Turkey

Turkey is full of history and culture, ancient sites can be seen all over and it is believed to be home to the world's first town dating back to 6500 BC. It is bordered by the Black Sea, the Aegean Sea and of course the Mediterranean with over more than 6000 km of coastline. The Mediterranean coast enjoys more than 300 days of sunshine a year making it an excellent destination for a sun holiday.

The culture combined with scenery comprising superb beaches, photogenic towns and magnificent mountains make it a great destination for everyone. Don't forget to try the local cuisine of appetisers or 'Meze', Turkish kebabs, 'borek' - meat or cheese stuffed pastry, stuffed vine leaves seafood and of course locally grown citrus fruits and olives.

Bodrum

Bodrum is a bustling and cosmopolitan resort with obvious examples of its history. One of the most attractive sights is the 15th Century castle of St Peter, which at dusk is basked in lights and has a magical appeal. Chic cafes surround the harbour where you can take a break from your shopping expedition in and out of the many boutiques situated in the town's picturesque narrow streets.

For beaches you will need to jump on a Dolmus for a short trip to Gumbet or onto one of the boats making regular trips to secluded coves along the coast. At night Bodrum is the capital, with Turkey's most spectacular outdoor disco, providing one choice of nightclub or bar to chose from. Alternatively relax in one of the many restaurants offering both local and international cuisine.

Dalaman

Dalaman Airport is the arrival point for all the resorts of Marmaris, Icmeler, Olu Deniz, Hisaronu, Ocacik and Fethiye.

Marmaris

Marmaris is one of the most popular Turkish resorts, surrounded by a natural bay and pine-covered rolling hills, it offers traditional Turkey with a feel of Europe.

The Old Quarter of traditional winding streets and whitewashed houses contrasts the more sophisticated Riviera style promenade and marina home to quayside restaurants. Relax on one of the beaches by day or visit the numerous markets and bazaars and at night choose one of the numerous nightspots or restaurants.

Icmeler

Just 8km along the coast from Marmaris, Icmeler is the newer and quieter resort. The atmosphere is totally relaxed, and the beaches are stunning. At night the entertainment is centred around a variety of bars and restaurants. Creating the perfect ingredients for a relaxing holiday.

Olu Deniz

Olu Deniz has become one of the most famous of the Turkish resorts, not least for its gorgeous pale sandy beach and the blue warm waters of the lagoon. The backdrop of mountains rising into the sky adds to the outstanding beauty. Protected largely by a conservation area the accommodation is hidden in the valley behind the main beach. The perfect choice for a truly relaxing holiday.

Hisaronu & Ovacik

Despite the fact that Hisaronu is 4km from the beach on the mountainside it is a very popular resort. It is a great base to explore the area and take in the 'ghost town' of Kayakoy or enjoy the mountain air, secluded bays and coves reached by pathways through the forest. The beach at Olu Deniz is easy to get to if you want to try something different to the pool. The nightlife fills the bars and restaurants until the early hours of the morning, just in time to settle down for another day in the sun. Ovacik is a suburb of Hisaronu within easy walking distance.

Fethiye

Fethiye is situated between a bright blue bay and tree-covered mountains for contrasting views. The hugely unspoilt town still retains its traditional Turkish character. A small promenade attracts both tourists and the locals who meet to discuss the day's activities. The marina is busy with bars and restaurants and the cobbled streets is the place to pick up a bargain or two or a great meal both by day and at night. Calis Beach, only a short Dolmus ride from Fethiye is the ideal place if you want to laze on the beach. The 4km shingle beach is close to hotels, bars and restaurants running along the road parallel as well as having a few bars directly on the beach.

Antalya

The resorts of Side and Belek are closest to Antalya airport. Side is well known for its excellent choice of water sports and the blue flag beaches. An excellent place to spend the days in the sunshine. A reasonable selection of shops, bars and restaurants add to the overall appeal. There is also still a little evidence of its local history with an Amphitheatre and two 2nd century temples.

Belek on the other hand is a new resort, specially built for holidaymakers. However the development has managed to maintain the area's beauty and the historical temples and Roman ruins whilst offering the typical beach holiday requirements.

Izimir

The resorts of Foca, Cesme and Kusadasi are the main destinations for arrivals into Izmir/Adnan Menderes airport. Foca has small shingle beaches to relax on and enjoy the charming atmosphere. The town maintains its quaint tradition through its myriad of cobbled streets. There is a selection of bars along the coast to enjoy a relaxing meal after a hard day's sunbathe.

Cesme is centred around its charming fishing village but manages to maintain its traditional appeal. The beaches are generally small coves - very quiet and relaxing. Kusadasi has in recent years developed into one of Turkey's liveliest and most cosmopolitan resorts. The town offers a good selection of bazaar market stalls, to shops, cafes, bars, restaurants and lively nightclubs to spend the dark hours. Beaches are either just outside the town easily reached by the traditional Dolmus or the man-made beach near the harbour.