Hello! I’m Charlotte, Fleewinter’s resident Turkey expert.
Back in my late teens (approximately 2 whole years ago now!), I stumbled upon the enchanting wonders of Turkey by pure accident. That accident was called a bottle of wine, and a collective cry amongst my girlfriends for a holiday in the sun.
That was it, I was hooked!
I headed back on my own the following year to work a summer season and spend a few more months embracing this exciting new country. I struggled to readjust to life in the UK after the Turkish sunshine, where I’d loved mingling with my local friends and indulging in divine cuisine.
But fate had a delightful twist!
I serendipitously crossed paths with a tour operator that was seeking help in crafting bespoke adventures across Turkey, and signed up on the spot.
Fast forward two decades (OK, you’ve got me) & countless trips later, and here I am, happily orchestrating unforgettable Turkish escapades for Fleewinter guests and sharing my boundless love and expertise for this mystical land – what could be better!
Having spent so much time on the remarkable south-west coast of Turkey, this region is where my heart lies.
I simply adore the sweet-smelling pine-clad mountains and quaint villages of the Bozburun and Datça Peninsulas, and the hustle and bustle of the old fishing town of Fethiye.
This whole stretch of coastline boasts warm, translucent waters and stunning beaches, including the famous lagoon at Ölüdeniz: it’s no wonder this region is known as the Turquoise Coast.
Straddling 2 continents, Istanbul is nothing short of magical. Of course there are the ‘must-see’ sights of Sultanahmet, such as the impressive architecture of the Agia Sofya, Blue Mosque and Topkapı Palace.
But it’s well worth heading over to explore the Asian side of Istanbul, cruise down the glittering Bosphorus for breath-taking panoramic views and enjoy freshly caught fish in one of the many restaurants under Galata Bridge…Istanbul is a joy at any time of year and can easily be combined with a stay on the coast or awe-inspiring Cappadocia.
A visit to the mystical, other-worldly land of Cappadocia is an unforgettable experience, and one not to be missed.
Explore the subterranean dwellings, marvel at the conical fairy chimneys, and stay in a unique cave hotel.
Having visited throughout the seasons I would recommend a stay here at any time of year and if it’s a snowy winter, it really is even more enchanting!
Not only do I adore the stunning scenery, climate, architecture and people of Turkey, but also the heavenly cuisine!
From simple street foods like gözleme (tasty crispy flatbreads stuffed with all kinds of fillings), midye (stuffed mussels) bought fresh from a seaside cart, to the most delicious mezes, fish and fine Ottoman cuisine.
Turkey is definitely not all about kebabs – although they are mighty tasty too!
Kalkan is renowned for having some of the best and most upmarket restaurants along the south-west coast, unsurprisingly, the catch of the day is always a winner, and the views over the bay from the restaurant rooftops are unforgettable.
Luxury sailing aboard one of our stunning gulets and super yachts is another fabulous holiday option in Turkey.
Whether it’s just a few days aboard relaxing before heading to your gorgeous villa or hotel, or cruising the coast taking in the spectacular vistas over a full week, a stay on board if a sheer delight.
Fully crewed, you can relax in pure comfort and fine dining, or for the more energetic, try to pack in as many (safely supervised) water activities as possible!
If you’ve made it this far in the newsletter, then congratulations, you’re the first to know: I’m about to launch holidays to Greece for Fleewinter!
Greece and her many beautiful islands are a natural holiday pairing for Turkey. Some of the islands are so close to the Turkish coast, you could almost touch them, and you know what that means? Twin centre holidays with almost zero transfer time.
One of my favourite pairings is Kalkan and Kastellorizo. Stay on the south-west Turkish coast for a few days, before heading to the neighbouring town of Kaş. Hop on a boat and be feeding turtles and sipping retsina on the colourful Greek harbourfront 30 minutes later: the two towns are that close!
If twin-centre holidays are your thing (and they absolutely should be when there’s no need for a long journey in between!) then visit Paxos and Pamukkale, stay in Crete and Cappadocia, and compare the beaches of Kefalonia and Kalkan.
Turkey and Greece are a two-country holiday made in heaven.
Watch this space…
