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| Once the secret rendezvous of
Anthony and Cleopatra, Turkey's resort of Side stands on a promontory flanked
by two excellent beaches of golden sand - Kümkoy to
the west and Titreyengöl to the east. Most of the tourist
accommodation is situated in these areas, which have easy
access to the resort centre by dolmus. If you don’t
feel like venturing too far, they have a range of bars,
shops and restaurants. |
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| The ruins of the ancient city mingle with
the new, and despite its development as a resort, it retains
its own very special atmosphere and charm. Its impressive
second century theatre, supported by arched vaults, offers
fine views towards the sea and you can still see the remains
of an ancient street lined with pillars and arcades and
the market place where slaves were once sold. Nearby the
Agora Baths Museum contains a beautifully restored fifth
century bath house and some interesting statues and artifacts. |
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| The bustling, colorful streets leading down
to the sea offer bargains galore. There are shops selling
Turkish Delight, designer jeans (both fake and real but
all at lower prices than at home), handcrafted embroidery,
lace table cloths and serviettes, carpets, leather goods
and a wonderful selection of gold and silver jewelery. The
Saturday market is also worth a visit for clothes, lace,
fresh fruit and vegetables. |
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| The two most popular beaches are a short
distance from the centre - but if you prefer some peace
and quiet, walk a little further and the crowds thin out.
There is no shortage of places to go after sundown and
many bars stay open until late. Set in a little side street,
Café Dreams serves cocktails, wines and spirits
in comfortable, relaxing surroundings with live music
most nights. The atmosphere and good music of Stones near
the temple of Apollo makes it popular with the British,
while the Temple next door is frequented by Turkish and
British alike. The resort’s two night clubs are
Lighthouse, by the harbour, and Oxyd on the edge of town
- a large open air venue with a laser show and swimming
pool.
An excursion to Kursunlu waterfalls makes a refreshing
change from the heat of the beach, and the Manavgat waterfalls
and river are close by and well worth a visit. |
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