“Why the heck would anyone want to move to Turkey!?” Bombings, Bird Flu, Terrorism, Fanatics, Language & Cultural differences, dirty, polluted, unsafe and violent are just a few of the perceptions people have. Moreover, for those that have arrived on package holidays, and are transferred to such destinations as Marmaris, Fethiye & Bodrum, with fish & chip shops, full English breakfasts, night clubs and the constant badgering of the ever eager waiters trying to lure you into their restaurants, maybe of little comfort and appeal to those that were wishing to experience the traditional Turkish lifestyle, cuisine, spectacular scenery and the warm welcoming people. For some this is a fun holiday, but for many people they return to the U.K despondent and out of pocket, vowing never to return to Turkey again.
A country with a unique geographical location, where two continents – Europe and Asia – meet, surrounded by Aegean, Black, Mediterranean and Marmara Seas, where more than 21 million tourists visited in 2005, home to two of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World (The Temple of Artemis at Ephesus, and The Mausoleum at Halicarnassus), spectacular coastal regions, whose land had been the cradle of the oldest civilisations and religions, lush mountain scenery, staggering flora and fauna, a dynamic and growing economy - becoming one of the fastest growing economies in the world. Are our initial perceptions of this country justified?
Tourism and the property investment market suffered significantly this year, with many concerned people cancelling their flights to Turkey due to the Bird Flu, and the bombings in some of the major cities. However, as disturbing as it sounds when we see it reported on our T.V screens or in the newspapers, we must gain some perspective. Turkey, a vast area of 770,760 square kilometres, (over 3 times larger than the U.K) with a population of over seventy million, had only a few reported cases of the bird flu, which were in the far Eastern terrains, thousands of kilometres away from popular tourist destinations. In addition, the H5N1 virus had also been found in birds in 38 other countries.
Moreover, crime rates in Turkey are significantly lower than many other popular holiday destinations, with the total reported crimes in America reaching over 23 million, the U.K over 5 million (a staggering figure for a land area of just 241,590 sq kilometres, and a population of just over 60 million), France over 3 million, Spain over 900 thousand, and with Turkey at just 286,482 it makes it one of the safest places to reside or take a vacation. (These figures are for the total amount of crimes committed, from car theft, petty theft, violence, street crimes, to murder). There is crime everywhere in the world, with the majority of crimes occurring in major cities, not in small traditional Turkish villages.
Nestled on the Southwest coast also known as The Turquoise Coast, and far away from the chaotic, bustling cities - Dalyan (meaning fishing weir) known by the locals as ‘paradise’ and just a 25 minute drive from Dalaman airport, is a quaint fishing village which enjoys nine months of glorious Mediterranean weather, for the other three (January, February & March) it still remains mild, in fact positively warm in comparison to the U.K, but can be wet. The famous Itzuzu beach located just 12km from the centre of Dalyan, can be reached by boat taxis that are moored on the picturesque river that winds its way through the centre of Dalyan with its tall swaying reed beds, home to the beautiful Kingfisher and other rare birds. Just as breathtaking is the scenic drive by mini bus, taking you passed fields of lemon, orange, pomegranate and olives, as well as cotton fields and spectacular tree lined roads of Oleander in vibrant pink blossom, continuing over the mountain the views are simply magnificent as you look down onto the 5400km long sand spit that divides the Mediterranean Sea with the fresh water lake. Itzuzu beach is home to one of the oldest, protected species known as the Carretta Caretta Turtle estimated to be around 95 million years old; it has been living under the protection of the Dalyan locals for 95 years. A testament to the passion of the locals, Greenpeace and local organisations is the return of this magnificent creature each year, which comes to lay its eggs in safety on the sand of Itzuzu beach, regarded as one of the most valuable beaches in the world. Furthermore, the ancient rock tombs of the Kings have become another symbol of Dalyan although there are many rock tombs around the area, the most famous are those which look directly at the Dalyan municipality from the opposite side of the river, they are witness to many changes in their 3,000 year history.
Dalyan has so much to offer its visitors and residents of all ages and abilities, whether you enjoy nature, history, bird watching, trekking, the flora & Fauna or like to sail around the islands on a traditional Turkish Gullet, or immerse your self in the calm clear Mediterranean waters, or feel the warmth of the natural hot springs in one of Dalyans four lakes. Dalyan is a special place that touches the hearts and souls of everyone that visits. From silver medal award winning rejuvenating mud baths, said to have been frequented by Cleopatra, the Queen of Egypt, and in more recent times, the Media Emperor Robert Maxwell, Dustin Hoffman, Jack Nicholson, singers Sting & David Bowie, to the therapeutic thermal springs known as ‘The healing place’ with the waters magical healing properties said to be a cure for skin diseases, arthritis, gynaecological problems, gastro-intestinal diseases, infertility and host of other ailments.
For those who prefer the more conventional methods of treatment, contrary to popular belief the Health Care in Turkey is of an extremely high standard with costs significantly lower than other European countries. With no waiting lists, up to the moment technology, highly trained, dedicated staff, Turkey is fast becoming a popular place for foreigners from all over the world- tired of waiting for years to get the much needed surgery to rid them of their daily pain – to come for surgical operations and receive their treatment in strict hygiene controlled environments, with an exceptional high standard of care, with the staffs genuine desire to increase each patients quality of life and help them to feel at ease. Depending on age and prior medical history, full private health insurance will cost in the region of £400 per year, and covers everything from medications, surgery, dental, long term illnesses etc. If you do not have private health, you can still obtain A full M.O.T in a private hospital such as the wonderful Yucelen Hospital in Mugla, covering tests such as blood, ECG, Brain scan, MRI scans, eye tests, ultra sound and a full examination by a specialist, taking approximately 4 hours for as little as £200.00, no appointment necessary, and if any treatment is required you can be treated immediately. In addition to the main Yucelen Hospital in Mugla, soon to open is a smaller branch of the hospital in Ortaca, just 10km from Dalyan. This polyclinic and dialysis centre will provide a comprehensive and advanced service, as well as enabling dialysis patients from around the world to enjoy their holiday.
Over the years Dalyan has become a popular place for foreigners to buy a second home or make the permanent move; as a result property prices are soaring. As Dalyan, is in a conservation area with strictly governed building regulations, there is a limit to the amount of dwellings allowed to be erected within its boundaries, with the target fast approaching before construction must cease, Dalyan has become one of the most sought after areas for investors. Although, there are still many opportunities to own your dream home, with land prices rising rapidly each year, it is essential to move quickly to maximise investment potential. During the height of the tourist season May-October, all building works must cease, enabling the tourists to enjoy their time spent in this magnificent village, without the noise pollution from loud machinery, and industrial tools. The history, culture and breathtaking vistas make Dalyan and its surrounding areas a superb investment. With a population of just 4,848, approximately three hundred of those homes are owned buy foreigners (70% English, 19% Dutch and 11% other nationalities) who have either made the permanent move, use it as a holiday home or have turned it into a thriving rental business, making an excellent rental income. During the summer season, Dalyan sees approximately 12,000 visitors daily, who come to explore its beauty, with a further 2,000 visitors a week residing in Dalyan. All year round rentals will soon be achievable with more direct flights from some of the major airports in the U.K operating in the winter months. Furthermore, with the regions unique grass and Mediterranean climate it is sure to be one of the most preferred areas for golf enthusiasts and professionals during 12 months of the year. According to the Tourism Investment Projects of Ministry of Culture & Tourism, Dalaman region is set to become a master area of golf tourism, with 9 new golf resorts planned. In the nearby area of Ortaca – Sarigerme a professional 18 hole golf course on an area of 1200 acres is already being established, with the construction of a further 8 resorts commencing soon.
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There are an abundance of benefits to be had when investing in Dalyan, by purchasing a property off-plan, the valuation of your property upon completion will have increased by 20-50%, and with property prices rising on average of 30% per year in this area, it’s not surprising why so many people have already made the move. Another great benefit for buying off-plan, is that you pay in staged payments, so, if you already hold the cash for your investment upon opening a Turkish bank account you can invest your money into government bonds earning you currently 19% interest, and has been known to rise to over 20%, which at the time of maturity will pay for your furniture and furnishings. Upon completion, you can easily obtain a further income by renting out your property, with the current rates at approximately £300 per week, per bedroom, the potential for a very healthy second income is only too real.
Beta Construction who have gained the reputation of quality and superiority, are one of the leading competitors in the area today, established in 1984 they have been master builders in Istanbul and Dalyan creating luxury apartments, top quality hotels and luxury private villas. Determined to keep their costs low, and their quality high, Beta Construction are able to create a beautiful 2 bedroom, dream home with private pool and air-conditioning in a sought after area of Dalyan for just £90,000.
Beta Construction are also in the process of constructing, ‘Karia Houses’ a unique gated development on the outskirts of Dalyan. Nestled within 79,000 sqm of staggering landscaped grounds are 330 luxury apartments, with particular attention paid and the required adaptations made for those with limited mobility or wheelchair use. ‘Karia Houses’ is a place all the family of all ages and abilities can enjoy. In addition to the high quality craftsmanship of the 2 and 3 bedroom apartments the complex consists of all that you would require from a first class complex and more. Open all year round, Karia Houses has, indoor/outdoor swimming pools, Gym, Turkish Bath, Sauna, Beauty Therapies & Massage centre, café’s, restaurants, supermarket, small infirmary with qualified doctors and nursing staff, children’s park with qualified staff keeping them entertained throughout the day, tennis courts, multi-purpose sports field, and zoned gardens for peace and tranquillity. With preservation of the environment in mind, Beta Construction has made the complex a traffic free zone, making it safe for children and an emissions free environment. Upon entering the complex by car you will park in the underground car park, a lift will take you and your luggage to ground level, where you will be met by a driver of an electric cart who will escort you to your apartment. The 24hr concierge and room service provides you with a feeling of luxury 5* hotel accommodation, yet still maintaining the joy of owning your own apartment, your own little piece of paradise. With a magnitude of additional benefits, at a price starting as low as £66,500 for a 2 bedroom apartment, the complex is ideal for those wishing to make it a permanent residence, holiday home or rental income.
We make assumptions and perceive the world around us by listening to the media, that at times can be exaggerative or misleading or sometimes not enough information is given, leaving us to put our own interpretations on the story that is being told. However, Turkey maintains the policy that regardless of religion, social background, ethnicity, gender or culture the State is fair to all residents. So with that in mind, maybe we should be less hasty in making judgements purely on what we may see on TV or what other people say, sometimes we need to form our own views from the facts, and to get the real facts, sometimes we need to make the journey ourselves.
‘Why the heck would any one want to move to Turkey’? Two years ago, I asked the same question, just under two years ago with a degree of anxiety and trepidation myself and my mum made the move to Turkey, to Dalyan a place of sheer beauty, slow relaxed pace of life, a relaxed crime free environment, wonderful warm and welcoming people of all nationalities. Our stunning villa that we purchased off-plan nearly two years ago has more than doubled in value, we have made wonderful friends, and our health has improved beyond belief. My mum, who is a diabetic, has been able to reduce her medication, from three times a day to just once a day, due to the changes in diet and the healthy, fresh organically grown fruit and vegetables we consume each day. The walks along the spectacular beach, has increased our energy levels, making us fitter generally. The car is used less, and the feeling of well-being is magnificent. Dalyan, is a magical place that once visited will stay imprinted in your memories for years to come. Dalyan is our home
