TURKEY

The gateway from Europe to Asia, bathed in sunshine yet still cloaked in Eastern excoticism. Turkey has much to offer whether as a traveller passing through or for those seeking a more permanent escape from the humdrum of home.

Surrounded by 4 seas, the Black Sea, Sea of Marmara, Aegean Sea and the Meditteranean Sea, Turkey is blessed with a climate which ensures the West & Southern coasts boast superb summers with mild winters. Enchanting in its wealth of natural wonders as well as those from ancient times, ski resorts rub shoulders with lush green mountain areas, over 5000 miles of coast provide contrast with the lunar & stepped landscapes of the interior.

A country of extreme contrasts Turkey borders Bulgaria to the northwest and meets the east in the form of former Soviet Republics Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Syria, Iraq and Iran. Formally the way of the Silk Road to and from China, Here east truely meets west in this meeting of continents and cultures.

Throughout it’s turbulent and complex history, Turkey had been home to some of the greatest civilizations of ancient times. Therefore travelling through Turkey is a step back in time wherever you are or wherever you go. Whether it is following in the footsteps of the Sultans at Topkapi Palace, journeying through the lunar landscape of Cappadocia, where underground and cave dwellings have been used since 4000 BC, to strolling along the worn marble streets of Biblical Ephesus or soaking up the somber atmosphere of the killi??ng fields of Gallipoli. Around each corner is evidence of days gone by and a magnificent past.

Modern day Turkey was founded by the ‘Father’ of Turkey in the form of Mustafa Kemal Atat?ºrk who lead the fight for independance in the f??rst decades of the 20th century. Leading the Turks from the remains of the fallen Ottoman Empire into the modern country it is today.

No one can fail to note that what really makes Turkey unique is the spell of it’s people, inately hospitable and full of charm, no one leaves this country without exceptional memories of the warmth and friendliness provided by it country men and women.

ISTANBUL

Still the largest city in Turkey and certainly the cultural capital, Istanbul stands imperiously on the banks of the Bosphorus.  Formally the capital of the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman Empires, the city today preserves the legacy of its past, the remnenets of its which mingle today alongside the hustle and bustle of modern day life.

There is never enough time to take in all the wonders of Istanbul with such sights as the Topkapi Palace which dates from the 15th century, the presence of the sultans who once ruled from there can still be felt today.  The Imperial Sultan Ahmet Mosque familiarly known as the Blue Mosque, with it’s 6 towering minarets is one of Turkey’s most visited and unforgettable sites. The Suleymaniye Mosque lies on the banks of the Golden Horn is considered to be the one of the most beautiful of all the Imperial Mosques.  With museums too numerous to mention Istanbul is a city where the culture vulture will never go hungry!! For the the bargain hunter the Grand Bazaar is a must from textiles to spices, leather to gold, ceramics to live stock you will f??nd it all there!!!  Istanbul offers an endless choice of restaurants from back street cafes to some of Turkey’s finest restaurants.  Nightlife abounds from traditional live music venues through to soph??sticated night clubs.

As the sun sets on the western shore of the Bosphorus witness the evening lights dancing across the waters casting a golden reflection over the magnificent architecture that lines the waters edge, only then can you truly understand why settlers centuries ago through to present day choose to bu??ld on this remarkable site.

Istanbul is one of the worlds most magical cities where anything is possible and  should not be missed!!!!!!

ANKARA

Ankara lies in the centre of Anatolia on the eastern edge of a high Anatolian plateau at an altitude of 850m.

This area of Central Anatolia has endured invasions by Alexander the Great and Tamerlane.

A province that is highly fertile wheat steppeland and acres of rich green forests

With a history that dates back to the bronze age Hatti civilization which was succeeded by several civilizations there after the Phrypians, Lydians, Persians, Galations, then the city subsequently fell into the hands of the Romans and Byzantines.

Ankara an important cultural, trading and arts centre in earlier times lost its importance by the 19th century until Kemal Ataturk choose Ankara as the base to direct the War of Liberation due to its strategic postion and natural resoures, and still today Turkey is directed from Ankara.

On the 13th October 1923 Ankara was declared the capital of the New Republic of Turkey which is celebrated each year by the Turkish people.

Today this modern city is the home to some of the best universities that Turkey has to offer. A hive of industry, but is still alive with a wealth of culture, history, arts, and some of the best museums, with an aray of shops, restaurants, cafe bars, there is so much to see. The best time to visit is the summer months when the climate is cooler.

ANTALYA

The city of Antalya situated in the heart of the region is steeped in history, first settled in the 1st century BC when the Pegamum King, Attalus sent out his soldiers to find him ‘ Heaven on Earth’.

On discovering this area they believed they had found such a place and it was named ‘Attaleia’ in honour of the King.

Becoming an important Roman city the impressive gates still intact today within the walls of the old city, were built to honour the visit of Emperor Hadrian in 130 AD.

These days the wide palm lined boulevards, beautiful marina & historical old quarter of Kalei?ßi combine to make this a cosmoplitan city full of opportunities to suit all.

Surrounded by the Taurus Mountains the area is ideal for a range of activities from sunbathing to skiing, windsurfing to mountain climbing. Take a sail from the marina, then spend an afternoon sauntering through the cobbled streets of Kalei?ßi, enjoy tea with the locals and pick up a souvenir or two. Shopping in Antalya offers a huge range of choices with top of the range stores including a ‘Marks & Spencer’ and local markets with bargains galore.

Beaches are never far away in Antalya, with beach parks available on both sides of the city - Konyalti & Lara – they offer great choices for relaxation and fun both day and night.

Nightimes in the city offer a wide range of activites, traditional cafes rub shoulders with disco bars and nightclubs. Eating out offers a wide selection of choices with Turkish Cuisine, Italian, Chinese, International and the usual fast food options. There are also 4 cinemas all showing the latest Hollywood blockbusters in their original language!

All in all a prime location for a holiday home, whether that is a luxury city apartment or beach front holiday home, there is a huge amount of choice.

BELEK & KADRIYE
The area is situated just 20 minutes to the east of Antalya International Airport and just a short distance from some of the regions most impressive ancient sites. These include ancient Perge’s impressive city ruins, Aspendos one of the worlds finest roman theatres which still in use today, plus the natural wonder of Kursunlu Waterfalls.
The towns of Belek & Kadriye provide a well established support and infrastructure to this area making it an extremely attractive holiday haven. The area is a gift for golfers and a sunworshippers paradise with over 30 of Turkey’s finest 5 star hotels nestled amongst the mature pine & eucalyptus forests - a protected nature preserve - all situated along the shores of the Mediterranean Sea.

The golden beaches stretch as far as the eye can see, providing not only a nesting ground for Caretta Caretta Turtle, but the perfect backdrop for the acres of forest throughout which 6 of Europes finest championship golf courses are laid. Here the golf courses at least rival and in many cases better those of Spain or Portugal and there are a proposed 5 more on the way. (See Golf Section)

With shops to satisfy even the most demanding of bargain hunters, 2 weekly markets, spa centres, horse riding and history, this is the perfect destination. Whether it be for a golfers retreat, a retirement home or a sunshine getaway, there is both land and property to suit all pockets and palets.

KEMER

The resort of Kemer is situated just 45 minutes to the west of Antalya International Airport. This seaside resort boasts spectacular scenery from the coast to the Taurus mountains that run the length of the coast.

Kemer is one of the newest purpose built resorts and one of the biggest successes. Possessing a sophisticated cosmopolitan atmosphere it is also known as the ‘St Tropez’ of Turkey, its international marina is filled with luxurious yachts and gulets from all over the world. The pedestrianised streets make it an ideal location for a saunter around to shop, eat or drink to your hearts content.

Moonlight Park superbly located on the seafront is a great location for families and couples alike with beachfront eateries, dolphin park & play areas all situated in amongst lush landscaped gardens. The gardens are strung with hammocks and cushions on which one can relax and watch the world go by. After dark Moonlight Park really earns its name with a whole wealth of open air bars and its very own open air nightclub to entertain.

For those interested in the natural and historical sites, there are some magnicent sites located close by in the form of the Olympos National Park throughout, which lie the ruins of ancient Olympos and the thriving community of tree houses dwellers, who offer a way of life for the hippy at heart. Just north of the park are the natural gas flames of Chimaera. Also close by are the remains of the ancient harbour town of Phaselis containing 2 beautiful bays and lush pine forest with yet more ancient ruins to be admired, a great place to while away the days. Travelling to the west of Kemer and just a short boat ride away are the fascinating sunken ruins of Kekova visible through the crystal clear waters.

Both stunning villas and neat apartments will tempt you when it comes to purchasing property in this very diverse area.

SIDE

The ancient town of Side (pronounced see-deh) is situated just 45 minutes drive to the east of Antalya International Airport.

Not only does the town boast some of the best beaches in the region alive with watersports, beach bars & secluded spots, but it has been built around the ancient ruins of Side which date back almost 2000 years.
Here the old & new mingle beautifully with the entrance to the old town marked by the magnificent 2nd century theatre which having been restored is still in use today, the summer nights are alive with cultural events including Balet & Opera.

If the opera is not your thing then never fear as the cobbled streets of Side offer much much more. Winding their way down to the picturesque harbour filled with traditional style sailing boats, the cobbled streets maintain many of their old features and are buzzing with local colour & character. Filling the streets are shops bars and restaurants and nightlife abounds with cafes bars and discos to entertain.

A real highlight when visiting Side is a stroll through the ruins of the Temple of Apollo at sunset, the golden light of sunset creates a magical atmosphere. The temple was apparently given as a token of Anthony’s love to Cleopatra . Night time sees the ruins hauntingly illuminated - a more romantic location would be hard to find!

ALANYA

The ever flourishing town of Alanya is situated to the east of Antalya approx. 1.5 hours from Antalya International Airport.

Lying at the end of a rocky promontory and surrounded by 2 long stretches of sandy beach. Alanya is topped by a stunning fortress which offers spectacular views of both the coast and resort.

Originally dating back to Roman times the city found real prominence with the Seljuks in the 13th century. The fortress was used by the Sultan as his winter quarters and the town was a naval base protected by the prominent Red Tower, octagonal in shape, this is the major monument of the lower town. You can drive all the way up to the old fortified town, still partially inhabited to encounter the citadel at the top and the remains of the Sultan’s palace.

As a contrast, the modern day climate finds the resort filled with hotels, bars & restaurants. It’s increase in popularity can be easily observed with a single visit enabling one to witness the diverse range of nationalities that co-exist, either as foreign visitors or foreign residents with undoubtedly a common interest, their love of Alanya and its environs.

Whatever your taste, Alanya can offer it. Ideal for shop-a-holics, beach worshippers, culture vultures....it has everything a person could want! A trip to the local weekly market is guaranteed to whet your appetite . Look out for the locally grown bananas, Alanya farmers are very proud of their produce which are undeniably fresh, sweet and enticing.

If your preference is delving into the natural beauty and history that the resort has to offer take a trip along the banks of the Alara River.
On the approach to Alanya lies the Alarahan Caravanserai built by Sultan Alaeddin on the banks of the river in 1230 AD. Situated on the ancient silk route, this site was one of the traveller’s rest stops for frequent visitors from China. At the furthest end of Alanya lies the Damlatas Cave system which offers a cool and shady respite from the summer sun filled days, an entrancing stalactite/stalacmite grotto.

So, as the sun sets over the Taurus mountains and the turquoise sea becomes host to pink and orange hues, there is undoubtedly only one thing lacking. The presence of you.

 

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