Straddling western Asia and eastern Europe, Turkey’s rich cultural and historical legacy, combined with its sparkling coastline and warm, vivacious locals make it a stellar travel destination. Its seaside draw cards include the vibrant port city of Bodrum, the effortlessly elegant town of Kas, and the stunning beaches at the Fethiye, while its interior highlights include the hot mineral springs of Pamukkale, the bizarre rock formations of Cappadocia, and the ancient cliff temples of Dalyan. Istanbul presents a cosmopolitan, first-world city. From trendy restaurants and clubs to contemporary art galleries and five-star hotels and spas, the city offers a world of entertainment and leisure, which bustles between ancient monuments like the iconic, glorious Hagia Sophia. Famous for its hospitality, Turkey welcomes guests to explore its old-world charms while enjoying the best modern comforts.
Located in the Mugla Province of Turkey’s Aegean Region, Bodrum is a popular access point for travellers arriving by ferry from the Greek islands of Cos and Rhodes. This vibrant, glittering port city makes a fabulous introduction destination to Turkey. For the young and the restless, there’s the city’s legendary, sparkling nightlife – Turks claim that Bodrum has more bars per square kilometre than any other place in Turkey – while history enthusiasts can explore the ancient ruins, elegant historical mosques, and multi-towered castle, dating to the Middle Ages. Alternatively, travellers looking for a more laid-back experience can peruse Bodrum’s lively markets for souvenirs and trinkets, soak up some sun and sea at the peninsula’s lovely beaches, or enjoy leisurely strolls or long seafood lunches on the city’s palm-lined promenade.
Perched on Turkey’s Aegean coast, Kusadasi – with its stellar facilities, sundrenched beaches and elegant new harbour welcoming luxury cruise liners – is a major cruise ship destination and the epitome of a modern European town. Travellers are spoilt for choice here in terms of leisure and sightseeing opportunities: Kusadasi has everything from aquaparks and thermal resorts to lively markets and state-of-the-art shopping centres. The city’s pulsating nightlife is a magnet for party-lovers, while scuba-diving excursions, boat cruises and national park tours provide plenty to keep outdoor enthusiasts entertained. It’s well worth factoring in day trips to Selcuk (popular for skydiving and the location of the annual Camel Wrestling Festival), the ruins at Ephesus, and Guvercin Adası or ‘Pigeon Island’ situated on the peninsula at the end of the bay.
Resting on the eastern coast of Turkey’s Gallipoli Peninsula, on the Dardanelles shore, Eceabat, a small port town, is best known for its proximity to the famous World War I Gallipoli battlefields. The Respect for History Park features a scale model of the Gallipoli Peninsula with the battle sites marked, as well as informative displays. Right next to it is a life-size recreation of trenches at Quinn’s Post, where the ANZAC and Ottoman soldiers are up close. Just south of the city, swim in the Dardanelles Strait from a small pebble beach. An excellent array of shops, services and restaurants add appeal to Eceabat. Visitors can also take a ferry to Canakkale, to explore the magnificent archaeological sites, the ancient city of Troy, and models of the legendary Trojan horse.
Linking Europe and Asia across the Bosphorus Strait in northwestern Turkey, Istanbul, the country’s largest city, is a beguiling cultural blend of East and West. Visit the twin architectural gems of Aya Sofia and the Blue Mosque – masterpieces of Byzantine design, decorated with exquisite inlaid mosaic patterns; take in the lavish quarters and dazzling gem collection of the Topkapi Palace, home to Turkey’s sultans and their families for centuries; or visit the enthralling Basilica Cistern, Istanbul’s ancient water reservoir, now evocatively revamped with ethereal lighting and background music sources. More frivolous pursuits include trawling the Grand Bazaar’s stash of beautifully crafted goods for traditional Turkish kilims and wooden backgammon boards inlaid with mother-of-pearl detail or indulging in fine dining or Mediterranean meze at one of the many eateries in trendy Beyoglu.
France has long been the world’s favourite tourist destination, and it doesn’t take a much imagination to understand why. It has some of the highest mountains, the most dynamic cities, the best beaches and a treasure trove of the some of the world’s most famous artistic, cultural and historical artifacts. The wide open spaces and impressive mountain ranges of the French countryside allow for a vast scope of outdoor activities to thrill even the most adventurous traveller. Those seeking more of an urban adventure won’t be disappointed by the vast range of clubs, shops, fashion and music provided by France’s cities in abundance. Combine all of these riches with the most sumptuous culinary scene in the world, and you may be planning your next trip to France before you even head back home.
Situated in northern France, Arras, the capital of the historic Artois region, boasts extraordinary heritage architecture, a thriving culinary scene, and an array of interesting art galleries. The town’s two most famous locations are its Grand Place (main square) and Heros Square. Surrounded by Flemish Baroque houses and lined with lively shops, cafes, and galleries, the squares provide wonderful spots to spend leisurely afternoons. Make sure to see the Town Hall, belfry, and the Abbey of St. Vaast arts museum. Other highlights include the wealth of Art Deco buildings, the impressive Quartier des Arts performance venue, the historic Les Boves tunnel network, used in both world wars, and several UNESCO war sites. Make sure to try the Andouillettes (a type of traditional sausage) and the Coeurs d'Arras, little heart-shaped gingerbreads.
Sandwiched between France, Germany and the Netherlands, the vastly underrated country of Belgium is known throughout the world for little more than its ridiculous variety of beer, scrumptious waffles, the Smurfs. However, despite its modest reputation, Belgium has plenty to offer. Its magnificent historic cities offer countless architectural and artistic wonders bearing witness to this tiny country’s massive contribution to European history. From the incredible Art Nouveau buildings in Brussels to the towering spires in Ghent; the picturesque old town in Antwerp to the canals in Bruges - every Belgian town reveals a beguiling treasure trove of historical delights. Throw in some unexpectedly diverse landscapes, a flourishing fashion and contemporary art scene and some wonderfully warm and welcoming locals and you have more than enough to start thinking of extending your stay.
Located in western Belgium, in the province of West Flanders, Ypres is a dignified place with a weighty history, and will appeal most to those looking to deepen their understanding of the tragedies of World War I. Most of its sights are spread between its lovely centre - full of charming chocolate shops and local brew houses - and its scenic, though sombre, countryside, which active travellers will find makes a great cycling circuit. Key sights include the Menin Gate Memorial, the Flanders Fields Museum and the Memorial Museum Passchendaele 1917, all of which feature moving memorials to the hundreds of thousands of lives lost near Ypres during the closing stages of the Great War. Meanwhile, sights such as the reconstructed Lakenhalle (Cloth Hall) and Leperse Vestingen (the city’s ancient fortifications) link the city with antiquity.
France has long been the world’s favourite tourist destination, and it doesn’t take a much imagination to understand why. It has some of the highest mountains, the most dynamic cities, the best beaches and a treasure trove of the some of the world’s most famous artistic, cultural and historical artifacts. The wide open spaces and impressive mountain ranges of the French countryside allow for a vast scope of outdoor activities to thrill even the most adventurous traveller. Those seeking more of an urban adventure won’t be disappointed by the vast range of clubs, shops, fashion and music provided by France’s cities in abundance. Combine all of these riches with the most sumptuous culinary scene in the world, and you may be planning your next trip to France before you even head back home.
The charming port town of Port-en-Bessin-Huppain lies in northwestern France’s Normandy region, and encompasses Port-en-Bessin and Huppain. A wide turquoise bay is dotted with boats and a pretty marina. There are plenty of activities to do on the water, including boat rides and an array of water sports, and several excellent services and facilities in this regard are on offer. A wide range of restaurants, accommodation options, lovely shops, a beautiful golf course, and a wonderful Sunday market add appeal. History enthusiasts will enjoy discovering the area’s rich heritage, and the chance to visit sites such as the memorial in honour of the 47th Royal Marine Commandos who gave their lives here during the second world war.
Situated a kilometre off France’s northwestern coast, Mont Saint Michel is a tiny hilltop village erected on an 80-metre high granite boulder - emerging from the ocean. This stunning and otherworldly spectacle of old stone buildings and winding roads, leading to the magnificent medieval cathedral that crowns the village, presents a plethora of photographic and adventure opportunities. Take a guided tour of the Abbey, where you might be lucky enough to hear the beautiful sound of the monks’ choir; then take a stroll around the ancient lanes, past the quirky shops and quaint cafes.
With the River Seine gently meandering through this incredible city in northern central France, the captivating, romantic city of Paris has been described in just about every possible way and is a dream destination for people the world over, boasting many famous landmarks, a rich history and idyllic Parisian scenes at every turn. The city features monument-lined boulevards, fascinating museums, classical bistros, bohemian art nouveau cafes, creative wine bars, stylish boutiques, and art galleries. Must-see attractions include: the impressive Gothic Notre Dame Cathedral, the world-renowned Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and the Arc de Triomphe standing guard over the glamourous Champs Elysees Avenue. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample infamous French cuisine at an array of enticing ‘boulangeries’, ‘patisseries’, and ‘fromageries’.
