Istanbul - Ever since the dawn of time, Turkey has been one of the great cradles of civilisation. It's a melting pot for the many ancient people, settlements and empires that have all etched their legacy on this fascinating land.
Today, Turkey is a traveller's paradise and a seamless mix of history, wonder and relaxation. Think cruising the sublime Aegean Turquoise Coast on a gulet or exploring the mighty ruins of the Roman city of Ephesus.
Then there's its dazzling array of natural wonders like Saklikent Gorge with its treehouses or the Aegean's many secluded bays. To top it off, Turkey oozes the most genuine hospitality you can imagine, delivered in abundance and making it the perfect destination to chill out and enjoy.
The Mediterranean
Twenty-one countries share its water, its name means 'Middle of the Earth' and it's the uniting element and centre of world history. It has many special, hidden inlets, sunken cities, golden beaches and is wonderful to swim in.
The History
From Classic times to present day, Turkey has been centre stage and its Greek and Roman past lives on through the many ruined temples and myths that abound. And of course, Gallipoli is a place of remembrance for more recent conflicts.
The Food
Breakfasts of fresh fruit, omelette, cheese, succulent tomatoes and olives followed by lunches of salads and kebabs. Then, as the sun sets, the array of mezes, fresh fish, chicken, meatballs, grilled veggies and bread will please your tummies. The food is plentiful, but fresh and light, so amongst all the swimming and exploring, it's a healthy blast of goodness.
The Local Culture
Turkey will undoubtedly tantalise every one of your senses. The locals are wildly passionate about their land, history and their heritage and these awesome characters will entertain and inform, making your trip the best experience possible.
The Turkish Gulet sail boats
These ultimate sail boats were built to meet the wishes of their cruising passengers. They have large communal areas to relax and chill on both front and aft decks and are all covered with sail linen for ultimate sun protection. The cabins are all ensuites and spacious, but the big attraction are the beds on deck, allowing you and your friends to sleep endless hours under the stars.
Set sail on the famous Blue Cruise, along Turkey's magnificent Turquoise Coast on board a traditional Gulet. It's pure escapism, the ultimate relaxing holiday.
Swim every day in the crystal clear azure waters of the Mediterranean. Visit ancient ruins of sunken cities. Party on island hideaways such as Smugglers Cove and lap up the genuine hospitality of your crew as they bestow the freshest, tastiest food upon you.
Then there are the sunsets - deep purple, orange and red. Throw in some friends, a cocktail or two, a bed on deck and you have yourself a cruise to remember.
South African passport holders can apply for their visas online www.evisa.gov.tr/en/, and it doesn't cost a cent and if you choose to fly to this ancient land on their national carrier, rest assured that you are flying on one of the best airlines.
Book your Sail Turkey through Busabout www.busabout.com/adventures/sail-turkey priced from R5 160 per person with departures from now until end October.
Included you'll get seven nights' accommodation with breakfast and dinner daily, six lunches, afternoon tea & coffee plus access to snorkels, masks, flippers, fishing lines and board games.
Optional extras include visits to St Nicolas Island ruins, Simena Castle and the Butterfly Valley walk. Flights are extra.