The words “East meets West” and “where Orient meets Occident” are often used in relation to Turkey, but these do not do service to a country that is modernising rapidly and knocking on Europe's door. Although prices are rising, Turkey is one of the Mediterranean's best bargains; hotels and taxis are a steal compared to other cities. Due to this popularity, there is lots of competition on UK-Turkey routes. There are plenty of cheap flights to Turkey available.
While you're there, take advantage of the exchange rate (one Turkish New Lira converts to about £0.40) and consider buying carpets, leather and jewellery. Don't think drinking apple tea will help you blend in - no self-respecting Turk would touch it - but Turkish delight and Baklava (preferably the Gulluoglu brand) are universal favourites.
Places not to miss include Istanbul, a world capital for thousands of years and three empires; Bodrum, the package holiday favourite; Ephesus, an ancient holy city from the Roman era, close to Izmir; Cappadocia, a stunning moonscape of “fairy chimneys” that once were home to Hittites, Romans and Christians; and Nemrut in eastern Turkey, where colossal statues and two temples dominate an artificial mountaintop.
Search and compare: cheap flights to Turkey
