Article by Mark Richards

Travel agents and tour operators have a tendency to try to sell each and every corner of the world as though it were a outpost of paradise, but of all the popular holiday destinations Turkey is probably the one that truly does stand out as being unique and in some ways special.

For a start not only is Turkey a country spanning two continents, but the cosmopolitan city of Istanbul (historically Constantinople) itself spans both Europe and Asia, resting as it does on both banks of the Bosphorus river which divides them.

Secondly it is an almost entirely Muslim country, and yet one that is by statute a secular republic. Orthodox Christian, Jewish and other communities live and worship freely, and Western tourists are welcomed. Politically it leans towards the West and aspires to full membership of the European Union.

Turkey is also in the eyes of many the Mediterranean’s most exciting property market with an impressive range of choice homes for rent or sale in different areas to suit every need. Whether it be a dream villa in the sun, a retirement home in a relaxing village or some land in Turkey as an investment for the future, property in Turkey presents a growing and attractive market.

Southern Turkey in particular has a climate that makes it attractive to holiday visitors. The plains of this region are rich in agricultural resource, fertile soil and a typically warm Mediterranean climate make it an ideal region for growing citrus fruits, grapes, and cereals. Summers are hot, droughts not uncommon. Around 80% of Turkey’s oranges and mandarins are grown in this region, as are all of the country’s bananas.

Whether the visitor is seeking investment or just a week or two of unpurposeful leisure, Turkey is becoming increasingly the destination of choice for visitors from the West.