ONE travel expert who has lived in 25 different countries has revealed the one destination that trumps them all.
The Turquoise Coast in Turkey has it all from year-round sunshine to cheap hotels with huge swimming pools, and plenty of restaurants.
Gary Cook, a TUI retail agent, explained: “I’ve worked everywhere, but I keep coming back to Turkey – particularly the Antalya region and Marmaris on the Turquoise Coast.”
He’s racked up 17 trips to Turkey since working in Marmaris over 30 years ago.
“It’s got everything you might want – stunning beaches, such as the Turunc Beach, incredible history, amazing food.
“With an amazing selection of all-inclusive resorts, you can enjoy the views, sip on a cocktail and not have to worry about paying extra while you’re there.”
It’s no secret that the Turquoise Coast with destinations like Marmaris and Antalya is a hit with Brits thanks to its cheap prices and short four-hour flight from the UK.
While Antalya has golden sands and is famous for its huge waterpark, The Land of Legends Theme Park, Gary really recommends Marmaris.
Gary added: “Marmaris offers a completely different vibe – a large beach dotted with bars and restaurants.
“A promenade stretching down to the old town with its markets and bazaars, plus a cosmopolitan harbour. The bay is absolutely stunning, especially at sunrise.”
When it comes to where to eat out, Gary recommends Nil, a fish restaurant on the Marina or Mehmet Ocakbasi for authentic Turkish food.
When it comes to shopping, the newly renovated Marmaris Bazaar is the place to be.
When it comes to booking, you don’t have to wait until the summer seasons as Gary explains that “even the winters are mild”.
“Whether you want to go in the school holidays or off-season, you are sure to get your fix of sun.”
Although the season runs from April through to October, Gary calls it a year-round destination with mild winters.
While it’s not necessarily ‘hot’ in the months of November to March, it can still see highs of 17C – much warmer than it is in the UK.
Gary even has hotel suggestions, including some of his favourites.
TUI BLUE Side
Found in Antalya, the TUI BLUE Side has a huge swimming pool, three restaurants, and five bars.
Gary said: “This adults-only hotel is smaller and modern with loads of activities. The pool area has luxury sunbeds spread, and there is a beautiful sandy beach club and jetty.
“Hop on a local bus to Side’s historical centre where you’ll find the Temple of Apollo – one of those rare places where time seems to pause, set dramatically at the edge of the Mediterranean.”
A seven-night trip to TUI BLUE Side can be booked from £632pp – or £90pppn.
Trendy Lara
With its big swimming pool, plenty of waterslides and evening entertainment – the Trendy Lara is an ideal family destination.
Gary describes it as a “modern hotel” with a “great selection of restaurants, pools and activities for all ages”.
Lara Beach is also right on your doorstep.
A family of four heading abroad during the school holidays in August 2027 for a seven-night stay can book the Trendy Lara from £1,327pp – or £189pppn.
Liberty Lara
The Antalya hotel sits right by a beach – it comes with a few pools, a private pier and has plenty of food and drink spots.
Gary calls it a “beautiful hotel, with the most amazing service and food.”
It’s close to Lara Beach and is in a great central location perfect for exploring.
An all-inclusive seven-night break for two at the Liberty Lara can be booked from £530pp – or £76pppn.
TUI BLUE Grand Azur
Found in Marmaris, this hotel is another by the beach with a promenade just a short walk away.
It has a freshwater pool surrounded by sunloungers as well as a tennis court, and fitness classes.
Gary confessed it’s his “absolute favourite hotel in Turkey” with great customer service and a private beach.
An all-inclusive seven-night stay at the TUI BLUE Grand Azur starts from £615pp – or £87.85ppn.