Villas in Bodrum Region, Turkey

For the best and most traditional shopping experience, head to the city of Bodrum, where the central square is usually packed with many intriguing little shops and bazaars. On sale here are all kinds of typical handcrafts as well as plenty of gold and jewellery - perfect Turkish souvenirs that remind you of your Bodrum villa holiday Buying is an experience in itself, as you can often haggle with the salesman if you want to reduce the price. This is usually a light-hearted process and is expected in many shops – it is very rare you will have to pay the full asking price for the product you are buying.

The coastline of Turkey’s Bodrum Region is where the ancient Greeks founded civilization. Alexander the Great and his legions paused to plunder rich cities and Julius Caesar gathered his fleet. The Bodrum area is home to a wealth of major archaeological sites and historical attractions. Among these is a medieval castle, the famous Myndus Gate and the Mausoleum. For fascinating geological history, visit Paumkkale, a huge bank of limestone terraces formed as thermal waters tumble down the cliff edge. Wherever you go in the Bodrum Region, a short drive inland will take you through Turkey’s traditional villages untroubled by the modern world.

Turkey is famed for its kilometres of magnificent coastline, golden shoreline and year-round sunshine, and the Bodrum Region is no exception. Here you will find vast stretches of some of Turkey’s most beautiful sandy beaches, lapped by the warm and translucent waters of the Aegean Sea. If you’re looking for plenty of activities and watersports, there are various beaches within the main resorts that will cater for you, or if you wish to simply relax and soak up the sun, you’ll find a great selection of quieter stretches of sand and stunning natural coves surrounded by pine trees.

From chic candlelit bistros to waterfront eateries with far-reaching sea views, dining out in Turkey is a great experience. The regional food on offer is very popular – offering a unique mixture of Mediterranean and Far Eastern influences. The cuisine varies from fresh seafood to meatballs and the well-loved kebab. You can feast on a delicious assortment of meze dishes native to Turkey, from grilled meats and fish to sticky sweet pastries – accompanied by traditional music and belly dancing. Alternatively, why not pick up the catch of the day to grill back at your Bodrum villa?

• Ephesus, once the capital of Roman Asia, is now one of the best preserved ancient cities in the Mediterranean. Visit the ruins, from ancient temples to libraries and public baths - all brimming with atmosphere.

• Take a boat trip. Choose from a lazy day of snorkelling and swimming, or a day trip to a neighbouring Greek island (just don't forget to bring your passport!)

• Go shopping in a typical Turkish market or 'bazaar' - there are daily markets in and around Bodrum.

• Indulge in the ultimate de-stress of a Hamam or genuine Turkish bath.

• Marvel at one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World at Halicarnassus, the tomb (or mausoleum) of its ruler, Mausolus. You can also find parts of this exhibit nearer to home in the British museum.