I first travelled to Turkey 15 years ago and have explored the many resorts, attractions, sights and cities during that time. This is a country with a great deal to offer.

For the last 4 years I have returned to Calis Beach, which is a fantastic base for exploring the Fethiye/Dalaman area.

The resort (It is small) is friendly and safe. Some building work on private apartments is visible but the buildings are stylish and unobtrusive.

The people are lovely, and incredibly helpful.

I would recommend hiring a car. They are safe drivers and you will not be worried or harrassed by the driving conditions. In fact the police are very strict about speeding! You will really get a flavour of the area if you can drive around and for the cost of the transfers to and from the airport it is only 2/3 more to hire a car for the week and transfer yourselves!

Make sure you pay a visit to the beach club at the end of the beach nearest to Fethiye (past the water taxis). Its a fab place for a pre dinner drink as you watch the sun set over the water. Then take a water taxi to Fethiye for a meal overlooking the harbour.

You must visit the mud baths - its great fun if there are a few of you and very relaxing if you are solo.

The little used far end of the beach at Calis is one of several used by the sea turtles who lay their eggs in the sand. Beware of disturbing the nesting sites as the Turkish are very conservation minded and take a dim view of people who don't respect their wildlife.

If you are a diver don't use Mermaid Dive Centre (I have been diving for 8 years - these guys are great divers but the equipment is very dodgy and dive safety generally does not seem to be a priority. Had I not been experienced they could have really compromised my safety on one particular dive). Use the dive centre based in the marina at Fethiye. They are superb and no more expensive.

I would recommend an apartment rather than hotel. The accomodation is generally of a higher standard and there is no shortage of choice. Besides which, eating out is so reasonable there that self catering is not an expensive option.

Don't forget to give the fish market in Fethiye a try. Buy your fresh fish from the stall holders and take it to one of the many restaurants on the edge of the market square and they will cook it for you for about £10. Doesn't get fresher than that! Great ambiance too.

Check out the Roman and Lycian ruins that dot the surrounding area and Sakklikant Gorge is terrific unless you are unsteady on your feet, in which case you might find it quite challenging.

All in all a great, relaxing holiday destination as long as you appreciate that you are unlikely to encounter the 'smart set'. This is a down to earth, civilised and value for money destination. Do your homework on the area before you travel and you will find that there is something for everyone.