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Ichmeler
The purpose built resort of Icmeler has the essence of European chic, with luxurious yachts in the cosmopolitan bay and visitors sipping cocktails in sophisticated bars on the harbour. Situated on the southeast coast of Turkey, the resort is located where the Aegean Sea meets the Mediterranean. Its package-holiday aura is, however, tempered by its scenic setting, with steep hills clad in pine forests plunging into the turquoise waters all around the town. Unlike its close neighbour, the bustling resort of Marmaris just a few miles south, Icmeler has a relaxed village atmosphere, while lacking none of the modern amenities. The resort is scrupulously clean and well maintained, from its regularly raked shingle sand beaches to its litter-free promenade. The town is also resplendent with well-kept gardens, which soften the lines of the dozens of hotel and apartment blocks.
A central shopping mall offers a range of tourist shops, which predominantly sell holiday essentials and souvenirs. There is a local market on Wednesdays where bargain hunters and hagglers can test their skills. Serious shoppers, though, would be better advised to take a short dolmus taxi ride into nearby Marmaris where it is possible to literally shop 'til you drop', especially in the fascinating covered bazaar of the old town.
Icmeler has many restaurants, which cater to a variety of visitors, from local Turkish delights like Guvec and delicious kebabs to international gourmet cuisine. Good choice for Turkish cuisine is the Turkish House in Turunc Road where the food is served up to the tune of traditional music. For good steaks a favourite is the Love Boat at the Devamli Hotel. For variety the menu at the Majestic Restaurant is a mix of Chinese, Indian and Italian. On Sundays the Kingsland Chinese Restaurant above the undercover market surprisingly serves up a top British lunch.
The resort offers many bars and clubs, but is not a rowdy clubbing resort, the atmosphere is lively and active until the early hours, but without the loud flamboyance of the other Turkish resorts. The nightlife may be low key, but those who want something more frenetic have only to grab a dolmus taxi and ride a short distance to Marmaris, where the pace is hotter. Icmeler's only true nightclub, Abone, provides for those who enjoy a dance, and some of the bars have discos, karaoke and live shows.
Icmeler holidays offer panoramic sun kissed beaches, relaxing in the luxurious hotel complexes and a vast range of water sports and activities. Those who feel inclined to make excursions will find plenty of interest. Favourites are boat trips to 'Cleopatra's Isle', the waterfalls of Pamukkale with their therapeutic spring waters, and the archaeological site of Ephesus.
