Turkey

Istanbul

The Highlights of Istanbul in One Day

When you enter your golden years, something amazing happens. The nine-to-five routine grinds to a halt; your offspring have (finally) attained self-sufficiency; you suddenly have all this time – but what to do with it? For many recent retirees, the answer is simple: travel. Now’s the time to book that cruise you’ve been dreaming of, and visit all those places on your ever-growing bucket list. If you’re looking to get a bit further afield than simply across the channel, consider Istanbul. Situated at the intersection of two continents, this ancient city pulses with history, culture, and activity. In our opinion,

Belek

Belek: A Breath of Fresh Air for the Whole Family

With the weather warming, you might be turning your thoughts (somewhat apprehensively) to the summer holidays. Mom and dad know that once school’s out for the summer, the task of entertaining the kids will indeed weigh heavy on their shoulders. If you can’t stand one more summer by the paddling pool, consider trying something a little more exotic. Belek, on Turkey’s south coast, is a vibrant resort town that boasts Blue Flag beaches, ancient Greek ruins, and top-notch golf courses. But this popular location has plenty for the kids to do too. From leaping dolphins to secret caves, Belek is

Istanbul Inspiration: A Shopping Spree in the Grand Bazaar

For those with a passion for exploring otherworldly places, a visit to colourful Istanbul is not to be missed out on! If you’re a shopping aficionado, the famous Grand Bazaar will be a delight to your eyes, as it is full of exotic local crafts and products which make for authentic souvenirs to bring home after your holidays – for those at home or for yourself. Getting lost in the maze of covered streets will lead you to discover something new and exciting around every corner, and within the architectural beauty of the ‘Iç Bedesten’ and the ‘Sandal Bedesten’ you

Alanya: More Than Just a Beach Resort

Although many visitors to this Turkish resort town barely go further than walking from their accommodation to the beach and/or to the nightclubs, if you look up from the sea line you will find the impressive remains of a Seljuq-style 13th century castle. With 140 towers and over 400 cisterns, Alanya Castle was undoubtedly very important in past centuries. Within the inner fortress, you can also find the relatively well-preserved shell of an 11th century Byzantine church. Moreover, there are stunning views of the sea and some of the town from the castle walls. If you want to observe Alanya

Istanboel

Explore the Highlights of Istanbul in 3 Days

Exotic, energetic and always exciting: a visit to Istanbul rates as one of the most extraordinary travel experiences in the world. While you could spend weeks exploring this ancient capital, realistically you probably won’t have that long, especially if you’re visiting other parts of Turkey. But, good news: it is possible to take in the important highlights on a three-day itinerary without reducing yourself to exhaustion. Day One: The Sultanahmet The historic Old City of Istanbul is known as Sultanahmet, and it’s here you’ll find some of the most iconic attractions, including: The Grand Bazaar The Blue Mosque The Hagia

Alanya

A City Slicker’s Solo Getaway in Alanya

When the daily pressures of urban life start to wear you down – the traffic, the noise, the grit, the endless emails and conference calls – taking a little time for yourself is a tried-and-tested solution. A week or so spent pampering yourself in an exotic location is enough to recharge the batteries of even the busiest urban professional. What’s more, solo holidays are on the rise, reported both the Independent and the New York Times in 2015. Solo holidays are the perfect opportunity for clearing your mind and pampering your body. And what better place to do both than

Turgutreis

Shopping Fun in Turgutreis

Turgutreis is a popular alternative to Bodrum as a Turkish holiday resort. Once a tiny village surrounded only by dusty roads, it is now a thriving tourist destination loved for its beautiful lengths of sandy shoreline, smart marina, market place and covered bazaar. Oozing charm in abundance, Turgutreis is the largest of the three cove villages that make up the Bodrum Peninsula and many people argue that this is the place that boasts the best sunsets. While this picturesque seaside village is a haven for beach lovers, it is also a great place to fill your shopping itinerary, whether you

Ölüdeniz

Three Excellent Day Trips From Ölüdeniz

Ölüdeniz is a beautiful resort on the Turkish coast, close to a national park and only 15km from the delightful city of Fethiye. To many, it has all you need for the perfect summer holiday. Long stretches of sandy beach, a sheltered lagoon and a magnificent backdrop of the Taurus Mountains all combine to make Ölüdeniz the popular holiday destination it is. But if you are of the opinion that relaxing on the beach is all very well for a day or two and instead you prefer to explore more of the surrounding area, here are some tips on what

A Little Mud Never Hurt Anyone

“When I’m looking to pamper myself, I love the Dalyan Mud Baths near the beach resort of Ölüdeniz . A boat tour takes you up the Dalyan River, past the rock tombs of Kaunos, to the thermal pools and mud baths of Dalyan. I love the sensation of wading into the warm mud pool and then rinsing off in the sulphur spring. It’s like a spa treatment provided by nature.” Planning a trip to Ölüdeniz? Let us handle your airport transfer! https://www.shuttledirect.com/en/airport/DLM/

Ölüdeniz

Ölüdeniz: The Best of Turkey’s Turquoise Coast

Ölüdeniz is a small place, especially when compared to its beach’s far-reaching reputation. Even if you don’t know Ölüdeniz Beach (also known as Blue Lagoon) by name, you might well know it by sight: a slender crescent slicing out into that almost unbelievably blue ocean with the bright white sand radiating from the lush, forested landscape like a corona – it’s a photograph that graces holiday brochures and travel blogs worldwide, and with good reason. While a swim through the waters and even a paraglide over the beach is highly recommended if you do visit the area, there’s a lot

Bruno’s Favourite Highlights of Kemer, Turkey

“The beautiful coastal resort of Kemer, Turkey has some interesting highlights on offer, including a reconstructed tent city that can give you and your family a peek into the lives of the Turkish nomads and a cable car that can take you straight to the top of the 2,365 meter high Tahtali Mountain! If you’re planning on staying in the centre of the resort, you’ll be able to witness the local carpet weavers do their work: a very interesting process, in my opinion!” – Bruno, Manager at Shuttle Direct Visiting Kemer on your next trip? Don’t forget to pre-book an

Antalya

The Highlights of Antalya for Children

Antalya was once considered the gateway to the Turkish Riviera but today it is more well known as a wonderful holiday destination famous for its sun, sea, sand and architectural beauty. At the centre of the Mediterranean city is its core, known as Kaleiçi, which literally translated means ‘within the castle’. Here you get a real insight into what the city was like when the Ottomans ruled here. There is lots of atmosphere and some beautifully restored Ottoman residences. Many people coming to Antalya will be travelling with their families, and thankfully there is plenty to do for children here.

Alanya

Tickle The Taste Buds in Alanya

Alanya is famous for its beautiful Mediterranean climate and fabulous beaches. But for those who like to sample local cuisine when they travel, Alanya has lots of delicious surprises. Turkish cuisine is one of the most varied in the world of gastronomy and when you consider that it is defined by the most incredible fusion of European, Asian and African dishes, you would expect nothing less. While the intricate and turbulent history has influenced Turkish gastronomy, so too has the fact that there is an abundance of fresh, seasonal and quality ingredients available, perfect for creating some simply stunning dishes.