Wednesday, January 20, 2010

The Five Best Exotic Beach Destinations in Turkey

Stretching from Europe all the way to the Middle East, Turkey is a truly natural and cultural paradise. While vacation costs are nowhere near as high as in other, more popular summer destinations, Turkish resorts are some of the most beautiful in the world and the people’s hospitality is unrivaled. Here’s a look at the five best beach destinations in Turkey:

Marmaris

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Tucked away in a beautiful gulf, where the Aegean and the Mediterranean meet, Marmaris is a peaceful resort, surrounded by a wonderful pine forest.

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With a history that dates back to 3400 BC, Marmaris has been under the reign of many civilizations and its ancient architecture is proof of that. Looking closely at the building in the region, one can spot traces of Egyptian, Macedonian, Persian, Roman and Ottoman influences, among others.

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Nowadays Marmaris is considered one of Turkey’s top tourist destinations, attracting tourists from all over Europe and beyond. With a population of just 35,000, this old settlement might seem quiet and peaceful during the day, but it really comes to life during the night.

Close to Marmaris lies the Daylan area, famous for its turtle population and Icmeler, a small port, famous for its jasmine gardens and karaoke bars.

Kusadasi

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Looking at present-day Kusadasi, it’s hard to believe it started out as a small fishing village. Over time it has transformed into one of the Aegean’s classiest, most lively resorts.

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Situated amid a spectacular scenery, on Turkey’s western coast, Kusadasi is overflowing with tourists and cruise liners that often stop here during their journeys around the world. Blessed with fine sandy beaches and a typical Mediterranean climate, this Turkish jewel boasts sunshine at least 300 days a year.

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Besides the many natural wonders of Kusadasi, tourists can explore important historical sites like Ephesus, Miletos, Priene and Didyma. Another not-to-be-missed attraction of Kusadasi is the incredible Pamukkale, known as The Cotton Castle.

Oludeniz

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Famous as one of the most photographed beaches of the Mediterranean, it’s no wonder Oludeniz is considered one of Turkey’s best beach destinations.

The Mediterranean,Oludeniz Beach with blue flag

The long sandy beach opens up to an incredible blue lagoon, a sight that has brought Oludeniz international fame and made it one of the world’s top parasailing spots. Located at the base of the Taurus Mountains, this Turkish wonder allows tourist to admire the amazing surroundings the best way possible, from above.

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You’ll find all kinds of accommodations in the Oludeniz area, ranging from very affordable 2 star hotels, to exclusive 5 star resorts, where you can feel like an actual king.

Bodrum

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Located on the so called Turquoise Coast, in the south of the Bodrum Peninsula, Bodrum is surrounded by the blue waters of the Aegean Sea. There are many other beautiful resorts along the Bodrum Peninsula Coast, each with its unique charm.

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In ancient times, Bodrum was known as Halicarnassus, home town of the famous Greek historian Herodotus and where the Mausoleum of Mausolus, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, was built.

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Nowadays Bodrum is the favorite beach destination of the Turkish rich and famous. The plethora of five star hotels, exclusive boutiques and cafés as well as the Halicarnassus disco, rated one of the best in Europe, make this one of the most luxurious beach destinations in Turkey.

Antalya

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Combining culture, history and fun, Antalya has rightfully been named the capital of Turkish tourism and is recognized as one of Europe’s major beach destinations.

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With its back to the Taurus Mountains and facing the Mediterranean, Antalya greets tourists with long sandy beaches, top-class hotels, classy restaurants and a great deal of Turkish hospitality. Konyaalti and Lara are renowned for their beauty and clear waters.

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Among the most important attractions in Antalya are Kaleici, the historical part of the city, the Antalya Museum, one of the most important archeology museums in the world and Hadrian’s Gate, a large stone arch built in the 2nd century BC, in honor of the Roman Emperor Hadrian.

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