Friday, February 20, 2009

Holiday in Altinkum

By Thomas Dawkin

Turkey has, over recent years, evolved into a reasonably peaceful, stable and commercially viable link between east and west. These factors have meant that Turkey's amazing holiday possibilities have been opened up.

Istanbul, once known as the capital of capital cities, has many unique features. It is the only city in the world to straddle two continents, and the only one to have been a capital during two consecutive empires - Christian and Islamic. Once was capital of the Ottoman Empire, Istanbul still remains the commercial, historical and cultural pulse of Turkey, and its beauty lies in its ability to embrace its contradictions. Ancient and modern, religious and secular, Asia and Europe, mystical and earthly all co-exist here.

Its variety is one of stanbuls greatest attractions: The ancient mosques, palaces, museums and bazaars reflect its diverse history. The thriving shopping area of Taksim buzzes with life and entertainment. And the serene beauty of the stanbul strait, Princes Islands and parks bring a touch of peace to the otherwise chaotic metropolis.

Bodrum - Homer describes Bodrum as "The land of eternal blue" and the words of another resident of Bodrum. Throughout history of Bodrum, known as Halicarnassos in ancient times, has always been fought over and people have been unwilling to share its beauty with others.

Built on a peninsula formed by the meeting of the eastern and western harbors, Bodrum, with its narrow streets winding down to the sea, is famous for its castle, its world-renowned yachts, its shipyards and the dazzling white houses and tombs lining the shores of its two harbors.

Bodrum, has the all facilities to meet the expectations of tourists from all income levels, ranging from the rich yacht owners to the penny counting tourists who just want a reasonable room to make his vacation last all summer.

Antalya - Because of the archaeological and natural riches of the area, Antalya is also known as the Turkish Riviera. The sun, sea, nature and history combine to form a very popular resort, highlighted by some of the cleanest beaches in the Mediterranean. The 630km shoreline of the province is liberally scattered with ancient cities, harbours, memorial tombs and beaches, secluded coves and lush forests, many of which are easily accessible from the city.

Yachting - Sailing in Turkey also allows visitors to experience the hospitality of the people in the coastal villages and towns. The tempered winds blowing from west and northwest make the long summers ideal for yachting, and seem to encourage an appreciation of nature. From some of the turquoise coast's unspoilt and sheltered bays you can see mountain peaks rising to almost 3000 meters above the sea level.

You can take a boat trip to the Greek island of Samos. Samos lies at the north-eastern part of the Aegean Sea. Visitors are enchanted to see the charming mountainous landscape of Samos with the essential beauty of the nature and the historical spread all over the island. It is a unique experience.

For relaxation and entertainment, there are a large number of restaurants and waterfront bars open until around midnight; later the party atmosphere moves to nightclubs. It can get lively in high season when the holiday spirit is in full swing.

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