Situated on a peninsula, Bodrum is one of the most chic and European resorts in Turkey, its charm residing in its blend of relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere, historical architecture and its proximity to a vast array of fantastic beaches, fishing villages and trendy nightclubs. The city, known in ancient times as Halicarnassus, town of Herodotus, has grown dramatically in recent years with the opening of an international airport – yet its delightful charm remains intact with palm-lined streets and whitewashed, flat-roofed houses dotted across its terraced hillsides. The views of the city are exceptionally striking against the stunning backdrop of the Castle of St Peter, which stands formidably between the city’s twin bays. It is even more spectacular in the summer as Bodrum bursts into colour with cascades of bright pink and purple bougainvillea flowing from the dazzling white houses that line its narrow streets, winding down towards the sea. Bodrum is also the yachting centre of Turkey and its world-class Marina is a favourite destination for yachts that cruise theAegean and the Mediterranean. It is an excellent place from which to organise a sailing trip with a vast number of sailing companies who cater for all levels of sailing experience. Most will organise boats with or without a crew so whether you are looking to organise a day-trip or take a longer sailing holiday, you can take advantage of the crystal-clear azure seas, stunning coastline and myriad of rocky coves and sandy beaches nearby. October is also the month of the Bodrum Cup Race, attracting yachts from around the world. Another major attraction of Bodrum is its buzzing cafes, restaurants and shops, as well as its wealth of trendy and sophisticated nightlife. By day, the central bazaar is a great place for shopping with its array of leather, clothes, carpets, and assorted souvenir and gift shops. Or, if you venture into the narrow streets of the old town around Meyhaneler Sokak, you will discover chic boutiques and souvenir shops, along with rustic Turkish restaurants. There is also a weekly market near the bus station if you want a colourful taste of the native produce, including the delicious locally grown tangerines. But the city really comes to life at night, with a magical atmosphere that doesn’t sleep until dawn. Whether you are searching for romantic harbour-side dinners, an evening promenade or sipping cocktails in the upmarket marina, there is something to suit everyone. Bodrum also boasts some of the most sophisticated and trendy bars and clubs in Turkey, many with imported DJs, including the internationally famous Halikarnas Disco complete with stunning views of the bay below. Bodrum has accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets dotted in and around its pretty town centre, but the quietest places to stay are in the west of town and in the hills towards the east. In town, many people like to stay in the Kumbahçe Mahalle away from Cumhuriyet Caddesi, or in the Tepecik district, along or just off Neyzen Tevfik Caddesi. Getting around is also easy with the dolmus¸ shuttle-services and buses that operate frequent services from the Bodrum otogar to all the nearby towns and villages scattered around the peninsula. Taxis are another very common way to get around, and are easy to find even at night.