich history and spectacular scenery of Turkey can now be done in an ecologically and ethically sensitive way, which actually can enhance the experience for the visitor, as by discovering what is away from the crowds and off the beaten track, can actually provide the holiday maker with a taste of the real, authentic Turkey.

Situated where the two continents of Asia and Europe meet, Turkey has coastline on many of it's borders, with the Mediterranean Sea to the south, the Aegean Sea to the west and the Black Sea to the north. Turkey is primarily a Muslim country, with a range of Islamic customs and etiquette influencing Turkish way of life. Turkey is a very much family orientated destination, with villas in Turkey luxuriously styled for couples and young families alike. For eating out, children are welcome in many of the fine restaurants in the country, while helpful and friendly staff in hotels and dining establishments are happy to provide amenities and facilities to make sure everyone has a great time.

With a range of tour operators and travel companies offering a range of either active or tranquil breaks in Turkey with a strong green ethos, discovering a natural, vibrant side of this diverse country is easy to do and has plenty of choices. For walkers, Turkey has many great regions to explore and experience its culture, nature, and society. The Kachkar Mountains are a stunning and a great place for walking holidays and spotting wildlife, and there is a range of guided walks and adventure holidays that can be as slow or fast paced as you like. With lakes, woodland areas, wildlife and some excellent local dishes, this area is a fabulous place for a great eco-holiday, and fun for couples as well as families.

For coast lovers, the delights of Kusadasi include some incredibly beautiful coastal villages and beaches, while there are a fantastic range of sports and leisure activities to try. Diving, fishing, cycle tours and cultural trips are available in the Kusadasi area. For added style and class, the Turkish Riviera also offers a range of water sports and sights to see, with stunning locations like the salt lake at Cappadocia and the fascinating open-air museum of Goreme. The Turkish Riviera combines some outstanding locations for a range of leisure and sporting activities with a range of some excellent and varied opportunities to discover Turkey's culture and history.

Turkey is a paradise for water sports lovers. Beneath the Taurus Mountains, the Mediterranean coast of Turkey is a playground for sailors, divers and windsurfers. With pine forests and citrus groves, and some great places to stay such as a range of luxurious villas, Turkey truly features some stunning locations. Here you can discover the ancient cities of Aspendos and Side and a range of important historical sites.

A place of rejuvenation and health since Roman times, Turkey holidays are as much about well being as they are about escape, with a great choice of natural spas in the Marmara and Aegean regions. Warming thermal treatments and de-stressing massages, as well as rich mineral mud baths, are all available in natural environments rather than in artificial spas and health clubs in many other locations.

If culture and history need to be part of your next holiday then holidays in Turkey would be an ideal choice. Mark looks into the choice of villas in Turkey and how the country is reducing the impact of tourism.

Turkey Holiday Rentals and Private Accommodation

Vacationing in a country that bridges the great continental land masses of Europe and Asia can be unforgettable. Most tourists vacationing in Turkey often go back there to savor the flavors again. Surrounded by sea on three sides and its capital Istanbul resting on the Bosphorus Strait, the magnificent view of the sea on either side is simply beautiful and breathtaking. Istanbul was the capital of the Ottoman Empire for a few hundred historical years.

Turkey integrates an internal body of water also known as the Marmara Sea. Located in North-West Turkey, the Uludag Mountain is one of the most well known ski resorts in the area. The coast line of South-Western Turkey on the Aegean Sea, also known as the Turkish Riviera is home to Izmir, the largest city in Turkey. The Turkish Riviera houses many modern styled holiday resorts like Kusadasi and Bodrum.

The most important historic attraction of Turkey is the remnants of Troy that can be found along the northern and central areas of Aegean region. One can see 9 Troys that were built over different periods on top of the previous ones. As all of us know, the very popular and famous historical love story of beautiful Helen and Paris of Troy had caused wars in this region in ancient times. As a reminder of the Troy war lies herein in the form of a replica horse that was used as the final strategy to culminate the war.

Ephesus, also known as the Asia Minor in the Roman times is still evident in this region. The wonderful library that still stands along with the enormous open-air entertainment theatre and the ancient houses alongside the harbor attract great many vacationers year after year and remind us of the civilization that flourished once upon a time. Another important site to visit is the last house of Virgin Mary situated on Bulbul Dagi near Ephesus. This holy shrine attracts thousands of Christians and Muslims yearly. Not far from here is the grave of St. John the Evangelist who is said to have come to Ephesus with St. Mary in her last years.

Vacationers coming to Turkey, especially the ones who return year after year have an option to cut their costs by avoiding expensive hotels and using vacation rentals in the form a Turkey villa, condo, farmhouse, cottage, apartment, hotel or even a Turkish castle as per their needs and requirements. Many Turkish people love to rent out their regular apartments, villas, cottages or condos on a weekly basis due to their basic need of finances.

Many of these vacation rental options come with staff and are available in near proximity to major tourist attractions across Turkey. Moreover, after the new laws of the government has enabled foreign investors to invest in Turkish real estate, making the vacation rentals more popular and available. As a regular vacationer to Turkey, one may contemplate buying a condo or a villa there and renting it out to other vacationers when they do not need it. Added to these new laws, Turkey's progress on the issue of its adaptation into the E.U is being speeded up due to the government's efforts to improve living standard. This is contributing further to the tourism industry by making available more and more foreign owned vacation rentals.

Turkey is evolving and is set to get expensive. Plan your vacation to Turkey today!

Abaut turkey-vacationrentals.com:

Turkey Vacation Rentals - Staying in a vacation rental villa is a great way to experience a Turkey vacation. Rent a villa by travel date, use the advanced rental search feature or click on the city and then enter your travel dates.

To place a Turkey holiday home free advertisement or find the perfect lodging for you - visit http://turkey-vacationrentals.com

For Family Holidays Turkey Has it All

No matter what sort of slant you want to put on your family holidays, turkey can satisfy even the fussiest of children (and adults!), with a range of activities to suit everyone. No matter whether your family is the type that wants to spend the entire holiday frolicking on the beach, only emerging to hit the pool; or you are a more cultured bunch who loves to soak up the history and art of your chosen destination; you will find everything you need on your family holidays in turkey.

The Beach Bunnies

It almost goes without saying that if you are a family of beach-bunnies, Turkey is the perfect place for your next holiday. No matter where you turn, for beach-based family holidays Turkey's Aegean Coast, Mediterranean Coast and the Turkish Riviera provide a stunning venue for all manner of activities. You can choose to spend lazy hours tanning while the children play in the warm, shallow waters of the resort towns of Bodrum or Marmaris; or you can enjoy some vigorous water-sports like wind-surfing and sailing somewhere like Cesme or Alacati. If all that sounds a little energetic for your lot, perhaps you can pack a picnic lunch and head off to explore one of the country's most pristine stretches of sand - Patara Beach near Fethiye - voted as one of the top beaches on the world.

Craving Some Culture?

If yours is the type of family who would rather spend an afternoon in a museum than a morning on a jet-ski, then Istanbul is the ideal destination for your family holidays. Turkey's rich cultural history is displayed in awesome splendour in the architecture, museums, bazaars and mosques of this ancient empirical jigsaw. Either take in Istanbul as a side trip or spend your entire holiday exploring this wonderful city; either way, you will have plenty to do. You can spend a whole day in some of Istanbul's fascinating museums, with the Topaki Palace being one of the best. An impressive building, the Topaki Palace dates back to the 1400s and is only a stones-throw from the famous Hagia Sofia - another of Istanbul's most notable landmarks - and the beautiful Blue Mosque. If you're feeling like a cultural adventure on your family holidays, Turkey's capital is the ideal place to lose yourself in the network of back-alleys and experience the authentic Turkish lifestyle.

A Peaceful Paradise

Of course, there are some families who just want to relax on their holidays and Turkey offers the perfect escape - a gulet cruise. What could be more peaceful than lying back on the deck of a traditional wooden sailing boat as the spectacular Turkish Turquoise Coast slips by? Ideal for even the laziest of family holidays, Turkey brings her beauty to you on a platter on a gulet cruise. You will cruise lazily through the Mediterranean calling in to various towns on the way. You can spend your days reading, swimming, diving or just sun-bathing, and your evenings dining on fine Turkish cuisine and watching the sun set over a dappled coastline. Gulet cruises are a home away from home and their facilities can rival that of a four-star hotel - a perfect way to spend a peaceful holiday with entire family.

Davide Smith is the Destination Expert for Bargain Holidays Online, a unique holiday website which specialises in cheap, last-minute deals for family holidays Turkey as well as giving you access to over 20 million other bargain holiday deals. Book your bargain holidays with BargainHolidaysOnline.com today and save.

Antalya - The Jewel on the Turkish Coast

This seaside holiday resort that sits along the same part of the southern Turkish coast as Bodrum, Marmaris and Fethiye is quickly becoming a popular destination with travelers from Western Europe. The growth of tourism in this area of Turkey was always predicted but the speed with which that growth has accelerated is taking a few people by surprise.

The coastline in this part of the country is certainly impressive and a warm, reliable climate plus the clear blue waters of the Eastern Mediterranean, give it plenty of features with which to attract holidaymakers. Antalya is years behind some of its Western Mediterranean counterparts in terms of development and modernization, but that will ultimately work to its advantage as long the authorities keep things under control.

The local authorities have already identified and approved certain areas around Antalya for further development to support the tourism sector. These include an area of land close to Lara Beach for the development of a Theme park in a parcel of land between the beach/support road and the main coastal highway. Another area identified for development is close to the village of Belek where plans for a sports tourism complex are proposed.

Golfers are already talking about Belek becoming one the primary resort areas for golf courses, with some are promoting its potential to rival places like Malaga and the Algarve. There are already somewhere in the region of 10 operational courses in the region with talks of at least the same number again being built in the next decade. Many of the courses are being built in conjunction with luxury hotels and not relying on the purchase of associated holiday homes as was the case in the Algarve.

The inland areas are also capable of attracting sportsmen and women in disciplines other than the typical holiday sports such as golf and tennis. The Antalya region already has some recognized climbing areas and mountain biking also finds favor in the vast wooded plains and hillsides away from the sea. There is even a small ski resort in the Taurus mountains.

For several years already, Turkey has had a good reputation in the eyes of people purchasing holiday homes and villas. In the past the first choices of holiday home buyers would have been places like the Canaries, Mallorca, France or Southern Spain in areas like Malaga, Nerja and Murcia. But now Turkey is gaining ground and there are many locations with large scale housing developments such as Izmir. Further south is the town of Kusadasi which is currently being totally transformed by all the investment in the area.

Support for new businesses and the setting of appropriate standards of development is always a balancing act for authorities that are charged with promoting growth and investment, while at the same preserving the geographical and cultural attractions that started to bring tourists to an area in the first place. There are many examples already where this has been done successfully and also not done very well, so the Turkish authorities have plenty of experience to call upon.

Associated businesses such theme parks, water parks and other attractions are also important if areas are to attract families, and no resort of any scale can hope to survive without meeting the needs of those with children.

Events are also an important part of any thriving tourist area and are somewhat lacking in the Antalya area at the moment. Culture in this southern part of Turkey is abundant with thousands of year's worth of history to call upon but until now the local traditional and cultural circles have been largely contained to the Turkish residents. This needs to change and see cultural opportunities being opened up to wider audiences and new events conceived for tourism.

Non traditional events too have a big place and the area could easily start to raise its ambitions in terms of musical, theatrical and sporting productions. There is already a large scale International Film Festival in Antalya and an International Music Festival. A folk music festival takes place during August and there are some performances in the huge ancient amphitheater at Aspendos to the East of Antalya.

There is certainly an audience for more modern music events as can be seen by the very successful night clubs in Bodrum. Apart from the odd small rock festival, contemporary music events are few and far between. Some organizers have even resorted to hosting their own private parties to cater for the demand.

The Canaries would serve as a good template for the Turks. Looking at their flourishing cultural and sporting event calendars, the Canaries promote a surprisingly large number of events given the size of the islands and the fact that tourism has grown steadily on the islands for the past 20 years is a clear example of what can be achieved.

Many people are taking cheap flights to Antalya to experience for themselves the attractions of this growing Turkish holiday area. Read more about holidays in Turkey in other reports by Mark Bartley.

The Best Turkish Resorts in 2010

1 - Altinkum. Altinkum is one of those Turkish resorts that caters for everyone. The beachfront will be perfect for those who want to top up their tans. If you translate Altinkum, it stands for golden sands and it is easy to see why. Holiday makers seeking historical sites can visit Apollon Temple, Miletos and Priene. There are restaurants to cater for everyone taste buds. Nightlife ranges from nightclubs for the teenagers or family bars for holiday makers with young children. The resort has a variety of hotels and self catering apartments that are available to book through the internet.

2 - Kusadasi. This resort is a combination of cosmopolitan and traditional. If you visit Kusadasi,? be sure to head to the nearby historical site of Ephesus. Ephesus in it's prime was the second largest city in the Roman Empire. Close by to Ephesus is the Virgin Mary's house, where you can head to pray and worship. If you are looking for thrills,? Kusadasi has two large water parks where you can top up your tan or even go swimming with the dolphins.

3 - Istanbul. Technically Istanbul is not a Turkish resort but a large city. However no visit to Turkey is complete with out visiting this ancient and bustling city.? Holiday makers who want to see the sights will have a field day with the Topkapi palace, Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Grand bazaar and numerous museums. Some of the best hotels in Turkey are found in Istanbul, and luxury is perfected to a tee. Tourists will find the area of Sultan Ahmet is a close distance to all the sights. Night time entertainment is perfected with a Turkish Evening in the Galata Tower.

4 - Cappadocia. This Turkish resort is not for beach lovers but those who want to experience something unique. Book a hotel built into the caves and wake up early in the morning to take a hot air balloon trip over fairy chimneys. Goreme which is a small town near Cappadocia is a great place to holiday and perfect for trekking, hiking and relaxing.

5 - Last but not least is the Turkish resort of Alanya on the Mediterranean coast. Take a jeep safari out into the wild or visit the famous historical castle. Alanya has a host of hotels and self catering apartments for you to stay in. Shoppers will also be delighted with the wide range of Turkish and international shops staying open all hours.

Are you planning a trip to Turkey? Whether it is a long traveling trip or a weeks beach holiday, my aim is to bring you lots of hints, tips and information on this beautiful country that welcomes visitors from all over the world. If you are not planning a trip then hopefully at the end of reading my blog, you will be booking for your first Turkish Travel Trip.

Spa Holidays in Turkey

A luxury holiday in Turkey can prove to be a rejuvenating and refreshing experience, where you return home de-stressed, tanned and physically invigorated. And who could ask for a more relaxing way to spend a few days than at a spa in a beautiful sunny destination? You can work out the knots in your back with relaxing massages, enjoy refreshing skin treatments and try out some of the new spa therapies on offer. And to top the experience off, you can lounge around in the comfort of your luxury Turkey hotel, never having to lift a finger or want for anything.

Marden Palace Antalya

This grand spa hotel is just the place for a luxury holiday in Turkey. Marden Palace Antalya, as the name suggests, is nothing short of palatial. The hotel combines the royalty of the Anatolian and Ottoman architectural style (similar to that of the Dolmabahce Palace) with the typically historical Turkish design. The lavishness of this luxury Turkey hotel is evident as soon as you set foot inside its doors, as an elaborately designed ceiling adorned with golden leaves hangs above your head, a marble floor lies beneath your feat, and beautiful Turkish artwork surrounds you.

On arrival in your room, you won't be disappointed. Intricate designs make up the decor, and the rooms are evidently designed for extreme comfort and luxury. The Ottoman feel of the rooms adds to the opulent atmosphere, making guests feel more like royalty than holidaymakers. And without a care in the world, you can enjoy getting some rest in comfort on arrival at this luxury hotel in Turkey.

The grounds are simply superb, with beautiful gardens creating the perfect setting for afternoon strolls. A canal runs through the gardens and alongside the large swimming pools, where gondolas can be seen gliding by. You can enjoy a swim in this beautiful setting, before heading on down to the spa. Lie back and let excellent therapists free your body from stress and fatigue, knowing that the relaxation can continue into the evening at one of the resort's 11 bars or fine restaurant. The hotel provides a relaxing luxury Turkish holiday like no other.

If you want to get in some vigorous activity when on your luxury holiday in Turkey, the resort has a range of options for you to make use of. You can get your blood pumping at the gym, or enjoy a competitive game of squash or tennis. And after your strenuous workout, the spa will be ready and waiting to revive your tired muscles.

Turkiz Hotel

Possibly the best spa hotel for a luxury holiday in Turkey is the Turkiz. Elegance is the theme here, with the room decor being refined and classic, a perfect compliment to the pretty seaside setting. But the hotel's absolute biggest selling point is its Thalassotherapy Spa, the ultimate spa facility designed for relaxing holistic treatments.

The incredible spa uses seawater in its hydrotherapy massage pool, and offers a range for seawater-based holistic treatments. You can expect to be transformed into a state of tranquility and peace after spending time at this spa on your luxury holiday to Turkey.

And after a day spent at the spa or on the marina and beach relaxing in the sunshine, you can enjoy a delicious and romantic candlelit meal at La Terrasse, a perfectly positioned a la carte restaurant where you can enjoy views of the ocean whilst enjoying superb cuisine.

Jane Wilkinson is the Head of Product & Marketing for Cadogan Holidays. This multi award winning travel company has been providing tailor made luxury holidays, Turkey [http://www.cadoganholidays.com/destination.aspx?Id=F516853E-8911-49CB-B3FB-90180B00618B&show-tips=false&type=country], with inspirational experiences and the very best luxury hotels in Turkey.

Holidays In Marmaris Turkey

Marmaris is the famous Turkish holiday resort inviting millions of visitors from Europe an UK.

The beaches are not the greatest in the world but are more than adequate for children and adults alike. The sand is mostly black sand and a bit gritty. The beaches are not very wide and the top half is covered in sunbeds and umbrellas which you can rent for a nominal fee if the hotel/restaurant does not provide them. Many hotels have private beaches and some even ship in very good sand from other areas. The sea is warm, crystal clear and perfect for swimming. There are some fabulous beaches within half an hours drive, so if beaches are your thing, visit Cleopatra Island where the sand is said to be the best in the world

The famous Bar Street is just what it says, a street chock full of night clubs of every description which are open until 4 am

The beautiful harbour water front hosts many restaurants and bars where you can relax and take in the spectacular view. Netsel Marina is an important yachting centre full of romantic restaurants, shops and boutiques. One look at the yachts in the harbour will tell you that Marmaris is a stylish and cosmopolitan resort. The traffic-free promenade stretching from the marina all the way round the bay to Icmeler. It has a sophisticated 'Riviera' feel to it, vaguely reminiscent of St.Tropez.

Shopping in Marmaris is an experience in itself. Leather goods, gold, carpets and clothing are very very reasonably priced. It is essential to bargain, expect at least one third off the original price. The bazaar is a must for visitors, a rabbit warren of shops of every description, where the shopkeepers will try to entice you into their shops. This can get a little annoying at times, a smile and a shake of the head works well when you have had enough. See our shopping pages for much more info.

There is a large outdoor market every Thursday, the prices are cheaper than the bazaar and cheaper still in the evening when the vendors are eager to sell their remaining wares.

The currency is the Turkish Lira (TL). The climate is very mild in winter, spring and autumn provide perfect holiday weather. July and August can be very hot up to 42 degrees centigrade, so be prepared and drink lots of fluids.

Holiday deals marmaris: There are many beautiful islands and villages to visit. Gulets are the local boats used for boat trips and provide food and drink and a wonderful day out. All kinds of water sports are available on the beaches, diving is very popular, check to make sure the dive company have the correct qualifications. See tours for more info.

The health care is excellent. Ahu Hetman hospital has very experienced doctors who speak English. It is a private hospital and they will require proof of insurance. Dentists are modern and well equipped. Pharmacies sell most drugs over the counter without need for a prescription and the pharmacist will be happy to assist you with minor ailments.

During the Winter you will find a different Marmaris from the high season. Quieter, more intimate where you will be welcomed into the warm and friendly local and ex-pat community. Many tourist prefer winter to summer and return every year to continue the deeper friendships provided by the more relaxed and timeless atmosphere. You can still get a tan and the water is always warm enough for swimming so Marmaris is a great winter destination.

We know you will thoroughly enjoy your visit here, not least because of the wonderfully warm and welcoming local people.

Sam is a travel writer see more about Marmaris:

Marmaris Holidays. You can find more information about Turkey at Icmeler Turkey

Healthy Turkish Food

When one thinks of Turkish food, some might recall last week's drinking session finishing off with a late night greasy Kebab. That late night stop is nothing like the culinary delights that one will experience when visiting Turkey. In fact the Ottoman Empire passed laws mandating that food should be served fresh and this has been followed through to now.

The Mediterranean diet is considered to be one of the healthiest in the world. Ingredients that are used in Turkey are fresh daily with a range of seasonal offerings as the climate is accommodating to a variety of supplies. Turkish staples include vegetables, fish and lamb with generous amounts of olive oil. The diverse climate allows Turkey to grow and produce fresh tomatoes, olives, melons, peppers, wheat, tea, etc. The surrounding seas are abundant in fish - as any boat excursion will testify. The grouper fish makes an excellent dish with a mild but distinct flavour - cross between a halibut and sea bass.

Turkish dishes include selection of mezze platters; these are quite like Spanish Tapas - including a range of hot and cold starters, either served on one or several plates. These include Spicy tomato salsa (Ezme), Carrot with Mint and garlic, yogurt, cucumber and mint (Haydari), stuffed vegetables (Dolma), Calamari, Halumi, Tahin. And of course the pita bread does justice to hummus, and the many colourful pastes of chilli and Tapenade. Turkish mezze starters are light enough to carry the flavours through and allow room for a main dish and possibly a dessert of baklava.

Having such a rich olive oil influence on the diet, it is no wonder that Turkish natives have a low heart attack rate and that their skin is soft and supple. The freshness of the food ensures that the body is always well nourished with vitamins. Dishes served near or on the coast line, such as Kalkan or Oludeniz are primarily based on seafood; this has been well established by scientists as the healthier choice of food.

Turkey's surrounding crystal clear ocean water and its' beneficial lifestyle is becoming more acknowledged - resulting in a sharp increase of the demand for Turkish property for sale. Westerners are beginning to recognise Turkey as an up and coming preference of residence. Advancement in hospitality, sided with a healthy lifestyle and the affordability of property for sale in towns such as Kalkan are making Turkey the choice of both holiday and retirement destinations. The coastal towns sport amazing views over the oceans and combined with the gourmet on offer, it's an easy choice - both for holiday and long time retirement.

The proximity of the sea ensures freshness of fish and in all the coastal towns, and hillside Kalkan villas are for sale at very affordable prices - these are half the expense of damp and tiny European dwellings.

Many restaurants will offer an al a carte menu alongside the fresh catch of the day. The fresh catch is ready for perusal and choice by weight. There can be no fresher food more affordable and enriched with essential vitamins then from a Turkish town.

A visit to Kalkan is not complete without a visit to the Moonlight Terrace & Cafe Bar; Kalamar Yolu no. 9 Kalkan - Antalya. The Moonlight Terrace offers nourishing authentic Turkish food. The owner Osman is the epitome of a gracious host. Moonlight pride themselves on being "a small family-run restaurant priding ourselves on freshly cooked and good quality traditional Turkish food. With the breathtaking views from our roof-top terrace, you will have a relaxed and great value meal". Osman's own mother is chef and conjures delicious authentic Turkish cuisine. Try their Biber Dolma (stuffed peppers) or perhaps the Karniyak (Aubergine fried and then stuffed with minced beef, garlic, onion, tomatoes, green pepper and spices).

This restaurant "does what it says on the tin" - the views over the bay are spectacular and the food is divine. If you are lucky to already have a hillside Kalkan villa or plan on investing in one, Moonlight Terrace will become one of your staples.

Property Guide to the Turkish Coast

An established package holiday destination, Turkey has recently emerged as one of the hottest new property spots in the Mediterranean. Good beaches, great scenery and prices much lower than the region's more established property markets, like Spain and France, have encouraged huge excitement from holiday home buyers. Despite a difficult year in 2005, when the country's property laws were re-drafted leaving thousands of property transactions frozen for over 6 months, the future looks exciting. New golf courses and marinas, better roads and expanded airports, are adding to the country's appeal, while the possibility of EU membership in the not-too-distant-future, also bodes well for those investing in Turkish property. The rental market is starting to develop in the main resorts, such as Bodrum, Altinkum, Fethiye, Kalkan, Side and Alanya, with short-term and holiday lets arranged through tour operators, management agents or one of the many new rental websites. However, as a word of caution, remember that in an increasingly crowded marketplace, you need to carefully choose your property in order to achieve reliable rental returns.

So where are Turkish Riviera's most popular places to buy?

"We decided to buy a villa in Fethiye because it is a proper town and doesn't close down in the winter," says Tim Goodman, who moved out from Newcastle with his wife Jenny in 2004. "We love our new life, although it took us a while to get used to some things, like the crazy Turkish driving and the summer heat!"

Tim and Jenny have also found it frustrating not to be able to speak to their Turkish neighbours, so they recently started language lessons twice a week.

"Turkish people are so friendly and welcoming, but we wanted to be able to have a conversation," explains Jenny. "It is also useful to have some simple phrases when you have someone working on the house."

Belek is Turkey's foremost golfing centre, with no less than 6 international standard courses. A 20-minute drive from the city of Antalya and airport, the resort has a long stretch of golden sand too. Not surprisingly, Belek is a property hot-spot, with over 35 new developments in the area. Do your research carefully, as not all are offering value for money. Check the details of each development and compare facilities, the size of units and building specifications. Prices start from £119,000 for a three-bedroom semi-detached villa or £145,000 for a detached property bought off-plan.

"Belek is a really exciting area because of the golf and easy access to the airport," says Taylan Gundeslioglu, owner of Letsgototurkey construction and estate agency. "But only recently have good quality properties become available."

Once a Roman slave market, the resort of Side has white sand beaches and some impressive ancient remains, including an amphitheatre and the evocative waterside colonnade of the Temple of Apollo. Due to its archaeological importance, development is strictly controlled around the resort itself, but there are numerous villa and apartment complexes nearby. A two-bedroom apartment typically costs from £55,000-£80,000.

Alanya is one of the Mediterranean's hottest property spots thanks to its Blue Flag beaches, excellent leisure facilities and entertainment. The sea-girt castle - built by the Selcuk Turks - is another popular attraction. The local property market is dominated by apartments, which start from about £65,000 for a two-bedroom unit near the centre of town. But a 15-minute bus ride away to Mahmutlar and prices drop to under £50,000 for a similar size place on a new complex with good facilities.

Dominic Whiting is a journalist and publisher of the Buying in Turkey and Buying in Bulgaria property guides. For more information, newsletters or to order visit: http://www.buyinginguides.info

Why Choose Turkey For Your Holiday?

Turkey - a country of contrasts and symbiosis between the 'modern' and the tradition, the country bridging the East and the West for several centuries, the country of rich history and culture, great hospitality and variety of regions and climate. There are several reasons to visit and for those who have already been, this brief synopsis is perhaps a reminder that it is always a good time to pack your bags and visit again! Turkey has many varied regions where the temperatures change dramatically. If you decided to holiday in Istanbul, you will experience the four seasons with hot summers and fairly cold winters. The internal parts of Turkey can be faced with very extreme temperatures, depending on the region's altitude. The northern parts around the Black Sea are usually the coldest and the Mediterranean and the Aegean coastline in the south of the country are the most moderate.

Istanbul serves as the main hub of all international traffic into Turkey, however the regional airports of Antalya, Dalaman and Bodrum are nowadays frequented with hundreds of thousands holidaymakers seeking for summer as well as winter sun escape.

Package holidays are usually the quickest and most economical way of holidaying in Turkey. However, exploring the coast by car and public transport, and tailor made itineraries have also increased in popularity. Antalya coast offers superb good quality hotels offering the favourite all inclusive board at reasonable prices, coupled with excellent beaches and facilities including golf courses, aquaparks, modern shopping centres and restaurants. The Turquoise Coast around Dalaman woes every visitor with its mountainous backdrop and dazzling blue sea, sandy beaches and picturesque villages. No wonder the fabulous emerald green bay of Olu Deniz is the most photographed place in Turkey! And, if you are after sophistication and luxury, then head for Bodrum itself, although the surrounding coastline offers plenty of resorts ideal for the typical 'bucket and spade' holiday. Enjoy an al fresco meal in the Bodrum marina whilst watching the magnificently lit up Bodrum castle. There are watersports galore on every bit of the Turkish coastline offering fun for everyone.

For those who enjoy a bit of seclusion and holiday with a difference, we recommend visiting places like Dalyan with its green fertile delta, or the gorgeous Patara beach ideal for divers and animal lovers. The 'forgotten' villages of Yaliciftlik, Bardakci, Akyaka or Selimiye will provide everyone with a peaceful stay and a great insight into traditional Turkish life and local hospitality.

Gulet cruises are another way of exploring the wonderful Turkish coastline. Spend time on board a typical Turkish boat with a designed itinerary and staff looking after you round the clock. Enjoy the close company of friends, fabulous hospitality and views from the boat and at night, experience the most romantic meals under the stars. There are several itineraries to choose from, so whether you decide to go on a shorter or a longer trip, there is something for everyone.

Food in Turkey is another good reason to visit and it varies from region to region. Generally, everywhere you go in Turkey, you will be able to taste the typical 'meze' consisting of hot and cold bite size meals, tasty fish, salads and fresh vegetables. Going to Turkey wouldn't be the same without tasting the kebab (beef, chicken or lamb on skewers) or the lovely 'lahmacun' or 'pide' (Turkish pizza with meat and vegetables). Desserts mainly consist of the delicious moist pistachio or walnut baklava and traditional Turkish coffee. Smoking a 'nargile' (flavoured tobacco water pipe) whilst playing backgammon will definitely enhance your cultural experience.

Visit the great historical sights including Ayia Sofia, the Blue Mosque, Aspendos theatre, the ancient city of Olympos or Troy, Ephesus or Konya and many others. Do not miss out on the natural wonders like UNESCO World Heritage registered Cappadocia or Pamukkale with unique displays of fairy chimneys and the cotton like bubbling hot mineral spas.

Turkey is a great country to visit in every season and the reasons are many. If you would like any help with choosing the right holiday for you or any advice on cheap package holidays, itineraries or excursion options, do not hesitate to contact our experienced and well trained staff at packyourbags.com. Turkey has been our speciality for many years now and we will be more than happy to count you amongst our many satisfied customers.

Booking a cheap holiday is not always easy - you need to know where to begin! At packyourbags we specialise in finding the very best cheap holidays from around the world, to suit any budget.

Top Five Beach Holidays in the Mediterranean

The Mediterranean is a popular hotspot for holidays in the sun thanks to its great climate and wide variety of things to see and do across many different countries.

So where are the best locations to head to for a fun-filled beach holiday? Here are five suggestions to provide inspiration for your next beach break in the Mediterranean.

Spain

Spain is the British favourite when it comes to beach holidays - and it is little wonder. The south coast of the mainland is something of a haven for pleasure-seeking holidaymakers, particularly locations along the Costa del Sol and the Costa Blanca like Torremolinos, Malaga and Marbella.

The Spanish islands are also well worth checking out when it comes to beach holidays. The two main sets are the Canary Islands and the Balearic Islands, with both offering a similar mixture of sun, sea and sand to mainland Spain - along with a host of cultural and natural attractions unique to each island.

Greece

Greece's ancient history, warm climate and stunning natural scenery make for the perfect destination for holidays in the sun. If you want to stay on the mainland, just a few of the locations you might want to consider include Halkidiki and Kalamata, from which various beach resorts can easily be accessed.

Like Spain, Greece has many islands that rival the mainland in terms of beach holiday fun - popular options include Crete, Rhodes, Corfu and Kos, as well as several smaller islands that offer sun-drenched breaks in relatively secluded, unspoilt settings.

Cyprus

Cyprus is a large island boasting something for everyone - whether you want a party-filled beach holiday or something a bit more family-friendly, you can find it here.

Popular destinations include Paphos and Limassol in the west and Larnaca and Ayia Napa to the east. Mountain ranges, historic monuments and fine wineries all offer great potential for day trips when you want to get away from the beach for a while.

Turkey

Turkey's Mediterranean coast attracts crowds of travellers every year keen to soak up the sun and enjoy the country's unique east-meets-west culture on their beach holidays.

Bodrum, Antalya and Marmaris are all popular locations for Turkish holidays in the sun.

Portugal

Like its neighbour Spain, Portugal has plenty to offer travellers looking for beach holidays that combine sun-soaked beaches with a fantastic culture and equally great cuisine.

The Algarve coast is a particularly attractive destination for holidays in the sun thanks to its beautiful beaches and wonderfully clear blue waters. There's plenty of golf to be had here, making it a great location for fans of the sport.

iWantSun.co.uk is a site dedicated to news about holidays in the sun. If you're looking for holiday inspiration and travel tips, such as finding beach holidays, then head over to iWantSun.co.uk.

Turkey Holidays - A Guide

Holiday companies offer a range of holidays in Turkey including city breaks and beach holidays. Popular destinations the coast between Alanya, Cesme or Istanbul. As well as amazing beaches and night life, its also stepped in history and culture. Popular places to visit include:

Aegean Black Sea Mediterranean Turkish Riviera Van Golu South Eastern Anatolia Marmara Cappadocia Central Anatolia

There are not many countries that can lay claim to clean beaches, ancient ruins, Byzantine aqueducts and hippodromes, tangled bazaars, underground cities, well-designed mosques and churches, a volcanic landscape of fairy chimneys and a full-size model of the Trojan horse.

Istanbul is where the Ottomans built hundreds of mosques and many tours start here in the old capital. Blue Mosque and Haghia Sophia lie across the street opposite one and another. It cost's nothing for visitors to the mosque, but women will be expected to cover their knees, shoulders and head and men will be provided with a sarong. This no longer applies to the Haghia Sophia, as it has been converted into a museum. Across the street are the Roman Cisterns and the remnants of the Hippodrome. Further on is the extravagant sultans palace of Topkapi with its archaeological museum with tea gardens and an excellent view. A few minutes ride on the tram to Beyazit station will take you the enormous shopping mall, the amazing Grand Bazaar. It looks like a maze of markets and you are well advised to take a map with you.

Istiklal Caddesi in Taksim has a more western approach for the shopping experience with boutiques, some great restaurants and a good night life. The Bosphorus Strait is a really busy waterway and it is possible to take the ferry from Eminonu to the Black Sea. Anadolu Kavagi is a fantastic place for a seafood lunch before climbing to the 14th century Byzantine fortress.

The St Saviour at Chora church is a wonderful example of Byzantine architecture. It is situated in a remote part of the city and has unspoiled examples of mosaic art. Further out is the Domabhce Palace, which is worth a visit although being a little more expensive than some other tourist spots. If you are looking for something off the beaten trail, many visitors opt for special interest trips including:

Archaeological tours led by guides.

o Botanical tours to the Kackar Mountains.

o A holiday on a yoga farm that includes personal growth themes, walking, shiatsu and painting

o Green holidays to the Van basin and Kackar foothills to study butterflies, orchids and watch birds alongside an enthusiastic English guide.

o Natural history holidays in the mountains close to the deltas and lakes.

The people of Turkey are really friendly and this country has so much to offer, as well as all the historical and cultural sites, and the traditional Turkish cuisine is not to be missed.

Copyright (c) 2009 directline-holidays.co.uk

Check out all the latest deals & offers on Turkey holidays visit http://www.directline-holidays.co.uk for all the best deals at unbeatable prices.

Why Rent Holiday Accommodation in Cyprus

How many people could accurately point to the location of Cyprus on a map of the world.Well the 3rd largest island in the Mediterranean lies at its eastern most end just a few miles of the coast of Southern Turkey.

With its sandy beaches, historical sights and beautiful scenery, Cyprus creates a perfect holiday. The island for all seasons, Cyprus enjoys year-round sun, great nightlife and a wonderful atmosphere. According to Greek mythology, Cyprus is said to have been Aphrodite's, the Goddess of Love's, birthplace, and once you have spent just a few days there, it's easy to see why holidaymakers fall in love with it.

Although a small country, Cyprus has a distinguished cultural heritage. The island bears witness to its millenia of cultural history. Cyprus has been occupied and inhabited by countless peoples over many years all of whom have a lasting and indelible imprint on this charming and beautiful island. Because of the islands close proximity to the continents of Asia, Africa and Europe, Cyprus exudes an atmosphere of very varied and diverse cultural influences and with 9000 years of history this island is truly a most magical and special holiday island.

Although the island is divided between the Turkish North(The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus or TRNC as it is locally known)and the Greek South, in practical terms it is now entirely possible to travel between the 2 sides of the island with the minimum of fuss and formalities.

Whether you are in the North or the South of the island, you would struggle to spot the differences in the 2 peoples of this island. Apart from the language, there are far more similarities than there are differences. Although this is a politically divided island the warmth of both the Turkish and Greek Cypriot people is the overriding memory and impression which you will take away with you back to your own home.

As much as enjoying a few days rest and relaxation in the wonderful climate, you will also find it impossible not to become involved and mixing with the most wonderful and hospitable Cypriot people who make this place more than just a holiday island. Indeed you will feel that Cyprus has become a home from home such is the charm and attraction of this place.

Indeed I challenge you to go to any restaurant or taverna on this island and to come away at the end of the evening and not to have met and been introduced to the owner of the establishment and to have shared "a drink on the house!"

The most popular coastal and beach resorts are those of Limassol, Paphos, Larnaca, Ayia Napa and Protaras. Nicosia, the island's divided capital is well worth a visit but the intense heat of the summer months is made worse by the fact that Nicosia lies almost at the centre of the island and not by the coast where the sea breezes provide welcome relief in the months of June to September when average daily temperatures will rise well into the high 30's to 40's and stay there even into the evening and nighttime hours.

The Troodos mountains provide a welcome change for those seeking some relief from the summer sun- indeed it is actually possible to ski up in Troodos in Winter and yet still be on the beach in Limassol or Larnaca within a short 90 minute car ride- such is the amazing variety of this island which once visited is never forgotten.

As with many holiday resorts, Cyprus has become a very popular destination for people to buy investment and holiday properties. In addition to luxurious 5 star hotels, Cyprus has a huge choice and selection of holiday rental properties. Large holiday homes with several bedrooms, huge swimming pools and beautifully manicured gardens to modern spacious townhouses and apartments with all modern facilities and creature comforts.

As far the quality of hotels, Cyprus has some of the very best to be found anywhere in the world. For many years the only thing which Cyprus lacked as a holiday destination was, in my opinion, high quality golf courses, but of late there has been a spate of fantastic golf resorts springing up on both sides of the island. The climate in Cyprus is so mild and temperate in winter that it has become in recent years, a superb winter holiday resort. Moreover, due to the construction of some world class golfing resorts at Aphrodite Hills and Tsada Hills in the South and the brand new resort at Esentepe in the Turkish North, this is a great place to visit for a fantastic winter golfing holiday.

The Author, Duncan Paul Mitchell, is a co-owner of the holiday property rental website: http://www.letsbookaholiday.com . If you are looking to rent superb quality holiday villas and apartments in Cyprus or if you are a holiday property owner in Cyprus and are looking to create more rental income, then please visit the website: [http://www.letsbookaholiday.com/Cyprus] to take advantage of some great advertising and villa rental offers.

Cheap Holidays to Turkey - Best Turkey Holiday Resorts

Turkey is where East meets West and it is just this variety that makes move in Turkey then exciting. Although turkey is a Muslim country its finish is imbued with a large and respectful honor for Islam, Turkey is an area that attempts to part the lay and spiritual beliefs of its citizens. While it is indefinite what the future holds for Turkey, nowadays the area remains a superior holiday place and one of our good places to see.

Many Visitors thinks that there is a small Turkey inside the Istanbul. Crossing the Bosporus into Asia Minor, still, leads you into a foreign and interesting nation. Read our recommendations on the good places to see in Turkey and so have your reservations to search this about enticing area.

Ancient sights of epic proportions wait you on the Aegean Coast. Visit lovely Pamukkale, a petrified limestone waterfall or some of the better preserved ruins at Ephesus. From Altinkum make the journey to the Temple of Apollo where you will be awe-struck by the pure size of the yet righteous columns not to cite the inventiveness of the old civilisations.

Most Recommended Places to see in Turkey:

1. MARMARIS: Marmaris has been the most exiting resorts for the visitors who expect a good relaxing holiday. Marmaris is possibly the most European of all the Turkish resorts, although a venture into the Old Quarter shortly reveals a really conventional Turkish air. Old men seat in the shadow playing backgammon just yards from the more advanced bars on theseafront.

2. ICMELER : Icmeler is very close to major resort marmaris. Just 5 minutes of travel brings you a more quiet beach. The relaxed ambience is contagious and you can consume your days sunbathing, exploring Marmaris or taking boat trips around the bays. For evenings out,you will be spoilt for selection. Icmeler offers its own broad scope of restaurants, bars and discos, or you can inspect Marmaris where the nights are still livelier.

3. BODRUM: The coastal landscape in Bodrum by islands, peninsulas, bays and headlands rich divided. In about half an hour to get there by ship, the Greek island of Kós. Bodrum is the heart of nightlife for native Turkish tourists and europians. Today Bodrum Turkey is the soul of tourism, every summer Bodrum becoming a "capital" of relaxing, jogging and swimming for the millions of visitors from all over the world.

Turkey is the magical country to explore. Golden beaches, ancient history, and mouth-watering cuisine all await you.

Sam is a travel writer see more about Turkey Icmeler: Icmeler Turkey. You can find more information about Bodrum at Bodrum Turkey Holidays and for Marmaris: Marmaris Turkey

Turkey Holidays - Cheap and a Complete Holiday Deal

Turkey is one of the cheap holiday destinations in the world that enjoys the great reputation. Today it is among one of the few European tourist heavens that has so much to offer and do, all at feasible rates. In fact, the key feature that makes cheap holiday to Turkey more feasible alternative is cheap flights which are easily available. Moreover, this tourist paradise even features an abundance of cheap self catering accommodation, which is definitely the best alternative to enjoy your holiday stay at feasible rates.

Today Turkey is one of the few countries that doesn't have the hustle and bustle of other tourist destinations, but yet has much to offer that can make your cheap Turkey holiday a wonderful and exciting holiday experience. There is an abundance of self catering and bed and breakfast accommodation, which provides a great base for your stay. In fact, holidays in Turkey can include anything starting from long weekend breaks, all inclusive holidays to the ever popular beach-break, featuring all the sun, sea and sand that you always wished for. It has a very uneven and varied terrain consisting of valleys, trails and mountains that makes it the best destination to enjoy hiking. In addition to this, this destination also offer many options to participate and enjoy different sort of outdoor activities like mountain biking on forest trails or even scuba diving in Bodrum.

Enjoying your cheap Turkish holidays you are never far from some of the most unique historical tourist attractions that this country has to offer. Having had a long history that was influenced by the Byzantine, Roman and Ottoman empires to name just a few, this country has lots of destinations that enjoy great historical significance including some incredibly intricate architectures. The fascinating ruin of Ephesus located on the beautiful Turkish countryside is just one of the remarkable ancient treasures that you can enjoy during a day trip.

Nevertheless, Turkey is a country where you can do without spending much money and enjoy all what you always imagined. You can do paraglide over Dead Sea, river rafting, and even yachting in the blue coastal line. Adding to this, you may even do hot air ballooning, mountaineering and hunting in national park of turkey. If you are expecting some other sort of outdoor adventure then skiing on the mountains, visiting hot spring and spas, exploring the wild life and green plateaus of turkey are other alternatives that you can enjoy.

Moreover, if you are one among those who like shopping then resorts such as Bodrum and its charming narrow streets could be the most feasible option that can offer plenty of good shopping and frenetic nightlife. In addition to this, the versatile Marmaris is the most popular resort where you can find a vast choice of shops and restaurants, along with bars as well. Apart from this, shopping in turkey has own enjoyment if it is done at Istanbul. This is the most famous place in turkey and known for grand bazaar. This bazaar was built by sultan Mehmet, covers 65 streets and 3300 shops.

Today Turkey is not just about sun drenched beaches, nightclubs or remarkable mosques, it has many other tourists' attractions. In fact, there is so much to explore and enjoy that holidays in Turkey can provide a complete kaleidoscope of exciting opportunities and wonderful adventure experience. So this season, plan your cheap Turkey holiday for a wonderful adventure and relaxing experience.

Explore Turkey with your family and friends at very affordable prices with Holidayclick - Travel specialist in UK. Book cheap Turkey holidays now and avail special discounts on holidays to Turkish resorts.

Want to look out for more holiday options? Find out the best cheap holiday deals including all inclusive & last minute holidays, cheap hotel & flight bookings and much more.

Turkish Riviera - What Makes It An Attractive Real Estate Investment Opportunity?

Standing between the Eastern and Western tradition, Turkey is today one of the hotspots of Europe. The Turkish Riviera, also known as "The Turquoise Coast", encompasses thousands of kilometers of shoreline, crystal clear waters, and it is literally strewn with ancient cities, harbors, memorial tombs, beaches, little coves, lush forests and streams.

Purchasing properties located somewhere along the Turkish Riviera is becoming an increasingly profitable business with more and more home owners and real estate investors coming from around the globe. The combination of a favorable climate, warm sea, the hospitality of Turkish People, and abundant natural and archaeological points of interest makes this stretch of Turkey's coastline a popular destination.

One of the most important cities of the Turkish Riviera is Marmaris which is on track to becoming one of the top performing European real estate markets. Marmaris real estate offices are selling all kinds of property, including villas, apartments and houses, in addition to commercial properties and extensive land areas. The sea and sun, nature and history, along with several top level marinas make Marmaris property appealing to jet-to-let investors, tourists, and sailing lovers.

But still, what makes Marmaris real estate market such a potential money spinning investment? The short answer contains several keywords: price and liberal legal framework on top and above the setting, beauty, and climate.

The town of Marmaris is located at the meeting place of the Aegean Sea and the Mediterranean Sea, a harbour surrounded by pine-clad hills. It is Turkey's most sophisticated and multi-faceted holiday resort. This makes Marmaris real estate an inviting world of hotels and apartments for leisure and business visitors. Marmaris has its own charm and an exceptional natural beauty, even though its traditional architecture has been less vividly preserved when compared to other coastal towns. In addition, Marmaris is a very popular wintering location for hundreds of cruising boaters and tourists, also providing regular blue cruise tours, yacht charters combined with the Greek islands, diving tours and daily tours to archeological sites.In addition to all travel services there are also ferry services from Marmaris to the Greek island of Rhodes.

Considering the natural beauty of the city location, it goes without saying that yachting and the tourism industry is the main source of income for Marmaris. In short, we can say that Marmaris has become "the Sailing Holiday Center of Turkey".

As is usually the case, tourism goes hand in hand with a flourishing real estate industry, and Marmaris real estate market is no exception. There are all sorts of Marmaris properties available, either for sale or for rent, from gorgeous villas, stone cottages to city central complexes of sunny duplex apartments. Investors are keen to get the opportunity to purchase prime development land overlooking beautiful picturesque areas, such as Orhaniye Bay, where even the famous Roman Abramovic recently decided to invest.

After starting talks with the EU, Turkey experienced economic growth, which particularly kick-started a boom in Marmaris property prices. Even so, the Marmaris real estate market is comparatively much cheaper than housing markets in Spain, France, the US and Italy, all of which were formerly much preferred by jet-to-let investors.

The option to "live and let" is certainly alluring to a lot of people, thanks to the binary possibility offered: use the property for some of the year yourself and let it out for the rest. That makes Marmaris property such a good investment.

The foreign purchase of Marmaris real estate is widely supported by the Turkish government. The principles governing the purchase of property by non-Turkish individuals or companies, established back in 1934 through the Property Law, were last amended in January 2006, bringing notable changes especially with regard to size limitations. Essentially, the Property Law is predicated on a reciprocity clause, allowing foreigners to buy properties only within municipality and no more than 25,000 sqm of land, constructed or not. For bigger land surfaces, the special consent of the Turkish Council of Ministers is required, which authorised to increase the limit up to 300,000 sqm per person provided that the foreign national ownership of real estate does not exceed 5/1000 of land in any designated province.

Therefore, with such an investor-friendly governmental policy, it is easy to see why more and more foreign investors have entered the Marmaris real estate market.

Gurhan Ebren is a retired naval officer and currently runs El Paso Travels, a Marmaris travel agency specializing in yacht and gulet charters and cruises in Turkey. You can learn more about the blue cruises which visit Cnidus and other sites at http://www.elpasotravel.net/itinaries.htm

Top Ten Reasons to Holiday in Belek, Turkey

Whether you are interested in golf, archaeology and history, water sports or just relaxing on the beach, Belek Turkey is the ideal vacation destination. Everyone will enjoy Belek with its outstanding weather, beautiful beaches and tourist-friendly atmosphere.

The following ten great reasons to love Belek includes information about popular activities and attractions you will not want to miss on your visit:

Ten Great Reasons You will Love Belek Turkey

300 days of sunshine!

Belek is a premier destination for sun lovers, and it is no wonder why with a summer season that lasts from 8 to 9 months long. Visit from April to November and you will enjoy hot, dry weather with temperatures in the range of 30C-34C.

Beautiful Mediterranean beaches.

Beleks warm, turquoise waters are ideal for all sorts of water sports. Swimming, water skiing, sailing, boating and more extreme water sports such as wind surfing are all available. Plus, many of Beleks beaches feature waters that are calm enough for children to safely play in.

Golf.

Belek is Turkeys premier golf centre, and it features more than eight championship golf courses. All levels of players will enjoy golfing on Beleks beautiful courses. The majority of Beleks luxury hotels and resorts are situated in very close proximity to one or another of Beleks golf courses.

Five-star hotel complexes.

Belek is renowned for its fabulous assortment of 5-star luxury hotels and resorts. Many hotels feature their own private beach, and accommodations and services are so comprehensive, some visitors never leave their hotel or resort complexes.

Aspendos amphitheatre and the ruins of Perge.

Anyone interested in history or architecture will not want to miss the incredibly well-preserved ancient amphitheatre at Aspendos and the ruins at Perge. The amphitheatre was built during the 2nd century and was designed to seat 20,000 people. It is so well preserved, it remains an impressive example of excellence in architectural design and expertise in engineering. The acoustics at Aspendos amphitheatre are considered near perfect even to this day, and lucky visitors will have the chance to experience a live concert performance on site.

Thermal baths at Pamukkale.

Pamukkale is a natural wonder. Waters rich in minerals flow from the ground at a very warm 35 degrees Celsius, and the mineral-rich water flows down the mountain into a myriad of pools. White stalactites have been formed where water overflows from the pools, creating a very unique and beautiful sight. Visitors can walk along the terraces and even opt to bathe in the thermal pools for a fee.

Local Turkish food.

You can sample fresh, delicious Turkish food at hotels and independent restaurants in Belek. Turkish food includes flavorful dishes such as stuffed vine leaves, tomato and olive salads, feta cheese, kebabs and rice dishes. Adana Ockbkbasi features popular Turkish fish and kebab dishes in Belek, and Coco Bar is renowned for its lamb shish kebabs.

The Village of Kadriye.

Located just two miles (4km) away from Belek, Kadriye is a popular destination. Kadriye offers a delightful selection of shops, bars and restaurants for those vacationing in Belek.

The Koprulu National Park.

Belek Turkey holiday-goers can enjoy a scenic drive on the road to Koprulu Canyon National Park. The park contains many interesting features including the Roman Oluk Bridge which spans the Canyon, the Bugrum Bridge spanning Kocadere stream and a variety of interesting flora and fauna. White water rafting and rock climbing are two extreme sports to try at Koprulu Canyon.

Shopping at street markets.

Visitors looking for unique Turkish gifts or souvenirs can shop at street markets throughout Belek. On Saturdays, a huge bazaar with hundreds of vendors offers a lively and entertaining shopping experience.

These are just ten of the top reasons holiday-goers travel to and enjoy Belek Turkey.

However you opt to spend your time, you're sure to discover your own reasons to love vacationing in this vibrant, yet relaxing vacation hot spot in Turkey.

Mark Farrell owns and runs MF Airport Parking a Manchester Airport Parking only comparison site - http://www.mfairportparking.com writing on behalf of Turkish Golfing Property Bargains visit the site at http://www.turkish-golfing-property-bargains.com

Turkish Gulet Cruises - Enjoy Your Holidays the Natural Way

Sailing Turkey on a gulet is an unforgettable experience where you get the opportunity to explore the beauties of the Turkish coastlines. You can experience the gulet holidays Turkey with warm water and memorable views of a most attractive country.

A Turkish gulet is a sailing yacht made up of wood and powered with a motor. These Turkey gulets have tall sails also as a secondary means to move in water. Turkish Gulet Cruises are arranged on a rental basis with varied time duration. The facilities often include libraries, air conditioning, private cabins, main cabin catering dining table and bar.

In addition to that, there is an energetic, friendly and well-experienced crew on a Turkish gulet to share the charm of the local area. The modern Turkey gulets also have showers and hot water facilities. In addition to this gulets, have modern gadgets like navigational, fishing and diving equipments along with music systems.

Turkey being a country with magnificent beaches has so much to explore. By land you would have to spend long hours of grueling road travel. However, there is an easy way to get discomfort, effort and worries out of your holidays, just by opting for gulet holidays in Turkey.

Sailing Turkey on a gulet is very relaxing, as you don't have to bother about movement from one place to another. The expert crew steers and maintains the gulet while providing you with full privacy all along the cruise.

Most of the Turkey gulets are designed with holidays in mind. They are tailor-made to cater everyone's requirement. There are indoor as well as outdoor saloons where you can sit, sun bathe and see the scenery move past. It's enjoying nature at its best.

You can chose the length and types of activities you want for your holiday trip on a Turkish gulet. You can as per your requirement decide on a short cruise with less activities or a longer trip with more things to do.

Destinations vary from Marmaris to Kos and Rhodes. The activities offered are of varied nature from going on historical exploration to swimming in warm clean waters. A Turkey Gulet will provide you and your family one of the best scenic sailing journeys. A few important locations that you will come across when you move along on gulet holidays in Turkey are Bodrum, Cokertme, Cati Lagoon, English Harbour, Marmaris and Cleopatra Island.

Bodrum where many civilizations flourished is a home to ruins of the Mausoleum, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Cokertme is a large bay on the northern coast of Gokova It is the place where cruising yachtsmen get water and provisions for further explorations. Next, in the line is Cati Lagoon and as the name suggests it is wonderful lagoon where you can enjoy swimming.

Cleopatra Island has a story that white sand was bought here by the Egyptian princess Cleopatra so this is the name given to this place. Marmaris located on a bay has rugged pine-full mountains in the background. It is a place ideal for sailing and water sports. If you are interested in live entertainment then there are live dancing bars that run right through the night for your pleasure. There is much to be enjoyed by sailing Turkey.

Enjoy Getting Away by Hiring Turkish Villas

When considering a holiday destination, most people do not consider Turkish Villas. It is unfortunate because the country of Turkey is a beautiful but somewhat off the beaten path for tourist destination for UK residents. The travel costs to Turkey, however, are well worth it. The Villa's in Turkey have more sun than those of other areas with villa space for rent and when looking for activities and sightseeing, there is far more to do and see.

Benefits of Turkish Villas

The typical Turkish villa has many benefits for both those who are used to staying in villas elsewhere in Europe as well as those new to the villa experience. For both groups, they will find the cost of a villa in Turkey to be quite a bit cheaper than virtually anywhere else in Europe. Because the labour costs in Turkey are lower than most of Europe, the cost for a villa is less. Because of this, the villas of turkey are becoming more and more popular with European tourists, especially during this time when everyone is trying to save and stretch their hard-earned money.

Another benefit for those that are used to the villa experience is the Middle Eastern twist to the entire experience. The people working in the villa have a different approach to the tourist and there is an appreciation for the tourist that is lacking in other European villas. The food provided is, again, of the Middle Eastern variety, which is both different and quite enjoyable.

Finally, one of the most often cited reasons for choosing a villa in Turkey is simply because there are more days of sun. For the resident of the UK, the goal of a holiday oftentimes is to escape to a locale with far more sun and a different climate than the one they live in on a daily basis. Turkey is both sunny, warmer and far dryer than anywhere else in Europe.

What Tourism Activities are there in Turkey?

Turkey has a rich history and many of the cities in Turkey have been around for thousands of years. Because of this, there are many different tourism activities for those that enjoy visiting relics, monuments and ancient history. Turkey also boasts thoroughly modern museums and other tourism destinations. For the couple who wants to enjoy a romantic holiday, Turkey is beautiful at night and has a unique nightlife as well.

There are areas of Turkey that are on the Black Sea and others on the Mediterranean Sea. Between these to bodies of water, most of turkey has an ocean nearby and many of the villas are located along the ocean. The sun is bright in the sky almost every day and the water is comfortable for swimming, surfing and wakeboarding. Some of the villas even boast private beaches where only those in the Villa have access. Hiring a horse for a romantic beach ride or hire a dune buggy if that is more your style, a villa in Turkey is the perfect holiday destination.

Do you need to get away for a while? Why not look at Turkish Villas? If this sounds like what you need then speak with Home & Holiday Lettings, this Middlesbrough based company can help you find just what you need. For more information and any questions you may have please visit the website at http://www.homeandholidaylettings.com/

A Holiday in Turkey - Is it the New Spain?

Some four hundred thousand Brits now own holiday homes abroad, Spain has been the most popular of destinations over the past twenty years; it has however become very expensive and more than a little over developed in recent years.

As a consequence many have begun to look elsewhere for their ´place in the sun´. Turkey has seen a huge rise in interest both as a holiday destination and a place to invest in property, people who were astute enough to recognize it as a potential ´hotspot´ as little as eight years ago could have seen their property increase in value by as much as 500% in that time; and whilst Turkey too has seen a decline in demand during 2009, property values have not dropped in the more desirable Mediterranean resorts, (one such resort being Kalkan) to the degree they have in the likes of Spain.

The possibility of Turkey´s acceptance to the European Union has also fuelled speculation in the property market there, whether they will ever achieve acceptance (or indeed actually want to) is yet to be seen. This is the account of how I became one of those ´Brits abroad´: -

I first went to Turkey, rather reluctantly, I might add, on holiday in 2000, and was very pleasantly surprised at how green the country was, I had expected to find a dusty arid country, how wrong I was! I was also very pleasantly surprised at how warm and welcoming the Turkish people were; having holidayed in Greece for some years I had always believed the Greeks would be difficult to beat in their hospitality, the Turks did just that.

My wife and I returned some five years later, having booked a holiday in a very swish hotel on the Dalyan delta, we were disappointed six weeks before being due to depart, to be told by the holiday company that we could not go there as the hotel was having work done and that they, the holiday company, would not allow their guests to have what was not the perfect holiday experience. They told us to choose something else from the brochure and regardless of cost they would honour the price we had paid and even refund us if there was a difference. My wife had seen Kalkan but dismissed it due to the transfer time from the airport feeling that it would be too long, however, given the situation we decided that we would endure the two hour transfer (it turned out to be one and a half). We chose a villa holiday instead of a hotel and hit the jackpot!

Kalkan, we decided very quickly was an idyllic place to holiday and whilst walking down one of the narrow cobbled streets one evening to enjoy a pre-dinner drink stopped to look in an estate agents window (as I´m sure many of you have), before I knew it we were making an appointment with the agent to view some properties the following evening. Meeting that particular agent was yet another amazing stroke of luck, he was a charming intelligent man who´s English was impeccable.

The following evening arrived and I have to say that I personally was not too enthusiastic, as I believed that I was wasting valuable time, I never actually expected to be buying a house. The agent who we learned was called Kemal met us at the appointed time and took us to view the first property, which he had chosen as a possibility. It was an imposing four bedroom detached property with magnificent sea views and a swimming pool; it was newly built and was being marketed at £140,000. It was without doubt a lot of house for the money, however, there was an apartment block right along side it with twelve balconies all of which looked over the swimming pool, a serious privacy issue which immediately ruled that one out.

As we drove away from that villa Kemal asked, "what are you looking for, do you want detached?" I rather facetiously said ´of course´ (remember I had little or no intention of buying) "do you want a swimming pool?" ´ Well obviously!´ He then took us to another newly built in fact not completely finished villa, at what point my attitude changed I cannot actually say, I just knew it was going to happen! This villa again was a four bedroom detached with pool and panoramic views over the bay and astonishingly £15,000 cheaper! We left Kemal that evening feeling like excited school children, a couple of days later and a couple of telephone calls back to the UK to our bank manager and we were signing on the dotted line!

From thereon Kemal did everything we gave him power of attorney (not an easy decision to make with someone you have only just met) and he completed the deal, we became the proud owners of our own piece of paradise seven months later. The piece of paradise is called Villa Katmar, a vaguely Turkish sounding word? No just a combination of parts of our names.

Becoming a property owner in Turkey for us was a very easy and stress free experience, however, a WORD OF WARNING, not everyone we know had such an easy transition into becoming a Turkish villa owner! As in any country it depends very much on the people you deal with and applying a little common sense! I have to say we were very fortunate to have had that almost accidental meeting with Kemal; it could have been a very different tale had we done ´business´ with someone else.

If you are contemplating buying in Turkey then I would urge you to consider Kalkan and if you do then again I would have no hesitation in recommending Kemal Safyurek of Mavi Estates.

A holiday in Kalkan could prove to be a great holiday in Turkey.

Holidays in Turkey

With origins from the word 'strong' in the old Turkish language, Turkey has been home to human habitation for longer than anywhere else on earth. The area has been settled since Neolithic times by a range of peoples. The original land of the Turks stretched across Central Asia, and today's culture has Chinese, Indian, Middle Eastern and European influences.

One major story of the history of Turkey is the Ottoman Empire - A Turkish empire that at the height of its power in the 16th and 17th Centuries stretched across 3 continents, It gradually lost power during the 19th Century and what was left of it became the Republic of Turkey in 1923.

Today Turkey is a thriving democracy, and for decades has been a favoured holiday destination for people wanting to combine great Mediterranean beaches, varied and cultured towns and cities, with a fantastic range of places to visit and explore.

The capital of Turkey and its largest city is Istanbul. Often regarded as the place where East and West meet and infuse. It is extrovert in character - its unique identity of colourful history and dynamic contemporary style reaches out to the visitor. These contrasts don't collide, they converge, with the Bosphurus - a wide river that divides the East side with the West - marking out this almost momentous indicator of where one huge culture meets another. Two big bridges cross the river and each side has its own myriad of characteristics, with the old town in the European side popular for tourist accommodation, and famous sites such as the Blue Mosque well worth visiting.

Away from the bustle of city life, Turkey boasts a variety of outstanding national parks, with the Kacker Mountain National Park, by the Black Sea coast, featuring a variety of wildlife and some stunning scenery. Alpine villages offer quality accommodation for hikers and offer a unique insight into the day-to-day life of the area. Other national parks feature A wide diversity of geological wonders, nature reserves, and tranquil lakes.

With a proud tradition of dance and music, Turkey's folk culture plays a huge role in daily life that varies from region to region. With influences from the west and the east, Turkish music blends European classical tones with Eastern styles. Fine art is evident around Turkey, with museums and art galleries offering a range of works for visitors and locals alike.

For food lovers, holidays in Turkey mean the visitor is treated to a unique blend of Eastern and Mediterranean recipes, and truly deserves its status as one of the world's best. The great feature of Turkish cities is, as they have grown and drawn in people from the regions, they have also drawn in the fabulous variety of local cuisines. Vine leaves, bread and rice are a staple accompaniment to some excellent, and often rich, lamb and fish dishes. Istanbul is especially regarded for its seafood restaurants.

The Turkish way of life is just as varied and colourful, with Eastern and Western - or the familiar and the less familiar - blending to form a welcoming and extrovert culture. Uniquely for a country with a huge and fascinating Islamic influence, in Turkey religion is celebrated yet kept private, and tolerance and diversity prevail.

Hotels in Turkey range from the stylish to the sublime, each with their own charm and take on their surroundings. With a fine climate all year round and some fascinating sights and sounds, Turkey's appeal extends far beyond the coastal holiday areas and warm Mediterranean waters.

For a relaxing, warm weather break holidays in Turkey combine great weather, reasonable prices and plenty of culture.