0:00:02 > 0:00:04Welcome to the travel show where we go where you want us to go.
0:00:04 > 0:00:09We've come to one of the most popular tourist destinations in Turkey - the Aegean coast.
0:00:10 > 0:00:13We asked you to contact our website with your top tips,
0:00:13 > 0:00:15of what to do here and what to avoid.
0:00:15 > 0:00:19We've taken your recommendations and are going to rate and review them
0:00:19 > 0:00:20for ourselves and for you at home.
0:00:28 > 0:00:32To get to the Aegean coast, you can fly directly from Dublin to Izmir.
0:00:32 > 0:00:34The flight takes around four hours.
0:00:36 > 0:00:39This popular region makes an ideal holiday for those
0:00:39 > 0:00:42who love good value beach resorts in an area
0:00:42 > 0:00:44that's also rich in history and culture.
0:00:46 > 0:00:49Joe, what are you hoping to get out of this holiday in Turkey?
0:00:49 > 0:00:52When I think of Turkey I think of high-rise apartments
0:00:52 > 0:00:54and hotels, just lying on the beach all day,
0:00:54 > 0:00:55then hitting the bars and clubs at night.
0:00:55 > 0:00:58I'd like to see if there's more to the region than that. You?
0:00:58 > 0:01:01I want to see if there's more than the package holiday reputation
0:01:01 > 0:01:05- that it has. I'd love to see some Turkish culture. - All right, let's go check it out.
0:01:05 > 0:01:08We've taken on board the advice you sent to us via our website
0:01:08 > 0:01:12and come up with our top-five things to do in this part of Turkey.
0:01:13 > 0:01:17We've also thrown in a few alternative things to do in this area.
0:01:19 > 0:01:22But before we get going, here are some of the essentials
0:01:22 > 0:01:25you need to know about Turkey's Aegean coast.
0:01:25 > 0:01:28Turkey has long been a popular tourist destination,
0:01:28 > 0:01:31due in part to the fact that it's outside the Eurozone
0:01:31 > 0:01:33and considered a lot cheaper than the Costas.
0:01:33 > 0:01:36Now, you CAN spend Euros here. We'd recommend you don't.
0:01:36 > 0:01:39Use Turkish lira, you will get better value for money.
0:01:39 > 0:01:41It can be blistering hot.
0:01:41 > 0:01:44We visited in July and it was over 40 degrees,
0:01:44 > 0:01:48so you'll spend a lot of time looking for somewhere to cool down.
0:01:48 > 0:01:51And it's not just the beach that's the attraction here.
0:01:51 > 0:01:54Another huge part of Turkey's appeal is its amazing history
0:01:54 > 0:01:55and archaeological sites.
0:01:55 > 0:01:58There are many ancient ruins which feature in the historic tales
0:01:58 > 0:02:00of the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman empires.
0:02:02 > 0:02:05We've chosen the best of your recommendations in this area,
0:02:05 > 0:02:08and kicking off at number five is Kusadasi,
0:02:08 > 0:02:12one of the most popular package holiday destinations in Turkey.
0:02:12 > 0:02:16As one of the largest resorts on the Aegean coast, Kusadasi is long known
0:02:16 > 0:02:20to Irish holidaymakers as a good value-for-money destination.
0:02:20 > 0:02:22As well as catering for package holidays,
0:02:22 > 0:02:24it's also become a popular cruise ship port.
0:02:24 > 0:02:27It has a wide range of accommodation for all budgets
0:02:27 > 0:02:30and lots of bars, restaurants and beaches.
0:02:30 > 0:02:33Pigeon Island is one of the main landmarks in Kusadasi.
0:02:33 > 0:02:36It was a popular resting place for migrating birds.
0:02:36 > 0:02:38"Kus" means bird, "ada" means island.
0:02:38 > 0:02:42You can see where I'm going here. The name Kusadasi, or Bird Island.
0:02:48 > 0:02:51One of the things many of you associate with a Turkish holiday
0:02:51 > 0:02:53is bagging yourself a wee bargain.
0:02:53 > 0:02:56And Kusadasi has one of the largest outdoor bazaar areas
0:02:56 > 0:02:57outside of Istanbul.
0:03:02 > 0:03:05These districts and markets were set up to cater for tourists
0:03:05 > 0:03:09who are looking for cheap leather goods, fake designer handbags,
0:03:09 > 0:03:12carpets, other souvenirs which can sometimes veer
0:03:12 > 0:03:14into the very tacky indeed.
0:03:19 > 0:03:23- LONDON ACCENT:- "Here you go, ladies and gentlemen - your genuine, fake,
0:03:23 > 0:03:25"designer fragrances."
0:03:25 > 0:03:28Yeah, you're bound to smell great when you're wearing them, eh?
0:03:28 > 0:03:29Like a million lira.
0:03:31 > 0:03:33This is a very Irish place.
0:03:33 > 0:03:35Do you get a lot of Irish people coming here?
0:03:35 > 0:03:3890% all Irish customers there. Second Ireland, we call.
0:03:38 > 0:03:41- Have you picked up any of the accents?- Sure. Like Dublin accent.
0:03:41 > 0:03:45- Yeah, go.- The Irish say, "Oh, that's gorgeous! Isn't it, O'Malley?"
0:03:45 > 0:03:47That's my Dublin accent.
0:03:48 > 0:03:50Hello, how are you? I'm Joe.
0:03:50 > 0:03:51- Hi, I'm Sean.- Sean?
0:03:51 > 0:03:55You do have an Irish look about you. How much would this set me back?
0:03:55 > 0:03:59This genuine fake Valentino Garavani?
0:03:59 > 0:04:0020 euros, I give it you.
0:04:00 > 0:04:03- I reckon you can do it for 10. - 15, I take.- 12.
0:04:03 > 0:04:06- Give me your hand, you make good deal. Turkish deal.- There we go.
0:04:06 > 0:04:10- 13, I take.- No, 12, we said 12, we shook on 12! We shook on 12!
0:04:10 > 0:04:12- 12 is OK.- 13!
0:04:12 > 0:04:15You've got to watch that lot, you've got to watch that.
0:04:15 > 0:04:18And the appeal of Kusadasi as a holiday resort
0:04:18 > 0:04:21is that there's bucket loads to do here.
0:04:21 > 0:04:23It's a great place for all the family.
0:04:25 > 0:04:27And if you've got kids,
0:04:27 > 0:04:30this is the one place they will definitely nag you to visit.
0:04:35 > 0:04:38We're here in Adaland, which is just 20 minutes outside of Kusadasi.
0:04:38 > 0:04:42It has over 20 rides and attractions and is home to The Amazon,
0:04:42 > 0:04:44one of the longest family slide in Europe.
0:04:44 > 0:04:47And guess who gets that one? Yes!
0:04:47 > 0:04:48Great.
0:04:53 > 0:04:55But Joe's not having all the fun.
0:04:55 > 0:04:56SHE SQUEALS
0:04:58 > 0:05:01EXCITED SCREAMING
0:05:06 > 0:05:10Adaland is expensive, as it costs from 20 euro for a ticket,
0:05:10 > 0:05:13but it is one of the largest aqua parks in Turkey
0:05:13 > 0:05:15so it's definitely worth splashing out on.
0:05:19 > 0:05:21That's a ride!
0:05:21 > 0:05:23I'm going to do that again! Woo!
0:05:34 > 0:05:36Now, a great way to end your day is an evening
0:05:36 > 0:05:38of traditional Turkish culture.
0:05:38 > 0:05:41That involves Turkish food, Turkish music,
0:05:41 > 0:05:45whirling dervishes and, of course, belly-dancing.
0:05:45 > 0:05:47- Let's go.- Hell, yeah!
0:05:47 > 0:05:49ATMOSPHERIC TURKISH MUSIC PLAYS
0:05:52 > 0:05:55If you're after a bit of entertainment with your dinner,
0:05:55 > 0:05:58then this is pretty cheesy. But let's be fair,
0:05:58 > 0:06:01it's not something you're going to see every night back at home.
0:06:04 > 0:06:08A Turkish night like this normally lasts about two and a half hours
0:06:08 > 0:06:13and costs around 35 euro per person. Food, wine and beer is included.
0:06:13 > 0:06:15SHE SINGS
0:06:19 > 0:06:22If Kusadasi feels a bit too package holiday for you,
0:06:22 > 0:06:24or if you want to leave your hotel and explore,
0:06:24 > 0:06:28in this region of Turkey there's plenty for you to see and do.
0:06:32 > 0:06:36One of the best ways to see the Aegean coast is by boat,
0:06:36 > 0:06:38and if you can't afford your own yacht,
0:06:38 > 0:06:40there's plenty of day trip options.
0:06:43 > 0:06:46The boat trips are popular because they take you to areas
0:06:46 > 0:06:49that are much less crowded than those in the resorts,
0:06:49 > 0:06:52and if you're up for some fun, they can turn into a bit of a party.
0:06:57 > 0:07:00Before coming to Kusadasi, I thought it'd be really tacky,
0:07:00 > 0:07:02and to be honest, it is a bit.
0:07:02 > 0:07:05But if you're looking for a package holiday or a beach resort town,
0:07:05 > 0:07:07I think it's far nicer than its European equivalents.
0:07:07 > 0:07:12Plus it's a great place to use as a springboard into the rich culture of Turkey.
0:07:12 > 0:07:16Kusadasi is the most popular resort for Irish people visiting Turkey,
0:07:16 > 0:07:19and another reason for this is that you can take day trips
0:07:19 > 0:07:20to some amazing sites.
0:07:21 > 0:07:25And at number four of our top choices from your recommendations
0:07:25 > 0:07:26is one of these day trips.
0:07:33 > 0:07:36It's a two-hour journey from Kusadasi
0:07:36 > 0:07:40to one of the most stunning natural features in Turkey - Pamukkale.
0:07:43 > 0:07:46Pamukkale is one of Turkey's most unusual landmarks.
0:07:55 > 0:07:57Pamukkale means "cotton castle" in Turkish,
0:07:57 > 0:08:01which is a great description of these naturally-formed cotton deposits.
0:08:01 > 0:08:04Pamukkale is a long drive from Kusadasi,
0:08:04 > 0:08:08but we reckon this place really is special and makes a great day out.
0:08:10 > 0:08:13As well as the calcified landscape at Pamukkale,
0:08:13 > 0:08:16here you'll also find the ancient ruins of Hierapolis.
0:08:17 > 0:08:19Hierapolis means "sacred city"
0:08:19 > 0:08:23and is believed to have been founded by Apollo himself.
0:08:23 > 0:08:27It is said that Antony and Cleopatra spent quite a bit of time here,
0:08:27 > 0:08:30and in fact he gave her this entire area as a wedding gift.
0:08:30 > 0:08:33Ladies, you've got to say, that man was a keeper.
0:08:35 > 0:08:38One of the things you simply should not miss is the Sacred Pool
0:08:38 > 0:08:41at Hierapolis, which is a World Heritage site.
0:08:45 > 0:08:48The springs are famed for their healing properties.
0:08:48 > 0:08:50Apparently it's good for your eyes, your skin,
0:08:50 > 0:08:53arthritis and rheumatism, and if you come here,
0:08:53 > 0:08:56you can swim amongst the original ruins that lie beneath the water.
0:09:04 > 0:09:07One thing we really liked about this area of Turkey
0:09:07 > 0:09:11is that it isn't just about built-up package resorts, and that's why
0:09:11 > 0:09:15we've chosen the small town of Alacati as our number three choice.
0:09:17 > 0:09:20Alacati is this region's most upmarket resort
0:09:20 > 0:09:24and is a favourite with Istanbul's cosmopolitan crowd.
0:09:24 > 0:09:27Alacati is a two-hour drive north of Kusadasi,
0:09:27 > 0:09:30and I liked getting away from a busy resort to somewhere smaller,
0:09:30 > 0:09:32quieter and more sophisticated.
0:09:34 > 0:09:36And if you like antiques and collectables,
0:09:36 > 0:09:40then you'll find a large antiques market here at weekends.
0:09:40 > 0:09:42Formerly an isolated village,
0:09:42 > 0:09:45the town's popularity has grown as a tourist destination
0:09:45 > 0:09:48and many of the stone buildings have now been converted
0:09:48 > 0:09:51into upmarket restaurants, designer shops and boutiques hotels.
0:09:57 > 0:10:00Without a doubt, water sports are the biggest attraction here
0:10:00 > 0:10:04and the area is famous for its windsurfing and kite surfing.
0:10:16 > 0:10:19And when in Turkey, something you said we really should try
0:10:19 > 0:10:22is a Turkish bath, also known as a hamam.
0:10:23 > 0:10:25After a day in the sun,
0:10:25 > 0:10:28this deep cleansing experience is apparently the perfect way
0:10:28 > 0:10:32to relax and unwind, and leaves you feeling and looking great.
0:10:43 > 0:10:46Now, lads, if you're someone who regards the hamam as a little bit
0:10:46 > 0:10:49too metrosexual, you might want to go for something manly,
0:10:49 > 0:10:52like a good old shave with a cut-throat razor,
0:10:52 > 0:10:54plus a head massage,
0:10:54 > 0:10:56facial and...eyebrow wax.
0:10:57 > 0:10:59- Hello.- Hi.- How are you? - I'm good, thank you.
0:10:59 > 0:11:01Ahh!
0:11:02 > 0:11:05I hope he's got a steadier hand than I do.
0:11:05 > 0:11:07And he wasn't on the tour last night.
0:11:09 > 0:11:11Here we go.
0:11:16 > 0:11:20'To be honest, I really didn't know what to expect.
0:11:22 > 0:11:24'It's a pretty hands-on experience.'
0:11:35 > 0:11:37Look, it's like I'm in Father Ted.
0:11:43 > 0:11:45I wasn't expecting this.
0:11:45 > 0:11:47Another man cutting your nose hair.
0:11:48 > 0:11:50Yeah, there's nothing more manly than this.
0:12:09 > 0:12:11Relaxed? Yeah.
0:12:11 > 0:12:13Looking good? I sincerely doubt it.
0:12:13 > 0:12:15That was one of the most bizarre experiences I've ever had,
0:12:15 > 0:12:17but I highly recommend it.
0:12:21 > 0:12:25Are we done? Mustiq, my man, you've got magic hands. Beautiful.
0:12:25 > 0:12:27- Thank you.- Thank you very much.
0:12:27 > 0:12:29That was great. Come here. No, come on.
0:12:31 > 0:12:35Coming up on Getaways, we take a visit to a town that's small
0:12:35 > 0:12:38but perfectly formed, and journey through one of the world's
0:12:38 > 0:12:40best-preserved ancient cities.
0:12:42 > 0:12:44But first, if you can't stand the heat,
0:12:44 > 0:12:47why not take a short getaway closer to home?
0:12:48 > 0:12:51Now, for those who prefer not to travel too far
0:12:51 > 0:12:53but still want a bit of adventure on their holidays,
0:12:53 > 0:12:56I'm exploring an activity break in County Roscommon.
0:12:59 > 0:13:02I'm in Lough Key Forest Park here in Roscommon.
0:13:02 > 0:13:05Roscommon is somewhere people normally drive through to get to somewhere else.
0:13:05 > 0:13:09But what you're about to see will convince you to put this place
0:13:09 > 0:13:10right into your sat nav.
0:13:13 > 0:13:17Lough Key Forest and Activity Park is about 3.5 hours' drive
0:13:17 > 0:13:21from Belfast, and about 2.5 hours' drive from Dublin.
0:13:21 > 0:13:24Being a forest park, there are a lot of what you would expect,
0:13:24 > 0:13:27namely trees, trees and more trees.
0:13:27 > 0:13:30And here they put the trees to very good use.
0:13:30 > 0:13:34The forest park covers over 800 acres of parkland.
0:13:34 > 0:13:36It has recently been developed with a new visitor centre
0:13:36 > 0:13:40and has lots of different and unusual activities to try.
0:13:41 > 0:13:43This is Zipit, an aerial obstacle course.
0:13:43 > 0:13:45If you like heights, you'll love it.
0:13:45 > 0:13:48If you're me, you will probably be glad when it's all over.
0:13:54 > 0:13:57Basically, this is an aerial trek through the trees,
0:13:57 > 0:14:01which has zip lines, a Tarzan swing, climbing walls and cargo nets.
0:14:02 > 0:14:05I've taken bike rides in some unusual places,
0:14:05 > 0:14:08but this is probably the strangest...
0:14:08 > 0:14:11and potentially more dangerous. Let's just see, shall we?
0:14:14 > 0:14:16HE LAUGHS
0:14:21 > 0:14:24Now, if you don't fancy the high adrenaline experience
0:14:24 > 0:14:25of zipping through the trees,
0:14:25 > 0:14:28there is an alternative, non-scary version.
0:14:28 > 0:14:31There's a walk-way through the trees, and I'd recommend
0:14:31 > 0:14:34you hire a handset and take the audio tour.
0:14:34 > 0:14:37It's a great way to get a bird's-eye view of nature.
0:14:39 > 0:14:43This is the Lough Key experience, Ireland's only tree-top canopy walk.
0:14:46 > 0:14:48The park has an interesting history,
0:14:48 > 0:14:50and the trail also takes you
0:14:50 > 0:14:53to a 19th-century underground servants tunnel,
0:14:53 > 0:14:56which once served the estate house.
0:14:56 > 0:14:59This is the tunnel that would have been under the main house,
0:14:59 > 0:15:00and was used to transport goods in and out,
0:15:00 > 0:15:02normally by donkey and cart.
0:15:04 > 0:15:05She's fairly steep!
0:15:10 > 0:15:13And look, there are bats down here. How cool is this place?
0:15:13 > 0:15:15HE SQUEAKS
0:15:18 > 0:15:21Look, there are stalactites down here.
0:15:21 > 0:15:24Now, they're not very big, but that is 200 years of growth.
0:15:24 > 0:15:26This is where the main estate house once stood.
0:15:26 > 0:15:29It was destroyed by a fire in 1957.
0:15:29 > 0:15:33Now, all that stands in its place is the Moylurg Tower.
0:15:33 > 0:15:36Built in the '70s, it looks like somewhere you'd train firemen,
0:15:36 > 0:15:40but it's actually used as a viewing tower.
0:15:40 > 0:15:42If you can stomach the height, it's well worth it,
0:15:42 > 0:15:47because the view from the top of the tower is just fantastic.
0:15:47 > 0:15:49If your idea of fun on holiday is puzzle solving
0:15:49 > 0:15:52in a place with a frankly bizarre Swedish name -
0:15:52 > 0:15:54no, I'm not talking about a furniture shop -
0:15:54 > 0:15:56then this is the place for you.
0:15:56 > 0:15:57Lough Key's Boda Borg.
0:15:57 > 0:16:00Here's my team. Lads, bring on the puzzle fun.
0:16:02 > 0:16:05Boda Borg is a concept unique to Ireland.
0:16:05 > 0:16:06You'll need a minimum of three people,
0:16:06 > 0:16:08and a maximum of five per team.
0:16:11 > 0:16:14You run back and forward, these lights go out. Touch them.
0:16:14 > 0:16:17A lot of these are based around a team thing,
0:16:17 > 0:16:18so I'm sitting this one out,
0:16:18 > 0:16:21watching the lads stick the effort in, you know.
0:16:25 > 0:16:28Now there are 47 challenges, no instructions,
0:16:28 > 0:16:31you and your team have to work it out for yourselves,
0:16:31 > 0:16:34and get through it as best you can.
0:16:34 > 0:16:36This is real world gaming,
0:16:36 > 0:16:38or Ireland's version of the Crystal Maze.
0:16:38 > 0:16:41The aim is to get through as many rooms as possible,
0:16:41 > 0:16:45but very few teams have ever successfully completed the course.
0:16:45 > 0:16:47Some challenges are against time.
0:16:47 > 0:16:50Others you have to get through the room without touching the floor.
0:16:50 > 0:16:51Others are pretty physical,
0:16:51 > 0:16:55and involve lifting a set amount of weight in so many minutes.
0:16:56 > 0:16:58This is brilliant craic.
0:16:58 > 0:17:00It's a mixture of physical and mental challenges.
0:17:00 > 0:17:03For the kids, it gets them away from the computer,
0:17:03 > 0:17:05and for you adults, you get to remember all those skills
0:17:05 > 0:17:07you had when you were a nipper.
0:17:07 > 0:17:10Look, I have calluses on my hands from climbing ropes and everything.
0:17:12 > 0:17:15And there's also something for smaller kids.
0:17:15 > 0:17:18The adventure play kingdom, with towers, slides,
0:17:18 > 0:17:21climbing frames, roundabouts, swings, puzzles,
0:17:21 > 0:17:24and other fun stuff - this is definitely one for the wee ones.
0:17:30 > 0:17:32There's a lot to see in the parkland.
0:17:32 > 0:17:36Follies, bridges, canals, trails through the woodlands,
0:17:36 > 0:17:38and a bog garden.
0:17:39 > 0:17:40This is the fairy bridge.
0:17:40 > 0:17:44It was designed by John Nash, who also built Regent's Park,
0:17:44 > 0:17:45and Regent Street in London.
0:17:45 > 0:17:48Quite what it's got to do with fairies is beyond me.
0:17:48 > 0:17:50But it is rather lovely.
0:17:50 > 0:17:54Half an hour away from the forest park is something rather unusual.
0:17:54 > 0:17:56Something I couldn't resist visiting.
0:17:56 > 0:17:59Now you wouldn't often expect to find a mining museum,
0:17:59 > 0:18:02and indeed, it wouldn't be my first port of call on my holidays,
0:18:02 > 0:18:05but I figured I'm in the neighbourhood, I'll check it out.
0:18:07 > 0:18:11The Arigna mine is Ireland's first coal mining museum,
0:18:11 > 0:18:13and is a popular tourist attraction.
0:18:13 > 0:18:16Who knew mining attract tourists?
0:18:16 > 0:18:18Consisting of a 45 minute underground tour,
0:18:18 > 0:18:22you get a detailed history of the industry and the area.
0:18:23 > 0:18:27Led by ex-miners, the tour takes you down 400 metres,
0:18:27 > 0:18:30through dark tunnels, to the coal face.
0:18:30 > 0:18:33As they were driven from the main road into the mountain,
0:18:33 > 0:18:36there were smaller tunnels taking off them.
0:18:36 > 0:18:38You wouldn't need to be too tall coming through here.
0:18:38 > 0:18:41I'm 6'4", and look, I'm hitting the roof of it.
0:18:41 > 0:18:44Think what conditions were like for the men who worked here.
0:18:44 > 0:18:45It is fascinating.
0:18:45 > 0:18:47You get historical background that's also anecdotal,
0:18:47 > 0:18:51because all the guides you get here were men that worked in this mine.
0:18:51 > 0:18:52It's fascinating.
0:18:53 > 0:18:57I got to say it, this is one trip that's guaranteed to be a blast.
0:19:02 > 0:19:05I had a look at a few accommodation options at Lough Key,
0:19:05 > 0:19:07and there's something for all budgets.
0:19:07 > 0:19:10For those looking for an affordable option,
0:19:10 > 0:19:13there's a camping and caravan park.
0:19:13 > 0:19:16The nightly rate for a caravan is 22 euro,
0:19:16 > 0:19:18and for tents, prices start at 12 euro.
0:19:21 > 0:19:23If you fancy something a little different,
0:19:23 > 0:19:25then the log cabins might appeal.
0:19:25 > 0:19:28They are eco-friendly, but still have all mod cons.
0:19:30 > 0:19:33The cabins cost from 400 euro per week,
0:19:33 > 0:19:34and can sleep up to eight people.
0:19:37 > 0:19:40If you've been saving your cash, and fancy a weekend of luxury,
0:19:40 > 0:19:44then Kilronan Castle Estate and Spa is the place for you.
0:19:44 > 0:19:47The castle's a half hour drive from Lough Key.
0:19:47 > 0:19:48The rooms are plush,
0:19:48 > 0:19:51and you feel like you're really living it up.
0:19:51 > 0:19:53After your forest adventures, why not chill out
0:19:53 > 0:19:56and get pampered in the spa?
0:19:56 > 0:19:59A room here costs from 129 euro per room per night,
0:19:59 > 0:20:01based on two sharing.
0:20:05 > 0:20:07Back in Turkey, we've identified our top five
0:20:07 > 0:20:11of your recommendations for things to do on holiday here.
0:20:11 > 0:20:14So far, we've been to the package resort of Kusadasi,
0:20:14 > 0:20:16seen the cotton castles of Pamukkale,
0:20:16 > 0:20:21and taken a dip in history at the hot springs of Hierapolis.
0:20:21 > 0:20:23Now it's time for number two choice.
0:20:23 > 0:20:25It's the town of Cesme.
0:20:26 > 0:20:30One hour drive from Izmir, or from Kusadasi,
0:20:30 > 0:20:33Cesme is a village away from the main package holiday areas,
0:20:33 > 0:20:36so it offers some respite from the crowds.
0:20:39 > 0:20:42The northern half of the Aegean coastline has long been a getaway
0:20:42 > 0:20:45for the people of the nearby city of Izmir.
0:20:45 > 0:20:48It's popular for its beaches, and the ferry links to Greece.
0:20:52 > 0:20:55Cesme is a great spot as a base if you want a resort
0:20:55 > 0:20:58where there's plenty to do, and it's not as built up
0:20:58 > 0:21:01as some of its sister resorts further down south.
0:21:01 > 0:21:04Cumhuriyet Meydani is the main pedestrianised square,
0:21:04 > 0:21:07where you will find plenty of boat trips out to such beauty spots
0:21:07 > 0:21:08as Donkey Island - yes, really -
0:21:08 > 0:21:11and the nearby Greek island of Chios.
0:21:13 > 0:21:16One always likes to stay cool in such hot temperatures.
0:21:16 > 0:21:19You could do a lot worse than try damla sakizli,
0:21:19 > 0:21:22ice-cream made from the resin of local gum trees.
0:21:22 > 0:21:24Thank you very much, sir.
0:21:29 > 0:21:33That's like a frosty party in your mouth and everyone's invited.
0:21:39 > 0:21:41This castle at Cesme, overlooking the harbour,
0:21:41 > 0:21:44was built over 500 years ago by the Ottomans.
0:21:44 > 0:21:46It now houses a small museum,
0:21:46 > 0:21:51containing artefacts from the nearby archaeological site of Eritrea.
0:21:51 > 0:21:53Cesme Castle is one of the key locations of the annual
0:21:53 > 0:21:57international Izmir Festival, held between June and September.
0:21:57 > 0:22:00Many world renowned musical acts perform here.
0:22:10 > 0:22:11On the Aegean coast,
0:22:11 > 0:22:15there are many different types of accommodation to be found.
0:22:15 > 0:22:18If you're looking for an all-inclusive resort
0:22:18 > 0:22:19that's suitable for families,
0:22:19 > 0:22:23then the Onyria Claros Beach and Spa Resort has lots on offer.
0:22:24 > 0:22:27It's a five-star resort, with two outdoor pools,
0:22:27 > 0:22:30a spa, a water park, and a children's activity pool,
0:22:30 > 0:22:34where there are plenty of slides and fountains to keep the children happy.
0:22:34 > 0:22:37It's 45 minutes drive from Izmir Airport,
0:22:37 > 0:22:41and only 35 kilometres from Kusadasi.
0:22:41 > 0:22:45A standard villa here costs from 455 euro per person, per week.
0:22:45 > 0:22:49This price is all-inclusive, based on two sharing.
0:22:49 > 0:22:52Flights are not included.
0:22:52 > 0:22:54The good thing about the all-inclusive package,
0:22:54 > 0:22:55is if you're travelling as a family,
0:22:55 > 0:22:57the extras, like ice-creams and drinks,
0:22:57 > 0:22:59are available on tap, all day long.
0:22:59 > 0:23:01However, with your three squares catered for,
0:23:01 > 0:23:04there is a temptation not to leave the hotel complex,
0:23:04 > 0:23:07and you could be missing out on some wonderful local eateries.
0:23:07 > 0:23:10If you're looking for a budget option in Kusadasi,
0:23:10 > 0:23:14then the Palmera Hotel offers good value for money.
0:23:14 > 0:23:17It's set on a steep headland, overlooking Pigeon Island.
0:23:17 > 0:23:19We particularly liked the pools,
0:23:19 > 0:23:21one of which has a bar that you swim up to.
0:23:21 > 0:23:24It costs from 168 euros for a room here for a week.
0:23:24 > 0:23:27That's based on two sharing, on a bed-and-breakfast basis.
0:23:27 > 0:23:28Flights not included.
0:23:30 > 0:23:33If you want to avoid the hustle and bustle of busier resorts,
0:23:33 > 0:23:37then we'd recommend the Beyevi Alacati Hotel.
0:23:37 > 0:23:39For hotels in this region, the buzz word is "boutique".
0:23:39 > 0:23:42Many of them, once privately owned residences,
0:23:42 > 0:23:44have their own unique characteristics,
0:23:44 > 0:23:47and they're great value for money. This is where I'd love to stay.
0:23:47 > 0:23:51This small hotel has 15 beautifully decorated rooms,
0:23:51 > 0:23:53and a relaxing pool area.
0:23:53 > 0:23:57It's in a quiet street, but it's still near Alacati's main square.
0:23:57 > 0:24:00The price per person per night is from 75 euro.
0:24:00 > 0:24:04This includes taxes, breakfast and afternoon tea.
0:24:09 > 0:24:12Time to reveal our number one choice from your recommendations
0:24:12 > 0:24:13for the Aegean coast.
0:24:13 > 0:24:17It may be loved for its beaches, but this area also has
0:24:17 > 0:24:20some of the world's most impressive archaeological sites.
0:24:20 > 0:24:22When in this part of the world,
0:24:22 > 0:24:25you recommended a day out to the ancient city of Ephesus.
0:24:27 > 0:24:29Ephesus is one of the biggest
0:24:29 > 0:24:32and best preserved ancient cities in Europe.
0:24:32 > 0:24:35It's one of Turkey's most visited tourist attractions.
0:24:43 > 0:24:47Legend has it, it was founded by Androclus, son of King Codros of Athens.
0:24:47 > 0:24:50King Codros told his son he should settle
0:24:50 > 0:24:52in a place of fish and wild boar.
0:24:52 > 0:24:56When Androclus arrived here, there were some locals roasting fish over a fire.
0:24:56 > 0:24:58A couple of sparks escaped, ignited a nearby bush
0:24:58 > 0:25:00and out ran a wild boar.
0:25:00 > 0:25:03As signs go, that was pretty much on the mark.
0:25:05 > 0:25:09The excavation here has been going on for nearly 150 years.
0:25:09 > 0:25:11And though it may look impressive,
0:25:11 > 0:25:15so far only 10% of this ancient city has been uncovered.
0:25:15 > 0:25:18This is interesting, this is from the later Christian period,
0:25:18 > 0:25:21which you can tell by the Maltese cross in the middle.
0:25:21 > 0:25:23This is actually a backgammon table.
0:25:23 > 0:25:26For you younger viewers, that's kind of the fourth-century Xbox,
0:25:26 > 0:25:30if you will. Now to work out where you plug it in. Hang on.
0:25:37 > 0:25:39This is the site of the hospital.
0:25:39 > 0:25:42When they were excavating this, they found early examples
0:25:42 > 0:25:46of forceps and scalpels, but no evidence of anaesthetic
0:25:46 > 0:25:47because they didn't have any.
0:25:47 > 0:25:50They tended to use the fruit of the vine
0:25:50 > 0:25:53and imbibe certain leaves that grew out of the ground.
0:25:53 > 0:25:56I'm surprised they got anything done, to be honest.
0:26:04 > 0:26:08Ephesus at one point had a population of 250,000 people.
0:26:08 > 0:26:11The streets, as you can see, were paved, illuminated at night,
0:26:11 > 0:26:13they were even signposted.
0:26:13 > 0:26:16One of the remaining signs here has a number on
0:26:16 > 0:26:18with the lady's face etched into it,
0:26:18 > 0:26:21indicating that it was, well, a house of ill-repute.
0:26:25 > 0:26:27Ephesus was a great ancient civilisation,
0:26:27 > 0:26:31with many temples, a library and even a medical school.
0:26:31 > 0:26:34This thriving metropolis was once the leading city
0:26:34 > 0:26:36in the province of Asia.
0:26:36 > 0:26:39If you come to Turkey, you simply have to come to Ephesus.
0:26:39 > 0:26:42It's one of these places you must see before you die.
0:26:42 > 0:26:44Here is a word to the wise.
0:26:44 > 0:26:48Pick your time to come here, it can get very crowded, and
0:26:48 > 0:26:52because it is very hot here, bring loads of bottled water with you.
0:26:52 > 0:26:55Don't buy it outside because it costs a fortune. Bring your own.
0:27:06 > 0:27:09The other famous site close to Ephesus is the House of the Virgin Mary.
0:27:09 > 0:27:13It's believed Mary spent two years of her life here before returning to the Holy Land.
0:27:17 > 0:27:19The house was discovered in 1891,
0:27:19 > 0:27:23following descriptions of visions of the German nun, Anne Catherine Emmerich.
0:27:23 > 0:27:25Today, it is a place of pilgrimage and is visited
0:27:25 > 0:27:27by millions of tourists every year.
0:27:32 > 0:27:34In recognition of the site as a place of pilgrimage,
0:27:34 > 0:27:36the last three Popes have visited here.
0:27:41 > 0:27:44Even if you're not religious or spiritual,
0:27:44 > 0:27:46the House of the Virgin Mary is actually worth a visit.
0:27:46 > 0:27:48Just be prepared for the crowds
0:27:48 > 0:27:51and don't expect to get too much quiet time by yourself.
0:28:06 > 0:28:09Well, Joe, we've sadly come to the end of our holiday in Turkey.
0:28:09 > 0:28:12- What was your favourite part? - I'm going to go for Ephesus.
0:28:12 > 0:28:14It was a breathtaking place to visit.
0:28:14 > 0:28:17It is immensely interesting, but I also loved a bit of male pampering.
0:28:17 > 0:28:20I loved the Turkish shave. I felt wonderful.
0:28:20 > 0:28:23I thought Alacati was a fabulous town, but the hamam is something
0:28:23 > 0:28:26- that everyone should experience at least once.- Absolutely.
0:28:26 > 0:28:30Let's just finish our Turkish tea. We'll see you next time on Getaways.
0:28:35 > 0:28:38Subtitles by Red Bee Media Ltd