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 can tell you is perfect. It is relatively cheap to eat out over there, compared with prices over here, and ofcourse you can buy cheap clothes too over there too.
The downside of Izmir is the fact that there really isn't much else to do apart from go to the sea. The people there are not over-friendly. In fact if you are a young lady and intend to travel to this place, let me warn you to be very careful. The men are really not the kind to be trusted - I found them to be very offensive and they do have a habit of treating women as objects of their desire, whether you want it or not. This happened on more than one occasion so it was not a case of just one rotten apple! Also the police over there hassle young people in cars, so if you are out and about in a group in a rented car remember to take your passport - they require you to show ID on request. This is something I didn't like very much....not a very relaxing atmosphere.
All in all I found it slightly below average in comparison to other places I have visited, and to be honest I have no real intention of returning.
I am sorry you did not like Izmir. I stayed in Cesme and loved every minute of it.I have also met my current boyfriend who lives and works in Cesme. You should not let the bad apples spoil your holiday or your opinion of the place.I love the people and the place. This year will be my 3rd time going back.
xanadu 11.03.2001 06:59
Myself and my family will be traveling to Alanya this year, for our first visit to Turkey. Until I read your opinion I was really looking forward to going, now I feel a little apprehensive about it. Great opinion - Thanks Donna.
kimbowa 20.01.2001 19:09
Deenie, sounds like you had some unpleasant experiences. My girlfriend and I arrived in Turkey via Cesme and went straight to Izmir, unlike your experience we got nothing but help, guidance... and many offers to visit carpet shops! Give it another chance - but travel with a buddy.
NH Hotels, the hotel chain leader in Europe, with more than 300 hotels in 20 countries in Europe, Latin America and Africa. Enter into our web site and find the best available tariff at all times
Advantages: Absolutely gorgeous weather! Lovely beach & friendly people! Disadvantages: Being hassled by all shop owners/market workers to come and buy something from them!
hunni786 17.09.2005 (06.11.2005)
·
Read review
Ciao members have rated this review on average: very helpful
Review of Kusadasi (Turkey)
Are you the manufacturer / provider of Izmir (Turkey)? Click here
very helpful by (56%):
helpful by (44%):
