Beautiful, bright Bodrum, Turkey!

I’ve been going to Turkey for the last seven years, and I’ve watched it change as tourism has become big business over recent years. The number of visitors to this wonderful, mysterious country has increased dramatically, and Bodrum is one of those booming resorts.

Fantastic beaches, lively night-life, delicious restaurants, history, culture, and lots of shopping, all with the potential to explore further afield – it’s no wonder Bodrum is so popular.

beach in Bodrum, Turkey

There are some fantastic package holidays to Bodrum this summer, ranging from all-inclusive, half-board, full-board and self-catering. Personally, I tend to book self-catering, as there are some wonderful restaurants around and I enjoy the freedom to go where I please in the evening, however if you’re travelling with children, I’d recommend all-inclusive, to keep costs on holiday low.

Getting to the airport itself can be a hassle, and you’ll find that many flights to Turkey are at awkward times of the day from the UK. A great way to save money and combat stress is to pre-book Airport parking at your terminal, meaning no need to book an expensive airport taxi, and putting the control firmly back in your hands. You’ll find a service no matter where you fly from, and I recently used Stansted Airport parking at Airparks, with no complaints from me whatsoever! I’d highly recommend you look into what’s available from your airport.

Once you land at Bodrum Airport, it’s under an hour’s transfer to your hotel, depending on where you’re staying. It’s easy to get around resort, thanks to the handy dolmus, or mini-bus, running around resort, but Bodrum is quite compact, so I’d suggest a pair of comfortable flip flops and head out on foot and explore. The dolmus is invaluable for exploring the surrounding area, such as the nearby resort of Gumbet, with its wide beach and plentiful water-sports. Alternatively, haggle the price of your excursions from a street vendor and head out on a jeep safari into the surrounding countryside, through villages and hills. A boat trip is also a must-do excursion, as well as a traditional Turkish bath for that longer lasting tan.

In Bodrum itself, the castle should be your first port of call, stood imposing over the town. It also hosts the popular Museum of Underwater Archaeology, which is a surprisingly interesting morning or afternoon’s entertainment, and one the kids will love too.

For retail therapy hits, the marina has the best in terms of designer buys, however I love the markets for unusual souvenirs, and the haggling is fun once you get used to it.

As with most Turkish resorts, night-life is bright, vibrant and lively, yet also very varied. If you want to party, you’ll find plenty of clubs and bars, especially down on the water-front, yet if you just want a good meal and a few drinks, you’re more than catered for too. I’d really recommend trying some traditional Turkish cuisine, such as tasty chicken shish kebab, followed by some naughty-but-nice kunefe, and a glass of raki. Turkish food is cheap, plentiful and certainly delicious!

For a sunshine break with an added difference, Bodrum is a fantastic choice. Remember those airport extras and your holiday will not only be cheaper, but will start in a much more rested manner, without the stress of the airport marring the start of your break. You’re not forgotten in the parking stakes no matter you fly from, with services such as Luton Airport parking fantastic value for money.

Sunshine is a given, a great holiday is guaranteed – head to Bodrum this summer.

This was a guest post from Michelle Camens