Family holidays – fun, relaxation and laughs. Add sun, and you’re onto a winner. A popular destination for a sunshine break is the Turkish resort of Icmeler.
Next to bustling Marmaris, with bright nightlife, Icmeler has a more family-orientated, chilled-out vibe, with plenty to keep the kids occupied.
The downside of family holidays is the stress of travelling – good news! This is helped by pre-booking great value extras, cutting stress levels and saving spends. Check out Birmingham Airport Parking for great deals, and a handy shuttle direct to the terminal.
Once landed at Dalaman airport, via direct or indirect flight, your transfer, around two hours, will take you through picturesque towns and villages. The first view of the glittering sea is breathtaking.
In resort, you’ll have plenty of choice for activities. The pretty beach is the day-time focus, with a large, sandy beach with clear water lapping at the shore. Just chill out, or if you’re up for excitement, try some water-sports, with parasailing offering a fantastic aerial view, over to Marmaris.
On Wednesdays the large and bustling Icmeler market comes to town, selling everything from handbags, purses, clothes, spices and fruit. Practice your haggling skills and grab a bargain!
There are also many shops, with more in Marmaris, including big brands.
I’d definitely recommend the walk to Marmaris – remember sun-cream and water! Taking around an hour along the coastline, you’re sheltered by trees. You’ll pass the dolphin park, with the chance for a dolphin swim. Primarily a therapy centre for disabled children – the work they do here is amazing.
In Marmaris you’ll find a long stretch of beach with sun-loungers and water-sports. There are many bars and restaurants, offering free sun-loungers if you buy a drink. Here you’ll find delicious lunch menus at fantastic prices, such as tasty chicken wrap-kebab and drink for around 10 Lira.
Icmeler is set amongst dramatic mountains, with opportunities for hiking through the rugged landscape, and beautiful panoramic views. For an easier trip, take a jeep safari through villages along the coast, including the waterfalls. Many jeep safaris involve an energetic water-fight, great for a cool-down, but check before booking if this isn’t for you – you’ll be completely drenched!
There are lots of boat trips available, many offering lunch, visiting numerous scenic spots, including the fish farm and magic cave. A boat trip is a must, and great for accelerating that tan! There are kids’ “pirate” ship trips available with activities, allowing you to relax.
Fancy venturing further? There are many opportunities. Pre-book airport extras and save money, allowing you to explore further. Try Manchester airport parking for up-to-date deals.
Dalyan mud baths and Turtle Beach are popular, with a morning literally wallowing in mud, before a river boat ride, passing the famous King’s Tombs, and onto Turtle Beach, a nesting site for loggerhead turtles. Historic Ephesus and Pamukkale are a day’s travel away and worth a visit, however it’s a very early start.
At night, hotels offer entertainment, with kids’ discos, however Icmeler itself offers friendly-family bars and restaurants. If you have a babysitter and fancy a more raucous night, head to lively Marmaris for clubs and bars.
There’s simply so much to do, you’ll never be stuck, and the kids will never utter those famous words – “I’m bored!” Fantastic deals are available, and more money saved with pre-booked extras. If flying London, check out Gatwick parking – also helping your stress-o-meter!
This summer why not try a little Turkish delight in picturesque Icmeler?
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