Holidays in Turkey

Turkey is located at a point where the three continents making up the old world, Asia, Africa and Europe are closest to each other, and straddle the point where Europe and Asia meet. It is a country that represents a cultural mixture, a synthesis of east and west, while it geographically bridges Europe and Asia.

• Country Profile - Turkey Holidays
• Getting Around Turkey
• Climate for Turkey Holidays
• Places of Interest in Turkey
• Eating/Drinking in Turkey
• Activities in Turkey
• General Information for Holidays in Turkey
• View Google Map of Turkey

View Map of Turkey

Country Profile - Turkey Holidays

Turkey has a magnificent past, and is a land full of historic treasures from 13 successive civilisations spanning 10,000 years. Turkey has been called "the cradle of civilisation" and by travelling through this historic land, tourists will discover exactly what is meant by this phrase.

In recent years, Turkey has become a major tourist destination in Europe. With the rapid development of both summer and winter resorts, more and more people from around the world are able to enjoy the history, culture, and beautiful sites of Turkey.

Turkey is a paradise of sun, sea, mountains and lakes that offers a complete change from the stress and routine of everyday life.

Turkey is generally divided into seven regions: the Black Sea region, the Marmara region, the Aegean, the Mediterranean, Central Anatolia, the East and Southeast Anatolia regions.

Holidays in Bodrum: Charming and fascinating little port, 270 km. south of Izmir, on the Aegean coast of Turkey. The inhabitants of Bodrum are around 30.000 and earn their living by fishing, boat-building, agriculture, weaving (the village Mumcular is famous for its carpets, kilims and other weavings) and tourism, which has become the most important industry in the last few years.

One of the unique features of Bodrum as a holiday resort is that in addition to the active recreational opportunities available by day and the unequalled Bodrum nightlife, so many more tranquil bays, beaches and villages are available to enjoy.

Holidays in Bodrum

Holidays in Gumbet: Only 2-3 km away from Bodrum this place recently became almost a resort unto itself. Gumbet features one of the longest and most popular beaches on the peninsula. Gumbet is also one of the most popular water sports centres with water-skiing, windsurfing and para sailing available.

The popularity of Gumbet has also generated serious nightlife and the streets of Gumbet vibrate till dawn with the music from numerous bars, discos and street side-cafes.

Holidays in Gumbet

Holidays in Bitez: Successfully combines a century's old place of life with a full range of tourist amenities, and is a favourite haunt of both, water sports enthusiasts and those in pursuit of calm and tranquillity in an unspoiled setting.

Holidays in Bitez

Holidays in Ortakent: Occupies the next bay to Bitez following the peninsula round to the west. The very large beach is popular with families, although the water rapidly becomes quite deep. There are several beach side cafes providing inexpensive meals and snacks throughout the day.

Holidays in Ortakent

Holidays in Side (Pronounced Sea-Day): The ancient Roman walled city of Side stands on a peninsular flanked by glorious beaches of golden sand. It was the one time trysting place of Anthony and Cleopatra and the ruins of ancient Hellenistic port survive.

Side's vast sandy beaches gently shelve into the warm, clear sea. There's no shortage of places to shop, eat and drink. Colourful shops friendly bars and wide choices of restaurants are located in the colonnaded main streets and narrow alleyways of the resort centre.

Holidays in Side

Holidays in Marmaris: One of the most attractive maritime parklands, ideal for water sports and sailing.

In Marmaris, sample the typical Turkish cuisine in one of the marina restaurants and drink raki, anisette, the traditional Turkish way. Ancient Marmaris, Physkos, was an important stage on the Anatolia-Rhodes-Egypt trade route. In the 16th century Suleyman the Magnificent had a citadel built on a hill, the remains of which can still be seen today.

There are many good buys in Marmaris' boutiques, colourful bazaars and markets. You can find excellent leather and suede goods, copper and brassware, jewellery and objects carved of onyx. Turkish carpets, textiles and embroidery make good handcrafted souvenirs, and the locally produced pine -scented honey called cambali is superb.

Holidays in Marmaris

Holidays in Fethiye: The popular resort Fethiye, 135 km southeast of Marmaris, boasts an important marina at the head of a beautiful bay strewn with islands. A hill crowned by the ruins of the crusader fortress built by the Knights of Rhodes overlooks the little port. Above the town, (called Telmessos in antiquity), numerous Lycian rock tombs, reproducing the facades of ancient buildings, were cut into the cliff face. The Tomb of Amyntas, which probably dates from the fourth century B.C., is the most remarkable.

Swimmers head for the popular Calis Beach, four kilometres west of town, or to Sovalye Island, opposite the harbour, which blazes with flowers in the spring.

Holidays in Fethiye

Holidays in Oludeniz: Situated on Turkey's south-west coast, with its pristine white beaches and amazingly blue waters is one of the finest beaches in the world. Known as "the Turquoise Coast", it's the ideal holiday destination.

Be it diving, rafting, paragliding or simply walking and sunbathing lazily on the beach, Oludeniz has it all.

Holidays in Oludeniz

Holidays in Ovacik Hisaronou: Situated on a high plateau 4km from the coast and surrounded by stunning mountains, the once sleepy villages of Hisaronu and Ovacik have combined to create a lively resort which has a distinctly British atmosphere. The nearest beaches are the famous lagoon of Oludeniz or the pebble and sand beach of Belcekiz.

The village is full of bars, restaurants and shops. This is certainly the place to haggle for any imitation designer gear.

The area is nice if you just want to relax on the beach or by the hotel pool but to get the most out of your trip you ought to consider moving around a little bit.

Holidays in Ovacik Hisaronou

Capital: Ankara

Population: 67.8 million (approx.)

Language: Turkish

Currency: New Turkish Lira (TRY)

Religion: 99% Muslim

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Getting around - Turkey Holidays:

Buses: Known as Dolmus and are the most convenient way to travel in Turkey.

Taxis: Metered and in plentiful supply in the resorts.

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Climate for Turkey Holidays

Although Turkey is situated in a geographical location where climatic conditions are quite temperate, the diverse nature of the landscape, and the existence in particular of the mountains that run parallel to the coasts, results in significant differences in climatic conditions from one region to the other.

Turkey Holidays - View 5 Day Forecast

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Places of Interest in Turkey

Mausoleum - Bodrum: Bodrum's oldest antiquity and was built by Artemisia II in honour of her husband King Mausolos. The monumental tomb became one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. After the Mausoleum was destroyed by an earthquake in the 12th century, an exhibition about what the Mausoleum probably looked like, together with a large model, provide a vivid lesson on the history of the area which was then called Halicarnassos.

The Amphi-theatre - Bodrum: The theatre is another witness to the great past of Bodrum. Situated in the hillside over looking Bodrum this theatre whose capacity is around 13.000 was built during the Carian reign in the Hellenistic age (330 - 30 BC.). The theatre consists of three different sections: a place for the audience, a place for an orchestra and the stage. It became an open-air museum after the excavations in 1973.

St. Peter castle - Bodrum: The most prominent feature of Bodrum is the castle of St. Peter. The castle's origins date back to the knights of St. John but now it is one of the finest museums in this region where you get wonderful views of the town and sea, are several mighty towers, a chapel, dungeon and Turkish bath, all set in gardens and linked by steep steps and passageways.

The Tomb of Sariana - Marmaris: On the Northeastern slopes of the city behind the neighbouring Sariana is the newly built Mosque which stands next to a tomb. Renowned for its oracular powers, the tomb was visited by Suleyman the Magnificent during his journey to Rhodes. Following good news from the Oracle, the Sultan decided to lay siege to the Island. It was known that the breakfast of the Ottoman Legions consisted of fresh milk, milked from Sariana's famed cow.

The Kervansaray - Marmaris: Surrounded by arches, this structure is built of stone and is in Ottoman style. Built in 1545, the Kervansaray contains 1 large and 7 small rooms. Today it is used as a shopping centre for souvenirs

Blue Lagoon - Fethiye: Explore Blue Lagoon (Oludeniz) where the calm crystal water is ideal for swimming and other water sports. Blue Lagoon is located near the famous tourist resort of Fethiye, Belcekyz Beach and protected as one of the natural parks of Turkey.

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Eating/Drinking in Turkey

An authentic Turkish experience can be combined with a raucous nights drinking at one of Turkey's meyhanes. These tavernas serve raki, beer and wine, along with an awe-inspiring selection of mezes (starters), succulent kebabs and fruits of the season. A favourite location for raki drinking, the atmosphere gets louder and merrier as the night progresses, with clients often breaking into impromptu renditions of Turkish classics.

In all resorts you will find a great range of restaurants, from traditional Turkish to International cuisine from all over the world.

For those who want to see something more exotic, many nightclubs offer "Oriental shows" with sequined belly dancers, troupes of Russian or Romanian dancers, and flashy cabaret singers.

Turkey's recent economic growth and increasing prosperity had had enormous effect on the vitality, energy and variety of its nightlife. The range of night entertainment is huge, from traditional male-dominated birahanes to techno and rave nightclubs, with new venues opening by the week. As a result, Turkey's nightlife is quickly gaining recognition as one of the liveliest in Europe.

The nightlife of Bodrum is known all over Europe, the highlight being the outdoor Halikarnas disco. Home-grown pop and rock is improving, and many Turkish stars also perform at bars and clubs. A great way to spend a summer evening is to attend one of the many outdoor rock and pop concerts featuring the current chart toppers which are regularly held in the main tourist resorts.

For a more relaxed atmosphere, there are many late-opening cafes serving great cappuccinos along with alcohol and playing everything from classical to drum and bass. At the top end of the market are bars and clubs catering to the young and upwardly mobile elite.

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Activities in Turkey

Gulet Cruise: Beautiful coastline, stunning sunsets, crystal waters and gentle breezes, all this can be expected during a wonderful Gulet Cruise.

Gulets are traditional Turkish motor-yacht's beautifully crafted from wood. Usually they have a 12 to 16 berth (6 to 8 double cabins) and very between 60 and 90 feet in length. The cabins have a shower, toilet and storage space. There is also a hall/bar fitted with mattresses and cushions for those who enjoy a break from the midday sun or prefer to read in the shade. On deck there is a shower allowing guests to rinse themselves after snorkeling or a swim.

Guests will be looked after by an experienced Turkish crew who will make sure your comfort is continuous whilst looking after all meals, cleaning and washing up! Understandably the crew are not likely to be fluent in English but will wait on you hand and foot. Of course they would not turn any help down either!.

The gulet facilities include an awning over the back deck for shade, fully equipped kitchen, VHF radio, cassette player) feel free to bring your own!) goggles, masks and snorkels, playing cards and board games.

During the day you will cruise along the Turkish coastline, sun bathing and snorkeling. During the evening you will anchor at a small village where you can depart the gullet and explore before returning to sleep and depart the next morning

Watersports: There is a wide variety of things to do down on the beach or inland. However if you are feeling energetic and strong enough for something more adventurous why not try your hand at Water skiing and Windsurfing, the peninsula beaches are highly recommended. All along the sea front are different companies offering, banana boats, jet skis, para-gliding, diving, windsurfing, water skiing and anything else you can think of.

Horse Riding and Jeep Safaris: Horse riding and river rafting can be done just a little distance from Bodrum. Jeep Safaris are offered by many companies now.

A perfect half day out. Go back to nature; ride in the forests of Marmaris, guided horse safari through beautiful countryside.

Although you will enjoy the resort of Marmaris, a jeep safari to the wilderness and the nearby villages can be an exciting adventure one, or two day safaris.

Hunting: Marmaris offers a perfect opportunity to hunt, wild Boar with remarkable tusks can be hunted.

Paragliding: Babadag, covering the eastern part of Oludeniz, is deemed as one of the best flying points in the world for paragliding. Babadag is on the list of "world heritage" due to its rich flora and presents the splendour of Oludeniz and its environs from a different perspective. To attempt a tandem jump accompanied by a pilot and with your camera to document the panorama of Oludeniz while gliding in the blue sky is an experience to add colour to your whole life.

Diving: The life in the sea has a rich variation from fish, octopus, eels and dolphins. Lots of fauna plants and coral are waiting for underwater photographer's flashes to show the marvellous colours. The crystal-clear waters along the shores of Fethiye are ideal for deep-sea diving, which is one of the fast-developing recreational sports in the world. The fact that there are no negative currents along the extensive shoreline assists you in mastering this sport in an easy and safe manner. Experienced diving centres in the region arrange daily and nightly diving tours throughout the year, both for beginners and skilled divers, as well as extensive courses

Trekking: Walking on nomad trails and ancient Lycian paths is best way to see flora richness of Fethiye. You just need usual soft-walking material with you. Every hundred meter special boards will show you the right direction and give basic information about the area. Little mountain villages will be on the way, to meet you with their friendly people, even semi-nomads.

Golf: Belek Golf courses; in planning the course, the architects took into special account the wishes and expectations of European golfers. The perfect sights of the golf courses present the wonderful panorama and landscape of the neighbourhood while providing the golf players with terrific golf pleasure and struggle.

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General Information for Holidays in Turkey

Time: +2 hours GMT

Electricity: 220 volts throughout Turkey all electrical appliances with a 2 pin plug prongs adaptor.

Weights and Measures: Kilo and Metric system.

Banks: Open from 8.30am to midday and 1.30pm to 5pm Monday to Friday. Foreign exchange offices are open 8.30 or 9am to 8 or 9pm Monday to Saturday.

Passport/Visa: Passport must be valid for at least six months from date of arrival in Turkey. Visa is not required for British passport holders. Check with the tourist board for up to date information (0207 629 7771).

Working Hours: Government Offices Mon-Fri (8:30-12:30), (13:30-17:30), Saturday-Sunday (closed).

Shopping: Shopping is another pleasure of any vacation or even business trip. In Turkey you are able to buy special handicrafts which vary from one region to another. Authentic bazaars, rug(carpet) and kilim workshops besides other traditional handicraft centres are offering pleasant shopping. The market is where you can haggle and barter to your heart's content.

Turkish leather and textile products reflecting the latest fashion are attracting the visitors of malls with reasonable prices. The origins of jewellery go back to the neolithic age in Anatolia. Silver and gold jewellery with precious stones are most popular items of shopping in Turkey.

Shops: Mon-Sat (9:30-13:00), (14:00-19:00), Sunday (closed).

Duty Free: Duty free items may be bought at fairly good prices in most Turkish airports just after you land. Allowance, 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 200g of tobacco.

Health: Turkish Tourist Health Society (Turizm Sagligi Dernegi-Hacettepe Universities Tip Fakultesi Plastik ve Rekonstruktif Cerrahi Ana Bilim Dali, Sihhiye 06100 ANKARA Tel: (312) 311 93 93-310 98 08) performs the functions below, to provide the travellers in the entire country, mainly in the touristic regions, with proper health care: to secure food hygiene, to prevent environmental pollution and to ensure hygiene and healthy working-conditions in touristic establishments.

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