26/09/2025

LYFE FRIDAY | SEPT 26, 2025

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Malaysian Paper

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Kaputas Beach Kas, Antalya.

Blue Lagoon in Oludeniz, Fethiye.

Golden coasts of Mediterranean Sea o Soak up summer sun on Turkiye’s spellbinding beaches

T HE Mediterranean region has emerged as the most desired destination due to its prolonged summer climate. In this context, Turkiye’s breathtaking coastlines are particularly appealing, as they benefit from abundant sunshine extending until the end of November, offering a tranquil retreat from everyday life. With its sun-soaked Aegean shores and glistening Mediterranean waters, Turkiye’s coastal attractions present an enticing option for Europeans seeking to prolong their summer experience. The trend of extended summer holidays has been steadily increasing across Europe. According to the report Monitoring Sentiment for Intra-European Travel Wave 22, published by the European Travel Commission, 77% of Europeans intend to travel between June and November this year. Notably, September continues to be one of the most favoured months for holiday travel, with 22% of respondents planning trips during this period. For those eager to stretch their summer a little longer in a less crowded atmosphere with attractive prices, Turkiye’s coasts promise unforgettable escapes, just a short direct flight from across Europe. Here is some inspiration: Turkish Aegean: Still warm, still waiting Your first stop to enjoy the never-ending summer on the Aegean is Izmir, celebrated for its high quality of life and laid-back Aegean spirit. Izmir has a unique location that makes charming coastal towns appear around every corner. Yet the ultimate escape awaits on the Cesme Peninsula, where you can experience the irresistible trio of Cesme, Urla, and Alacat  . Cesme impresses with its diverse accommodation options and restaurants serving tasty Aegean cuisine, all framed by sandy beaches, from the Blue-Flagged Ilica to Sifne, a hidden gem beloved by locals. Urla is especially a culinary wonderland with its vineyard route and farm-to-table restaurants, some of which earned Michelin stars. Touching down at Bodrum-Milas or Dalaman airports for your next stop, you are only moments away from Mugla’s dazzling coastline. Here, golden beaches and hidden bays frame towns with distinct personalities. Bodrum, the epitome of luxury, is by far the most popular locale and promises idyllic holidays with high-end resorts, golden sands, scuba diving and historic treasures such as Bodrum Castle. Other towns also shine brightly with glamorous Blue Flag beaches, such as Icmeler in Marmaris, Caretta caretta haven Iztuzu in Dalyan and Palamutbuku in Datca. The crown jewel is, hands down, Oludeniz in

Fethiye, often ranked among the world’s most beautiful beaches with its famous Blue Lagoon. It is also world-renowned for paragliding from nearby Babadag Mountain. Wherever you go in Mugla, a corner of heaven, seafront restaurants, some of which are Michelin-recognised, will complete your holiday experience with the freshest catch of the day and authentic Turkish mezes as well as cosmopolitan tastes from around the world. Never-ending summer in Antalya Antalya, the Turkish Riviera’s wonderland, boasts breathtaking landscapes, the rich history of three ancient regions – Lycia, Pamphylia and Pisidia – and endless sunshine, converging to make it a true paradise for every traveller. With 300 days of sunshine in a year, Antalya proudly holds the highest number of Blue Flag awards among cities worldwide, with 233. From the expansive sands of Patara and the urban gems of Konyaalt  and Lara to the bohemian charm of Olympos, Antalya’s coastline unfolds in a seemingly endless parade of must-visit beaches. One beach, however, stands out as uniquely Mediterranean: Kaputas. Regularly listed among the world’s best beaches, this canyon-mouth beach is renowned for its dramatic setting. However, Antalya also boasts some hidden treasures for those seeking quieter corners, such as Sazak Bay and Porto Ceneviz. The prolonged summer in Antalya is also ideal for exploring Antalya’s ancient sites. From Perge to Aspendos, every corner of the region whispers stories of past civilisations, making you feel at the very heart of human history. And all of this is perfectly paired with Mediterranean delicacies, from fresh seafood to crisp white wines from local grapes, completing the ultimate Riviera experience.

Perge, Antalya.

Ilica Beach, Cesme.

Paragliding in Babadag Mountain, Izmir.

Patara Ancient City, Antalya.