Holiday Guide Pt1 - Hisaronu, Turkey.

Over the next few months I have decided that I am going to do a 'Holiday Essentials' guide. Basically, it’s my way of planning and been organised for my holiday and an insight to what I think are the most important things you need to plan for when travelling!

My first post will be about my favourite place in the world, Hisaronu, Turkey. This year will be my 7th visit to the area and the 3rd time I have stayed in the same hotel. I know some people knock Turkey, but I honestly can’t rave about it enough.

Located on the west coast of the Mugla province of Turkey, the hill town of Hisaronu is surrounded by the beautiful, lush green pine trees of the Babadag Mountains. Situated just above the famous Blue Lagoon beaches of Olu Deniz and the bustling town of Fethiye, Hisaronu has become a popular holiday destination over the last 10 years.

Whilst keeping its traditional Turkish feel, Hisaronu still provides everything you will need to make your holiday one you won’t forget. Whether you prefer to spend your days relaxing around the pool, taking in the local history or going on one of the many excursions, expect to find the locals welcoming and friendly , with many treating you as ‘one of the family’.

 

Once the sun goes down Hisaronu really comes to life. With the main shopping area becoming a pedestrian only area, you will be spoilt for choice with restaurants. From fine dining at The Olive Tree, Italian and steak at Castelloe’s or world cuisine at The Turkey Ivy, even the fussiest of palettes will be catered for. For something a little different, try Talk of the Town, the musical drag show which will have you crying with laughter. If you still have energy to burn, Hisaronu also has a number of late night bars where you can dance the night away!

Lying in the sun all day isn’t for everyone, but thankfully the number of excursions available in Hisaronu is endless. Perhaps The Daylan Discovery would be more your scene, which takes you down the Daylan River to the world famous Mud Baths, past the historical Lycian rock tombs and finally on the Iztuzu Beach, famous as a protected heritage site for Loggerhead Turtles. Or maybe the Jeep Safari through the tombs of Tlos, up to the top of Xanthos Valley and back down to the breath taking Saklikent Gorge is more your cup of tea? If it’s just a change of scenery you want, there are boat trips galore leaving from both Olu Deniz beach and Fethiye Harbour every day.

 

If it’s a bargain you’re looking for both Hisaronu and Fethiye have weekly markets where you’ll find anything from spices and fresh fruit to the latest ‘designer’ handbag. But make sure you take your bartering skills, the only things you should ever pay asking price for is food, medication and accommodation, and it is expected of tourists to haggle.

Hisaronu and its surrounding areas provide excellent accommodation choices for families and couples alike. The recently refurbished 4* Club Orka, just a short walk from Hisaronu, offers both a hotel and private villas. With three pools, a gym, on site Spa (I recommend a Turkish Massage), hair salon, and much more, Club Orka has everything you need for a self-catering holiday. If it’s an All Inclusive holiday you’re after why not try Club Orka’s newly opened Orka Sunlife Resort and Spa?

Top Tips when travelling to Turkey.

 • Make sure you have a £10 note for each individual traveller to pay your visa fee upon entry to the country.

 • Turkish people are very friendly and love the British holiday makers. Remember to be polite to them and if they try to sell you something you don’t want, or try to get you to eat at their restaurant when you don’t want to, politely say ‘No, thank you’ and carry on walking. Try learning a few phrases to impress the locals.

 • Respect the local cultures and religions. Turkey is predominately Muslim, therefore be prepared to cover up in places such as restaurants and large cities.

 • Don’t drink the local tap water. Even the Turkish drink bottled water.

 • Temperatures in Turkey can reach the high 40s so adequate protection is needed. Take refuge in the shade between 1pm and 4pm when the sun reaches its peak. Be especially careful if you stay in a mountain resort, the breeze can fool you in to thinking it isn’t as hot as it actually is.

 • Shop around! Prices for the same item will vary between shops and the market. Once you have decided where you are going to purchase your item, still barter! The Turkish love bartering and on average you can get at least half knocked off the asking price.

Have you ever been to Hisaronu? or Turkey? Where is your ideal place to holiday?

Toni xx

As featured in March Edition of Curvaceous Inc