A tourist has revealed why they will never go anywhere else after their first time visiting Turkey. Mum and Belfast Live reporter Sheena McStravick recently detailed her family’s trip to the Asian country, saying that it was her first time there after normally choosing familiar options in Spain and France. However, there were standout reasons why her Turkey holiday blew her away. McStravick flew to Dalaman, a region she hadn’t heard of before, from Belfast International Airport.

The entire holiday was booked via TUI, meaning the family had flights, accommodation, and airport transfers sorted. The family stayed 45 minutes away from the airport at the TUI Blue Sensatori Akra in Feithye. The resort, located right on the coast, has a spa, swimming pools and restaurants serving food from around the world. Additionally, it is a 15-minute taxi ride to the centre of Feithye, where there are more things to see and restaurants to try.

“The TUI Blue hotel had everything we desired and so much more,” she said. “With two children aged seven and three with us, it was perfect.

“Upon check-in we were presented with a checklist of items for ‘Little Travellers’ that the hotel could provide if needed, it had everything from pushchairs to nappies, wipes, baby baths, baby monitors, potties, and so much more, I’ve never seen a hotel so well equipped for families with young children.”

The family got a second-floor room, which offers “stunning” views of the beach. When it came to enjoying the facilities, there was a total of five pools for them to choose from, including a children’s splash pool, water slides, and an adults-only pool area.

Additionally, there was a kids club for children between the ages of 3 and 12, evening entertainment provided by the TUI Blue cast team, live music in the piano bar and a nightly DJ at the Caretta Cocktail Bar.

McStravick also praised the wide array of food available in the hotel, especially the separate children’s buffet. “And if that wasn’t enough, there are an additional five restaurants on site, including Chinese, Turkish and Italian – you certainly won’t be short of options!” she said.

Fethiye is located on Turkey’s southwestern Turquoise Coast, and is famous for its natural harbour, crystal clear waters and rock formations, creating amazing views in a sunny spot. Additionally, there are plenty of islands near the coast which are great for day trips.

McStravick lists a number of reasons for enjoying this resort and says that she will likely return. She concludes: “There was genuinely no need to leave this fantastic resort, as it has everything you could possibly need, including shops, a spa, a gym, tennis courts, a football pitch, and so much more. However, if you fancied a bit of exploration, the market town of Feithye was just a 15-minute shuttle boat ride away, where you could browse the shops and grab a bite in the cafes and restaurants.

“Despite my initial reservations about holidaying in Turkey, this trip has completely dispelled any fears or concerns I had. The numerous individuals I chatted with during my stay echoed the same sentiment: once you’ve experienced Turkey, you won’t want to holiday anywhere else, and I can certainly understand why.

While other tourist hotspots in Spain seem to actively discourage tourists, Turkey embraces them with open arms and a warm disposition. I’ll definitely be returning!”