Almost Turkey Time! Would you Go?

As Summer is fading & the weather is deteriorating fast (I actually had to put my heating on last week),  I am beginning to crave some consistent sunshine. In less than 2 weeks I am taking a little Autumn break with my sister. Although I like to visit new destinations and take in the local foods and culture, on this occasion all I want to do is have hot weather, flop on a sunbed, eat nice food and sample a cocktail or 2. I am therefore off to my ‘go-to’ destination of Turkey. There are a few raised eyebrows  from some people when I tell people where I have chosen.

In the early to mid-nineties I had the pleasure of spending 4 years living and working in Turkey around the Bodrum peninsular, Altinkum and Kusadasi. My time there allowed me to get to know all the good bits off the normal tourist trail. I found secluded beaches (even in the height of  season), spent time with the families of locals who I befriended, ate in hidden gems of restaurants that only Turkish people knew about, got a good grasp of the language and really got to immerse myself in the real Turkey. All this makes it one of my favourite countries in the world, with the best bit being the wonderfully friendly & hospitable people.

Sadly, several cruise lines have amended their itineraries and pulled out of any stops in Turkish ports (although many are still making calls). Safety & security is paramount to the cruise lines as it should be and after the awful terrorist attacks and attempted coup this year some passengers are nervous about visiting Turkey. It’s very sad for the people who rely on tourism, as their livelihoods are being taken away from them. I don’t believe that where I am going there is any risk of a terrorist attack. It’s a small village miles away from any of the big cities. In fact, all the terrorist attacks have happened in the big cities and have mainly affected local people, so these terrorists don’t care that they are hurting their friends and countrymen one iota (in more ways than one).

My opinion is one of defiance to the terrorists. I WILL NOT allow them to dictate where I choose to spend my time.

So which side of the fence are you on? Do you think I’m mad? Would you think it too risky to visit this country or would you be happy to go? Maybe you have been or are booked to go this year? Leave a comment as I would love to know.