Turkey
Turkey is a large and diverse country, where east meets west and offers tourists and property investors the comforts of Western Europe with the intrigue and history of Eastern Europe. Those buying property for sale in Turkey can benefit from the relatively low Turkish property prices and also the affordable services and amenities. Potential EU membership and reasonable property prices are making Turkey an important player in the European overseas property market.
Geography
Turkey is a large country, spanning 1000 miles across and 500 miles wide, making it the 37th largest country in the world. In addition it spans two continents, as does the city of Istanbul, with a small part in Europe and the majority in Asia.
Istanbul is Turkey’s largest city though the capital is actually Ankara, situated inland. The majority of tourism is concentrated in Istanbul and along the coasts, with the most popular British resorts being on the Aegean coast, such as Bodrum and Marmaris. Vogue Estates concentrates sales of Turkey’s properties within the Bodrum Peninsula and the neighbouring Guvercinlik Valley.
Bodrum was once a small fishing village and port, but tourism has seen it expand considerably. Despite this, the town does still retain its old Turkish charm with narrow streets to explore, as well as Bodrum Castle and the marina with its waterside restaurants and cafés. The area also now benefits from the Milas-Bodrum airport, some miles outside of the town, which accepts both domestic and international flights.
Within reach of Bodrum are various ancient ruins, most notably Ephesus but also places like Didim, with the Didyma ruins and Temple of Apollo, are worth visiting.
Bodrum’s climate is hot and dry during the summer, with temperatures frequently above 30C. Being temperate, the winters are cooler and this is also when the rain falls.
History
The Ottoman Empire was the driving force behind Turkey for many centuries, beginning in the Middle Ages, and was one of the most powerful bodies in the world for a time. After some years of decline, the Empire formed an alliance with Germany for WW1 and following their defeat, the Allied Powers demanded the Empire be torn apart.
A new wave in Turkey’s history began with the founding of parliament in 1922 and in 1923 the Republic of Turkey was formed with its new capital in Ankara. Mustafa Kemal Ataturk became the first president and began the westernisation of the country which continues to this day.
Cuisine
Turkish cuisine is often expected to be hotly spiced probably because of the Middle Eastern influences, but generally this is not the case. Dishes vary across the country, but commonly olive oil is frequently used, both in cooking and as a dressing. On the Aegean coast, fish is very common and it’s not unlikely that you will hand-pick the fish you would like to eat! Vegetables, particularly Aubergine cooked in a variety of ways, are served as Meze (starters) and kebabs are commonly served. For desert you must try Baklava – a sweet, sometimes nutty pastry.
The drink of choice is Turkish coffee (usually extremely strong), or tea, served without milk. Alcoholic favourites include Raki (similar to the Greek Ouzo) and several brands of domestic beers.
Currency
Turkey’s official currency is the (new) Lira which had an overhaul in 2003 as a law was passed to remove 6 zeros from the currency, creating the new lira which consists of 100 kurus.
Language
Turkish is the official language of Turkey.
Featured Property
Lake View
- Price : 104,750 EUR
- Location : Bodrum
- Description:
The Lake View project offers a fantastic range of facilities. There are two communal pools, sports facilities, a shopping area, a laundry service, a gym and a beauty centre to name just a few. This development is set in landscaped gardens, with a good choice of bars and restaurants nearby....
Nokta Residence
- Price : 145,000 EUR
- Location : Gumbet
- Description:
The Nokta Residence is located in the heart of Gumbet. There will be six blocks, each with 18 dwellings. The area enjoys an assortment of restaurants, bars, supermarkets and clubs, and the development is within walking distance of the resort's famous long beaches and windmills....
Gundogan Houses
- Price : 92,800 EUR
- Location : Gundogan
- Description:
The Gundogan Houses apartments are located in the very centre of the resort of Gundogan, only 100 metres from the beautiful beach. This is a completed development with a high quality of finishing. Gundogan is quiet and peaceful, retaining much of its natural, unspoilt charm despite nearby holiday de...
Gokcebel Houses
- Price : 107,600 EUR
- Location : Yalikavak
- Description:
Gokcebel Houses are located along the beautiful coastline of Yalikavak, 80 metres from the beach and in a quiet area. This intimate development consists of just 14 units, some of which have beautiful sea views. Yalikavak is on the north side of the Bodrum peninsula, 10 miles from Bodrum itself....