Turkey Destination Guide
Why Turkey
Since the dawn of time Turkey has been the bridge between East and West, a point where European and Asian cultures have clashed or combined. It was the centre of the Byzantine Empire, and later, of the great Islamic Ottoman Empire. The legacy of Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman and other civilisations has made Turkey a vast open air museum with amphitheatres, baths, colonnaded streets, rock-dwellings, forts, castles, tombs and temples dotted all over the country.
The oldest crossroads in the world, Istanbul spans not only the Bosphorus but two continents. Today it is a bustling and exhilarating city, a colourful blend of cultures, where ancient mosques and minarets jostle with the modern office buildings, the frantic trading of the enormous Grand Bazaar contrasts with the new, calm, air 
conditioned shopping complexes and where the Blue Mosque dominates the skyline in the time honoured fashion. Visit Topkapi Palace which houses the famous jewels of the Imperial Treasury and boasts the extravagance of luxuriously restored harems. From the balcony, there is a breathtaking view over the Bosphorus and Golden Horn. Take a boat trip up the beautiful Bosphorus river commencing in Europe then crossing into Asia. Along the way you will see old wooden villas, Ottoman palaces, castles and quaint fishing village.
Antalya, where the mountains meet the sea, is a lively holiday destination suitable for all the family. The Taurus Mountains rise above the coastline providing a glorious backdrop to the miles of sandy beaches. It is an attractive city with sandy palm-lined boulevards, a magnificent marina, fine restaurants and lively nightlife. Its history dates back to the 2nd century and in Kaleici, the old citadel, there are the traditional narrow streets and wooden houses.
What to see and do
Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar
When to go
The best time to go is between April and October, although July and August can be hot.
This hotel offers a long awaited return to the days of opulence and makes no apologies for it. It caters for the discerning luxury traveller.....
