Beginners guide to Turkey

Hos Geldiniz – 'welcome' is the word most frequently heard word by first-time visitors to Turkey. They are usually surprised to discover that the country's main attraction is the charming and friendly people who receive their guests with the almost medieval gallantry and hospitality that is an integral part of the Turkish culture. Most visitors have heard of Istanbul. Not many realise it is the only city to straddle two continents.

The magnificent Topkapi Palace is top of the list of tourist attractions. Older but equally popular are the structures at Capadoccia. Formed millions of years ago by volcanic eruption and eroded by wind and weather, the eerie caves, cones and "fairy chimneys" of Cappadocia form one of the world's most fantastic sites.

The Sea of Marmara, The Aegean Coast with the site of Troy; Izmir, the birthplace of Homer, Cesme's beaches and thermal springs, Bodrum the birthplace of Heroditus, known as the father of history; all are equally good places to choose a holiday villa or holiday apartment from which to explore the immense historical wealth of Turkey.

But don't forget the beaches. The coveted blue flag has been awarded to many of them and the water is jewel-like - this is the country that gave the world the word 'turquoise'…The sun is warm, the water is warm, the welcome is warm.