Travel: Turkish delights
Fancy a break that offers more than a week in an average hotel or a whirlwind city guidebook tour of your destination? If you’re looking for a holiday that’s far from the madding crowd or something with a slightly different twist, then travel company Journey Anatolia might just have the ideal options for you.
Oh, and did we mention that they’re all in Turkey? So, chances are you’ll need to pack the sunscreen for some beautiful weather.
Whether it’s a funky tour of Istanbul, photo excursions or staying in a boutique hotel set in a cave that tickles your fancy, then read on for some great holidays available in 2008.
Beach lovers
If your idea of a perfect holiday is total relaxation, then Hotel Arcadia, a beach retreat in Cirali, could be the place for you. The pretty southwest Turkish village of Cirali has a magnificent beach and glorious mountain surroundings. The ancient cities of Olympos and Phaselis are nearby, as is the Chimaera, the final resting place of the Greek mythical monster.
You’ll have plenty of privacy here too as there are just five detached wooden chalets. This promises to be the ultimate beach break.
Prices start from £729 per week for 2 people, excluding flights.
Mountain respite
If you fancy a villa rather than a hotel, then how about Villa Papatya, set in the hilltop village of Islamlar? Papatya is both country retreat and contemporary villa. Guests can enjoy the refreshing mountain setting while being close to excellent beaches and the charming seaside towns of Kas and Kalkan.
Prices start from £650 per week (self catering).
City slickers
If you’re a foodie then we may just have found your dream holiday. This break in Istanbul boasts an itinerary that takes you under the culinary skin of a great city and introduces you to the flavours only the locals know and love.
The break includes trying out a diverse cross-section of culinary treats and establishments, from Istanbul’s classic cafes and trendy taverns to sampling the city’s legendary street food. While tantalising your taste buds is the essence of this break, traditional attractions are also on offer, including the Ottoman and Byzantine treasures of the old city as well as other key landmarks such as the Spice Bazaar and the Grand Bazaar.
Prices start from £369 per person, including accommodation, transfers, entrance fees and a professional private guide. The price does not include flights or meals.
Happy snappers
If you want to get more from your happy holiday snapping, then a photo excursion around western Turkey may well broaden your horizons. This two-week trip captures a broad range of Turkey’s magical landscapes, with genuine insight into the culture.
The trip includes visiting world heritage site Cappadocia, which boasts unique topography, as well as visiting many off-the-beaten-track villages, picturesque Mediterranean towns and ending in with the vibrant energy of Istanbul.
The tour is led by award-winning photographer Rod Wheelans, president of the Photographic Alliance of Great Britain, and caters for photographers of all levels.
Prices start from £1,400 per person and do not include flights. Places are subject to availability.
Cave dwellers
Yes, you read that right. This is a holiday where you can stay in a cave. Doesn’t sound very appealing? Well, what if we told you that it was a luxury boutique hotel? Are you starting to change your mind?
Serinn House is a unique cave hotel that integrates cutting-edge design with the intimacy of Cappadocia’s famed natural caves. You even have the option to go hot air ballooning over the mind-boggling landscape.
A hot air ballooning package costs from £1,029 per person and includes a one week stay in Serinn Cave Hotel (B&B), two hot air balloon flights, two local guided tours and private airport transfers. Flights are not included.
For further information on breaks in Turkey visit www.journeyanatolia.com or call 020 8761 5605.
