Music - A long history of influences from both Europe and Asia is reflected in Turkish music. Turks are proud of their centuries-old musical tradition, which is similar to the music of nearby Islamic regions such as Saudi Arabia, Iran, and northern India. There is also a lively tradition of folk music, with many regional styles and contributions from ethnic minorities, including the Roma (Gypsies). A cosmopolitan nation, Turkey has also adopted classical and popular music from the West, and developed genres that combine Western, Asian, and Arabic elements.

Food and Drink - Traditional Turkish cuisine includes meze, a tray or table of small dishes, including stuffed vine leaves, salads, and a variety of other items, as well as shish kebab grilled on a skewer. However, white beans should be considered as national food as it is eaten by almost every turk. Meat is often grilled. Turkish coffee ( kahve ), a thick brew served in small cups, is served with nearly every meal. Despite being overwhelmingly Muslim, Turkish people enjoy locally made beer, wine, and spirits. The national drink is raki, an aniseed-flavoured clear grape brandy that clouds when water is added.

Hospitality - is one of the cornerstones of the Turkish way of life. Turkish people are the most gracious and generous hosts as a result of their natural instincts. In every corner of the country such a traditional hospitality will meet you. Every individual feels bound to honor his guest in the best possible manner. They will open their houses to every guest with a smiling face and with all their sincerity give the best seat and cook the best food for their guest.

Religion - About 98% of Turkey's population is Muslim (about two-thirds Sunni, one-third Shia). But the Turkish government makes it very clear that Turkey is a secular state with complete freedom of religion. Although Turkish laws and other social structures are not based on Islamic principles, Islam maintains some influence on society especially in the rural areas. Traditional dress which was widely used during the pre-republic period differs from region to region and may still be worn in rural areas or for special occasions.

Language - Turkish, is the official language of the country, that is related to the Uralic-Altaic languages spoken across from Finland to China. The language has undergone major reforms during the 20th century. Arabic and Persian scripts were used during the Ottoman Empire period, but a modified Latin-based alphabet, with some extra letters, was introduced in 1928 which has been spoken since then. The Turkish alphabet doesn't contain the letters "Q , W, X . of the English alphabet. Arabic is also spoken especially in the Southeastern provinces. English is also becoming a popular foreign language probably as third language.

Not only does the South West Coast of Turkey offer stunning scenery, beautiful beaches, and a wealth of history and culture, there are plenty of activities and excursions to keep you occupied. Here are just a few.

Scuba Diving - Many resort areas offer scuba diving and lessons. The Mediterrenean with its warm, calm, tide free seas with great visibility make this area ideal for both beginners and more experienced divers.

White Water Rafting - The Dalaman River is just a 25 minute drive from Dalyan and upstream has some of the best whitewater rafting in Turkey. Professional river guides with the latest rafts and equipment will insure that your day on the river is a fun and memorable one.

Mud Bath - The Mud Baths are a short walk or water taxi from the centre of Dalyan. "Beauty Mud" which not only cleanses and tones the skin but is said to remedy rheumatism and has anti-ageing properties. After allowing the mud to dry, it can be removed in a natural clear water sulphur pool, at temperatures of around 40 Celsius. This leaves you refreshed and relaxed.

Horse Riding - What better way to explore the vast and varied landscape of Turkey than on horseback. There are a handful of specialist centres across Turkey that cater specifically for equestrian tourism.

Paragliding - There are two excellent paragliding centers in Lycia: Kas and Oludeniz (near Fethiye) which is one of the best places in the world to paraglide and has become a paragliders' mecca.

Turkish Bath - There are many Turkish Baths all over Turkey and they are great for when you first arrive in Turkey. Experience the true Turkish Delight in Traditional style, working your way from warm, to hot, to an enjoyable furnace. Then have a body scrub, to clean your body. It will never be so clean again!!!