In terms of European travel, Turkey represents an interesting paradigm due to its geographic location and the various cultural influences that have been building the Turkish society for thousands of years.
Turkey is so unique that it is hard to find anywhere else on earth quite the same.
While Turkey is technically considered part of Eastern Europe, it actually acts as a bridge between the East and West.
Its a strategic location has made it the center of attention for European trade and politics.
To the south and west are the Mediterranean and Aegean Seas; to the north is the Black Sea coastal region.
Meanwhile, the central region of the country is dominated by the mountains.
The Mediterranean Coast Most tourists heading to Turkey settle for a destination somewhere on the Mediterranean coast.
For example, Antalya is one of the premier vacation spots in the country.
It is the home of the country's largest resort area in a region known as the Turkish Riviera.
Accommodations in Antalya are plentiful and run the gamut from vacation homes, standard hotels, and the classic boutique hotel.
Antalya room rates are fairly affordable throughout the year.
However, keep in mind the summer peak season of July and August is when you'll pay the highest prices.
Perhaps the most impressive thing about Turkey's southern coast is that many of its cities, like Antalya, have held onto their historic charm.
You can wander down cobblestone streets, shop in storefronts that have been in place for hundreds of years, and enjoy plenty of historically significant military and religious sites.
Visiting Istanbul If you prefer to see the economic and cultural center of Turkey, you'll want to pay a visit to is Istanbul.
This city is the largest in Turkey and the second largest in the world as measured by area.
With more than 2,000 mi.
2 covered, Istanbul is also a transcontinental city covering area on both sides of the Bosporus.
In terms of the boutique hotel, Turkey has plenty to offer in Istanbul.
You'll undoubtedly notice many of these hotels are centered on the idea of luxury travel.
They include fine dining, access to the city's most desired sites, and plenty of old-world charm and culture.
And of course, there's always the traditional Turkish hammam designed to revitalize body, mind, and spirit.
There is far too much to Turkey than we can contain in such a small amount of space.
Needless to say, it is a vacation destination you absolutely must see.
If you are willing to stay in a boutique hotel, Turkey offers a lot for your money in terms of dining, leisure activities and charm.
One last thing about Turkey before you go: pay attention to travel advisories when you book and before you depart.
Though it's not common for tourists to run into trouble, there are occasional clashes between various groups of people that could make travel for Americans risky.
The U.
S.
Department of State is a good source for travel information and advisories.