Travel2024: Best vacation spots for the new year - overview.

The Magnificence of Turkey: Treatment and leisure in Bodrum for centuries

On the shores of the azure Aegean Sea in the southern province of Muğla, Turkey, Bodrum is a true paradise for health-conscious travelers, combining natural beauty with the splendor of hotel amenities, but without the arrogance of the trendy Côte d'Azur. The reputation of this place as a restorative haven spans millennia and is best felt when visiting a traditional hammam, enjoying a refreshing swim in the sea, or simply admiring the sunset.

The spirit of health is deeply rooted in the local culture. The legendary Turkish bath is not just a marble temple of relaxation and self-care, but also a place where families and friends have long gathered together. In Bodrum, just a 75-minute flight from Istanbul, this unique heritage meets stunning landscapes in an atmosphere of effortless elegance, perfectly suited for relaxation, rejuvenation, and revitalization.

HEALING POWER

The best way to get acquainted with the history of this region is through a catamaran cruise booked via Aren Yachting, visiting nearby islands including Orak and Kos in Greece, to enjoy the historical sights of the area while basking in the lush sun and fresh sea air. Black Island – or Kara Ada in Turkish – is famous for its radon spring, which Cleopatra is said to have used when she hid on the island for three years from the Roman general Antony. Black Island has been renowned for its healing properties since ancient times, and ships transporting wood and grapes to Egypt would stop to drop off passengers suffering from eye problems, rheumatism, and skin diseases. Today, you won't find much of its legendary healing mud in its caves, so be sure to take a small jar of this mud with you to experience everything related to Cleopatra.

FULL RELAXATION

Perfumed with jasmine, the wonderful hotel near the coast, Susona Bodrum, is part of the LXR Hotels & Resorts by Hilton, a collection of properties that blend local charm with a focus on luxury. The rooms feature balconies with sea views and picturesque landscapes, as well as two pools overlooking the ocean. Swimming in the Aegean Sea becomes even more invigorating when followed by a nap in one of the hotel's private beach cabanas. The restaurants Frankie Beach Club, Malva, and Ezi specialize in light dishes made from local ingredients. In the underground spa, the traditional Turkish hammam treatment is complemented by a menu of Western massages and facial treatments.

HEALTH MENU

Every evening on the western coast of the Bodrum Peninsula is an unforgettable event, and booking a table at a restaurant right at sunset makes dinner truly captivating.

Retail therapy

Whether you are on the shores of Bodrum or still getting used to walks by the sea, the dock at the Yalikavak marina or a stroll along its path will give you easy access to the city (there is also a helipad, concierge services, and facilities for superyachts). It is an extensive open-air shopping center featuring the best European designer brands, including Loro Piana, Prada, Louis Vuitton, and Dior (the latter has its own rooftop Champagne bar). To experience the true Aegean style of relaxation, Turkish fashion brands Vakko and Beymen are represented here, along with the more affordable Yargici, which specializes in eclectic women's clothing and home decor. As an amuse-bouche, the marina recently opened the French restaurant Bagatelle, which adds a Mediterranean character to the local atmosphere.

History Lessons

The ancient elements of Bodrum are still present in the everyday life of the modern city. The dominant cultural heritage site is the famous Bodrum Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site built in the 15th century, which today is home to peacocks, historical artifacts, and some of the most photogenic views in the city. After visiting the castle, it is recommended to take a stroll through the city, in the maze of narrow pedestrian streets where shops offer regional specialties such as colorful kaftans, silver jewelry, and souvenirs, including bright blue evil eye charms and backgammon sets. The ancient amphitheater of Bodrum is a classic Greek theater built in the 4th century BC. Originally used for gladiatorial contests, it now regularly hosts live performances, including concerts by Turkish musicians such as Sila, Karsu, and Kenan Dogulu, most of whom themselves relax in this area.

- Caitlin Agnew