Alanya, A Tourist Center on Turkish Riviera
ALANYA is one of the most attractive tourism resorts on the Turkish Riviera, i.e. the southern coast of Turkey, 120 kilometres (75 mi) from the city of Antalya
It is situated on the Gulf of Antalya on the Mediterranean coast, and has been a favoured seaside holiday resort for hundreds of years and is one of the spots in Turkey that draws biggest crowds of tourists -mainly European – today. The town owes this to its interesting history, warm and gentle sea and beaches that stretch miles long.
With a more tourist-orientated looking southern part, the town offers luxury hotels and facilities as well. For visitors/guests looking for fun and activity at night the harbor hosts many alternatives. Still, sites worth seeing such as Damlatas Caves, Alanya Castle and the Red Tower welcome those tired of relaxing on the beach and would like to do some sight seeing.
You can buy jewellery, as well as leather goods and some clothing in the shops beautifully decorated and it is a pleasure to go round the market place even only for the purpose of window shopping.
The only thing to pay attention though should be aggressive salesmen in shops and one would need patience and determination to avoid them.
Concerning food you can enjoy traditional Turkish food in some local restaurants. However, international chains such as McDonalds will be at your disposal if you would like to stick to tastes already known to you. Among local Turkish specialties you could try Ottoman stew, kebabs, mezzes (starters) and many more.
Alanya offers some real good alternatives for those keen on night life entertainment. However, you can find several frequented bars and clubs in the back streets. Other entertainment such as belly dancing, fire shows and traditional music are also available for those who would rather go for traditional entertainment.
The town offers several interesting sights to explore for visitors, including the medieval Alanya Castle and remains of a Seljuk village, the Red Tower, and nearby Damlatas Caves.
Other than sunbathing and good swimming, there is also a water park, golfing, mountain biking, bungee jumping, river rafting on the Alara River, and excellent diving on offer.
Editor