Friday, January 28, 2011

What to do when you go on a holiday to Turkey

By Dominic Hennes


Few European countries have as many exciting holiday options available as Turkey. This country, which is well balanced between Western and Oriental influences, has a long and rugged Mediterranean coast with deep, blue water. Turkey is also an ancient country with thousands of years of history, which means that today visitors can explore a wealth of archaeological sites. Additionally, there is a wild, mountainous interior so that holidays to turkey will satisfy sun worshippers, culture vultures and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Wide horizons, craggy mountains and open plains are some of the fascinating landscapes in Turkey making the country a perfect setting for many activity holidays. However, with so much on offer it is easy to tailor holidays to one's own preferences and combine outdoor adventures with cultural day trips and relaxing on the beach.

Istanbul is the old and new capital of Turkey situated right at the border of East and West. The city is over two thousand years old and has gone through many ages and been known by many different names. Today Istanbul is a vibrant and modern city with a wealth of historical sites such as the Topkapi and Dolmabahe Palaces, both former residences of the Sultan's of the Ottoman Empire. However, the most beautiful building in Istanbul is certainly the Hagia Sophia, a majestic church, which was converted into a mosque in the 15th century. Other tourist attractions include the Spice Bazaar and boat trips across the Bosporus.

Before or after other activities visitors often relax on Turkey's sunny Mediterranean coast. 300 days per year the sun shines onto the clear, blue Mediterranean Sea. Turkey has a wealth of archaeological sites, which can be explored on foot. Some of these ancient settlements are now submerged in the sea and offer a fascinating location for a diving trip. Other water sports available on your holidays in Turkey are kayaking, wind surfing and swimming.

For specialized activity holidays visitors come to Kas on the southern coast. This small finishing village offers a good base for water sports as well as the Taurus Mountains. The latter are a great location for hang gliding and paragliding due to their excellent thermals. There is also the possibility of booking a week-long sea trek kayaking along the Turquoise Coast, which can include exploring ancient sites along the way.

For less adrenalin rush and more steady exercise on your activity holidays why not explore the Lycian Way, an ancient long-distance trading route along the south coast. The route is well marked and leads through rugged coastal landscapes as well as part of the hinterland. Turkey is also a good destination for road cyclists or mountain bikers as long as one avoids the hot summer months.

A very relaxing way to spend your holidays in Turkey is to book a cabin on a traditional wooden two-masted sailing boat called a Gulet. Cruises allow for plenty of swimming, wind surfing and snorkelling as well as trips inland to see some of the spectacular archaeological sites.

Whatever your preference, whether it is for sightseeing, outdoor adventures, water sports or simply relaxing and enjoying its generous Mediterranean hospitality, Turkey is a rewarding holiday destination




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