Why Turkish Golf Holidays Will Be Big in 2009

When you think of sunshine golf locations Spain and Portugal come to mind, but golf holidays in Turkey are going to be catching them up in 2009. This is in part thanks to the huge investment in the country's tourism that has seen some splendid courses and hotels pop up in recent years. But it's not just the golf that makes Turkey a quality holiday choice...

The Golf

Golf in Turkey has received massive financial investment, and it's a testament to how far the country has come in such a short time that the Turkish Golf Federation - only established 12 years ago - have won the rights to host the World Amateur Golf Championship in 2012.

Although courses are being built around the country, I would recommend focusing on Belek with its impressive density of quality courses. The pick of these are National, Sultan and the Nick Faldo course at Cornelia. Gloria New and Old are lovely tracks too. In fact, there's not a weak one on the circuit and they all provide good holiday golf with the all-important near-guaranteed sunshine. There are enough courses for a fortnight's vacation and all but the most serious golfer will come away very, very satisfied.

The Hotels

The hotels around Belek really push it from a good to great place for golf holidays.

The hotels offer fantastic facilities and friendly and efficient service for a surprisingly low cost. Worthy of special mention are the impressive six five-star hotels which are well placed for Belek's courses: The Gloria Golf Resort, the Cornelia Deluxe Resort, Sueni, Kempinski The Dome, Sirene Golf-Hotel and Maritim Pine Beach Resort. Serious rivals to what is offered on the Algarve and Costa del Sol in terms of quality and service.

The Climate

Warm, dry weather is perfect for golf holidays and Turkey doesn't disappoint. It can be too hot to play in the summer but from February to June and September to November, the weather is ideal and even December and January are a whole lot nicer than the UK spring months!

The Culture

Before you even consider the golf, Turkey has a rich cultural history and it's a truly amazing experience just to wander the towns and cities taking in the elaborate architecture and cultural heritage. There is a huge amount to take in and the various museums and galleries are great for culture buffs. And for those who want light culture with blissful relaxation, the legendary Turkish Baths are well worth a visit.

The Food

Turkish cuisine is far more than a "kebab". Meze (or appetisers) is what the country is best for - a choice of hundreds of small dishes ranging from cheese with melon to a variety of stuffed vegetables. You're sure to find something to your tastes with the huge variety available!

Turkey golf breaks are definitely on the up and the combination of fine golf, great accommodation and culture means that the destination should be on everyone's lists.

Take a golf holiday in Turkey... Before everyone else does.

Morgan Clarke is the Managing Director of GolfPlanet Holidays, a company that has been providing bespoke golf holidays for over 25 years. The award-winning specialist tour operator is privately-owned and determined to ensure that both experienced golfers and novices can enjoy unforgettable golf holidays in Turkey [http://www.yourgolfholidays.com/turkey-golf-breaks-holidays.html].