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Ortakent Introduction
Ortakent is nestled into the south of Turkey, on the Bodrum Peninsular approximately 5 kms from Bodrum, and has the benefit of the Aegean Coastline with the delightful Aegean Sea rolling gently into its shores. The resort is a quiet tourist area, as yet hardly untouched by the hand of tourism, but as it has a superb climate, fantastic views of the idyllic coastline and is right in the heart of many historical attractions it won't take you long to revel in its delights. Coupled with its natural beauty, calming atmosphere and choice of sight seeing, what more could you ask from a holiday destination?
The beaches in this region are popular attractions for holidaymakers, and Ortakent has its own attractive beach which is extremely safe for children, gloriously sandy and offers fantastic facilities. But, if you are looking for more than a beach holiday, then read on!
There is more to Ortakent than beaches and sea: such as the Ephesus Temple is one of the Seven Wonders of the World, which has an impressive number of ruins from both the Greek and Roman eras. The Temple of Diana stands here which are another must see box to tick. The Temple of Apollo is also another favourite sightseeing excursion, particularly if you love historical sights. There is also the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, another one of the crumbling remains of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
Nightlife is quiet and laid back in Ortakent and with just a few select restaurants which offer a small variety of both local and international menus. The hospitality of the local people is friendly; they can't do enough to help you. Eating out is not expensive and you will find families are welcomed, with value for money meals. So you can enjoy a meal out at a wonderful restaurant which is cheap with the best prices available. There is something to suit the taste of everyone without breaking the bank.
There are a good selection of hotels where you can find a variety of budget, low cost and value for money accommodation which won't break your budget. Most hotels provide evening entertainment usually by way of a floor show, a magic show, belly dancing girls or cabarets.
It has a typical Mediterranean climate with long, hot sunny days during the summer and sea temperatures between May to November rarely go below 20°C. There are cooling breezes from the north-east which help to keep the summer temperatures more bearable.
Ortakent has a few souvenir shops or gift shops where the atmosphere is always pleasing and inviting. However, for more in the way of a shopping extravaganza, we would advise you to take yourself off to nearby Bodrum. Here you can spend many happy hours browsing for that perfect buy, we can safely say you can shop till you drop, before heading back to your hotel for your evening aperitif before dinner.
There is always something going on in the Bodrum area, such as a religious festival or village event and for that reason we would advise clothing to be worn appropriately, particularly ladies when off of the beach and especially in any religious buildings.
A holiday in Ortakent will provide you with historical sights, fantastic scenery, thrills, excitement, water sports, diving, snorkelling, golf, walking and some of the world's finest beaches. There is heaps to do for families and couples alike.
Stand back, for you are about to embark on a holiday of a lifetime!
Ortakent Location
Situated on the southern coastline of Turkey with the Mediterranean Sea around it, Ortakent is a popular tourist resort. It has a superb climate, fantastic views of the idyllic coastline and it also has many historical attractions. It is often called the Turkish Riviera and once here, it is easy to see why with its long sandy beaches and beautiful sunshine, where the sea merges with the sky into infinity. Coupled with its natural beauty, what more could you ask?
Ortakent History
The actual history of Ortakent is rather vague, but its neighbour Bodrum has historians dating Bodrum back to the 7thcentury BC with the first civilisations being the Carians, with the Harbour at Bodrum being dominated by Dorian Greeks. A bit later in time the city was overpowered by the Persians and during this period the city saw wealth and prosperity.
Mausolus was the leader of Caria at the time of 377 - 353 BC, and also ruled Bodrum on behalf of the Persians. After his death in 353 BC his widow had four sculptors build a monument and tomb in honour of her husband. This is where the word mausoleum comes from. The tomb was rather splendid, but today there is little of it left to see other than the original foundations a pieces of the sculpture. The famous historian Herodotus was born in Bodrum.
In 1402 the Crusader Knights took occupation of Bodrum and built the fantastic Bodrum Castle, or the Castle of Saint Peter as it is sometimes known. The Italians occupied the city until shortly after the First World War ended, when The Turks took it back and it has remained under Turkish rule since. Mustafa Kemal Ataturk was the first Turkish president from 1920 until 1935. His rule was, and still is an important part of Turkey's history.
Historical artefacts have been unearthed which date back to the 3rdcentury BC when it is believed that Attalos II, the king of Pergamon, is believed to have founded the city which was once called Attalia. The city was given to the Romans on the death of King Attalos III in the 133rdcentury BC. Under the Roman Empire the city became rich and wealthy, and also went through a spell of Christianity.
Later the city was under the Byzantine Empire until the 13thcentury when The Ottoman Turks invaded it and remained the leaders for many centuries. By 1911 the whole of Bodrum and its region was a mixture of cultures including Christian and Jewish, although there were separate quarters where each lived amongst their own.
The Italians occupied the city until shortly after the First World War ended, when The Turks took it back and it has remained under Turkish rule since. Mustafa Kemal Ataturk was the first Turkish president from 1920 until 1935. His rule was, and still is an important part of Turkey's history.
Getting To and Around Ortakent
Air
You can reach Bodrum Airport easily from most UK Airports in around 4 hours. There are several flights each day to the airport and once at the airport you will find your way around easily. The national airline is Turkish Airlines, but there is a wide choice of alternative operators. Ortakent is a distance of some 5 kms from Bodrum Airport so transferring to the resort is quick and easy.
Bodrum Airport
See Bodrum Airport Guide
Airlines
Austrian Airlines, British Airways, First Choice, flythomascook, Kibris Turk Hava Yollari, Monarch, Pegasus, thomsonfly, Turkish Airlines
Rail
Turkey does have a railway network which is very limited and slow. Turkish Railways (TCDD) operates passenger trains all over the country; you can find cabins, couchettes and restaurant cars. Some are air-conditioned. Fares are comparatively low, but are more expensive for express trains. Some discount travel cards are available and children aged seven and under travel free. Tickets can be purchased at TCDD offices at railway stations and TCDD-appointed agents.
Bus
Bus transportation is very good in Turkey, it is easy to use, comfortable and economical. There are several bus companies in Turkey which offer good services. Dolmus (shared) minibuses are very cheap if you are only travelling short distance. You can flag one down anywhere along the road as they do not have designated stops.
Sea
Bodrum has a new marina and a yachting harbour and whilst it is possible to reach Bodrum by private yacht, at the moment there are no ships or ferries which operate for passengers.
Car
Traffic is generally congested, in particular in the bigger resorts but road signs are international, easy to read and are not complicated. You drive on the right in Ortakent like the rest of Turkey. It is easily possible to hire a car as long as you have a valid driving licence and international driving permit.
Hiring a car isn't necessary around the big towns but if you want to explore and see something of the smaller, more beautiful villages then the best way, and perhaps the only way is by car.
Please note that road conditions and driving standards are not the same as Europe. Diligence should be exercised to avoid accidents on unfamiliar roads.
Taxis
A dolmus is the cheapest form of taxi or mini bus, this is where you share with other people and split the cost to the point of their exit. It is easily recognisable by its yellow band. Other taxis have a chequered black and yellow band. It is always advisable to negotiate a taxi fee before the journey.
Transfers from the airport
Arriving at a foreign airport can often be a strenuous affair and with most customers traveling independently these days having a pre-booked airport transfer is an essential part of your holiday package. Local taxis at the airport can sometimes be limited or with long queues, by booking a pre-booked you can not only make a fantastic saving on your transfer but also avoid all the stress of queues and haggling with taxi drivers. Book your airport transfer service here now >>
Airport shuttle bus service
In most of our gateway airports you can pre-book an Airport Shuttle Service. This is a pre-booked only service that operates between the relevant airport and holiday resort. In normal times you can expect to wait up to 30 minutes for your shuttle bus to arrive however as this is a pre-negotiated service and only available to participating travel companies then expect to pay far less to get from the airport to your destination accommodation than other traditional forms or transport such as local taxis. Book your airport shuttle service here now>>
Ortakent Car Hire
Hop behind the wheel of a hire car on holiday and explore the stunning scenery, discover deserted beaches, see spectacular views and discover the real charm of local villages and their inhabitants.
Bodrum airport has a choice of hire car companies to choose from, all which operate to high standards and have competitive prices. You might find some good deals on car hire around the resort, or at some of the local agencies.
Save time by booking in advance from the UK and simply pick up the keys at the airport - you can be on your way to traveling the wide open roads or coastal highways in an instant, beating the queues for the bus, coach or taxi!
In Turkey, cars drive on the right and it is illegal not to wear a seat belt at all. Hiring a car is a great way to experience the island in full and appreciate the best bits away from the crowds, at your own relaxed pace. Hiring a car will enable you to visit some of the great sights to be seen and which are a little further away, so you can spend a day touring to other parts of Turkey.
Ortakent Sightseeing
Ortakent is nestled into the south of Turkey, approximately 5 kms from the province of Bodrum, and has the benefit of the Aegean Coastline with the delightful Aegean Sea rolling gently into its shores. The resort is a quiet tourist area, as yet hardly untouched by the hand of tourism, but as it has a superb climate, fantastic views of the idyllic coastline and is right in the heart of many historical attractions it won't take you long to revel in its delights. Coupled with its natural beauty, calming atmosphere and choice of sight seeing, what more could you ask from a holiday destination?
Visit one of the Seven Wonders of the World
Ephesus is one of the Seven Wonders of the World, which has an impressive number of ruins from both the Greek and Roman eras. The Temple of Diana stands here which is another must see box to tick. Spend a leisurely day at Ankara visiting all its sight seeing attractions and you will feel you have learned a lot about Turkey's history.
The Mausoleum of Halicarnassus
Halicarnassus was once an ancient Greek city that was joined to the small island of Zephyria. This is where the Castle of St Peter now stands, so over the course of time the island extended to the mainland and became joined.
Cruise the Bosphorus
Two enchanting suspension bridges stand across the narrow strait between Europe and Asia, so a visit to Bosphorus is almost like visiting two different continents at the same time. Sunsets are magnificent from here. You will also see plenty of boats, ferries and fishing boats travelling along the strait. You can take an excursion along Bosphorus stopping off at the Sultans' 19th-century Dolmabahçe Palace, Uskudar (Scutari), where Florence Nightingale nursed the wounded during the Crimean War and the fantastic Ottoman summer palace of Beylerbeyi. You will also see some spectacular villages, traditional and quirky with fish restaurants, old manor houses built back in the 19thcentury. You will also see plenty of Byzantine and Ottoman castles.
Top Things to Do in Ortakent
Ortakent is nestled into the south of Turkey, approximately 5 kms from the province of Bodrum, and has the benefit of the Aegean Coastline with the delightful Aegean Sea rolling gently into its shores. The resort is a quiet tourist area, as yet hardly untouched by the hand of tourism, but as it has a superb climate, fantastic views of the idyllic coastline and is right in the heart of many historical attractions it won't take you long to revel in its delights. Coupled with its natural beauty, calming atmosphere and choice of sight seeing, what more could you ask from a holiday destination?
Take a day trip to Bodrum
Bodrum is high on the list for sightseeing; it has history, roman ruins, archaeological sites, culture, natural beauty, stunning views, architecture and more. It has fantastic sun kissed beaches with water sports, diving and fantastic swimming opportunities in the warm seas. Shopping is also a popular activity in Bodrum.
Treat yourself to a Turkish bath
Be spoiled by the luxurious Turkish baths. A visit to Turkey would not be complete without some time out to relax and unwind, where you can enjoy the therapeutic benefits of the waters and the massages. It's an experience you won't forget in a hurry.
Attend the Aspendos International Opera and Ballet Festival
In Aspendos during June and July there is a delightful festival which takes place in the stunning 2ndcentury amphitheatre.
Be Mesmerized by the Whirling Dervishes
Famous for its dance performed by the Mevlevi Order, this demonstrates how life revolves. It takes place in Konya.
Buy a Carpet
If you feel like looking for a bargain carpet, then you are at the right country as Turkish rugs and carpets are world renowned. You can spend as much or as little as you like and they are to be found everywhere. Street stalls, bazaars, factories and shops. One of the top things to do is to visit one of the carpet showrooms where you will get the chance to see how carpets are made, and be given the opportunity to buy one.
Be amazed at Istanbul
You won't want to miss a fantastic experience of sights, sounds and smells at Istanbul. Istanbul is a lively city, full of magical mystery. It rests between the two continents of Europe and Asia and it has a rich history which means there are plenty of palaces, mosques, churches and museums to visit. It is also very trendy and cosmopolitan, and life around the busy bazaars and markets will leave you feeling excited and delighted.
The Grand Bazaar is the hub of the commercial side of the city where you can browse and mingle amongst the locals looking for bargains. There is small inlet of the Golden Horn where you will find the Kariye Camii has some of the finest Byzantine mosaics to survive today. The contemporary part of Istanbul is across the Golden Horn where you will find the Beyoglu. Here there is a good selection of restaurants, hotels, designer shops and where at the Taksim you will see exhibition halls and plenty of cultural centres to whet your appetite. To experience the sights, sounds and attractions of Istanbul we would recommend a 3 day excursion from Ortakent.
Climb a Mountain
Turkey has many mountain ranges with the highest mountain being Anatolia. They range in height and can give you the opportunity to climb with a mountaineering club if you prefer. They are designed to suit all capabilities, however if climbing alone you will need permission from the Turkish Mountaineering Club.
Cruise the Bosphorus
Two enchanting suspension bridges stand across the narrow strait between Europe and Asia, so a visit to Bosphorus is almost like visiting two different continents at the same time. Sunsets are magnificent from here. You will also see plenty of boats, ferries and fishing boats travelling along the strait. You can take an excursion along Bosphorus stopping off at the Sultans' 19th-century Dolmabahçe Palace, Uskudar (Scutari), where Florence Nightingale nursed the wounded during the Crimean War and the fantastic Ottoman summer palace of Beylerbeyi. You will also see some spectacular villages, traditional and quirky with fish restaurants, old manor houses built back in the 19thcentury. You will also see plenty of Byzantine and Ottoman castles.
Water Sports
The beaches are fantastic in Turkey; most beaches have a good variety of water sports available. The Mediterranean Coastal resorts enjoy delightful warm waters. Traditional water sports such as windsurfing, para gliding and sailing are popular, while scuba diving. So whether you are an old hand at some of these, or a beginner the opportunities are there for you to try.
Go Rafting
If you feel like a bit of adventure you can go white-water rafting on some of Turkey's rivers. Namely The Coruh River, which is said by professionals to be one of the most thrilling in the world. Other rivers you can use are including the Dalaman River, the Köprü River and the Zamanti River.
Go Trekking
Turkey has some marvellous natural beauty spots, mountains, villages and ancient ruins are just wonderful to explore by foot. There is a famous 500 kms footpath called Lycian Way, which stretches between Fethiye and Antalya. Along the way you will see some stunning scenery, flora and fauna.
Visit one of the Seven Wonders of the World
Ephesus is one of the Seven Wonders of the World, which has an impressive number of ruins from both the Greek and Roman eras. The Temple of Diana stands here which are another must see box to tick. Spend a leisurely day at Ankara visiting all its sight seeing attractions and you will feel you have learned a lot about Turkey's history.
See the Waterfalls
Karsunlu and Manavgat are both spectacular water falls which cascade down the steep cliffs and tail off into the magnificent blue waters below. The areas are full of flora and fauna, fresh air and mixed with such beautiful surroundings you will find a perfect haven.
The Olympus National Park
Here you will find an area of complete serenity and natural beauty. You can see the mountains of Olympos in the distance, often with snow capping the peaks along with the protected flora and fauna. The area here also has many caves where evidence of early human life existed.
Soak in the Soothing Waters at Pamukkale
Said to be magical healing waters by the Romans, today the spa is still used for its therapeutic healing. The ruins of the ancient Roman city of Hierapolis, is a World Heritage Site of UNESCO.
Treat Yourself to a Turkish Bath
Be spoiled by the luxurious Turkish baths. You will find plenty of baths all over Turkey where you can enjoy the therapeutic benefits of the waters and the massages. It's an experience you won't forget in a hurry.
See some Archaeological sites
Homer, the poet was born at Izmir. It is the 3rdbiggest Turkish city and has one of the most important ports of the Aegean coast. It surrounding scenery of hills is magnificent. In the past it has suffered from earthquakes, so today little remains of olden Smyrna. There is a 4thcentury fortress at the top of Mount Pagos and if you look from the fortress you will see delightful and enchanting views of the city of Izmir and the Gulf of Izmir. You can also see some statues of Poseidon, Artemis and the Roman agora. The Izmir region has many archaeological ruins for you to explore at your leisure. The journey between Ortakent and Izmir is around 250 kms so a two day excursion would be worthwhile to see all its sights.
Hot Air Balloon
You might get the best views of Cappadocia in a hot air balloon, see the sights and enjoy the slow and peaceful scenery of the lunar landscape below.
Golf
Turkey has some championship golf courses in different locations and some set within the wonderful surrounding landscape.
Shopping in Ortakent
Ortakent has a few souvenir shops or gift shops where the atmosphere is always pleasing and inviting. However, for more in the way of a shopping extravaganza, we would advise you to take yourself off to nearby Bodrum. Here you can spend many happy hours browsing for that perfect buy, we can safely say you can shop till you drop, before heading back to your hotel for your evening aperitif before dinner.
The regions of Bodrum, and Bodrum itself have tiny narrow streets where you will find a diverse range of Turkish craftware, you won't be able to resist a purchase. Carpets are popular buys, but like the rest of Turkey you will find plenty of bazaars and medinas offering value for money with leatherware, copper, bronze, silver, gold and traditional Turkish embroidery. The region is famous for meerschaum and onyx.
Tuesday is Bodrum's main market day where you can mingle amongst the locals to buy fruit and vegetables. There is usually some good cloth ware to buy so if you are looking for material then this is the place to come. There are also lots of street traders who will be trying to sell you imitation Rolex watches, and fake designer gear so be careful what you buy if you are looking for something authentic.
Eating Out in Ortakent
Dining out in Ortakent is an enjoyable experience and with just a few select restaurants which offer a small variety of both local and international menus. The hospitality of the local people is friendly; they can't do enough to help you. Eating out is not expensive and you will find families are welcomed, with value for money meals. So you can enjoy a meal out at a wonderful restaurant which is cheap with the best prices available. There is something to suit the taste of everyone without breaking the bank.
Turkey relies on production of its own natural spices and fresh ingredients: meat, fruit and vegetables, honey and jam are all produced in Turkey. Therefore there is very little that is imported so anything that you order from the menu will be wonderfully fresh and tasty.
Fresh fish can be found in some restaurants, these can be turbot, bream, bass, mussels and crab dishes. Typical dishes which are internationally famous are the Shish kebab (grilled meat on a skewer), Doner Kebab (lamb carved off of a revolving spit), Dolma (stuffed vine leaves) Barbunya (red mullet). All this can be washed down very nicely with a glass of local wine, Raki.
During Ramadan, eating, drinking and smoking is forbidden during daylight, so therefore visitors should be very discreet if participating in these activities in public places, and to save embarrassment is best avoided.
Turkish Local Customs
Local customs in Turkey should always be respected. During Ramadan, eating, drinking and smoking is forbidden during daylight, so therefore visitors should be very discreet if participating in these activities.
Turkish people are of Islamic culture and religion; therefore you will no doubt hear the call of the muezzinfor prayers. This happens five times a day. If you wish to enter a mosque you must follow the customary washing and remove your shoes. It is best to avoid visiting a mosque during prayers to show respect. Women should always wear something on their heads and arms, and don't wear shorts or mini skirts. Likewise men should not wear shorts either.
Visitors to Turkey should dress appropriately, particularly females who should avoid low cut, very short attire especially when going into religious buildings and monuments. In restaurants formal dress may be required.
Before taking photographs of military or governmental buildings always ask permission, and don't just take photographs of people without asking permission first otherwise these is seen as a lack of respect for their culture.
Smoking is banned in all public transport and outdoor venues and within a year this will also include restaurants, bars and cafes.
It is disrespectful to point your finger at someone, to turn the sole of your shoe toward anyone and nose blowing is extremely rude. If you must blow your nose, do so extremely discreetly, even better leave the room or turn away. Open affection towards the opposite sex is frowned upon.
Physical gestures you might like to know about is yes, nodding the head forward and down. Nomeans nodding up and back whilst lifting the eyebrows at the same time and Turkish people may make a slight noise, like tskto also indicate a no. If you shake your head from side to side, this interprets as I don't understand. To say thank youyou raise a hand to the heart, sometimes slightly nodding the head as well.
Nightlife in Ortakent
Nightlife is quiet and very laid back in Ortakent, here you will find it very hard to come across a music bar or disco, so if you are looking for excitement and adventure like this, then Ortakent is not your spot to choose.
However, with that said most hotels provide evening entertainment usually by way of a floor show, a magic show, belly dancing girls or cabarets. Children are always welcome and some entertainment is designed to suit younger members of the holiday group.
Some of the hotels have traditional Turkish nights with traditional folklore dancing and music where you will be invited to join in with the dancers, so you'd better pack your dancing shoes.
For more in the way of lively nightlife, you will need to go to Bodrum or Gumbet where there is a bigger selection of restaurants and some bars, clubs and discos.
Sunsets in this region of Turkey are absolutely astonishing, and are renowned around Europe as being the best. So the ambiance and atmosphere whilst eating at one of the restaurants is enchanting, an experience you wouldn't want to miss.
Golf in Ortakent
Golfing in Turkey is becoming a popular sport for holidaymakers and it now has several good courses with excellent facilities. Coupled with magnificent surroundings and fresh air with fantastic sunshine, what more could you ask for?
Bodrum has an excellent golf course with more planned in the area for the future. The existing course is Tuzla Lake Golf Course is set in a Nature Reserve which is protected as there are many birds and flamingoes which inhabit the lake. There are 2 18-hole greens, and it is set with fantastic views across the sea.
Events and Festivals in Ortakent
January
New Years Day
A popular day to the people of Turkey, like everywhere else in the world. Celebrations take place all around the country with lots of music, feasting and drinking.
The Camel Wrestling Festival
In Selcuk the interesting and unusual Camel Wrestling Festival takes place. Camels basically push each other until one goes down, none come to any harm though. You will see plenty of locals who enjoy this festival so there will be lots of frivolity amongst them.
April
National Sovereignty & Children's Day
On 23 April a double event takes place to remember the first meeting of the Grand National Assembly in Turkey and also a children's festival with events organised for children to take part in.
Anzac Day
25 April is a day of celebration and memorial for the people who lost their lives at Gallipoli in 1915. This is an important day, not only for the Turks but for Australians and New Zealanders as well.
May
Youth & Sports Day
Held on 19 May to celebrate the ex leader Mustafa Kemal Ataturk's birthday with many sporting events throughout the country.
Bodrum Bicycle Festival
This festival is held each year in an effort to promote environmental issues such as exhaust fumes in order to make Bodrum become a cleanerenvironment. Whilst there are lots of cyclists, there are also acrobatics, dancing and live musical performances.
June
The Turgutreis Commemoration Festival
The village of Turgutreis holds its annual festival with events such as musical performances, street traders and feasts.
Gold Pigeon Music Festival
A talent contest is held in Kusadasi every year with amateurs and professional musicians performing, and also theatrical performances take place.
August
Victory Day
30 August is a national holiday to remember the victory against the Greek army at the time of the War of Independence (1919-1922).
Bodrum Music Festival
A three day event takes place offering an opportunity to hear some of the International Classical Music performed by some of the most prestigious classical performers.
The Pedasa (Gökçeler)Festival
Between the 27 August - 1 September the village of Gökçeler holds its annual festival with traditional activities involving the culture and heritage of the village.
September
Bodrum Film Festival
The city of Bodrum hosts an annual film festival where you can see some of Turkey's and International top films which include documentaries, political, and controversial films. The film venues are Bodrum Municipality Agora Saloon, Kumbahçe and Iskele Open Air Arenas, Ottoman Yard, the Municipality Nurol Culture Center and Cinemarin Cinemas.
October
The Wooden Boats Races
Held on the 3rdSunday in October, this event is organised by the ETA Bodrum Sailing Club. Check locally for specific times and events.
Republic Day
29 October which is a national holiday to celebrate the announcement of the republic of Ataturk in 1923?
November
Anniversary of Ataturk's Death
A minutes silence is held to remember the death of Ataturk in 1938.
According to the Islamic Calendar religious festivals honour the majority of Islamic holidays, the two most important being Ramadan which lasts for a month. Two months after Ramadan the Kurban Bayrami takes place which is equivalent to the Christian Christmas. This festival lasts for around four or five days.
NATIONAL HOLIDAYS IN TURKEY
January 1 - New Years Day
April 23 - National Independence & Children's Day
May 19 - Ataturk Commemoration & Youth Day
August 30 - Victory Day
October 28 & 29 - Republic Day
Ramadan - dates vary in Sept or October
Kurban Bayrami - Dates vary usually December 2 months after Ramadan
Beaches in Ortakent
Ortakent has a stunning, delightful beach full of glorious sand and with the warm seas of the Aegean gently rolling into shore. Just relax, enjoy reading your book and absorb the beautiful atmosphere on some of the world's best beaches. The beach is safe and clean, and is simply perfect for young families.
There are a couple of restaurants alongside the beach front so you don't have far to go to find something to eat or drink.
Turkey Useful Information
Land Area:
total: 780,580 sq km
land: 770,760 sq km
water: 9,820 sq km
Population: 71,892,807 (July 2008 est.)
Capital City: Ankara
Coastline: 7,200 km
Language
Turkish is the official language, but English is widely understood in the main tourist areas.
Banking Hours
Banks are generally open Monday-Friday 08:30-12:00 and 13:30-17:00. Some banks in tourist areas are open every day. Most businesses are closed on Sundays. Many museums close on Mondays.
Currency
The official currency is the New Turkish Lira (TRY New notes are in denominations of TRY100, 50, 20, 10, 5 and 1. Coins are in denominations of TRY1 and 50, 25, 10, 5 and 1 New Kuruº (Ykr). The New Turkish Lira was introduced on 1 January, 2005. The old Turkish Lira (TL) was withdrawn from circulation on 1 January, 2006. It is now only possible to exchange old Turkish Lira for New Turkish Lira at the Central Bank until 31 December, 2015. 1 YTL = 1,000,000 TL.
Currency Exchange:
Cash can usually be exchanged commission-free in exchange offices, banks or hotels. US dollars and euros are the easiest currencies to exchange. Many banks and exchange offices will also exchange UK pounds, Japanese yen. It may be difficult to exchange Australian or Canadian currencies except at banks and offices in major cities.
ATMs are available in most areas and will dispense Turkish lira to Visa, MasterCard, Cirrus, Maestro and Eurocard holders. Nearly all machines offer instructions in English, French, German and Turkish. You can usually draw out about US$250 per day and the exchange rate tends to be good.
American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa are widely accepted, although American Express is less often accepted (e.g., Turkish Airlines does not accept American Express). You can also get cash advances on credit cards. Check with your credit or debit card company for details of merchant acceptability and other services which may be available.
Traveller's cheques can only be exchanged in banks. To avoid additional exchange rate charges, traveller's cheques should be issued in Pounds Sterling or US Dollars.
Customs
Turkish immigration allows the following, including: Alcohol 5 bottles (1 litre) or 7 bottles (700ml) of wine and/or spirits, tobacco 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 200g of tobacco, gifts Duty free allowance up to dm 500, perfume 5 bottles (up to 120ml), cameras no restrictions and currency must be declared on arrival.
Note: (a) A further 400 cigarettes or 100 cigars or 500g of tobacco may be imported if purchased on arrival at a duty-free shop. (b) Very specific amounts and categories of personal belongings may be imported duty free, according to a list available from the Turkish Embassy, Financial and Customs Counsellor's Office.
Prohibited Imports : Narcotics, sharp implements and weapons.
Restricted Exports : (a) The export of souvenirs such as carpets is subject to customs regulations regarding age and value. (b) The export of antiques is forbidden, according to a list available from the Turkish Embassy, Financial and Customs Counsellor's Office. (c) Minerals may only be exported under license from the General Directorate of Mining Exploration & Research
Electricity/Plug
220 volts AC, 50Hz. The European two-pin plug is standard.
Health
Numerous cases of bird flu have been reported in northern, eastern and central Turkey, but there is no evidence of the virus passing between humans; the people who died had close contact with poultry. Authorities are taking stringent measures to contain the outbreaks. Visitors are unlikely to be at risk, but are advised to avoid close exposure to caged, domestic or wild birds, and to ensure that poultry and egg dishes are cooked thoroughly. There are no vaccination requirements, although a typhoid vaccine is recommended for all travellers, unless coming for a short period and only eating in major hotels and restaurants (e.g. business travellers or cruise ship passengers). There is a risk of malaria in the south-eastern part of the country, but not in the main tourist areas in the west and south-west of the country, although mosquitoes can still be an irritation in summer. Most tap water in the larger towns and cities has been chlorinated, but bottled water is still recommended for drinking. Food from street vendors should be treated with caution. Medical facilities and standard of health care are not high in state hospitals and private health insurance is recommended. Modern facilities exist in private hospitals in Ankara and Istanbul.
In general, Turkey is a pretty healthy country to travel in, although many people will experience the odd day of stomach upset. It's wise to stick to bottled water and take the usual precautions over food and hygiene, especially in the heat of July and August (i.e. make sure any meat or fish is thoroughly cooked and served hot). It is best to avoid shellfish such as muscles, oysters and clams as they may not be fresh. Milk is pasteurised.
No vaccinations are required to enter Turkey. However, you may want to receive or update your inoculations for tetanus, hepatitis, polio and typhoid before travelling to Turkey. Speak with your General Practitioner if you have any concerns. There is no malaria risk in the main tourist areas in the west and southwest of the country. Potential malaria risk (exclusively in the benign vivax form) exists from May to the end of October in the Ukorova/Amikova areas and in southeast Anatolia, Adana and Antalya (Side).
Healthcare is expensive and not widespread so it is highly advised that you have travel insurance which will cover the cost of all medical aid. A great number of Turkish doctors and dentists speak a foreign language, particularly at major hospitals.
Turkey has well-stocked pharmacies, however you should not risk running out of anything that you depend on. Bring an adequate supply as well as the generic brand name and a legible prescription or letter from your doctor to show that you use the medication legally.
Safety
Due to the current situation in neighbouring Iraq, travellers are advised to be cautious and check with their embassy before departure for a current update on the situation. There is a significant threat from terrorism in Turkey and there have been a number of terrorist incidents, including small explosions, around the country, including in Istanbul and the capital, Ankara. Explosions on the Aegean Coast and the Mediterranean have killed and injured many people, including foreign tourists. Kurdish militant groups, as well as international terrorist groups, are currently active in Turkey and further attacks against the tourism industry in particular are likely. The Turkish economy is heavily reliant on tourism, which Kurdish separatists have repeatedly threatened to target. There are continuing incidents of local terrorism in Eastern Turkey, particularly the south east. Visitors should avoid any public demonstrations. Street crime is relatively low although visitors should guard their valuables at all times. A number of sexual assaults have been reported in coastal tourist areas. Many parts of Turkey lie on a major seismic fault line and are subject to earthquakes and tremors; several fairly recent earthquakes have shaken eastern Turkey, the southwest and southeast.
Although Turkey is one of the safest countries in the region, theft and robbery seem to be on the rise. Take the necessary precautions such as wearing a money-belt under your clothing, being aware of pick-pockets and purse-slashers in markets and other crowded places (especially Istanbul's Grand Bazaar), and keeping a watchful eye on anyone suspicious lurking near ATM machines.
If you are travelling alone, be cautious of strangers in pairs or trios who try to befriend you and offer you a drink or snack. Drugging and robbery is not uncommon. To discern from honest Turkish hospitality and sinister motives, suggest that you want to take their picture as a souvenir and see how they react. You could also site an allergy as a reason for not accepting a drink or snack. If they accuse you of insulting their generosity, go to a police station or bank or somewhere with a security officer without delay.
As a result of Turkey's traditional gender segregation, men tend to assume that any woman walking alone is open to harassment. Yet this unwanted attention will not usually lead to serious assault. Provided you dress and behave modestly, most men will treat you with kindness. Wearing a wedding ring can be helpful, as does wearing dark sunglasses to avoid eye contact. Some men may mistake your passing smile as an open flirtation.
Restaurants will usually have separate family roomsset aside for women to dine in social comfort. Look for the word aile (family) as in aile salonu (family room) and take your meal there. In a society where women rarely drink, overindulging in alcohol is highly inadvisable.
When taking a taxi, women should not sit in the front passenger seat. If travelling by bus, should not sit next to a man. Women are often assigned seats at the front of the bus. If no one shows you where to sit, avoid sitting in the back of the bus. If any harassment occurs, always make a lot of noise as to attract attention and embarrass the harasser.
Tipping in Turkey
Tipping is a way of life in Turkey and it is customary to give some small change for most services, or a small percent of the bill. In bigger hotels and restaurants if a service charge is not added to the bill, it is customary to tip between 10 and 15%. For taxi fares it is enough to round up the bill. Attendants at Turkish baths expect to share about 15% of the total bill if service has been good.
An average tip at the average restaurant is about 10%. Some more expensive restaurants and hotels automatically include a 10-15% service charge in the bill. Tips are not expected in cheaper hotels or very cheap local-style restaurants. Hotel porters should be tipped about 2% of the room price.
Taxi drivers appreciate it if you round up the metered fare, however dolmus taxi drivers (shared taxis with fixed rates for set stops) never expect a tip.
In Turkish baths (hamams) you should add a small tip to the set fee.
Time Zone
Local time is GMT +2 (GMT +3 from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October).
Communications:
The International country calling code of Turkey is 00 90. Local and international telephone calls can be made from hotel rooms, and most hotels also offer fax and Internet access.
Passport and Visa Requirements for Turkey
Country Passport Required? Visa Required? Return Ticket Required?
British Yes 2 Yes
Australian Yes 2 Yes
Canadian Yes 2 Yes
USA Yes 2 Yes
Other EU 1 2/3/4 Yes
Passports
Passport valid for at least three months from date of departure from Turkey required by all nationals referred to in the chart above, except:
1. nationals of Belgium, France, Germany, Greece, Liechtenstein, Italy, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Spain and Switzerland, who can enter with a national ID card (which must have a validity of one year).
Visas
Sticker-type entry visas: Tourists and business visitors from the following countries do require visas and can obtain a sticker-type entry visa at the point of entry for a fee (prices are dependent on nationality):
(a) 2. Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Ireland, Italy, Malta, The Netherlands, Portugal, Slovenia, Spain, the UK* and USA for stays not exceeding three months;
(b) 3. Greek Cypriot Administrative Region, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Romania and Slovak Republic for stays not exceeding one month.
Except 4. Nationals of Bulgaria who do not require a visa for stays up to three months, but do require a visa for transit and for entry at certain points in Turkey; check with consulate.
Visa Note
(a) *British National Overseas passport holders should contact the visa section of the consulate general before travelling. (b) Nationals not referred to in the chart above are advised to contact the embassy to check visa requirements (see Contact Addresses).
Types of Visa and Cost
British passport holders can obtain tourist visa either at the port of entry in Turkey for £10 or from the consulate general in the UK for £50. Single entry (six months): £74. Single entry (one year): £230. Single transit: £74. Study: £74 (six months) or £230 (one year). Work: £230. These prices are provided by The Consulate General for the Republic of Turkey in London; prices may vary according to nationality.
Validity
Single entry: up to six months or one year. Multiple entry: up to five years. Transit: six months. Work: one year. Study: six months or one year.
Applications to: Consulate (or consular section at embassy); see Contact Addresses. Applicants must pre-book an appointment with the relevant consulate. An online appointment system is available for The Consulate General for the Republic of Turkey in London. Travel agencies can also make visa applications.
Working Days Required
Usually three, but dependent on nationality of applicant and type of visa. Some applications may be referred to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Ankara, which may take much longer (minimum six to eight weeks).
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