Fethiye

Blessed with a well-protected bay and an extensive hinterland of flat, agriculturally productive land it is no wonder Fethiye has had a long history. Originally known as Telmessos, it has been around for at least 2,500 years. A vibrant modern town has rapidly developed, helped over the last 20 years by the tourist industry. A breed apart from many other Turkish resorts, tourism remains just another string to its bow. It is also a market town, administrative centre and exporter of chromium ore sourced from local mines.

Arching around a wide bay, Fethiye is a bustling, friendly market town overlooked by pine-forested mountains. Yachts and gulets - traditional wooden sailing boats - moor along the waterfront promenade, which is dotted with waterside cafes and several excellent seafood restaurants.

Away from the water, the bazaar district is a colourful grid of cobbled streets lined with shops stocking locally produced handicrafts such as silver jewellery, leather bags and beautiful hand-woven carpets. It's also home to the town's oldest Turkish Baths, where you enjoy a steamy soak and a relaxing massage.

To the west of the town centre, Karagoz is a quiet, leafy suburb of villas and apartments overlooking the new marina; while in the opposite direction the resort area of Calis offers beachfront apartments with wonderful views across the Gulf of Fethiye.

Within easy reach of Dalaman International Airport, Fethiye also has excellent public transport with minibus and boat services from the centre of town to the various suburbs. There are also regular bus services to local beaches, such as Oludeniz, as well as the fascinating historical sites of the Xanthos Valley. The town's private hospital is one of the best in the region with the latest equipment and many English-speaking staff.