Post by: Scunner on November 27, 2015, 23:48:56 PM
But I wonder what members are thinking today, about the possibility of booking Turkey 2016 or giving it a miss.
I posted about how much we loved our October break at the Delta and had already booked for next year - and fully intending to be there. But things are moving fast both politically and in regard to Syria and inter-country relationships. I'm wondering whether to book those flights or wait and see how things pan out - and I've never been like that.
Any other thoughts?
Post by: Highlander on November 27, 2015, 23:55:07 PM
Her response was
"Yes but not when it's really hot" :-[ :-[ :-[
PS Hope you don't mind me posting Des
Post by: BernieTeyze on November 28, 2015, 00:13:07 AM
Post by: Scunner on November 28, 2015, 00:27:38 AM
The Turkish hoteliers etc are so used to all this, they must be holding their breath every other year wondering what is ahead. I do have a fear that the loss of Russian tourists (and there will be) might be enough to send businesses to the wall. If the Russians don't come, our hotels and restaurants may not be there for us.
Post by: Toky on November 28, 2015, 00:38:12 AM
Post by: Scunner on November 28, 2015, 00:48:22 AM
:)
Post by: Toky on November 28, 2015, 00:54:06 AM
Post by: Silverfox on November 28, 2015, 01:17:33 AM
Post by: Karennina on November 28, 2015, 04:44:44 AM
We are the same as Toky we have three trips booked for next year as I booked with Easyjet when they were released so would not lose a fortune if we dont go...
I am gutted inside as there is not really anywhere else I want to go but I suppose like others we are going to wait and see...
Post by: lynne on November 28, 2015, 08:20:23 AM
Post by: thekeyclan on November 28, 2015, 09:05:31 AM
Post by: Jacqui Harvey on November 28, 2015, 09:15:05 AM
Post by: Bluwise on November 28, 2015, 09:36:39 AM
Post by: Diverbaz 1 on November 28, 2015, 09:37:20 AM
The price of Efes hasn't changed yet, so all should be OK :) :) ;)
Post by: patrice on November 28, 2015, 09:43:48 AM
Post by: Colwyn on November 28, 2015, 10:03:41 AM
I don't know whether we will be visiting Turkey again for some time after 2016. If we didn't it would be more tto do with the increasing abuse of human rights under the AKP leaving a nasty taste in the mouth.
Post by: marina on November 28, 2015, 10:19:25 AM
I sincerely hope it doesn't escalate into something bigger, but I'm not confident at the moment. :(
Post by: bewva on November 28, 2015, 10:27:51 AM
Post by: Zilli on November 28, 2015, 11:08:04 AM
Post by: Steve A on November 28, 2015, 11:10:23 AM
Post by: sadler on November 28, 2015, 11:58:05 AM
Post by: JohnF on November 28, 2015, 12:15:15 PM
Have however sold our property out there, closed our Turkish bank account and moved all our assets back to U.K.
I'm relieved that we did the same over two years ago. The last to go was our house in Istanbul which we sold last Spring.
What I'd say to those with property is that you have to remember this is Turkey - domestic political unrest is normal and to a certain extent cyclic. In ten years time there is a high possibility everyone will be drinking (relatively) cheap Efes and going on about "the bad old days" to newcomers.
Not that many years ago, the PKK were carrying out regular attacks in Istanbul, kidnapping foreign tourists and workers, assassinating government officials etc. It passed. It was a segment of time within a country and the current problems, in time, will also pass - I suppose for some that's cold comfort if you want to sell now, or in the immediate future. There's no guarantee house prices will be the same, but at least property will be sellable, and not just to a native Turk.
The unknown I suppose is the international unrest - this is the first time in recent years (I sure) that The Republic of Turkey has found itself at odds not only with the west (refugees, oil & Assad) and Russia (Syrian border and oil). The next few weeks, or maybe months, will be a good indicator of how things will pan out. I'm hopeful that the nutter in Ankara (or at least those around him) will realise that he may be Billy big baws in Kasımpaşa, but on the international stage he is more and more being looked upon as a despotic buffoon.
As regards those who holiday, take the FO advice and that from those (the ones with a bit of common sense that is) who live in Turkey. I know there is a bit of an exodus just now, I've seen more leave since Jan this year than in the past fifteen years, but that again will hopefully change in coming years.
I doubt I'll be in Fethiye for a while, but I'll certainly be in Istanbul on several occasions over the next few months. All I'll do is take the normal precautions as described by the FO web site. Mibbe.
Remember, if things change and the FO issue a raised threat level, you'll get your money back from either your carrier or travel insurance. So stop being pussies :)
JF
Post by: stoop on November 28, 2015, 12:23:49 PM
Since this happened we've decide to hold fire until we see where things are heading.
Worst case is we don't visit our place this year but compared to what others have lost this past few weeks I won't lose any sleep over it.
El Presendente seems hell bent on causing trouble and I don't think it's ended yet by any means.
But - in true Yorkshire fashion - if prices drop we might just jump in and hope for the best
Post by: blueclad on November 28, 2015, 15:09:49 PM
Ron
Post by: gillian handbury on November 28, 2015, 15:15:31 PM
Life is not about waiting for the storm to pass, but singing and dancing in the rain...
Will be there to let the New year in in Calis......Also booked for May & September 2016...Enjoy while we can....
(http://s13.postimg.org/amsbwptbn/image.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/amsbwptbn/)
Post by: Scunner on November 28, 2015, 15:17:00 PM
If Russia cuts gas supplies to Turkey, can businesses afford to stay open? If Turkey loses it's (£6 billion?) exports to Russia the economy will suffer...again.
So maybe the question isn't will you go, it could be how much of it will it be there if you do?
Post by: Scunner on November 28, 2015, 15:22:55 PM
"Russia prepares sanctions against Turkey
Yesterday, during a cabinet meeting the Prime Minister of Russia, Dmitry Medvedev, ordered the drafting of a sanction list. He gave the order, which came from President Putin, to the government. Over the next two days the Kremlin will create a list, with possible economic measures against Turkey. It is unsure what measures Russia will take, these measures can vary from postponing projects to financial restrictions to an import or export boycott to measures in logistics and transport.
Different messages are circling online about the measures that Russia will take, but a boycott has not yet been officially announced. Russia wants to take measures that are permitted by international law and that will cause the least amount of damage to their economy. This is evident from notes published by the government.
Retailer Metro Cash & Carry calls to protect Turkish fruits and vegetables. The company imports 25% of the fresh produce from Turkey, "We can certainly adapt, but an embargo will not benefit consumers. Reduced competition will lead to higher prices," says Boris Minialay from Metro.
Russia did issue a travel warning to Turkey. The absence of 3.3 million Russian tourists that visit Turkey annually would be a hard blow for the sector. The only country that has more tourists in Turkey is Germany.
Despite the fact that an official measure has not yet been announced, there are reports of Turkish trucks being stopped at the border and Turkish businessmen who travelled to Krasnodar, Russia for a conference on a tourist visa have been deported."
Post by: Colwyn on November 28, 2015, 15:29:07 PM
Post by: Scunner on November 28, 2015, 15:33:50 PM
Post by: JohnF on November 28, 2015, 15:43:28 PM
If Russia cuts gas supplies to Turkey, can businesses afford to stay open? If Turkey loses it's (£6 billion?) exports to Russia the economy will suffer...again.
Not quite so much mate, round about £4.5bn in 2014 and maybe slightly up this year pro rata - on the flip side, imports from Russia were over £16bn for the same period. Over 20% of all vegetables in Russia came from Turkey so if all trade is stopped, the Russians will have to work hard to fill that gap. You can bet your arse that Putin wont go short of tomatoes and peppers though...
You're on the nail with the gas though, Turkey imports approx 55% of it's natural gas from Russia and at least 20% of its oil. Saying that, they've been (allegedly) buying more and more oil from IS and thats another reason why they're weeed with Russia - a lot of Russian air strikes have been targeting the IS held oil refineries.
JF
Post by: Colwyn on November 28, 2015, 15:52:05 PM
Post by: JohnF on November 28, 2015, 16:27:04 PM
JF
Post by: jackstee on November 28, 2015, 16:40:20 PM
Lets just stop it.
We have lived abroad for the last 35 years. Dodging bullets and bombs from London Jakarta Islamabad and many other places.
Putins war ships are not going to sit off Fethiye and start shelling us.
We still feel safer here than we do in central UK and even though its raining it ant anywhere near as cold.
Spent the day at animal aid and then a couple of wines in Merry Bar a lovely day and absolutely no stress
You can not really beat it here after Africa etc
Post by: Scunner on November 28, 2015, 16:43:12 PM
Post by: JohnF on November 28, 2015, 17:34:39 PM
JF
Post by: Anne on November 28, 2015, 19:41:15 PM
Our May flights are booked and until the Foreign Office tells us different we are going
Post by: chris35 on November 28, 2015, 20:48:39 PM
Post by: JulieDiane on November 28, 2015, 20:54:03 PM
Post by: madmart on November 28, 2015, 20:59:59 PM
Post by: Highlander on November 28, 2015, 21:05:27 PM
Post by: tamd on November 28, 2015, 21:28:23 PM
Post by: JohnF on November 28, 2015, 22:11:14 PM
...and mine John.
Anne, I really didn't want to know how hirsute your bottom is - I was only joking :)
Any views on how current/future situation has/will affect travel insurance to Turkey. :(
No views, only facts - it doesn't affect travel insurance unless the Foreign Office issues an advisory on the destination.
JF
Post by: GrantT on November 28, 2015, 23:14:26 PM
Post by: swindsor on November 29, 2015, 13:55:55 PM
Post by: Scunner on November 29, 2015, 15:42:29 PM
Many of our dearest friends are business/hotel/restaurant owners in Turkey and I pray things stay as they are and we are there next year. We have always gone and earthquakes, Istanbul bombings, Gulf wars etc have not put us off.
But definitely a time to be concerned for the future for Turkey and our Turkish friends.
Post by: Jacqui Harvey on November 29, 2015, 15:48:00 PM
Post by: JohnF on November 29, 2015, 16:33:51 PM
As usual, water cannon, tear gas and extreme violence by the Polis were the order of the day.
JF
Post by: kevin3 on November 29, 2015, 17:14:53 PM
And the EU are prepared to overlook all this, and offer Reg early talks on joining the EU in return
for help in trying to sort out the migrant crisis they created. When it suits them the EU can turn a
blind eye to human rights. The sooner we're out of it the better for me.
Post by: KKOB on November 29, 2015, 18:04:00 PM
As usual, water cannon, tear gas and extreme violence by the Polis were the order of the day.
It's just like the Jollyboys Dayout for the Polis.
Post by: GrantT on November 29, 2015, 18:25:53 PM
Post by: kevin3 on November 29, 2015, 19:34:42 PM
The EU have just announced a deal has been been reached with the Turkish PM in Brussels
that will give Turkey 3 billion euro's and visa free travel throughout the EU in return for help
with the refugee problem. That's an awful lot of shoe boxes.
Sky news presenters were reporting shocked reactions to the deal, given Turkeys human
rights record and press freedom record. Someone described it as a dirty deal. >:( >:(
Post by: faymoore on November 29, 2015, 19:40:27 PM
Sue & I normally go to our place around late April / early May for 3 months stay.
However, booked much later flights for 2016 ... Out late August till mid October
(Depending on situation at that time and of course, official advice)
Post by: alixandria on November 29, 2015, 19:50:10 PM
I and my partner have been to Turkey before although it was 4 yrs ago and it was to OluDeniz.It was a lovely holiday which made us think about another holiday in Turkey. We did come to Calis Beach and thought it was lovely little seaside place. Hence now a few yrs on we are thinking of a holiday in Turkey again and to CalisBeach. What we also liked was the idea of a holiday to Egypt and was looking forward to it until we heard about the IS shooting down a plane and all those innocent people were killed. That made us change our mind about Egypt. We also have a friend who was in Paris on the 13TH when again the IS struck again. All this has made us very nervous about committing ourselves and our two teen daughters to a holiday in Turkey because of the Russia involvement. But having spoken heart to heart about it my partner and I have decided " yes " we will be taking our holiday in Turkey next year.Unless something very tragic happens we will be in Turkey in 2016. If we dont go it means the IS fanatics have got what they want. Thanks.
Post by: Scunner on November 29, 2015, 20:12:47 PM
Hi. This is my first post on this this forum so I am sorry if this is not the right way of replying to a topic.
Perfectly correct way of replying to a topic Alixandria. Great first post and I agree, let's do all we can.
Post by: JohnF on November 29, 2015, 20:55:27 PM
The way things stand, Spain and Greece are going to be heaving next year and there'll be a lot of empty hotel rooms along the south coast of Turkey. Folks I know who would possibly consider Turkey have openly stated that there is no way they'd go there just now. Doesn't matter how much I try to convince them that Syria is hundreds of miles away, they go by what they read in the press and make there minds up that Turkey = trouble.
It's their loss, but also the bar, restaurant and hotel owners loss as well unfortunately.
JF
Post by: KKOB on November 29, 2015, 21:06:48 PM
visa free travel throughout the EU
I wonder if that'll mean the end of visas for travel to Turkey for EU members.
Post by: Scunner on November 29, 2015, 21:08:34 PM
The way things stand, Spain and Greece are going to be heaving next year and there'll be a lot of empty hotel rooms along the south coast of Turkey.
Not just from Turkey - Egypt and the entire tourist trade from Tunisia.
Post by: sunlover on November 29, 2015, 21:14:13 PM
Post by: Highlander on November 29, 2015, 21:35:22 PM
Post by: KKOB on November 30, 2015, 07:26:29 AM
Post by: thinwhiteduke on November 30, 2015, 09:01:44 AM
Post by: tiggsy on November 30, 2015, 09:32:35 AM
Post by: mac2010 on November 30, 2015, 11:21:28 AM
Post by: bells on November 30, 2015, 11:33:33 AM
Post by: JohnF on November 30, 2015, 11:35:19 AM
Our oldest daughters University course was under threat due to funding issues - on Friday just gone it was announced that funding is now guaranteed for a further five years.
Her course... Central and Eastern European Studies with Russian.
An impressive bit of forward thinking by whatever funding council allocates the funds.
JF
Post by: Stortman on November 30, 2015, 12:35:33 PM
Post by: Derek3759 on November 30, 2015, 13:32:15 PM
Post by: Saga Louts on November 30, 2015, 13:36:16 PM
No way, we will be out next year never fear.
Post by: spo6666 on November 30, 2015, 14:05:20 PM
And only signed for my villa in Oct. I will never get any use out of it if I don't go :D
Post by: daveG on November 30, 2015, 14:16:51 PM
Post by: spo6666 on November 30, 2015, 15:25:45 PM
Quote
nah, My only concern is getting over the Lancashire border a week tomorrow for my TC flight to Antalya and then over the hills to Fethiye.
Let me know which entrance you are using for entry in to Lancs, so we can post extra guards at the door ;D ;D ;D ;D
Post by: Troy on November 30, 2015, 20:49:06 PM
Post by: Scunner on November 30, 2015, 20:56:46 PM
Post by: stoop on December 01, 2015, 16:30:17 PM
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-34978232?ns_mchannel=social&ns_campaign=bbc_breaking&ns_source=twitter&ns_linkname=news_central
Post by: marina on December 01, 2015, 16:36:12 PM
Post by: KKOB on December 01, 2015, 17:27:05 PM
Post by: JohnF on December 01, 2015, 17:37:41 PM
JF
Post by: JohnF on December 01, 2015, 17:46:09 PM
http://www.dha.com.tr/dhavideogaleri.asp?vid=1085771
JF
Post by: Scunner on December 01, 2015, 17:54:10 PM
Post by: Dry Pete on December 06, 2015, 07:56:42 AM
Post by: thekeyclan on December 06, 2015, 08:04:56 AM
Post by: stoop on December 06, 2015, 13:43:46 PM
I looked at 2xMan- Dal with Monarch before the trouble and they were £333 each with Leeds Bradford even more.
I can now get L/B for £302 each for the same dates.
I assume as more decide to go elsewhere that they will drop even further and flights will be cancelled and consolidated.
Post by: Colwyn on December 06, 2015, 13:49:01 PM
Post by: Saga Louts on December 06, 2015, 14:13:44 PM
Come on everyone support!
Get out to Turkey ;D
Post by: sadler on December 06, 2015, 14:38:13 PM
Post by: BernieTeyze on December 06, 2015, 14:56:33 PM
Post by: judithbretton on December 06, 2015, 15:48:32 PM
Post by: Scunner on December 06, 2015, 15:52:33 PM
It's not us few on here who need convincing, Saga Louts, I think we are all pretty much determined to still holiday there come hell or high water, it is "them out there" who need convincing. :(
Yep, I think that pretty much covers it. Like all the other incidents in the past, we all carry on regardless but those with no particular link or bond with Turkey don't have the same desire or resolve. You can't blame them either really.
We shall book our flights and support our friends by staying in their hotels, eating in their restaurants, hiring their boats etc.
But we go in October, and I just hope they all make it through till then - it is going to be a very tough season. Probably the toughest in decades.
Post by: AOK on December 06, 2015, 16:31:41 PM
Post by: Saga Louts on December 06, 2015, 17:06:15 PM
Post by: johntaylor49 on December 06, 2015, 17:24:34 PM
traveling to, in the Car on my way to the Airport I heard about the IRA Bomb at M&S in Manchester....where Memsahib told
me she was going with a friend to change a jumper .......................nowhere today is really safe. (Was pretty relieved when I called from the Airport and she answered the Phone! .....in the days before I had a mobile! :) )
Post by: Sleuth on December 06, 2015, 18:29:56 PM
a pint of beer one euro !!!! and a bottle of real good house wine and in a restaurant 4 pounds !!!!
its the same sunshine there as in Turkey
Turkey is up against from all directions next year and not just from recent events >:(
Post by: Scunner on December 06, 2015, 18:48:33 PM
Post by: Lotty on December 06, 2015, 19:07:57 PM
Post by: Sleuth on December 06, 2015, 19:37:19 PM
Post by: JohnF on December 06, 2015, 19:51:10 PM
Like Turkey, you can pay a lot more for both drinks and food but as far as the wine is concerned, the price v quality comparison is a hands down winner for both Spain and Portugal.
Menu del dia (menu of the day) can be almost as cheap as Turkish locanta food with the bonus of cheap alcohol thrown in.
We're heading off to Andalucia tomorrow and flights, including hold baggage both ways, were about £110pp. Add to that day time flights and no visa issues it's not difficult to see why folks are deserting Turkey in droves, terrorism fears aside.
Don't get me wrong, I'm looking forward to stuffing my face in places like Cummhuriyet Bir and Geritli in Istanbul, plus maybe a bite in Yengec and Pasa Kebab if I make it as far as Fethiye next year - but I'm not your typical "tourist" without who many establishments in the resorts will struggle next year.
JF
Post by: Scunner on December 06, 2015, 22:31:29 PM
The other big problem for Turkey is that we are between 4 and 10 months from people's holidays and things do not look good today. One earthquake, riot, bomb, shooting in the mean time - well, that will potentially be the killer blow for Turkey 2016. :(
Post by: Highlander on December 06, 2015, 22:47:05 PM
Post by: Scunner on December 06, 2015, 23:35:36 PM
Post by: Sleuth on December 07, 2015, 08:47:00 AM
Post by: Colwyn on December 07, 2015, 09:32:19 AM
but also Greece is back being humble after years of being arrogant and expensive.Went to Greece [Skiathos island] in September and found it unexpectedly and significantly more expensive than Turkey.
Post by: littlereddevil on December 07, 2015, 16:43:23 PM
Post by: Carefreecaz on December 07, 2015, 20:31:41 PM
Post by: Scunner on December 07, 2015, 20:59:12 PM
but also Greece is back being humble after years of being arrogant and expensive.Went to Greece [Skiathos island] in September and found it unexpectedly and significantly more expensive than Turkey.
I don't doubt it. What I meant was more that Greece isn't as expensive as itself previously :)
Post by: Jacqui Harvey on December 07, 2015, 21:42:54 PM
I remember being in Turkey after an earthquake, and it was ghostly quiet all season.
I remember being in Turkey during an earthquake.. I thought it was a digger coming down the road when the ground started to shake and when the water in the pool started to move, I realised what it was. However, did not put us off, just scared us a bit at the time.
Off to Tenerife tomorrow, so will see what the prices are like there.
Post by: alixandria on December 07, 2015, 22:00:19 PM
Post by: Scunner on December 07, 2015, 22:37:00 PM
It seems to me that the ones most frightened on this forum are the ones that own properties in Turkey and they will lose out on rental income.
Really? I think we got through to the late 8th & 9th page of discussing this before anyone even mentioned renting their property out. Even then, it was fairly matter of fact to show that people are scared and all quite calmly stated.
It seems that some people are definitely worried about the situation in Turkey - I've had 2 booking cancelled for my villa for next summer! When they see horrific news on the TV or in the papers, they assume all of Turkey is affected.
Yes DryPete, some friends of ours who have a villa and have let it out for a number of years now have only got 1 booking so far for next season. By now, most of the school summer holiday has already been booked.
Hardly the words of "the most frightened ones" :D
Post by: JohnF on December 07, 2015, 23:45:13 PM
Got a bottle of imported Cuban honey rum for €15 on the way home, for a wee nightcap, and it crossed my mind that there'll be another hike in alcohol tax on the 15th in Turkey...
I don't see how cheap Spain Portugal or Greece has anything to do with making up someone's mind as to going there for their yearly holiday to be honest...
Don't know if after reading this if I should post it because of the backlash I'm bound to get here goes
If you can't see that price makes a big difference to someone with no loyalty to any particular country then maybe you've got too much money to spend :)
No backlash, maybe different opinions, but don't let that stop you posting yours.
JF
Post by: littlereddevil on December 08, 2015, 09:11:46 AM
I remember being in Turkey during an earthquake.. I thought it was a digger coming down the road when the ground started to shake and when the water in the pool started to move, I realised what it was. However, did not put us off, just scared us a bit at the time.
Off to Tenerife tomorrow, so will see what the prices are like there.
Yeah we also experienced an earthquake in Fethiye. Didn't bother me at all and certainly didn't stop me going back.
Have become disillusioned with the country now though, off to Cape Town for 3 weeks.
[/quote]
Post by: scorcher on December 08, 2015, 09:43:38 AM
Post by: littlereddevil on December 08, 2015, 10:37:34 AM
Post by: BernieTeyze on December 08, 2015, 13:02:55 PM
Post by: Cavfan on December 08, 2015, 14:49:17 PM
Post by: stoop on December 09, 2015, 12:53:32 PM
Hopefully 6 weeks next year (well why not?).
Post by: Jacqui Harvey on December 09, 2015, 15:09:49 PM
Post by: Bluwise on December 09, 2015, 21:04:58 PM
Post by: mercury on December 09, 2015, 22:24:10 PM
Post by: Jacqui Harvey on December 09, 2015, 22:33:45 PM
Post by: Bluwise on December 09, 2015, 22:48:00 PM
Post by: Jacqui Harvey on December 09, 2015, 22:52:55 PM
I will report back if I see any in this part of the Island, but up to now Cockroach Gate is Nil.
Post by: kevin3 on December 09, 2015, 23:03:52 PM
What are the table napkins like there Jacqui.? ;) ;)
Post by: Jacqui Harvey on December 09, 2015, 23:16:23 PM
(http://s17.postimg.org/zdiql3o97/image.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/zdiql3o97/)
Post by: KKOB on December 09, 2015, 23:18:38 PM
What more could you ask?
Schweppes Slimline Tonic ?
Post by: Jacqui Harvey on December 09, 2015, 23:23:59 PM
Post by: Karennina on December 10, 2015, 00:10:07 AM
Post by: Jacqui Harvey on December 10, 2015, 00:25:26 AM
I love the way all the spaces around the town have poinsettias planted in reds, whites and pinks, they look so pretty, image planting them outside in the U.K. in December??
(http://s12.postimg.org/9eegi9o1l/image.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/9eegi9o1l/)
Post by: madmart on December 10, 2015, 08:36:43 AM
Post by: patnfrank on December 10, 2015, 10:21:49 AM
Post by: stoop on December 10, 2015, 11:33:52 AM
Post by: badger on December 10, 2015, 11:45:53 AM
Booked May/June and September
See you there Pat & Fank 8) :-*
Post by: Jacqui Harvey on December 10, 2015, 11:51:03 AM
Post by: sadler on December 10, 2015, 12:59:51 PM
There were big problems with Cockroaches in parts of Calis this summer gone. We saw three or four which is far more than we have ever seen.
That's 3 or 4 more than I have ever seen there! ;)
Post by: stoop on December 10, 2015, 15:00:04 PM
There were big problems with Cockroaches in parts of Calis this summer gone. We saw three or four which is far more than we have ever seen.
That's 3 or 4 more than I have ever seen there! ;)
http://www.calis-beach.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=43263.0
Post by: chris35 on December 10, 2015, 17:43:19 PM
Booked May/June and September
See you there Pat & Fank 8) :-*
Booked May/June and Sept also.
See you Pat n Frank and Badgers. ;D ;D ;D
Post by: Jacqui Harvey on December 10, 2015, 17:50:14 PM
Post by: badger on December 10, 2015, 21:42:52 PM
Post by: Scunner on December 13, 2015, 18:36:39 PM
Post by: stoop on December 14, 2015, 15:54:34 PM
About 15 minutes later she realised it was down her back!
Screams a plenty and that was just me ;)
Post by: Jacqui Harvey on December 14, 2015, 20:28:28 PM
Post by: scorcher on December 15, 2015, 19:32:46 PM
http://kalkansecrets.blogspot.co.uk/2015/12/the-truth-about-terrorism-in-kalkan.html?m=1
Post by: CleopatrasAsp on December 16, 2015, 00:26:07 AM
FYI,Liking you once would have been acceptable, three times??? Suffice to say laptop was being hormonal!!!! On a serious note, some of us are here because we have nothing to go back to. I'm an economic migrant.....came here because our state pensions could go a heck of a lot further. Thanks to a bad investment, we lost our savings, but still have our home and all bills paid. This is our home, and we are happy.
http://kalkansecrets.blogspot.co.uk/2015/12/the-truth-about-terrorism-in-kalkan.html?m=1
Post by: angieebabe on December 16, 2015, 08:18:47 AM
This is our home, and we are happy. Couldn't agree more.
Post by: KKOB on December 16, 2015, 10:21:24 AM
We were playing Sequence on our veranda and a big bugger landed on the board. I swatted it away and it flew over Maggie's head.
About 15 minutes later she realised it was down her back!
Screams a plenty and that was just me ;)
Are you sure it was a cockroach and not a cicada ?
Post by: Colwyn on December 16, 2015, 10:32:38 AM
http://tribune.com.pk/story/899041/cockroaches-made-me-want-new-palace-says-turkeys-erdogan/
Post by: KKOB on December 16, 2015, 10:34:12 AM
Post by: mercury on December 16, 2015, 10:44:35 AM
Post by: Jacqui Harvey on December 16, 2015, 11:07:51 AM
Post by: puma on December 16, 2015, 22:05:02 PM
Post by: stoop on December 17, 2015, 09:23:58 AM
We were playing Sequence on our veranda and a big bugger landed on the board. I swatted it away and it flew over Maggie's head.
About 15 minutes later she realised it was down her back!
Screams a plenty and that was just me ;)
Are you sure it was a cockroach and not a cicada ?
No definitely a roach.
Post by: stoop on December 17, 2015, 09:27:02 AM
Only cost us £42 after the Tesco vouchers kicked in but still over £300 each!!!! Having said that we can save about £40 on petrol and £120 on parking v Manchester.
Mind you - just over six weeks is a bonus :)
Post by: kevin3 on December 17, 2015, 11:50:47 AM
Six weeks.!! That's one hell of a flight. Any stops on the way.?
Post by: stoop on December 17, 2015, 11:52:08 AM
Six weeks.!! That's one hell of a flight. Any stops on the way.?
Nah - it's via the space station ;)
Post by: Lotty on December 17, 2015, 16:02:01 PM
Post by: Supacabby on December 26, 2015, 21:32:29 PM
Post by: kevin3 on December 26, 2015, 22:02:33 PM
That's a coincidence Supercabby, I was thinking about you and Lance yesterday.
Post by: Scunner on December 26, 2015, 22:38:32 PM
Ridiculous flight prices might though.
Post by: gillian handbury on December 27, 2015, 15:14:53 PM
Post by: pompeylee on December 28, 2015, 20:03:51 PM
Post by: Neil B on December 31, 2015, 14:01:31 PM
Mrs B & I had not been to Istanbul for over 25 years so with an intervening period of political uncertainty, earthquakes in the 1990's etc. etc. was not too sure what to expect.
Regular Turkish Airlines flights from our nearest airport Bham and some great Christmas deals prompted a long overdue visit with no fears or trepidation.
Friendly reception from all we met Hoteliers, tour staff, bar owners and restaurateurs even if some of the prices were more London than Calis!
Security at Ataturk Airport very tight and thorough so gave extra confidence.
Will we be in Calis? You bet!
Just sorting out our first visit for April/May 2016 asap.
Post by: ArtyMar on December 31, 2015, 17:46:31 PM
Post by: gillian handbury on December 31, 2015, 18:17:24 PM
Post by: makemwonder on January 09, 2016, 00:09:26 AM
Post by: Steve A on January 09, 2016, 00:44:19 AM
Post by: Honey Bee on January 09, 2016, 08:46:09 AM
Post by: IanK on January 09, 2016, 10:21:30 AM
Ian
Post by: Colwyn on January 09, 2016, 10:35:21 AM
Just got a taxi home in UK with an Afghani taxi driver who has been here 10 yrs who reckons Afghanistan is now safer than the UK or Turkey !Yeah, I remember Geordieland was a violent place when I lived there in the sixties.
Post by: Scunner on January 09, 2016, 10:53:02 AM
Post by: davybill on January 09, 2016, 11:00:20 AM
Post by: Steve A on January 09, 2016, 11:03:21 AM
Geordieland as you well know it Colwyn is a beautiful part of the world bursting at the seams with sophisticated culture.
Post by: KIP on January 09, 2016, 11:30:32 AM
Post by: patrice on January 09, 2016, 11:32:11 AM
Post by: John H on January 09, 2016, 12:34:59 PM
The cost of the flights (Jet2 from Glasgow) were lower than 2015 for the same periods. Not by much but every little helps.
Cannot imagine never being able to return to Calis.
Post by: Scunner on January 09, 2016, 12:53:12 PM
For flights at £125 each (and we need 4) it saves us a fortune normally to head down to Englandshire, but this year Scotland prices are down a bit and MCR/LBA are quite a bit higher.
Post by: scorcher on January 09, 2016, 13:20:28 PM
Post by: maria1949 on January 09, 2016, 15:35:40 PM
Post by: teetee on January 09, 2016, 15:55:13 PM
Will also try and fit in another along the way as well
Post by: Saga Louts on January 09, 2016, 16:53:04 PM
Cant wait :angel 8) ;D
Post by: kevinartois on January 09, 2016, 22:02:07 PM
Post by: Scunner on January 09, 2016, 22:10:08 PM
Post by: kevinartois on January 09, 2016, 22:33:40 PM
Post by: stoop on January 10, 2016, 11:59:17 AM
I read an article last week where it was reported that non-married couples should not show affection in public. Here's one report. There are others.
https://www.rt.com/news/328130-turkey-public-displays-affection/
Post by: JohnF on January 10, 2016, 12:59:56 PM
One anonymous user asked whether a father having sexual desire for his daughter would result in the cancellation of his marriage from a religious perspective.
The Diyanet posted an answer stating that there is a difference of opinion on the matter among Islam’s different schools of thought.
“For some, a father kissing his daughter with lust or caressing her with desire has no effect on the man’s marriage,” the answer said, referencing various religious sources.
Since this was highlighted in the media, they've backtracked and said the answer was distorted in an attempt to discredit the organisation. Well bugger me mate, you're doing a fine job yourselves.
JF
Post by: madmart on January 10, 2016, 13:03:57 PM
Well they do keep sort of shooting themselves in the foot.
I read an article last week where it was reported that non-married couples should not show affection in public. Here's one report. There are others.
https://www.rt.com/news/328130-turkey-public-displays-affection/
rt.com is owned by the Russian Government. After the Turks shot down their plane before Christmas the Russians weren't exactly pleased. Would RT.com have published something similar when thousands of Russians were going to Turkey on holiday?
Post by: JohnF on January 10, 2016, 13:27:09 PM
JF
Post by: stoop on January 10, 2016, 15:26:32 PM
Well they do keep sort of shooting themselves in the foot.
I read an article last week where it was reported that non-married couples should not show affection in public. Here's one report. There are others.
https://www.rt.com/news/328130-turkey-public-displays-affection/
rt.com is owned by the Russian Government. After the Turks shot down their plane before Christmas the Russians weren't exactly pleased. Would RT.com have published something similar when thousands of Russians were going to Turkey on holiday?
As JF said - it's been widely reported. Even The Sun ran it last week ;-)
Post by: Colwyn on January 10, 2016, 15:29:36 PM
Post by: Scunner on January 10, 2016, 15:37:36 PM
I read an article last week where it was reported that non-married couples should not show affection in public.
Are their barmen still allowed to shag British girls in the toilets?
Post by: Colwyn on January 10, 2016, 15:51:15 PM
Post by: kevin3 on January 10, 2016, 17:52:00 PM
And the aformentioned couple are not engaged. The proclamation only refers to engaged couples. The rest can go at it like rabbits.!!
Post by: Scunner on January 10, 2016, 19:49:27 PM
It does appear that all us Turkey veterans won't be put off by current/recent events. But it won't make or break based on whether we come or not.
It's the "anywhere hot and cheap" people who will - and I read many of those might add "except Turkey/Muslim countries" to that.
Post by: kevin3 on January 10, 2016, 21:02:46 PM
Annual holidays are precious to most people and take a year to save/pay for.With so many warmer, cheaper alternatives who can blame them.
The safety of their loved ones is a big concern to most.
Post by: Highlander on January 10, 2016, 21:18:20 PM
Post by: Gordon Smith on January 10, 2016, 21:43:59 PM
Post by: kevinartois on January 10, 2016, 23:54:33 PM
Post by: Scunner on January 11, 2016, 00:01:09 AM
Post by: usedbustickets on January 11, 2016, 08:15:12 AM
RightWas that a Doctor Evil type riiiiiiiiiiiiight, or just a simple right! I need to know for my own sanity.
Post by: davybill on January 11, 2016, 08:45:07 AM
Post by: teetee on January 11, 2016, 15:31:14 PM
They have indicated that the usual split of renters is about one third Turkish, Russian and British.
British enquirers are down considerably with Russian even worse.
If this is indicative of what is happening in the wider area and with little prospect of any improvement it looks like it will be a very testing time for all those involved in the tourist industry in Turkey this year.
I hope this changes but I cannot see it happening in the short term.
Post by: Colwyn on January 11, 2016, 16:54:50 PM
Post by: JohnF on January 11, 2016, 17:16:35 PM
the road Hilary and I walk down and back on our twenty minute evening stroll to our favourite local (Moroccan) restaurant was once highlighted in a New York Times tourism guide as the most dangerous street in Europe!
Probably down to your presence.
JF
Post by: Scott and Lisa on January 11, 2016, 21:03:00 PM
Post by: desmartinson on January 12, 2016, 09:45:18 AM
Post by: stuart1955 on January 12, 2016, 10:29:28 AM
Post by: stoop on January 12, 2016, 16:18:03 PM
Post by: mercury on January 12, 2016, 17:37:17 PM
Post by: Scunner on January 12, 2016, 18:06:09 PM
If that continues I won't pay to bring my family into danger. Much as we value our week in Calis, I am responsible for their safety, and for providing a relaxed holiday.
I do not want to feel relieved when I get off a dolmus in one piece.
Post by: JohnF on January 12, 2016, 18:07:57 PM
I do not want to feel relieved when I get off a dolmus in one piece.
Feck me mate, I feel like that every time I use one of those things!
JF
Post by: Scunner on January 12, 2016, 18:09:42 PM
Post by: JohnF on January 12, 2016, 18:16:37 PM
JF
Post by: Caro on January 13, 2016, 12:50:33 PM
Post by: Colwyn on January 13, 2016, 13:30:02 PM
Post by: kevin3 on January 13, 2016, 14:09:27 PM
It was reported yesterday that Germany's Foreign Ministry's Website was warning " that further violent clashes and terrorist attacks
are expected across Turkey." Germany's TUI travel are offering free cancellations.
Post by: Scunner on January 13, 2016, 19:16:49 PM
I know it's far from specific science and at best only a broad glimpse - but when I pretended I wanted to pre-book my seats (so I could see how many people already have), on a return flight that is 198 seats (33 rows x 6), just three have been pre-booked. Normally they are scattered across and along the plane in fairly significant numbers.
That sounds pretty bad :(
Post by: JohnF on January 14, 2016, 06:12:27 AM
How it will affect pricing I'm really not sure - thinking back to 2003 when GW2 kicked off, I seem to remember flights to Istanbul being pretty cheap for a few months.
JF
Post by: Dry Pete on January 14, 2016, 17:46:15 PM
Post by: John H on January 14, 2016, 17:55:58 PM
Post by: pops on January 14, 2016, 18:18:28 PM
We are going to Icmeler this year. We booked it in October and decided to go unless HO advice meant that we couldn't. Today I had a message from the owner of the apartments we are staying at (we've been there many times) telling us that today he had an "urgent meeting" with Thomson regarding the decrease in bookings for 2016 and the increasing number of cancellations.
Our friends we usually holiday with are still undecided and out of curiosity, I entered their details onto the Thomson website as a "bogus booking" identical to our booking to see if prices were coming down to reflect what Thomson were telling the hoteliers.
It seems not.
Our booking done in October was £888
The same booking today would be £1166
TotallyConfused.com
Post by: fernando torres on January 14, 2016, 19:18:27 PM
Post by: Scunner on January 14, 2016, 19:28:38 PM
Today I had a message from the owner of the apartments we are staying at (we've been there many times) telling us that today he had an "urgent meeting" with Thomson regarding the decrease in bookings for 2016 and the increasing number of cancellations.
I wouldn't take Thomson (or any other major tour operator) telling hotel/apartment owners that things are bad as evidence that things are bad.
Just as likely it's them taking bad news as an opportunity to screw the owners down (again).
Post by: Cavfan on January 14, 2016, 20:52:00 PM
Post by: patrice on January 14, 2016, 21:07:16 PM
Post by: Scunner on January 14, 2016, 21:28:49 PM
If we don't end up going it will be because we have weighed up the situation and made a balanced decision. Not because some government department who are no more specialists in Turkey than they are in any other country in the World said so.
Post by: JohnF on January 14, 2016, 22:00:57 PM
It wouldn't be the first time we've been somewhere the FCO advise against going, but travelling with kids and no insurance is something we'd never do.
JF
Post by: Scunner on January 14, 2016, 22:04:51 PM
Making the choice based on what the FCO think seems ludicrous to me (insurance point taken ;) )
Post by: JohnF on January 14, 2016, 22:45:23 PM
So I suppose your question is "do we, as regular travellers to Turkey know better than the FCO?". Maybe we do, maybe we don't - but the problem is that the FCO always err on the side of caution and it is their view that insurers go by.
One thing I do know is that if the FCO advise against travel to Turkey/Istanbul and I have a meeting scheduled at the office then I wont be missing it over a travel advisory. I don't think I'll be hanging about places like Taksim Square, but will still travel.
JF
Post by: puma on January 14, 2016, 22:55:43 PM
Post by: Scunner on January 14, 2016, 22:58:08 PM
Post by: Highlander on January 14, 2016, 23:06:15 PM
For me it's the first responsibility of government to protect it's people and if that includes advice on foreign travel then so be it.
It is surely reasonable for insurance companies to take that advice or impose premiums accordingly. Who else can they base their judgments on.
That having been said, the FCO have as much of a clue as to where the next attack will happen as I do.
Post by: trainer on January 15, 2016, 12:53:21 PM
Post by: littlereddevil on January 15, 2016, 14:28:26 PM
Post by: JohnF on January 15, 2016, 14:36:46 PM
I too love Istanbul but I don't think I will ever go back there.
Does that mean you'll never go to London, Paris, Madrid etc etc?
JF
Post by: alixandria on January 17, 2016, 20:51:15 PM
Post by: Scunner on January 17, 2016, 21:00:24 PM
Biased in a positive way to it, or biased against it?
Post by: JohnF on January 17, 2016, 21:29:33 PM
To be honest my hubby says its better if we don't look at this site as its biased to Turkey. Not sure what he means but can guess from reading responses to this topic.It would be nice to read some good and encouraging news for a change rather than the dismal.
Ok. Bye.
JF
Post by: alixandria on January 17, 2016, 21:43:21 PM
Post by: Scunner on January 17, 2016, 21:45:48 PM
Post by: Highlander on January 17, 2016, 21:58:17 PM
For people like ourselves we have to listen to the advice of the FCO. Some of you have raised concerns but others have not. What are we to think and what message are you wanting us to believe.
With respect, it is entirely your decision but if you have listened to the advice of the FCO then you will go.
People on here have expressed their opinions which is surely what an open forum is all about. You surely didn't expect all members to have the same view.
When all said and done "you pays your money and you takes your chance"
Post by: Karennina on January 17, 2016, 22:35:08 PM
Post by: Anne on January 17, 2016, 23:01:05 PM
We are no more at risk in Turkey than we are anywhere else in the world, or indeed here at home.
Post by: Scunner on January 17, 2016, 23:08:17 PM
Post by: Highlander on January 17, 2016, 23:10:53 PM
Post by: littlereddevil on January 17, 2016, 23:15:09 PM
I too love Istanbul but I don't think I will ever go back there.
Does that mean you'll never go to London, Paris, Madrid etc etc?
Nah I'll still go to London
JF
Post by: spo6666 on January 18, 2016, 08:00:14 AM
I intend to go where I want (within reason, no point in being blase) But our flights are booked for May & July and we will be landing at Dalaman come whatever, then it will be the usual fantastic time as each previous year 8) 8) 8)
Post by: Sandra48 on January 18, 2016, 09:48:29 AM
Post by: trainer on January 19, 2016, 11:38:06 AM
Post by: Highlander on January 21, 2016, 22:07:20 PM
(http://s12.postimg.org/u88423g9l/mp900424257.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/u88423g9l/)
Post by: JohnF on January 22, 2016, 00:45:31 AM
JF
Post by: Highlander on January 22, 2016, 22:04:12 PM
Post by: Sandra48 on January 23, 2016, 00:09:47 AM
Post by: sunlover on January 23, 2016, 09:54:57 AM
We are booked and actually booked for a longer trip than ever this time, due to early retiremnet here in the UK, as said where are you safe! We are going to enjoy our trips to Turkey, but yes, there are areas we would probably not stay in, you just need to be sensible and aware while you are there.
And enjoy yourselves, life can be cut short in a flash, and not by terrorists
Post by: bells on January 25, 2016, 10:25:27 AM
Post by: scot on January 25, 2016, 12:06:08 PM
Post by: Sleuth on January 25, 2016, 22:19:04 PM
Post by: Scunner on January 25, 2016, 22:55:59 PM
Post by: Lorraine on January 26, 2016, 11:08:39 AM
Post by: Highlander on January 26, 2016, 13:25:07 PM
Post by: Colwyn on January 26, 2016, 13:52:49 PM
Post by: marina on January 26, 2016, 13:58:43 PM
Post by: Colwyn on January 26, 2016, 14:07:35 PM
Post by: marina on January 26, 2016, 14:58:23 PM
Post by: KKOB on January 26, 2016, 15:03:45 PM
As in ... nothing wrong with talking like a Yorkshireman Colwyn! :)
Just so as you don't start thinking like one. ;)
Post by: marina on January 26, 2016, 16:56:20 PM
Post by: KKOB on January 26, 2016, 18:30:38 PM
Post by: marina on January 26, 2016, 18:43:30 PM
Post by: spo6666 on January 27, 2016, 11:02:01 AM
(http://s16.postimg.org/mwjsyg3bl/7099a56cbd7b7c305ff934ca1ee5b2eb.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/mwjsyg3bl/)
Post by: Colwyn on January 27, 2016, 12:02:18 PM
Post by: stoop on January 27, 2016, 17:00:49 PM
Post by: jacqtay on January 28, 2016, 14:10:30 PM
Nope not us......Visiting Turkey - Bodrum in July, but coming via Kos . Flights direct to Bodrum from Edinburgh for the 4 of us was going to cost roughly £1100 so decided to book Newcastle to Kos £580 then ferry over to Bodrum 120 euro return ,Even booking apartments with 1 night Kos ,12 nights Bodrum then 1 night in Kos, is working out cheaper than 14 nights in Kos. For us the thought of never visiting Turkey this year did not enter our minds, infact my hubby is going to Bodrum in April on his own to do a few history sightseeing tours that he says he can never do in the heat of summer with the kids in tow, rather him than me tbh as all I see is a pile of rocks compared to his interest in it ;D
Post by: Rana on February 25, 2016, 21:33:11 PM
(http://s7.postimg.org/gw9te9blz/FB_IMG_1456435411466.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/gw9te9blz/)