The right recipe

Turkey (Türkiye) enjoys a melting pot of influences, making it one of the most fascinating countries in the world. Elaborate places of worship add to the cultural landscape and traditional spice markets lie in the shadow of designer shopping malls. Then there’s the cuisine – a fusion of Mediterranean, Balkan and Middle Eastern.

A sun-soaked coastline

From the Aegean Coast to the Turkish Riviera, the Mediterranean stretch here promises postcard-worthy beaches blanketed in powdery white sand. Many hotels here come with private patches too, complete with Bali beds and cocktail-serving waiters. Bliss. Lagoons, water sports and promenades all add to the fun.

Ancient cultures

The Byzantine, Romans and Ottomans are just some of the bygone civilisations to leave their stamp on the country, from crumbling temples to walled cities and epic, ancient theatres. Some of the best archaeological sites are a stone’s throw from the Mediterranean resorts around Antalya, Bodrum, Izmir and Dalaman, making it well worth exploring.