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4 June 2013 by Becky Theriault
Rebecca Davis fields questions about her recent visit to Turkey.
Where are you just back from?
Datça, Akyaka, Olu Deniz, Fethiye and Kalkan.
What did you see/do when you were there?
We spent two nights in Datça, viewing hotels in the area, one night Akyaka, two nights between Olu Deniz as a base to view Fethiye and Olu Deniz hotels, and two nights in Kalkan. We also did a full-day Kekova boat trip excursion.
What was the highlight of your trip?
I love Kalkan; it's not been spoilt over the years, is easy to walk around, has beautiful views, lots of excellent restaurants, and the clearest water in Turkey. We stayed at the Oasis Hotel and I was given a top floor Jacuzzi suite which was amazing - incredible views. The road below the hotel is now a little busy, but the hotel is still lovely and has great staff.
What would be your top tip for this holiday?
I highly recommend staying in Kalkan - the Likya Residence is an excellent property and out of the centre of the town (but still within walking distance), so is very peaceful with stunning views. Doing the Kekova boat trip is a must whilst staying there. July and August are extremely hot (over 100F), so I would advise clients of this before booking. It may not be suitable for elderly clients. The temperature was already in the high 90's at the end of May.
Why should someone travel there?
Turkey is a beautiful country; mountainous and very clear water. Excellent snorkelling - incredible historical sites throughout the country. Lovely people and excellent food. The hotels are all quite unique in regards to interiors and design.
What is unique about this place?
The combination of historical sites with beautiful coastline. The food is amazing and the people are really friendly.
Did you have any disappointments?
We saw many hotels and around six were ones I would recommend to Wexas clients. Quite a few hotels were too basic and not suitable for our clients. I was last in Olu Deniz 15 years ago, and the beach area is really developed now with lots of English pubs and bars. Unfortunately it's lost a lot of it's charm, however the Jade and Oyster Residences are both beautiful hotels and offer clients a peaceful base, whilst still being next to the beach.
Journey Experience:
I was really impressed with the leg room on Monarch. We had a very large plane (seat configuration 3/4/3), so the flights were very comfortable with good service.
Anatolian Sky's local driver was amazing - lovely man and excellent driver.
