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As COVID cases dropped and lockdown and travel restrictions across Europe began to ease, people across the continent started planning holidays away to make the most of the remaining summer months. Yet, some major European cities have since experienced new spikes in the virus. As a result, holidaymakers returning to the UK from these countries were either forced to isolate for 2 weeks upon return, leading to many cancelling their plans altogether. Other countries require tourists arriving from the UK to quarantine on arrival.

Yet, there are destinations in Europe where non-essential travel from the UK is still allowed, without quarantining on arrival or self-isolating on return. Turkey is one of the most popular holiday destinations for Brits, and one of the few in Europe where tourists from the UK aren’t required to quarantine in Turkey, or isolate when back in the UK.

Arriving in Turkey

Due to the pandemic, there are medical evaluations travellers will face on arrival to the Mediterranean nation. These will test for any symptoms of COVID-19, including temperature checks. If tourists show any symptoms on arrival, they will be required to take a coronavirus test. Tourists are also required to fill in a form on the government’s website stating their contact and journey details.

Once lockdown eased and travel restrictions across Europe were lifted, many countries allowed tourists from across the globe to enter their country without any medical checks for COVID-19 or any symptoms of the virus.

Perhaps this careful, proactive approach from the Turkish government is why COVID-19 cases remain so low compared to other popular holiday destinations across Europe. Although these medical checks may mean waiting times on arrival to the country are lightly increased, tourists can relax knowing they are entering a country taking the virus seriously.

Safety measures in Turkey

As well as these checks on arrival, the wearing of masks throughout the country is also obligatory. Unlike the UK where just recently mask-wearing has just recently been made compulsory on public transport and in shops, it is the law to wear face masks outside of the home and in any crowded place in Turkey. This includes shops, markets, hairdressers, public transport and private vehicles with more than one other person.

There are also capacity limits on forms of public transport in order to limit the spread of the virus by ensuring passengers can follow social distancing guidelines.

Many people are concerned about international travel due to the pandemic. Entering a country where the R rate is high is a risk. First of all, travellers will be worried about catching the virus whilst on holiday. Second of all, there is the risk that circumstances around travel can change, meaning holidaymakers may lose money on cancelled trips or need to self-isolate for 2 weeks on return.

Turkey, however, is one of the safest major European destinations currently, in terms of COVID-19. Unlike many European nations, the Mediterranean country hasn’t experienced a significant second spike. The peak of the virus in Turkey was mid-April. Since the decline, new cases in the country have remained steady since the beginning of June.

Reasons for this can be put down to the strict and proactive safety measures implemented by the government, medical checks upon arrival, as well as residents following social distancing regulations.

Private, luxury gulet travel

Of the European countries which have experienced significant second spikes of the virus, many of these have occurred in major metropolitan cities. In populated areas, such as popular tourist destinations, the virus is more likely to spread.

However, Turkey offers tourists the chance to experience countless, off-the-beaten-track locations, such as secluded coves, beaches and islands. One way to experience these locations is by private gulet charter.

Private gulet charter allows tourists the chance to experience a luxury holiday, whilst remaining safe and practising social distancing throughout. Private gulet charter features private crew and chefs on board, all of which have their temperature checked twice daily. This ensures tourists can remain in their own social bubble and avoid coming into contact with large groups of tourists and locals alike.

Tourists are free to explore local seaside towns and beaches. There are countless secluded destinations. As the crew are local, they can advise on where you may like to visit. Should tourists wish, they can relax on beaches where social distancing can be easily maintained. Also, there are countless seaside restaurants available where social distancing is also practised.

Alternatively, the onboard crew can prepare meals for all of the guests if they don’t feel comfortable dining in restaurants with other tourists. The crew can prepare freshly made, authentic, local cuisine for guests. All food is fresh and sourced locally from markets. This makes for healthy and delicious cuisine, complemented by local beers and wines.

As guests have exclusive access to their own private gulet, they do not share the boat with anyone else, other than the regularly tested cabin crew. This ensures contact with other people is kept to a minimum. Also on arrival in Turkey, drivers can collect guests in private vehicles, whilst wearing gloves, masks and carrying out a deep clean of the vehicle before each journey.

Keeping safe abroad

Each country has its own laws and regulations in relation to the virus. The most effective ways to keep safe from the Coronavirus is to maintain social distancing and personal hygiene.

Keeping your distance from strangers, whether they show symptoms or not, can help prevent coming into contact with the virus. If possible stay at least 1 meter away from strangers.

Avoiding large crowds and gatherings is the best way to maintain social distancing. Private gulet charters allow for tourists to enjoy a luxury holiday in exotic locations, without needing to worry about maintaining social distancing. Private gulet charter provides tourists with their own social bubble, between the guests and cabin crew.

Guests can spend their entire vacation on the private gulet if they wish. However, if they would prefer to spend time onshore occasionally, whether it is visiting a seafood restaurant or spending time on the beach, this can be done safely also. Our cabin crew is familiar with the local towns, beaches and routes of Turkish travel itineraries. They can advise and recommend popular places to visit where it will be possible to maintain social distancing, relax and stay safe.

Guests can also relax when it comes to the hygiene of a private gulet charter. The general advice is to wash hands frequently, avoid touching your face with your hands and cleaning frequently-touched objects with disinfectant. The cabin crew of private gulet charters can take a proactive approach to maintain gulet hygiene, keeping the boat in shipshape condition.

Hand sanitisers can be located on various parts of the boat, for the crew and guests to regularly wash their hands. As well as this, cabin crew can carry out deep cleans of the boat between charters, and sterilise bathrooms, kitchens and leisure areas during the trip.

If you’re hoping for a safe vacation this year, then a gulet cruise to Turkey will provide you and your guests with peace of mind. As well as visiting a beautiful country with magnificent coastlines, you are able to easily keep distance from other tourists and locals outside of your bubble.

Map of the Top 22 Most Instagrammable Greek Islands

Posted in Guides

top 22 most instagrammable greek islands graphic

Explore 21 picture-perfect, unspoiled Greek islands (and 1 hidden gem you’ve probably never heard of)

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People have been flocking to the islands of Greece for decades. With centuries of history and culture, breathtaking natural beauty and an ideal summer holiday climate, it’s not hard to see why.

Many islands are common destinations for holiday weddings, as can be seen from popular hashtags like #SantoriniWedding, #KefaloniaWedding and #SifnosWedding totalling 78,754 posts on the photo sharing site.

In more recent years, the Greek islands have become a hotspot for influencers looking to take that perfect photo. Swimwear-clad, bronzed twentysomethings knot their bodies in yoga poses on the beach in hashtags for almost every island on our list, but which island can claim the crown of most instagrammable?

1. Santorini

Top of our list with the most pictures on a single hashtag (#Santorini with 4,906,519 posts) and the most pictures on Instagram at a staggering 5,641,586 is Santorini. Arguably one of the most Instagram-able destinations in the world, Santorini has everything from gorgeous sunsets, black sand beaches to the iconic blue and white Cycladic houses.

@lilopas

2. Crete

Largest of the Greek islands, Crete comes second on our list with an overall total of 3,998,421 posts on Instagram. Home to the palace of Knossos, the mythical birthplace of the Minotaur, Crete provides holidaymakers with a beautiful mixture of history, relaxation and exploration.

3. Mykonos

From the windmills in the Chora to the streets of Little Venice, Mykonos is filled with places to take that all-important Insta snap. The numbers prove this, with 3,769,924 images in total taken on the island. Well known for celebrity sightings, Mykonos also boasts a number of exclusive beach bars, restaurants and nightclubs in a stylish mix of the classic and the modern.

4. Rhodes

Fourth on the list is Rhodes with a total of 1,610,787 posts on Instagram. The Colossus of Rhodes, said to have been destroyed by an earthquake in 226 BC, was the tallest statue of the ancient world and was as tall as the Statue of Liberty. Rhodes is home to many white sand beaches, such as the beautiful St Paul’s Bay which can be seen from the cliffs above.

5. Corfu

Corfu makes top 5 most Instagram-able Greek islands and is the last island to have over 1 million posts (1,558,244 overall). Like many Greek islands, Corfu hosts thousands of British partygoers each year in the town of Kavos. If that’s not your thing, the island also features a number of beaches and is famous for its Easter celebrations.

6. Zante

Another island famous for its parties, Zakynthos or Zante has featured on Instagram 852,111 times. Laganas is the place for partying here but there’s also the legendary Navagio beach or shipwreck bay, only reachable by boat and without a doubt a once in a life time photo-op.

7. Ithaca

Capital of Odysseus’ kingdom from Homer’s Odyssey, Ithaca is another brilliant blend of history and modernity, search the medieval rock formations known as menhirs or visit the art hotels and stylish boutiques of capital Vathi. With everything to see, it’s no wonder this island features on Instagram 559,779 times.

8. Naxos

More resistant to the commercialisation some travellers experience in the more popular islands like Santorini and Mykonos, Naxos has held onto its traditional island charm. Explore glittering beaches, mountain views and the tiny village streets of Naxos town without the huge throng of crowds. Coming in at number 8, Naxos has been featured on Instagram 554,032 times.

@brendanvanson

9. Kefalonia/Cephalonia

Beaches, boats and buildings abound on Kefalonia, making for a relaxing holiday experience in the Ionians. The island is also the setting of 2001’s Captain Corelli’s Mandolin, chosen for the classic Greek look you can find on Myrtos beach or in seaside village Assos. The island has been shared on Instagram 529,650 times. For the perfect snap, head to Melissani cave where light hitting the water makes for an incredible glimpse at the natural beauty on offer across the island.

10. Hydra

A popular one with celebrities, Hydra is more of an off-the-beaten-path kind of island. While there aren’t many beaches to chill out on, you’ll find a number of stylish bars and restaurants and an abundance of hiking trails on which to take in the sights. The island also has no cars so this one is more for the adventurers than those with mobility issues or small children. The place to see or be seen, Hydra comes in 10^th with 485,447 Insta posts.

11. Milos

Shared on Instagram 375,687 times, Milos comes in behind Hydra in 11^th place. However, the island is naturally photogenic and the photo-sharing app is filled with unfiltered shots of the skyline at Sarakiniko and Mandrakia. The original home of the Venus de Milo, this island is a must-see in the Aegean.

12. Tinos

Only 15 minutes away from Mykonos, Tinos has managed to avoid the swarm of tourists so far. With 50 beautiful villages, there is a lot to experience when holidaying here. Food festivals, sunsets and hand-crafted statues in Pyrgos are notable photo opportunities through the year.

13. Andros

Featuring much more vegetation than many of its neighbours, Andros is known as Hydroussa (watery) by the Greeks. Home to a great deal of the well to-do, glamorous pictures can be taken in the streets of capital Hora, or the Museum of Contemporary Art. Special mention must go to Tourlitis Lighthouse which is located on a rock spire separate from the island and makes for a breathtaking image.

14. Sifnos

161,070 features on Instagram put Sifnos in 14^th. The island takes pride in its lesser-known Greek cuisine. #SifnosWedding also has 1,806 posts, a testament to the island’s natural beauty which makes for a perfect holiday, whether you’re tying the knot or just away with the family.

15. Symi

Symi is another island which avoids cars but for those happy to explore on foot, the acropolis sits 500 steps up from Little Symi port and the rest of the island features monasteries tucked away across the rocky expanse. The brightly coloured houses of the port have helped this island reach number 15 with 139,818 Insta posts.

16. Patmos

Only reachable by a 9-hour ferry ride from Athens, Patmos is a great hidden gem for more diligent travellers. The island is popular with influencer-types, as can be seen from the 132,568 posts on Instagram, but for those not so interested in doing an upside down leopard pose on the beach, narrow streets, sunsets and windmills also make for super like-able images.

@lncsua

17. Amorgos

Another destination better suited to die-hard travellers, Amorgos is an 8-hour ferry ride in high winds from Athens. Very few rooms to rent on the island mean you’ll have to get in fast if you want to get the perfect snap from Agia Anna or Agios Pavlos beaches like the 112,382 posters before you.

18. Kos

Even though Kos only reached 18^th on the list with 100,375 posts, there are a great many naturally photogenic sights for any avid traveller. Visit Palio Pyli, Antimachia Castle, or Agios Stefanos to find something picture perfect.

19. Folegandros

With fewer beaches and a much more barren landscape, there are fewer tourist sites on Folegandros, leading to it placing 19^th with 88,755 photos shared. However, the beaches there still have the clear blue waters of the Aegean and the dramatic cliffs make for a breathtaking view.

20. Serifos

Very little nightlife and fewer places to stay mean Serifos goes largely unvisited and brings it to 20^th with 84,908 images. Boasting 72 (or so they say) beaches which, out of season, you might be lucky to have all to yourself, Serifos is a holiday opportunity that you won’t want to let pass you by.

21. Astypalea

With a drastic drop in photographic footfall, Astypalea is our last island with 10,234 Insta posts. Somewhat of an unknown, a visit to Astypalea is still sure to be filled with sights from the sand bar beach at Kounoupoi to the piles of block houses in Chora.

@dimitris_assaf

Top 10 travel tips for Turkey

Posted in News

Turkey is one of the most unique, multicultural countries in the world. It has everything from beautiful, untouched beaches to bustling, vibrant cities. Due to its fusion of European and Asian heritage, it also boasts an incredibly rich history and diverse culture. There is plenty to see and plenty to learn from the history and the proud, accommodating locals.

Here at Salamander Voyages, although we specialise in private gulet charter across the coastline, we recognise Turkey has so much to offer inland as well. Allow us to run you through our tips and recommendations on how you can make the most out of a trip to Turkey.

Source: https://decoturpatpic.site/istanbuls-best-vr-cafe-cafesi-en-istan/

1) Learn the language

We’re not saying you need to be fluent in Turkish, however, like in most foreign countries, the locals will appreciate it if you at least make the effort with their language. Also outside of the big cities, not many of the locals will speak English.

Luckily, with the Turkish language, it’s fairly easy to pick up the basics. It’s an easy language to read and most words are pronounced how they are spelt. Once the locals hear you attempting Turkish, most will be able to understand you well enough. You’ll also likely be received much more warmly and even get better service in cafes and bars.

Here are a few basics:

‘evet’ means yes
‘hayir’ means no
‘tesekkür ederim’ means thank you.

2) Dress respectfully

Turkey has a mixture of Western & Eastern civilisation. Because of this, there is a very high Muslim population. In most places, you should be fine wearing what you want, however, the culture is more conservative the further East you go. In this case, it could be worth covering knees and shoulders. You’re perfectly allowed to wear what you like, however, the locals will find it more respectful if you cover up and avoid wearing shorts.

If you plan to visit a mosque, however, it is important to ensure you cover your hair, shoulders and legs. Also if you are invited into somebody’s home, you will usually be expected to take your shoes off.

Of course, all of this depends on where you go. In larger cities where it is less conservative, don’t be surprised to see more lavish clothing and style. The usual attire in busier cities is formal wear.

3) Clear your plate

There’s no denying one of the highlights of visiting Turkey is the food. Be aware though that it is quite common to find lots of places offer in excess of 3-course meals, sometimes even six. Also, many locals will consider it rude if you weren’t to completely clear your plate and accept all of the courses offered.

It’s best to accept all of the courses, however, be careful not to overindulge with the earlier ones. If you are served meze, a selection of small dishes, perhaps take a spoonful from each dish. Turkish people are very accommodating and a typical dish there is fairly large. Serving you large amounts of food is just their way of being polite.

However, If you are like us, having a few plates full of Turkish food isn’t a problem at all.

Source: https://www.soshiok.com/carousels-first-turkish-food-promotion/

4) City breaks

Turkey is blessed with a wide array of cities, many with unique and diverse characteristics and culture from each other. It may be difficult to visit all, but here are a few you should consider.

The capital Ankara, located in the centre of the country, is a centre for performing arts, including ballet, opera, the Presidential Symphony Orchestra and theatre.

Although not the capital city of Turkey, Istanbul is the biggest, most vibrant and atmospheric city in the country. The fourth highest populated country in the world, it possesses plenty of history and character.

There’s also Izmir on the Aegean coast, which has a traditional Greek feel. This city contains ancient Greek ruins and archaeology.

Antalya, also known as the Turquoise Coast due to its beautiful blue seas, is in the Southern Mediterranean region. Used as a port during Roman times, there is a harbour packed with yachts and stunning views of the beaches.

5) Visit the countryside

One of the wonderful things about Turkey is the vast landscapes of cities, countryside and beaches. This is why it’s important to make the most out of everywhere. The countryside may be more desolate than the cities however this is what makes it so peaceful and relaxing.

Mardin for example, located in the South-East of the country, is full of beautiful architecture, steep rocky hills and flat plains. Close to the borders of Syria and Iraq, it is a beautiful region, contrasting to buzzing cities like Istanbul.

6) Go to the beaches

Turkey is home to some mesmerising white, sandy beaches which spread for miles. Any place on the coast will suffice for a relaxing time spent sunbathing and paddling in the crystal clear oceans.

Dalyan Turtle Beach specifically is a beach we would recommend visiting. Dalyan is located between Fethiye and Marmaris, on the South-west Mediterranean coast. It is home to endangered loggerhead turtles who have been around for over 45 million years. They lay their eggs here and are heavily protected by the Turkish government and conservationists. These turtle filled beaches are a popular tourist hotspot.

Some other things to visit in Dalyan are the mudbaths, hot water springs and temple tombs.

Source: https://www.gofeminin.de/reise/die-10-schonsten-strande-in-europa-s1772237.html

7) Hire a gulet

One way to view a few of these beaches is to charter a gulet. You can hire a private gulet for a week or two, or even just book a gulet ride for the day.

A gulet is an excellent way to view the Turkish coastline in its full glory. Sailing across untampered beaches, coves and cliffs whilst sipping Turkish wine against the cool ocean breeze is an experience not to be missed.

You also get to visit secluded villages and archaeological sites on islands which are only accessible by boat.

8) Brush up on your History

Turkey has a powerful historical story, and due to its combination of Asian and European influences, there is plenty of it on offer.

Whether its visiting museums in the city, or the ancient ruins of the Ottomans, the Seljuks and the Mongols, wherever you go you’ll be sure to find something worthy of learning.

Istanbul, in particular, is a great city to visit museums. There’s the Hagia Sophia Museum, Topkapı Palace Museum and Harem Apartments, Istanbul Archaeological Museums, Istanbul Mosaic Museum, Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts, Museum for the History of Science and Technology in Islam, Chora Museum, Galata Mevlevi House Museum, Yıldız Palace, Rumeli Hisar Museum and Fethiye Museum to name a few.

9) Respect the culture

Turkish people are very proud and passionate. There are some topics which can be quite sensitive, so be careful what you say to avoid offending anyone.

Politics for example. Mustafa Kemal Atatürk became president in 1923 after founding the country. He also kickstarted Turkeys education, political structure, art and culture. Any insults or jokes about Atatürk won’t go down well. It is also illegal to make jokes or insult the government, the military and the Turkish flag.

As an Islam country, Ramadan is celebrated in Turkey. If you visit during Ramadan, you should only eat and drink in private during fasting hours. It is seen as disrespectful to eat and drink in front of people who are fasting.

It is also polite to try and bargain with Turkish people at markets and stalls. It is seen as a form of politeness and a way of positive communication, plus you get to save some money. Be wary not to try driving the price too low, however.

Football is also a very hot topic in Turkey, especially with the two Instanbul based teams, Fenerbahce and Galatasary. There is a fierce rivalry between the two teams, and supporters of each are very passionate and loyal. They may not take too kindly to any jokes or derogatory comments made about their team.

10) Hot air balloon ride

Another way to view the stunning landscapes Turkey has to offer is travelling via hot air balloon.

Cappadocia is in central Turkey, and home to Monks Valley. This valley is renowned for its unique ‘fairy chimneys’, which are tall clusters rock forming a vast, spectacular canyon.

The best way to see these mesmerising formations are from the sky in a hot air balloon. As well as the landscape itself, simply viewing numerous, colourful hot air balloons in the sky is a beautiful sight in itself.

You can also stay in cave houses which have been carved into these valleys. The people of Cappadocia lived in these caves for years, except now they’ve even been kitted out with electricity, showers and toilets.

Source: https://adarasblogazine.com/hot-air-ballooning-in-cappadocia/

Turkey has endless stories and places on offer, each one different and special. Whether you visit for the history, culture, food or landscapes, you’re sure to have a trip to remember.

The people are very friendly and accommodating, as well as proud and honourable. You will be well looked over whilst you are over there, and even more so if you are respectful and fully immerse yourself in the culture.