Summer in Turkey

Izmir: the pearl of the Aegean Garlanding the azure-blue Bay of Izmir, the coastal city is peppered with beach resorts, some of which are known to offer unrivalled windsurfing experiences. Izmir also makes for an ideal base from which to explore the ancient ruins of Ephesus and Pergamum, as well as the calcium-terraced pools of Pamukkale. The city is of particular interest to repeat visitors to Turkey, looking to get away from popular tourist destinations but still enjoy a taste of Turkish shopping, cuisine and culture.

Trabzon: an unexplored gem Turkey's green and lively Black Sea city, Trabzon draws more attention by the day thanks to its rich cultural and historical heritage, highlands painted in tones of green and varied cuisine. Most people come to Trabzon to visit the Hanging Monastery of Sumela — hewn into a rock face, it is one of Turkey’s most powerful sights — and the Hagia Sophia of Trabzon. But the city also makes for an ideal shore-side holiday, away from the bustle of tourist hotspots.