DAY 8
Today we drive west to Aksehir, then south across the Taurus Mountains into the luxuriant green forests, orchards and olive groves on the hills sloping down to the sparkling blue Mediterranean Sea.
Before we arrive we stop for lunch at a local restaurant while other members of the tour do an excursion of Perge and Aspendos. Sitting on a balcony overlooking a river (who's name escapes me), we ordered Chicken Cic (pronounced shis). Basically a chicken kebab served without the stick, on a plate with rice and a baked tomato. Quite lovely, although small servings, until the wasps showed up!!!! When we left, a local girl came offering pretty flowers (which were wilted), for money. Quite sad having to say no, but you just can't give in otherwise you get hounded my them.
We stopped off at the Historical Aspendos (Belkis) Bridge, built in 1219 - 1236 for a photo opportunity. Very hot here today, 33C, so the water looked very inviting.
Our hotel, Marmara Hotel, is on the shore and we retreat there, while the others finish their excursion. The hotel has been decorated by a french interior designer with interesting color combinations. Our room has a pink marble feature wall, with another green and aqua striped feature wall. The bathroom has a double vanity in a colour combination of orange, red and pink. The ceiling hasn't been painted and the colour choices are strange but fun! The view from our room is exquisite - with a view of the Meditterannean and manicured gardens surrounding the crystal blue pool. There is a circular building outside (for suites) with an aquarium facade that rotates ever so slowly to offer guests varying views of the area.
Aleisha and I decide to treat ourselves to a cocktail, so we head across the road to Chocolate Bar & Bistro.... Umm small problem - the drinks menu is in Turkish. We opted for a Sex On The Beach Cocktail as Aleisha had tried it before, but it was my first time. $25TL each.... Delicious!
Just had dinner and it was the best buffet by far. I don't like salads but this time I even tried some. They were presented in cute little portions in porcelain bowls that just looked so tempting. The hot meals certainly didn't disappoint with more than enough tasty offerings, and dessert - well, do I even have to mention how great dessert was???? It was truly the best evening of the trip so far. Just sitting back after dinner chatting with others and not having to rush off to bed.
Tomorrow we have a full day at the hotel at our own leisure, so hope to do some exploring and of course, lazing by that gorgeous pool :)