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Whichever resort you decide to choose you will be spoilt for choice for things to do. Long beaches for lazy days, delightful open-air restaurants, spectacular nightclubs and thriving music bars for those long lively nights and the bustling bazaars and markets - perfect for
exploring and shopping. Not to mention experiencing the best relaxation Turkey has to offer, a Turkish bath! Wherever you decide to go in Turkey, you will not be disappointed. |
Often called 'the cradle of civilization', Turkey has been home to a rich variety of tribes and nations of people since 6500. Over the centuries the Hittites, Seljuks, Persians, Greeks and Romans have ruled the area. Turkey has always been the meeting point for European and Middle Eastern neighbours, becoming an important link
between the mystic East and the cosmopolitan West. This friendly and hospitable country hosts an abundance of cultural and historical treasures. Wonders of the ancient world sit alongside cosmopolitan resorts offering round the clock entertainment. Today, idyllic Mediterranean beaches lapped by azure sea, bustling bazaars and colourful carpets are the images many visitors have of this beautiful country. Turkey will delight and inspire even the most seasoned traveller.
Turkey's diverse regions have different climates, with the weather system on the coasts contrasting with that prevailing inland. The Aegean and Mediterranean coasts have cool, rainy winters and hot, moderately dry summers. The dramatic forested mountain ranges leading down to rocky headlands just add to the diversity of this country. Turkey is the home of a number of ornamental flowers, the most notable being the tulip. Bulbs brought to Vienna from Istanbul in the 1500s started the craze for tulips in England and the Netherlands. Many familiar fruits such as cherries, apricots, almonds and figs all originated in Turkey.
Turkish people, of whom many speak English, are very warm and friendly and are renowned for their hospitality. Children are regarded as national treasures so be prepared for your family to be spoilt! One of the best ways to reward the hospitality you undoubtedly will receive is to speak a few words of Turkish. They are very proud of their nationality and culture and will see your attempts to speak the language as a compliment and sign of respect.
Food and eating are among life's finest pleasures and nowhere more so than in Turkey. Turkish meze is a popular starter which includes simple combinations such as white cheese with melon to elaborate stuffed vegetables. Meze is often accompanied by the national drink, raki; an aniseed flavoured spirit, or the local Efes Pilsen beer. Kebabs and grilled meats and fish are a speciality. Other dishes to sample are lahmacun and gozleme, a thin pizza-style snack, borek; a deep fried savoury pastry and guvec; a traditional stew. Sweets are eaten throughout the day in Turkey, not just after a meal - therefore there is no excuse not to try the delicious baklava; a pastry coated with syrup and sometimes filled with nuts.
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