The pretty Turkish resort town Brits are flocking to for winter sun – thanks to cheap holidays & 21C temperatures
A TINY Turkish holiday town is soaring in popularity this year – with it being a cheap winter sun option.
Most people will head to Antalya or Bodrum in Turkey, thanks to cheap package holidays.
However, a recent study has revealed the destination Side to be a popular hotspot for Brits.
The study was conducted by Thomas Cook, who returned to the UK market in 2020 after going into administration the year before.
The tour operator put the Turkish town of Side in the top 10 most popular short break destinations.
Despite not even appearing in the top ten last year, booking data has found that holidays are booming in the resort town.
Emma King, Thomas Cook’s head of product, said: “While Covid restrictions last year may have played some part in people’s decision-making, Turkey and Salou offer great value for families and couples looking for quick getaways in the sun. “
“We can see this year that people have broadened their horizons and value for money has been a priority for many of our customers, so while the Canaries are perfect for year-round sun, other areas have found renewed popularity because they are a little easier on the wallet.”
Found on the south coast of Turkey, Side has two beaches to choose from – East Beach and West Beach.
The West Beach is popular with holidaymakers, with resorts and white sand, while the East Beach is rockier but popular with locals.
It’s just a 30-minute drive from Antalya, so it’s easy for Brits to get to thanks to four-hour direct flights from the UK.
The resort also has a number of Greek and Roman ruins to explore nearby, including the UNESCO ancient city of Hierapolis.
The most popular attraction, however, is the Apollon Temple which dates back to 150AD.
Thousands of people have given it five stars online, with many calling it “magnificent” and the best place to see the sunset.
And tourists often visit the Old Town to shop, with stalls selling leather goods, jewellery and souvenirs.
Lots of the Old Town is built over large glass slabs so you can spot the ancient ruins underneath too.
While summer sees temperatures above 30C, if you visit Side in November, the weather remains above 21C, making it a great winter sun option.
We’ve found some amazing last-minute bargain holidays.
Thomas Cook has seven-night, all-inclusive holidays next month to Side for as little as £206p.
Not only does it include return flights, but you can spend the week in Beach Club Doganay, with its own private pool.
The tour operator has a number of other all-inclusive breaks next month for less than £300pp.
This includes five-star resorts including Senza The Inn Resort and Side Star Resort.
We’ve found some other cheap Turkey holiday deals for less than £250pp.
To visit Turkey, your passport must have at least 150 days left on it and have a full blank page for exit and entry stamps.
Brits can stay for 90 days within a 180-day period without needing a visa.
The UK is currently two hours behind Turkey and £10 gets around 340 lira.
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