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Friday, January 28, 2011

What can you do 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.

The rugged interior is wild and sparsely populated and offers great opportunities for hiking, cycling and other activity holidays. With so much variety ranging from culture, to sports as well as fun and relaxation for the whole family, Turkey has something on offer for everybody.

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.

However many cultural sights Turkey has to offer, most visitors on holidays in Turkey want warm and clear Mediterranean water, sunshine and rocky coves. The long coast has many charming towns and villages with good facilities for tourists. Visitors can enjoy water sports such as snorkelling, diving, swimming, wind surfing or kayaking. Sunshine can nearly be guaranteed with over 300 sunny days per year on average.

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.

For less adventure and more romance, book a cruise on a traditional Turkish sailing boat called a Gulet. Boats will be equipped with all the modern conveniences as well as for wind surfing, diving or snorkelling. Day trips to ancient archaeological sites and beach barbecues are thrown in for good measure.

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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