Turkey is beguiling—rich in history, lively cities, spectacular landscapes and beautiful beaches. There are landforms here that exist nowhere else in the world. There are countless choices for places to stay here with amazing views, ranging from historic old towns to shimmering beaches with blue turquoise and sapphire waters. 
Staying in both urban areas and out in the countryside will give you a good idea of the Turkish people and their distinctive culture. Wherever we stayed on our recent trip, the hosts and staff were exceptionally kind and helpful.
You will also have the opportunity to sample some of the most delicious cuisine in the world!
A roadtrip through Turkey will be featured in a later post.
Karaburun (Istanbul)—Villa Siesta -Hotel Expedia booking
Istanbul’s huge airport has few hotels on its grounds. The “airport hotels” are some distance away. From this hotel you will not have to fight the rush hour traffic from Istanbul. The Villa Siesta Hotel, 27 miles from the airport, is a great choice: very helpful people, fine rooms, good restaurant. The suites facing the Black Sea offer superb views of the sea and a private balcony. If you leave the door open you can hear the melodic call to prayer. 
The suites are especially nice with fine contemporary décor and the space looks freshly remodeled. We stayed here the night of our arrival, and the nights before our flights. Both times we really enjoyed being there. They also provide an excellent complimentary breakfast. We were very fortunate the manager let us leave some luggage between our stays at no charge, and arranged transportation to the airport.
Goreme—Aza Cave Hotel-Expedia booking
Cappadocia is a jewel of Turkey, an utterly unique landscape on stone columns and cones. Many fine hotels there, and we selected a very good one: Aza Cave Hotel. It is for adults and older children. 
Our rooms— a bedroom, sitting room with a fireplace, bathroom with a clawfoot tub, plus a patio—were spacious and perfectly situated to views of the stunning landscape. In the morning—weather permitting—hot air balloons could be seen from our window, and one got so close that it seemed it might land in front of us. The breakfast buffet with separate orders of omelettes, etc. is probably the most elaborate we have seen to date. The staff is very helpful and friendly. Rules require that a staff member setup and light the fireplace on request. Fatih did this every night for us and we appreciated his service. We also enjoyed that this was a more quiet spot in the bustling Goreme up in hills above, amongst the fairy chimneys.
Sirince—The Lamin House Nestled Among Olive Groves – Airbnb
Such a peaceful retreat—surrounded by an olive grove, the sounds of the melodic Muezzin call to prayer and the crackle of the wood in the fireplace hang in the air. The host provides plenty of wood. This is a sanctuary of silence and nature. There is a luxurious, infinity pool fed by an artesian spring, from which you can hear the sound as it flows all the way to the cottage. So private, but only a short drive away is the bustling, well visited Sirince Village, 
and a bit farther are Ephesus, the Basilica of St. John, and the House of the Virgin Mary. The amenities are simple, but more than adequate. Our host Alison, was very helpful and can really help with any touring questions. A great place to get away from it all and not be too far from it all.
Antalya—Historic Ambiance Near Hadrian’s Gate- Airbnb
We have stayed at many apartments in many different countries, and this may be the best to date. It is located in Antalya’s Old Town, and is within easy walk of many restaurants, shops and the marina. The two-floor apartment is beautifully renovated with all the amenities: washer/dryer, cable television, small backyard, and a kitchen with a very well-stocked refrigerator. The open concept floor plan is filled with tasteful contemporary furnishings of a high quality. It is quite spacious in both the living area and upstairs bedrooms.
We thoroughly enjoyed the location. It is quieter than other areas of the old town. Directly across from the apartment is a café to pick up breakfast. The neighborhood is a maze cobbled streets and narrow alleys, filled with striking Ottoman-style architecture.
Parking can be a challenge in Antalya, and our host, Ibrahim, guided us to a lot with reasonable rates and very helpful people. Ibrahim and his sister Emine greeted us at the apartment, explained all the features. Every morning during our stay, he texted us, asking if we needed anything. He helped with our luggage on our arrival and departure. A delightful host and a delightful place to stay!
Amasra—Ruhi Palace-Ada Apartment
Amasra has another Old Town with interesting and winding narrow streets. We never would have found the apartment without the help of our host, Muhammet, or get our luggage up the sometimes steep inclines without his scooter. The views from the apartment through the long row of windows of the harbor and the old stone bridge are stunning. The space is well furnished with a 1930s vintage feel. The lighting fixtures on the ceiling are blown glass and are especially fine. Hot water for our showers was a little tricky as the water tends to run hot and cold. A short stay but a very pleasant one in a beautiful and interesting city. Plus the owner left us a very nice gift.
Istanbul—The Historic Urgliavich Apartment
Our stay in the Antoine Apartments in the Urgliavich Building was outstanding! We loved the historic nature of the home which is over 156 years old. From our windows we had stunning views of the Galata Tower. The area is busy and lined with endless choices for shopping and dining. The private wrap-around balcony gave us a bird’s eye view of the activity. 
The roof terrace, shared with other tenants, has breathtaking views of the Bosphorus river and the Tower. We did not see anyone else up there during our stay. The apartment has been renovated with fine molding in each room. High ceilings along with a stylish Art Deco Style bathroom. Naz is an excellent host, who arranged transportation to and from the airport. She responded to our questions very promptly as well as giving us tips on where to go and eat, shop and the best place to get a Turkish Bath.
Fethiye—Babylon Townhouse
Nestled on a steep hillside overlooking Fethiye’s Old Town, this cottage is pleasing and a bit quirky, with breathtaking views of the city and harbor. The location feels like an authentic Turkish neighborhood rather than one set up for tourists. There are artifacts from the Lycian culture everywhere nearby the apartment in some surprising places. It has all the amenities, including washer and dryer, and cable TV. Our very helpful host, Fergal, insisted on doing the heavy lifting with our luggage—no small service given the long, steep walk from the car park to our front door. 
He left us a refrigerator filled with goodies, and even walked down the 100 steps to Old Town and back to fetch a few things we needed. A great host, a great view, and a fine place to stay.
Don’t miss the opportunity to visit Turkey. The dramatic landscapes, beautiful Mosques, and palaces may surprise you.. You will discover ancient cultures you may not have heard of. This land, which is part in Europe and part in Asia, will stay in your heart and mind long after you return home.