Ege Palas, Izmir

Advantages: Ideal for a relaxing break.
Disadvantages: 30 minute walk to the beach if that's your thing

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Advantages: Cheap to eat out, lovely beaches, nice warm climate
Disadvantages: Not much to do

...Turkey is quite a popular holiday destination for the British due to its beautifully clear waters and warm climate. I stayed just outside Izmir for two weeks and I have to say that I have no intention of returning there again. Don't get me wrong - many people go there and find it a most beautiful place for a holiday and indeed you may love it. Well let me tell you why it was not for me. I actually went out there after being invited by a friend of mine, who is Turkish. Most of the holiday was spent by the beach which is perfect for me because I like to relax in the sun when i'm on holiday - for me there is nothing better. The sea is gorgeous...so clear that when we went out to deep waters you could still see straight to the bottom. I can't stand waters where they are full of rocks and seaweed so the sea around this part of Turkey I... Read review

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Advantages: Spacious, comfortable rooms and good location with easy access to shops and restaurants
Disadvantages: Expensive unless you negotiate a discount; and the lighting in the rooms is appalling.

...We had actually booked to stay one week at the Elit Palas's sister hotel, the Elit in Olgunler Sok, but on arrival were told they were full and we were being upgraded to the Elit Palas. Having ascertained that there would be no surcharge on top of the price previously negotiated, we settled into our "room", which was in fact a mini-suite comprising double bedroom, bathroom (with both bath and shower) and sitting room - all very comfortable and well appointed. Facilities included high-speed wi-fi internet connection, fridge, mini-bar, hairdrier and two televisions. The only drawback was the lighting - in both the sitting room and bedroom it was appallingly dim (the brightest light was the one inside the fridge!) and the bizarre system of wiring meant that the bedside lights could only be turned on if the main switch in the sitting room... Read review

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