Turkey

We went on holiday to Turkey for a week just over two weeks ago (for those of you struggling to catch up, we have been back about 10 days). It was a place I have never been to before. I had read people's opinions (mixed) but what swayed me was that everyone I spoke to who had been recommended it unreservedly. I am now one of those people.

The people are very friendly - yes, they want your money and hustle you a bit, but a polite "No Thanks" almost always suffices. It is still very cheap to eat and drink out. We were in an apartment but it wasn't worth the hassle of cooking as a five course meal, with chicken or steak or fish, can be had for about £8. And it's not Brake Brothers special either.

The amusing thing is the fake goods - football shirts, t-shirts, jeans, perfume, handbags - you name it and you can get a copy of it in Turkey. We went to a market and every fifth stall started the cycle again: boxers, t-shirts, jeans, gameboy games, perfume etc ad nauseam. 25 pairs of Calvin Klein/Tommy Hilfiger/ Hugo Boss boxers for £10? No problem sir!

I had a shave, neck massage, facial scrub, face mask, ear and nose hair removal and hair gelling for about £8 and a day long boat trip for the 6 of us, including breakfast, lunch, all drinks and five or six stops at bays and villages cost us £45.

I would recommend it without hesitation.