Once celebrated as a charming Aegean escape, Bodrum has quietly transformed into one of the Mediterranean’s most coveted lifestyle destinations. Today, the Turkish peninsula attracts an international mix of entrepreneurs, creatives, celebrities and discerning travelers drawn by something far richer than beaches and sunshine.

Part of Bodrum’s appeal lies in the way it effortlessly brings together luxury, culture, gastronomy, art and history. Unlike many resort destinations built solely around hospitality, Bodrum offers an experience shaped by layers of civilization, contemporary creativity and world-class experiences.

The region’s thriving art scene has become one of its greatest attractions. Throughout the summer, galleries, sculpture parks, seasonal exhibitions and cultural events bring together local and international artists. This creative energy has helped transform Bodrum into a destination that inspires as much as it entertains. Increasingly, art is no longer confined to galleries. It has become part of the hospitality experience itself. A notable example is Ruins Luxury Resort, where contemporary glass sculptures and curated art installations are seamlessly woven into the architecture and outdoor spaces. These striking works transform the hotel into an open-air cultural experience, blurring the boundaries between hospitality, design and artistic expression.

Beyond its art and culture, the exceptional dining scene has become another defining part of Bodrum’s identity. Over the past decade, the peninsula has attracted some of the world’s most celebrated chefs and restaurant concepts. Visitors can dine at internationally renowned venues such as Zuma Bodrum, enjoy Spanish-inspired cuisine at Spin within Ruins Luxury Resort or discover exclusive gastronomic experiences across the peninsula’s luxury resorts and marinas. Maxx Royal Bodrum has further strengthened the region’s reputation by bringing together a collection of high-end dining concepts that attract international travelers and culinary enthusiasts alike. Fine dining has become an essential part of the Bodrum experience, placing the destination firmly on the global gastronomic map.

Luxury hospitality has also played a major role in shaping Bodrum’s international reputation. Iconic properties including Mandarin Oriental Bodrum, Scorpios Bodrum, Maçakızı and Maxx Royal Bodrum have elevated expectations of what a Mediterranean escape can offer. Many have embraced collaborations with globally recognized brands, creating experiences that extend beyond accommodation. At Mandarin Oriental Bodrum, guests can explore boutiques from luxury fashion houses including Dior, Chanel and Hermes, seamlessly combining hospitality, fashion and lifestyle. Meanwhile, collaborations such as Ruins Luxury Resort’s partnership with Mercedes-Benz demonstrate how luxury travel is becoming increasingly interconnected with global brands, design and innovation.

This international appeal is reflected in the guests Bodrum attracts. From business leaders and artists to internationally recognized figures such as Gigi Hadid, Kate Moss and members of Europe’s social elite, the destination has become synonymous with understated luxury and cultural sophistication.

Perhaps Bodrum’s greatest strength is its ability to remain authentic despite its international success. Ancient ruins, historic landmarks and traces of past civilizations are woven naturally into everyday life rather than isolated behind museum walls. Whether viewed from a waterfront restaurant, encountered during a stroll through whitewashed streets or admired from a luxury terrace overlooking the sea, history quietly accompanies visitors throughout their stay.

It is this effortless coexistence of heritage and modernity that sets Bodrum apart. Here, world-class gastronomy, luxury shopping, contemporary art and centuries of history exist side by side, creating an atmosphere that is both sophisticated and deeply rooted in history.

As global luxury brands continue to invest in the destination and internationally acclaimed hospitality concepts choose Bodrum as their Mediterranean home, the peninsula is no longer simply competing with traditional summer hot spots. It is increasingly being discussed alongside Saint-Tropez, Mykonos and Ibiza as one of the world’s leading lifestyle destinations.

For many international visitors, that unique combination of authenticity, creativity, cultural depth and understated luxury is precisely what makes Bodrum impossible to resist.

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Culture and Tourism Minister Mehmet Nuri Ersoy said the first phase of maintenance and safety work at Sümela Monastery, located in northern Türkiye’s Trabzon province, has been completed and the historic site has reopened to visitors.

In a statement released on Thursday, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism said the work was carried out based on scientific data, expert assessments and decisions by relevant conservation boards. The project included rock surface cleaning, protective applications and surrounding site improvements to reduce risks and improve visitor safety.

Officials said the monastery is being reopened while comprehensive restoration efforts continue under a planned, ongoing program.

Specialized mountaineering teams conducted extensive cleaning on difficult-to-access cliff faces in the monastery’s inner and outer courtyards. In the outer courtyard, 6,350 square meters of rock surface were cleaned; in the inner courtyard, 1,225 square meters were treated to mitigate potential hazards.

To further improve safety, workers installed a second layer of fine wire mesh across 935 square meters in an interior section prone to minor rockfalls. Repairs were also carried out on damaged slate stone walkways and courtyard flooring.

At the site entrance, roof tiles on the ticket office building were replaced to preserve structural integrity and visual consistency.

In a social media post, Ersoy said the project reflects efforts to protect both visitors and cultural heritage.

“We have completed the first phase of maintenance and safety work at Sümela Monastery and reopened it to visitors,” he said. “Through rock cleaning, protective measures and environmental arrangements carried out in line with scientific data and expert opinions, we have made this unique heritage site safer.”

He added that the government aims to preserve the monastery’s natural setting and historical value while ensuring it remains safe for visitors.

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The Gulf of Saros in northwestern Türkiye is preparing for a busy summer season, offering visitors clear waters, secluded coves and extensive natural landscapes, according to local tourism officials.

Saros Gulf lies along the North Aegean coast between Türkiye’s Edirne province – particularly its Keşan and Enez districts – and the Gelibolu peninsula of Çanakkale. The gulf stretches roughly 60 kilometers (37 miles) and is known for strong currents that help it self-clean, making it one of the few marine areas with naturally high water circulation.

Officials say the gulf’s clear waters and rich underwater biodiversity have made it an increasingly important destination for diving tourism. The region includes numerous coves, beaches and camping areas, many of which see heavy visitation during the summer months.

Popular seaside spots include Erikli, Yayla, Danişment, Gökçetepe, Mecidiye and the coastal areas of Enez. These beaches and villages are part of a growing network of tourism locations along the gulf’s shoreline.

Beyond beach tourism, the region also supports outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, canoeing, sport fishing and birdwatching. Located about two hours from Istanbul, the area is especially popular for weekend getaways.

Bülent Bacıoğlu, president of the Edirne Tourism Promotion Association told the state-run Anadolu Agency (AA) that tourism activity is expected to accelerate as schools close for the summer.

He said the Gulf of Saros is one of the few areas in the region that has largely preserved its natural structure, adding that it offers strong potential not only for seaside vacations but also for nature and sports-based tourism.

“The region has hosted many visitors in past years with its clean sea, beautiful coves and golden beaches,” Bacıoğlu said. “The Gulf of Saros, stretching from the Greek border to Çanakkale, is one of the most important centers of maritime tourism in Thrace, together with the Keşan and Enez districts and surrounding coastal villages.”

He added that the area’s proximity to Istanbul, Tekirdağ, Edirne and Balkan countries provides a transportation advantage, making it a preferred destination for families seeking quiet and peaceful holidays.

Bacıoğlu emphasized the importance of sustainable tourism development and said efforts continue to protect natural areas and maintain environmental cleanliness.

He also noted that tourism investment in the region has been increasing each year, with a growing number of hospitality and food-service businesses improving the area’s appeal.

Looking ahead, Bacıoğlu said he expects increasing interest from visitors from Balkan countries, adding that the region remains relatively undiscovered despite its accessibility.

“We want more people to discover this beautiful corner of our country, which is not widely known but very easy to reach,” he said. “Accommodation and food services are improving every year. We encourage visitors to experience both the natural beauty and local cuisine during the summer season.”

He also highlighted the availability of campsites catering to a range of budgets, noting that tent and caravan tourism have become important alternatives for visitors seeking more flexible travel options.

Bacıoğlu said the Gulf of Saros is not limited to beach tourism, pointing to a wide range of activities available across the region.

“Many activities such as nature walks, cycling tours, canoeing, sport fishing and diving can be carried out here,” he said. “With its rich underwater life, Saros is among Türkiye’s leading diving destinations. Visitors can spend time in close contact with nature and experience a variety of tourism activities.”

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When we flew to the elegant and diplomatic Swiss city of Geneva, we already had at least a small idea of what was waiting for us. Even though it was just a stopover for us, we still felt we couldn’t leave without seeing it properly.

From everything we had read and heard, Geneva is a city that masterfully blends history, nature and luxury in every single street. But even so, no matter how organized and aesthetically pleasing a big city is, it always carries a kind of invisible intensity – a constant pace that quietly pushes you to keep moving.

Right at the moment we wanted to step away from that rhythm, slow down a little and let our minds and bodies rest, we shifted our route from Geneva toward a completely different world just 45 minutes away: the fairy-tale town of Annecy, France.

As a family, we’ve always preferred discovering small towns with hidden character – places that feel lived in, where you can sense stories in the streets, rather than huge, crowded, cosmopolitan cities. Big cities wake up your mind, but small towns genuinely calm your heart.

After Geneva’s busy, polished streets, stepping into Annecy felt like finding an oasis. It was as if we had arrived somewhere that quietly recharged us, where time slows down and where you’re reminded once again of the pure calm of traveling itself.

Now, with the peaceful fairy tale of Annecy behind us and the majestic heart of the Alps waiting ahead in Chamonix, France, how about we explore Annecy step by step, corner by corner? Here is the travel guide I prepared for you, one that will surely enchant anyone who loves small towns.

Even though Annecy is small and easily explored on foot, it is rich enough in history and beauty that you can spend days discovering every corner. Each street holds historical details and visual moments worth pausing for. To truly feel the soul of the town, I strongly recommend slowing down and wandering without rushing from place to place.

Vieille Ville, Old Town

The moment you step into Annecy, it immediately becomes clear why it is called the “Venice of the Alps.” The Thiou Canal, which originates from the lake, flows right through the heart of the town, wrapping it like a gentle embrace.

The Old Town area, Vieille Ville, is completely closed to motor vehicles, making it a true paradise for walking.

Along the canal, you’ll see 16th- and 17th-century pastel-colored houses, with geraniums spilling from windows, all reflected beautifully on the water’s surface, creating a stunning scene.

The best thing to do here is without a doubt to forget the map and simply get lost in the streets. Narrow passages, cobblestone roads, tiny handmade souvenir shops and the smell of freshly baked croissants drifting from bakeries will accompany you as you wander.

Sit at one of the small canal-side tables in Annecy, watch the water flow and enjoy the feeling of simply being there without rushing. After big cities, this silence and aesthetic calm does something truly good for both your mind and heart.

Island Palace

While walking through the Old Town, you will eventually come across an iconic structure standing right in the middle of the Thiou Canal, like a ship splitting the water in two. This is the Palais de l’Ile – the Island Palace.

This stone building, which dates back to the 12th century, is one of the rare architectural landmarks in the world with such a unique setting.

Over the centuries, it has served many different purposes: It was once the administrative center of the Counts of Geneva, later a courthouse, a mint and for the longest time, even a prison.

One of the classic Annecy experiences is to admire it from the bridges surrounding it, and of course, to take photos with the palace framed behind you.

Annecy Castle

Following the slightly inclined, charming stone streets that rise from the Old Town, you will eventually reach the impressive Chateau d’Annecy (Annecy Castle).

Built between the 13th and 16th centuries, this castle once served as the official residence of the Counts of Geneva. Over time, it was affected by fires and wars, but through restoration, it has survived to the present day.

Today, the castle hosts temporary art exhibitions. But beyond that, the most breathtaking part of visiting it is the view itself.

From the courtyard, you can look out over the deep blue, crystal-clear Lake Annecy, along with the surrounding Alpine mountains stretching across the horizon.

Lovers’ Bridge

Annecy is not only peaceful, but it also has a deeply romantic side. One of the best examples of this is the Pont des Amours (Lovers’ Bridge).

This bridge connects the two largest green areas of the city: Jardins de l’Europe and Le Paquier.

On one side, a tree-lined canal flows gently toward the lake. On the other, you’re greeted by an endless view of crystal-clear water and snow-covered peaks stretching into the distance.

Standing here, feeling the Alpine breeze and watching the swans glide across the water, you really feel the meaning of peace.

Boat tours

One of the main reasons Annecy feels so special is its lake, which is often described as one of the cleanest in Europe. Even from the shore, you can clearly see the stones beneath the water and fish swimming through it.

There are several ways to enjoy it, depending on your style:

Comfortable guided large cruise boats

Large sightseeing boats depart from the main piers, offering relaxed 1 to 1.5-hour tours. From the open deck, you can enjoy the wind while listening to commentary about the region’s history. The boat passes fairy-tale-like medieval castles along the shore and small luxury Alpine villages at the foot of the mountains. If you want to make it even more special, some cruises offer lunch or dinner on board. Watching the sunset over the lake while dining is an unforgettable experience.

Electric and motor boats

For those who love independence like us, one of the most fun options is renting small electric or motor boats from stands along the lake.

Some of these boats are guided and can take up to 10 people. We joined a guided speedboat tour for 10 people. During the ride, we slowed down at times to enjoy the Alpine views, feeling the wind and the refreshing waters of Annecy in a truly memorable experience.

Nostalgic and fun, pedal boats

If you want something more active, you can rent one of the colorful pedal boats lined up near the shores, especially around Pont des Amours. Some even come with slides. You can glide across the water slowly and even swim directly in Annecy’s incredibly clean lake.

Gastronomic pause

One of the best things about small towns is how food discovery feels just as personal and warm as walking through the streets.

Annecy is a wonderful place where refined French cuisine blends with the local flavors of the Alps.

In the local restaurants set beneath stone buildings along the canal, you will often smell traditional Savoie dishes like fondue and raclette. Being so close to Switzerland, cheese fondue is especially common here. It’s definitely something you should try.

But if you prefer something lighter, small crepe shops hidden in the streets offer fresh fruit or chocolate-filled French crepes, which are perfect for a relaxed break.

For a quick sweet stop, you should also visit the famous historic ice cream shop Glacier Perriere. You might find a long line outside, but their handmade, natural-flavored ice creams are absolutely worth the wait.

Next stop: Chamonix

Annecy became an incredible stop that reignited our love for small towns and, after Geneva’s intense city atmosphere, truly soothed our souls. Thanks to its slow-paced lifestyle that naturally strips away stress, we absolutely fell in love with it. The sense of calm we tend to lose in the rush of big cities was something we regained completely in this little “Venice of the Alps.”

After Annecy, we turned our route toward somewhere far more dramatic and adventurous. The famous mountain town of Chamonix, France – set at the foot of Mont Blanc, Europe’s highest peak – was waiting for us with its cable cars and glaciers.

See you next time, when I’ll share what we discovered in Chamonix after the calm of Annecy.

The Sarıkaya Roman Baths, known in antiquity as Basilica Therma and locally as “Kral Kızı” (“King’s Daughter”), have reopened to visitors with the arrival of warmer weather, drawing growing tourist interest.

Listed on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List, the ancient bathing complex in Sarıkaya dates back to the Roman Empire and is believed in local tradition to have healed the daughter of a king from Kayseri suffering from a serious illness. Because of this legend, the site is widely referred to as “Kral Kızı,” or “King’s Daughter.”

The historic structure continues to stand out for both its architecture and its thermal waters, which have flowed at about 50 degrees Celsius (122 degrees Fahrenheit) for roughly 2,000 years. The baths remain a point of interest for both domestic and international tourists.

Following landscaping and environmental improvements carried out under the supervision of the Yozgat Museum Directorate beginning in 2022 and completed in August 2024, the site was reopened with improved visitor access and comfort. Officials say the upgrades have made the area more welcoming and easier to explore.

Visitor numbers have increased with the seasonal rise in temperatures. Last year, approximately 50,000 tourists visited the site, which was also recently filmed using an FPV drone, highlighting its scale and preserved Roman-era structure.

Visitors describe the site as both visually striking and culturally significant.

Celal Diril, who visited the baths with his family from Istanbul, said the site is a must-see destination. “The Roman baths are a place everyone should visit,” he said. “The water is healing, there’s no need to explain it.”

Diril also noted the atmosphere of the area, recalling previous visits in his childhood. “The atmosphere is really beautiful. When I came here as a child, this area wasn’t developed like this. Now it is much better,” he said. “I also visited Nemrut Mountain two days ago, and I feel a similar breathtaking atmosphere here.”

Cemil Diril said he visited the site to see the historic structure and benefit from the thermal waters.

Hamza Çelik, who spent the weekend visiting with his family, praised the site’s cultural value. “It’s a very beautiful place. I hope everyone comes to see it. The more we visit, the more we understand how valuable and beautiful our land is,” he said.

Local resident Aytekin Yücer emphasized that recent landscaping work has made the site more visible and attractive to tourists. He noted that visitor numbers have increased since the improvements.

“Because I was born here, I come regularly,” Yücer said. “Tourists come, visit and explore. It’s a very beautiful place and an important asset for Sarıkaya. We drink tea and relax here in a setting surrounded by history.”

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There are many beautiful coastal destinations along the Mediterranean, but few offer the unique experience of Side. Here, history is not confined to museums or archaeological sites separated from everyday life. Instead, it becomes part of the journey itself. Every street, every corner and every sea view is accompanied by reminders of the civilizations that once flourished here.

Located in the district of Manavgat on Türkiye’s southern coast, Side was one of the most important ports of ancient Pamphylia. Over the centuries, it was shaped by Hellenistic, Roman and Byzantine influences, leaving behind a remarkable collection of monuments that continue to define the town today.

What immediately strikes visitors is how seamlessly ancient history blends with modern life. Restaurants, boutiques and cafes stand alongside Roman walls and centuries-old ruins. Rather than feeling like a city built around an archaeological site, Side feels like an archaeological site that continues to live and breathe.

Glass walkways, ancient streets

One of the most fascinating features of the town is its glass walkway system. As you stroll through the center, transparent glass panels allow visitors to look directly beneath their feet and see the excavated ruins below. Walking across these platforms creates a unique connection with the past, offering a rare opportunity to observe ancient structures while continuing your journey through the town. It is a thoughtful way of preserving history while allowing modern life to coexist with it.

The ancient theater remains one of Side’s most impressive landmarks. Built during the Roman period, it once hosted thousands of spectators and still stands as a testament to the engineering achievements of the era. Nearby, visitors can explore the ancient agora, city gates, baths and monumental streets that reveal the sophistication of this once-thriving port city.

Sunset at the Temple of Apollo

No visit to Side would be complete without experiencing the Temple of Apollo. Situated dramatically at the edge of the sea, the temple has become one of Türkiye’s most photographed historical sites. Arriving near sunset is particularly magical. As the Mediterranean sun dips toward the horizon, the white marble columns are bathed in golden light, creating a scene that feels almost cinematic.

Beyond its historical significance, Side offers a relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere. Palm-lined promenades, turquoise waters and charming streets invite visitors to slow down and enjoy the surroundings. Whether exploring ancient ruins, dining by the harbor or simply watching the waves from the waterfront, there is a sense of tranquility that defines the destination.

As a fashion designer, I often draw inspiration from the places I visit. Side reminds me that heritage and contemporary life do not need to exist separately. They can coexist beautifully, just as ancient stones and modern architecture do here. I have always believed that we are all voluntary ambassadors for our country, and through my collections I strive to share the stories, culture and beauty of Türkiye with international audiences.

Side is more than an archaeological treasure; it is a living reminder of Türkiye’s extraordinary ability to preserve its past while embracing the present. Walking across a glass pathway and looking down at ruins beneath your feet, you are reminded that history is not something distant here – it is quite literally part of the path you follow.

For travellers seeking both cultural discovery and Mediterranean charm, Side offers one of the most memorable experiences on Türkiye’s coastline. It is a destination where every step tells a story, and where the past remains wonderfully present.

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