The name “Mausoleum”, describing the monument enclosing a burial chamber, actually originated from the original edifice in Bodrum. Its majestic, temple-like structure, decorated with reliefs and statuary on a massive base, stood resiliently for 1700 years until it was eventually devastated by earthquakes. Today, you can still visit the foundations and several pieces of sculpture that remain from the immense memorial.

Crusaders, arriving in Bodrum in the 15^th Century, transformed the remains of the Mausoleum into the remarkable Bodrum Castle. Still standing today, the stunning castle overlooks the harbour and the International Marina and visitors flock to the Museum of Underwater Archaeology that is accommodated in its grounds. As one of the finest examples of Crusader architecture in Eastern Europe, the stunning fortress hosts many cultural festivals throughout the year.

The Bodrum peninsula features a notably prevalent artistic and intellectual recent history, providing secondary residence to many artists, poets and singers. A variety of European expats have been attracted to the area due to its ideal climate, luxurious yet relaxed lifestyle and extremely high investment potential. As well as foreign investment, Turkish nationals are also eager to acquire holiday villas in the region and take part in the ever-popular leisure activities that Bodrum’s supreme location offers, including yachting, water sports and golf. The immense and heavenly coastline, with miles of beaches, bays and coves to discover, make every voyage peaceful and enjoyable.

Accessing the area is progressively easier since Bodrum boasts both an international and a domestic airport that receive daily flights from across Europe.

Also designed by Michel Gayon, the parkland-style New course at Gloria is just a five-minute walk from one of the most idyllic beaches on the eastern Mediterranean. Both visually attractive and challenging to play, the New is not overly long (it measures 6,239 metres from the back tees), but its undulating, tree-lined setting is shaped by four large lakes and 67 bunkers (four more than the Old). Gayon has fully taken advantage of this varied terrain and created a fascinating test of golf. the number of holes at Gloria to 45, and therefore make it the biggest golf resort in Belek.

With the back drop of the Toros mountains the 18 hole Championship Course at 6232 meters, par 72 is a fantastic test of golf. From the very long par 5 opener, followed by a par 3

to an island green Through trees and valleys to the 18th which demands an inch- perfect tee shot before an approach over water to a green in front of the often packed clubhouse terrace restaurant.

The course is 5,850 meters long and offers the charm and challenge of an Old World course with a feel that is reminiscent of traditional Scottish links. The Milas course is born out of a deep love and respect for the game, a shared passion for excellence and a desire to play under the finest possible conditions.

Lake Tuzla is home to 1000’s of migrating birds, many rare breeds, between October and April making this a haven for nature and golf lovers. The Milas-71 course is a pay&play course, bookable either through Vita Park Golf Resort or through some of the hotels which fringe the shoreline in the region.

The country’s Mediterranean climate means that Turkey is forging a reputation as a popular location for those looking to take golf holidays, and the Turkish government is keen to tap into the golfing market throughout Europe, the Middle East and Africa, which is estimated to be worth 50 billion euros.

The Golf Federation of Turkey has announced ambitious plans for 100 golf courses to be built over the next 15 years; these new courses will join established ones which have already been developed by famous faces such as Nick Faldo and Colin Montgomerie, and many will be built around property resorts, allowing investors to take advantage of the country’s increased demand for golf tourism. Such an increase would be unprecedented, given there are only 17 completed courses in the country at the moment, and these are mostly located around Istanbul and Belek.

Vita Park Golf Course

The exclusive members only Vita Park Golf Resort is positioned next to the spectacular lake of Tuzla. Featuring two par 71, 18 hole courses they each come with the other facilities on the site like tennis courts, a fitness centre, swimming pools, sun decks and a gourmet restaurant and club house. The courses and other facilities have been designed by Dr. Gürol Büyük and his son Erol Büyük allowing the area to fulfil its luxurious potential whilst considering the character of the land and awareness of eco sensitive issues. Buying a property in Turkey near this dynamic golf resort will offer you the lifestyle and the financial benefits you are looking for.

The golf resort will be open all year round meaning you can visit or stay in your property for however long you wish and also the rental potential is increased as you don’t have to worry about only renting out 6 months of the year. Of course at this golf resort it’s not just about the golf, there is a wide selection of other activities for the rest of your party to enjoy.

Bodrum Golf Club

Bodrum Golf Club Academy Course is the first golf club to open on the Bodrum Peninsula giving the opportunity of playing and learning golf to the golf enthusiasts. The golf club has been designed as a social retreat and has a 5 hole golf course, driving range, practice putting area, chipping area and bunkers. Restaurant, bar, cafe, and day spa with jaccuzzi facilities are also available in the Club. A Proshop is serving for Golf Players to buy or rent equipment in the club house, and there is also a locker room with showers.

Those surveyed were asked to name their favourite holiday destinations in terms of climate, food, prices, activities, restaurants and nightlife. Spain’s Benidorm on Costa Blanca Island ranked first on the list for those who like sea, sun and sand. This ranking may help strip off Benidorm’s image as a party destination.

Five places in Spain made the top 10 list. In addition to Benidorm, Puerto San Miguel, Playa Blanca, Puerto Rico (Canary Islands), and Puerto Pollensa are the popular holiday destinations of Spain.

Being a popular holiday destination with beautiful scenery, and historical and cultural wonders, Turkey also took its place near the top.

The Thomson authorities said that the system of customer views gives better and more reliable results than brochures since they include small but important details as well as general impressions.

“When you read a brochure, you cannot know for sure what the holiday destination is really like. But our survey offers an honest holiday evaluation by real people who have been to these places before, and can tell real stories about the food, activities, prices, etc.,” said a tourism industry authority. The survey is likely to make an important contribution to Turkey’s promotional campaigns, said the tourism authority.

Source – Hurriyet Daily News – 24th February 2009 - Abridged

According to the website PropertyWire, the upcoming designation of the city Istanbul as European Capital of Culture next year will bring a surge in the number of tourists visiting the country. Last year, the country saw more than 23 million visitors, according to tourism minister Ertuğrul Günay, and it is anticipated that even more will arrive in 2009.

One estate agent told PropertyWire: “While the expense of property in Istanbul may previously have prevented some buyers from entering the market, the economic slowdown has recently pushed prices down, creating bargains in desirable locations.” It was also recently announced that the Foreign and Commonwealth Office will draw up a list of trusted property firms in Turkey, after a number of complaints from investors in recent years.

Source – Today’s Zaman – 29th January 2009

Turkey has long been a controversial country in the long line of history. Being a mediator between Asia and Europe, Turkey has had a culture of its own - influenced both by its European neighboring countries as well as its Asian neighbors. For this, you will surely enjoy Turkey - the arts and letters, the museums, the vacation destinations, and the historic sites.

1.) Turkish Concerts and Operas

Having a culture distinctly of its own, Turkey has developed a liking for concerts and operas that are truly world class. Enchant yourself with the dazzling collaboration of Western classical music infused with Ottoman music. The result is a sound uniquely their own.

2.) Films in Turkey

Your visit to Turkey will never be complete unless you get to watch a Turkish film. Turkish films are truly world-class, having earned itself accolades and praises from international award-giving bodies. Also, Turkey holds its very own film festival celebrated in Istanbul.

3.) Museums in Turkey

Because of the very rich history of Turkey, a lot of museums can be found in the place. In these museums, you actually get to see artifacts found in Turkey. Some of the most famous museums in Turkey include the Museum of Anatolian Civilization and the Ethnographic Museum where Roman and Greek artifacts are on exhibit.

4.) The Cave Dwellings

A direct manifestation of the rich cultural tradition of Turkey is its cave dwellings, found in Central Anatolia Goreme, Turkey. What’s so distinct and unique about these cave dwellings is that people are still living in these houses built by Christian monks around 4 A.D. You can just imagine the resilience of these houses.

5.) Roman Ruins

Turkey was once under the rule of Roman Empire. Until now, you can feast your eyes on the marvel of Roman structures left in Turkey. These ruins are found all over Turkey, the most notable of which is the ancient city of Adora, found in South Central Turkey.

6.) Mosques

Because Islam has been the official religion of Turkey from then until now, some of the most notable and architecturally laudable mosques can be found in Turkey. The Suleymaniye Mosque and the Blue Mosque are both found in Turkey. The signature domes of the Byzantine architecture are ever impressive in Turkey.

7.) Greek Ruins

As if the presence of Roman ruins is not enough, wait until you bear witness to another historic place in Turkey. In Western Turkey are the legendary ruins of the city of Troy. Indeed, this makes Turkey a place you must visit, especially if you are a history buff who loves learning about the early roots of civilization.

8.) Nature Trips

A trip to Turkey will not be complete unless you visit the nature-friendly areas around the country. One is Lake Van, located in the eastern part of the country. Because it is a lake, you will find the place to be very relaxing where you can spend a quiet time alone. In Turkey is also the world-famous Mount Ararat, known for its perfectly shaped peaks.

9.) Shopping in Turkey

Turkey is the place to be if you are a shopaholic. Here can be found the Grand Bazaar which provides roof for over 4000 shops for different purposes - food, fashion, technology, books, and many other things. What you are looking for can surely be found in Grand Bazaar, found in Istanbul.

10.) Foods in Turkey

The key to Turkish food is simplicity, and you will especially love the fact that the foods commonly served here are either filled with spices or herbs. These, after all, are prolific in Turkey. Also, anchovies are one of the best cooked foods in the country.

About the Author:
Jonathan Williams is the travel writer for Destination Guide TV - the place to share travel videos. Visit http://www.destinationguide.tv/turkey to view or share Turkey travel videos.

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