What is Destination Known For?

Ancient ruins, pristine and protected anchorages, vibrant culture, Turkish baths, the freshest of produce, magnificent coastline with clear waters, hospitability.

Location and Size

With an area of 301,382 sq. miles (780,580 sq. kms), Turkey is slightly larger in size than the state of Texas. The nation is bordered by eight countries and has a coastline of 5,238 miles (8,430 kms). Located in southeastern Europe and southwestern Asia, Turkey is the 37th largest nation in the world.

History

The original Turks included the Huns, the Akhuns, the Oghuz, the Bulgars, the Sabars, the Pecheneks, the Kipchaks, the Uzs and the Uigurs who flourished between the 2nd century BC and the 20th century AD, spreading themselves over 6,949,839 sq. miles, across Central Asia, Europe and Northern India.

The nomadic Turks eventually moved into Anatolia – the meeting point of eastern and western civilizations, to establish a powerful empire that covered West Asia. After defeating the Byzantine emperor Romanus IV Diogenes in 1071, the Turks consolidated their stronghold in Anatolia.

Eventually, at the Battle of Erzinkan in 1243, the Mongols succeeded in defeating the Turks, leading to the division of Anatolia into several principalities. One among them were the Ottoman Turks, who later united the other principalities and re-established Anatolia – a part of an empire which became among the largest and longest-lived in history, and from which, the modern nation of Turkey was carved out.

Getting There

By Air: The Dalaman Airport (DLM) is the closest airport to the yacht cruising area and connects the region with direct flights to the UK. Various one or 2-stop connecting flights are available from the U.S., Australia and New Zealand. Guests interested in a post-trip to Istanbul can fly there from Dalaman.

By sea: Direct ferry services operate between Rhodes, Greece and Marmaris, Turkey.

Best Time to Go

The best time to go to Turkey is between June and September with July and August being peak season. For sun and sand lovers, the period between April-May and the month of October is a bit cooler with the days being essentially warm and sunny, but perhaps not conducive to swimming.

Local Customs to Observe

The local people are conservative in their dress. Swimwear should be restricted only to the beaches. When visiting places like mosques, the head, shoulders and legs must be covered, while footwear must be removed before entering.

Helpful Fast Facts

Currency: Turkish Lira.

Time Zone: Eastern European Time Zone (UTC+02:00).

Local language: Turkish. English is the common second language.

Population: 79,415,800 as of April 14, 2016.

Airport: Dalaman Airport (DLM).

Entry Requirements: All nationals entering Turkey require a valid passport and pre-arrival visa.

Departure Tax: 15 Turkish Lira.

Legal Drinking Age: 18 years.

Smoking Regulations: Smoking is banned in all enclosed public places, including indoor restaurants, bars and clubs.

Staying in touch: High quality landline and mobile services are available in Turkey, with international roaming plans. Internet facilities are also of very high standards.

Medical Information: Baskent Universitesi Adana Hastanesi, Haydarpasa Gata Arastirma Hastanesi and Medical Park at Istanbul are some of the most well-known hospitals in the country. Several other superior state-owned and private hospitals exist across the country.

Public Holidays: (January – 1) New Year's Day; (April – 23) National Sovereignty and Children's Day; (May – 1) Labor Day; (May – 19) Commemoration of Atatürk, Youth

and Sports Day; (July – 7) Ramazan Bayrami (End of Ramadan); (August – 30) Victory Day; (September – 13) Kurban Bayrami (Feast of Sacrifice); (October – 28) Republic Day

Tourist Office: The official website of the Turkish Tourism Office is http://www.tourismturkey.org/. It provides much valuable information on exploring the country.

Shopping Information: Colorful carpets, souvenirs, embroideries, textiles, pottery, ceramics, copperwork, leather and suede items, onyx, jewelry, rugs, pearls and 'Kilims' are among the most favorite shopping items. The market areas at Marmaris, Bodrum and Kusadasi are popular shopping havens. Top-notch duty-free shopping facilities exist at all international airports in Turkey.

Top Ten "Must Do's"

• Absorb the flavors of Istanbul
• Cruise the Dalyan River and witness the ancient architectural masterpieces in Caunes
• Kayak at the gorgeous heart-shaped Bozukkale Bay
• Snorkel the ruins of a Hellenistic Castle
• Catch a glimpse of the enticing Turkish village life at Bozburun
• Shop for local items at the Old Carsi Market in Marmaris
• Embark on a private tour of the ancient Knidos
• Soothe your body and soul at a Turkish hammam (Turkish Bath)
• Banter and barter for that must-have handmade Turkish kilim (rug)
• Detour to the ancient city of Ephesus

Major Local and Regional Events

• Sun Splash Festival – featuring international jazz, funk, bossa and soul music artists and DJs
• International Sand Sculpture Festival – an annual exhibition of hundreds of sand sculptures made by sculptors from around the world
• The Side Culture and Art Festival – a summer festival celebrated with music, dance, orchestras and open-air concerts