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Could Kalkan be the ideal isolation destination?

Kalkan, Turkey

With coronavirus lockdowns easing in many parts of the world, many people are thinking about a cautious return to normality. And naturally, thoughts are turning to holidays. However, while travel will resume in a cautious way, it's likely that for a while, tourism might look a little bit different.

Last summer's crowds packed onto a beach will not be the norm in a post-covid world. For many tourists, isolation is taking precedence in a holiday wish list: a sunny spot, in an out-of-the-way town with large, private villas. So it's not surprising that travel companies have begun fielding enquiries about Kalkan, the Mediterranean resort town that has long been a favourite with British tourists looking to for splendid, sunny isolation.

Kalkan's enduring allure

Located near Patara Beach, one of Turkey's most beautiful stretches of sand, Kalkan is one of the most exclusive holiday destinations on the coast. Being a 1.5 hour drive from the nearest airport, Kalkan has managed to dodge mass tourism. With its cobbled streets, bright bougainvillea, whitewashed villas and ancient harbour, this enchanting town has never been one for throngs of bucket-and-spade tourists. Kalkan is refined: beach clubs, rooftop dining and harbour side strolls. 

And now, the pretty town with its sweeping sea views is on the radar for tourists looking for socially isolated holidays. Travel agencies are reporting a surge of interest in the resort town, especially from British tourists seeking to escape the uncertainty and anxiety as the government attempts to contain surging numbers of coronavirus cases. Some agencies and villa rental companies have reported taking pre-reservations.

The town is perfectly geared up for isolated holidays: the 5000 villas available for rent are generally spacious and private, luxurious properties for people accustomed to the finer side of life.

The town is popular with Europeans, especially the British.  “About 80 percent of those who spend their holidays in the Kalkan region are British,” said Huseyin Gencer, who overseas rental properties in Kalkan.

“Those who want socially isolated holidays due to the coronavirus outbreak started to prefer villas. People just want to choose alternatives that have their own pools and living spaces,” Gencer said.

Kalkan villas, which generally have private pools and a lot of outdoor space as well as sweeping sea views, are the ideal way to isolate without feeling hemmed in, Gencer said. It's even possible for two families or a group to isolate comfortably, with plenty of space.

The coastline nearby has a wealth of attractions and activities for tourists looking for day trips from Kalkan. However, with villas perfectly set up for holidaymakers, you might want to just sit back, relax, and let the sunshine cleanse the past few months fall away.

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