Friday, July 31, 2009

Antalya Turkey: A Mediterranean Vacation

By Adeline Rekli

The city of Antalya is located on the Mediterranean coast and is the capital of Antalya Province. The contrast of mountains, cliffs and the beautiful Mediterranean makes the city of Antalya a delightful destination for both business and pleasure. With a variety of resorts, convention facilities, top-rate hotels, an airport and rail service, Antalya has it all!

Experiencing the Beaches:One of the first places you need to visit when you reach Antalya Turkey is the Mediterranean beaches. Lara beach is a great place to start, which you'll find just east of the magnificent Lower Diden Waterfalls. You can relax, bathe in the sun, or take in a little surfing for that extra adventure.

Then of course if you need a little relaxation while taking in the culture, just take a stroll along the red-bricked sidewalk in Kararalioglu Park's Lara Halk Plajı. You will find this to be one of the longest beaches along the Mediterranean. However, if you just want a golden tan, try your luck down in Lara Strand, which is east of the Club Hotel Sera.

Located west of downtown, Konyaalti beach provides additional options for beach goers. With both white rock and imported sand, the Konyaalti Plajlari stretches for miles on the western side of the Antalya bay. Walking along the Konyaalti beach provides magnificent views of both the Mediterranean ocean as well as the Toros Mountains. Consider renting a bicycle to ride along the beach, or taking a long walk between the resorts located on the beach.

If you happen to go in June, you can enjoy the IASSF event. This is short for the International Antalya Sand Sculpture Festival that's been held annually since 2006. Famous sculptors from around the world visit this area just to show-off their masterpieces. Definitely a once in a lifetime chance to see them close-up and personal.

Where to Stay:With an eye for tourists, Antalya has many options for almost any traveler and any budget. Choices range from ultra inclusive five star hotels located on one of the beaches to city center bed and breakfasts. With choices ranging from the city center, Kemer, Lara, Belek Side and Alanya, there are hotels near almost every activity imaginable. When choosing a hotel, consider what is nearby. Antalya�s resorts and hotels provide both web searching, as well as live agents to help book a memorable vacation trip

What to See:Antalya�'s history includes Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk and Ottoman influences, clearly visible while walking around the street.

If you enjoy harbors and the water, then you'll have to visit the old Ottoman Antalya and harbor. The history alone is enough for an individual to take notice, but the nightlife and activities surrounding the area are unmatched. Whether you need to find restaurants, cafes, shops, chartering, fishing or anything else, you can find just about everything here. Even if you and your loved one want to take an evening cruise it's available. While the views are beautiful in the afternoon, the nightly scenery is pure serenity. Just look for the charter tours that are available and get a better glimpse at what you're missing.

Enjoying the Weather:Best of all you can rest assured you'll be able to enjoy the weather. There are around 300 sunny days each year that can reach about 100 degrees. However, the Toros Mountains release northern winds that reduce the stuffy and hot feeling. In the end you will find yourself with misty breezes, plenty to enjoy, and a calmness that revolves around your entire vacation. All the more reason you should book your next vacation to Antalya, Turkey.

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