Dalyan – 1st to 4th November

All plans went out of the window on Saturday 1st November as I had a few Resort Experts quotes to do. I didn’t bother going to the market and went back to bed with a cup of Yorkshire tea, for the first time in quite a while!
I faced the income versus expenditure spreadsheet with a little trepidation as I knew I’d spent too much this month. My budget for October was set at £500, which included Captain Caveman giving me some cash. Unfortunately, I ended up spending just short of £900 including all bills, the course for making my new planner and a flight to the UK with luggage. It meant that I really needed to be extra careful in November and that I was starting the new month on a minus figure of £106. It was going to be a tough month and Captain Caveman was coming to visit at the end of the month which means we always spend more then.
Captain Caveman had already been in touch as he had decided he wanted to go to a music event in Plovdiv, Bulgaria, for his birthday next year. He’d bought 2 tickets for the 3 day Phillgood gig which had bands such as The Cure, Gorillaz, and Moby headlining. So, I spent some time looking at flights and hotels for Plovdiv and Sofia in Bulgaria for the 2 of us.
I had to cancel going round to Kate’s to meet the new kittens as I was too busy faffing around. I managed to get to the bakery where I bought a croissant and a fresh loaf for 105 lira (£1.91) so had lunch while still working, but then had a belly ache.
For dinner I made a chickpea and spinach curry with steamed rice and booked the Old Legends hotel in Plovdiv for Captain Caveman and I. Surprisingly, I got a better rate than Booking .com on a hotel in Sofia so I booked that for 2 nights prior to the gig, so that we could have a look around the capital. Neither of us have been to Bulgaria before and it was on our list of places to visit. I was excited as I miss going to concerts and hearing good live music.
I then decided to look at holidays for January as Captain Caveman really wanted us to go away, despite me saying I couldn’t afford to spend money on holidays while I was still building my empire.

Gratitude List
1. Dealing with budget issues instead of ignoring them
2. Captain Caveman insisting on a trip to Bulgaria in 2026
3. Getting some good deals with Resort Experts for our own holidays.

On Sunday 2nd November there was a bit of excitement in the air. I booked our own holiday to Morocco, through Resort Experts of course. We decided we would be staying in Marrakech for a week on a Bed & Breakfast basis, in a cute little riad for around £900 for the both of us. We were both excited and thought that was quite a bargain.
Nanny Kay popped round with some gifts; spare plates which she was getting rid of and I never have enough if I invite people over for dinner. She also gave me 3 black tops which were ideal for winter.
Later I met Vanessa and another friend in Ozzy’s as Vanessa had just arrived back in Dalyan for a few weeks.
I had a strawberry milkshake and a soda water for 210 lira (£3.82). For dinner, I just ate chicken nuggets for my one meal that day as I’d not had time to make what I had planned.

Gratitude List
1. Booking a holiday to Marrakech with Captain Caveman
2. New plates and tops from Nanny Kay
3. Out with friends for an entertaining catch up.

I had a busy Monday morning on Monday 3rd November; mostly content writing and scheduling. I also had several interactions with Captain Caveman, including messages before his 9am start. He got me researching the flight times and prices for our trip to Bulgaria. We finally plumped for the ones with BA and they were cheaper to book direct so Captain Caveman booked those and he paid for Morocco and the Bulgaria hotels. He’d also booked us tickets for Faithless, with cousin Anna, and a Metallica weekend ticket in July – both of which we were really looking forward to.
I didn’t have lunch until 2.30pm and just had soup with pasta in.
When I finished working for the day, I popped out for a walk and to get some shopping. Here’s what I got with prices in lira;

Migros Supermarket
Green peppers 10.49
Red onion 14.49
Milk 21.80
Red peppers 26.99
6 eggs 49.50
Wholemeal sliced loaf 84.95
Bitter chocolate 87.50
2 Quark 91.90
Total spent 387.62 lira (£6.96)

There were still no tinned tomatoes so I went to the next shop;

Şok Supermarket
1 Dido chocolate bar 46.50
775g chicken 189.63
Total spent 236.13 lira (£4.29)

No tomatoes still!
I wasn’t hungry, so for dinner I just had chestnuts and had an early night.

Gratitude List
1. Booking our own holidays
2. Shopping
3. Having an early night.

It was the calm before the storm on Tuesday 4th November. I split my day between Resort Experts and designing my new planner. I was getting rather impatient with Canva as I was half teaching myself and half following instructions from Claire Clarke from her videos. I had never realised it, but I’m not good at following spoken instruction and would much rather read the instructions.
It was 4pm when I finally got some lunch which was a warmed up chickpea and spinach curry. Captain Caveman had booked his trip to Vietnam without me for March as I was already busy then. We had discussed me getting a flight to London on the Easter weekend to meet him on his return but they were £74 one way, without luggage. Also, I had a couple of work related events/more Fam trips which may be happening in April and I didn’t want to miss out on those. I worked hard that day and didn’t realise until 10.30pm that I had not moved from my desk! At 11pm I just had chestnuts for dinner (again).

Gratitude List
1. Curry for lunch
2. Captain Caveman finally getting a trip to Vietnam booked in
3. Chestnuts.

Dalyan – 29th & 30th October

It was weigh day again on Wednesday 29th October and I was not optimistic, given last night’s over indulgences. It was also the end of my dog sitting for Norman as Jamie would arrive back after 10pm tonight.
It was a busy day, starting with me having to wake little Norman up at 7.35am.
I took my measurements; I had lost 1cm from my bust and waist and 2cm from my hips – that was surprising, but we would see what Carol’s scales said later.
I worked and got ready for the dog and house handover, at lunch time I went to the shops on the way to Fat Club. Here’s what I bought with prices in lira:

Migros Supermarket
1 toastie loaf 70.00
1 pack Rivita crackers 79.00
375g Chestnuts 104.98
3 Quark 137.85
Total spent 391.83 lira (£7.19)

At Fat Club I was pleased to find I had not put weight on, in fact I was 0.15kg (0.3lb) lighter! I picked up a Slimming World book for more inspiration for this week and was determined to do better. I joined an entrepreneur Facebook group, The Impact Project, run by Strategist Lisa Johnson which was free and looked interesting.
For lunch I had rivitas with cheese, olives and grapes (as a treat), and I had interest in my cheese.
In the evening I just had 7 chestnuts for dinner as I wasn’t hungry and I had been too busy.

Gratitude List
1. Losing weight
2. Norman
3. Chestnuts.

On Thursday 30th October I had a chat booked in with a publisher about doing my next book cover for me. I’d been so busy and stressed with Canva that I really needed some expertise for ‘The Handy Travel Planner’. It would also mean that I could get it completed to be able to have it out by Christmas, hopefully. I’d done a few designs myself but they lacked oomph so I spoke to Nicole who works for Claire Clarke, a publisher of planners, workbooks and journals. We got on well and I was pleased she got me and wasn’t offended when I ranted on just how much I hated Pinterest and found it an utter waste of time.
In the afternoon, I had a Resort Experts team meeting to attend where we had a training session with Major Travel. They had some really great deals on for Dubai as well as covering the US and the Maldives.
After 6pm I ventured out of the house to draw out some cash for the weekend and to get more shopping in, here’s what I bought with prices in lira:

Migros Supermarket

Rice crackers 24.00
1 Dido chocolate bar 24.95
Pasta sauce (tomato) 33.95
Bin liners 44.95
Sliced wholemeal bread 59.90
Wholemeal wraps 93.50
Total spent 281.25 lira (£5.16)

It was a sign that November was approaching as there were no tinned tomatoes on the shelves, and not for the first time. I tried another shop but to no avail;

Şok Supermarket
500g pasta 14.00
Jellies 19.50
Chicken pieces 55.00
Total spent 88.50 lira (£1.62)

I arranged a night out for tomorrow with Jamie, Nanny Kay, my parents and their friends. It was bound to get messy as we were meeting at 6.30pm. I had less than £100 this month and I didn’t really have the money to be going out, however, I felt I needed a ‘Friday after work’ drink to round off a hard going month. Captain Caveman said he would give me some money and I said I would put it to one side for when he came next month.
I made a quick chicken pasta for dinner and then had an early night.

Gratitude List
1. Working with Claire and Nicole at IamClaireClarke on my next book
2. Being able to afford shopping
3. Captain Caveman offering to give me money so that I could go out at the weekend.

Dalyan – 25th & 26th October

It was still a bit wet out on the morning of Saturday 25th October so I had decided not to bother with the market. As the ground was wet with puddles and I was still wearing sandals, I thought I’d rather not get wet feet.
By the time it got to lunch time the sun was back out so I changed my mind and ventured out. I took a proper bag to the market and I’d already got cash so there was no faffing about today. Here’s what I bought with prices in lira;

Stall 1
3 potatoes 20 lira (37p)

Stall 2
Tulum cheese
White cheese
Olives
600 lira (£11)

Stall 3
Tomatoes
Carrots
Mushrooms
Pumpkin
Grapes
Strawberries
550 lira (£10.09)

Stall 4
Spinach Gözleme (pancake) 100 lira (£1.83)

Total spent 1,270 lira (£23.29) which was probably the most I’d spent in the market in a long time – it was also the most I’d carried since breaking my foot and I managed. I’d gone a bit mad on the cheese as the stall holder had the nice strong Tulum which looks like a regular cheddar but tastes more like a blue cheese without the blue in it – it’s very strong and lasts ages. I always get to taste the cheese and the olives too, even though I usually buy the same ones.
When I got back, Norman hadn’t even noticed I’d been gone and was still fast asleep. I ate my very tasty gözleme for lunch and then did some work in the afternoon/evening. Ma & Pa popped round, I gave them some eggs and they brought Norman’s towel & bowl back – they didn’t stay as they were off for a walk but I suggested we might catch up tomorrow.
For dinner I had a pasta dish and put a sprinkling of the tulum cheese on top. I didn’t have any alcohol as I was trying to be good tonight.

Gratitude List
1. Managing a full market shop and walking back with it all
2. Norman
3. Nice, simple food.

On Sunday 26th October I didn’t wake up until 7.50am and when I went downstairs, Norman had had an accident – runny poo on the tiled floor and he’d slipped in it. Poor Norman had to be cleaned as well as the floor and he had a sorry look in his eyes. I told him everything was going to be ok and stayed with him all morning, I even made him some eggs for breakfast.
I decided to make a pumpkin soup in the slow cooker and did a bit of work, despite it being a Sunday. For lunch I had leftover pasta with the rest of the salad from Friday’s takeaway and Norman, although sleepy, seemed to be doing much better.
I left him for an hour when my parents called to go for a walk to the Kefal tea gardens. They both ordered a mackerel sandwich and drinks but I just had a plate of chips. I decided to ask my parents over for a Sunday dinner and we walked back past the Şevikoğlu shop to buy provisions. Unfortunately, they had no whole chickens left, nor any decent wine so we had to make do with chicken breasts and I would order the booze in.

Here’s what I bought, with prices in lira;

Şevikoğlu Supermarket
1 plastic bag 0.50
Red cabbage 21.39
Wet wipes 39.90
3 Dido nut chocolate bars 89.70
1.6kg chicken breasts 295.04
Total spent 446.53 lira (£8.19)

When we got back, Norman was pleased to see us and had been fine. I messaged the off licence for them to bring us wine – my parents were surprised you could do this but it saved us walking and carrying it.

Yaman Büfe
Wine
Soda water
Total spent 1,040 lira (£19.08)

We sat on the terrace with our wine and Norman potted about, he was having trouble with the steps so we tried to fashion a ramp out of a big tile. Norman seemed interested but it wasn’t really safe.
I served up the pumpkin soup, a first try of it for my parents who said they liked it (they didn’t have seconds though). We had sliced chicken breast with roast potatoes, carrots and red cabbage for main, I didn’t have any stuffing to put with it. I saved Norman some chicken as he’s quite partial to a roast dinner and he wolfed it down. Our dessert was just a Dido chocolate bar each and we didn’t have a late one as I had to be up early tomorrow. It was nice to have Sunday dinner with my parents and have the afternoon off.

Gratitude List
1. Good food
2. Norman
3. Spending time with my parents.

Dalyan – 20th & 21st October

It was back to it on Monday 20th October and I had plenty to do, before looking after Norman on Wednesday. The weather forecast over the next few days predicted rain.
At lunch time I had a break and warmed up a curry I had got out of the freezer, then cracked back on with the to do list.
I finished on the laptop at 5.45pm and made myself a ‘pretend’ pizza with a wholemeal wrap base, but forgot I didn’t have any grated mozzarella – I used cheese balls instead and it still tasted fine.
At 9.30pm I had a video call with Captain Caveman who was continuing to work hard in the UK. We both agreed it felt a long time to be waiting to see each other again.

Gratitude List
1. It not raining yet
2. Easy and tasty meals
3. Speaking to Captain Caveman.

I had a bit of excitement on Tuesday 21st October; I pushed through the to do list in the morning and then had arranged to meet up with friends, Dot & Ian.
The rain hadn’t started yet so I made my way to Okyanus where we had some drinks and a lovely lunch. Dot ordered Menemen, Ian a breakfast sandwich and I had a chicken wrap with homemade chips. Dot and I had a couple of white wines, Ian drank Efes and we chatted loads. It was great to hear their future plans and it was lovely sunshine until the rain came. I’d helped them out with a passport situation when I was in London last so they insisted on paying for lunch, which was very kind and totally unexpected. I really enjoyed our catch up, the lunch was lovely and it was nice to take a little bit of time off too. We said our farewells at my gate and I spent the afternoon catching up on some content writing. I even sat out on the balcony as the sun was back out and it was rather warm. A friend had organised a ladies night boat trip which I had to decline, not just because it wasn’t in the budget but, because I had a full diary until 6pm and it started at 3pm. I got a message saying I would be missed which was thoughtful.

I messaged my parents to see if I could call in after going to the shops later, as it had been a week since I saw them. Unfortunately, they already had plans to join friends for a night out and were waiting for confirmation of where and when to meet them. At 6pm I decided to pop to the shop to get something for dinner and see if there was Quark in stock. My Mom messaged to say they could meet me for one drink before they went out with their friends, if I wanted, so I said yes.
Here’s what I bought in Migros, prices in lira;

Migros Süpermarket
Green peppers 13.98
Red peppers 15.88
2 Dido chocolate bars 49.00
Bananas 53.70
2 Dido Gold bars 54.00
2 packs of Mozzarella cheese 147.80
Total spent 334.46 lira (£6.14)

I walked over to meet Ma & Pa in Jiks, which is opposite the supermarket. They already had Efes Malts on the go and I ordered a white wine and soda (with it being a school night). Mom kept checking her phone to see if her friend had sent the location of where they needed to be and my plan was to go back home with my shopping and make some dinner, once they left.
We had a couple of wines in Jiks and, when I went to the loo, Dad ordered me a third wine. This meant I’d had 5 wines today and was quite tipsy – weigh day tomorrow wasn’t going to go well!
We paid the 1300 lira bill at Jiks (£23.85) and we were ready to leave. Ma & Pa still hadn’t heard from her friend so we decided to call for one in Ren Garden. There is a cute cat that hangs about in there and it had befriended my parents (who don’t usually like cats). Once we got in there, we didn’t leave until midnight. I was sozzled and hadn’t had any dinner. Our bill in Ren Garden came to 1400 lira (£25.69) which I paid for and I don’t remember getting home!

Gratitude List
1. Lunch with Dot & Ian
2. Getting to see my parents for an impromptu night out
3. Remembering to take my shopping home.

Dalyan – 18th & 19th October

I started the day with cheese, olives and fresh bread for breakfast on Saturday 18th October. I tried to catch up with blogging but work had started on the building next door where there was lots of drilling noises. My Mom messaged to ask if I was going to the market, I didn’t think I could be bothered and decided to use what I had or stock up at the shop. Last night, Migros had quite a few empty shelves so I had to go back anyway. I asked what they were up to and they were busy meeting up with friends, so I wouldn’t see them this weekend.
I had more leek and potato soup for lunch then carried on with my content writing for social media. Time flew by and I went for a walk about 6pm where I realised the noise wasn’t building work but was palm tree trimming. I called at the supermarket again as I was out of Quark and onions. Here’s what I bought with prices in lira;

Migros Supermarket
2 onions 4.84
Spinach 34.00
2 sweet potatoes 68.36
1 wholemeal sliced loaf 70.00
72% bitter chocolate 79.95
Wholemeal wraps 93.50
82% dark chocolate 99.50
Mozzarella 119.90
3 Quark 137.85
Total spent 707.90 lira (£12.99)

For dinner I had a very strange concoction of chicken stew with a side of Turkish ravioli (mantı) instead of potatoes. It was really nice and very filling. I checked my countdown and Captain Caveman would be here in Dalyan in 5 weeks’ time.

Gratitude List
1. Great food
2. Catching up on my writing
3. Staying in for another night at the weekend.

Jamie and I had decided to take advantage of the last Sunday lunch at Lukka bar on Sunday 19th October. Lukka bar were going to be closing at the end of the month for a holiday and were also not going to be doing Sunday lunches over the winter. On my way out of our complex, I saw a small, dead snake and took a photo to send to Captain Caveman to see if he could identify it – I didn’t hear back.

Jamie and I met up at Lukka bar and we decided a bottle of red wine would go lovely with our roast beef dinners. The Sunday lunch portion size is generous so I hadn’t bothered with breakfast and I also took my tupperware. The meal tasted lovely and I was conscious that my Slimming World plan was, once again, out of the window. I made the mistake of ordering my gravy on the side but, with hindsight, I should’ve had it together as the dish is clay and it can make the food stick or become dry without the gravy on – I salvaged it by pouring it on though. I took some of my dinner plus my apple pie home as I was full and trying to be good. Even though it’s not the cheapest place in town, we were both very happy with our Sunday lunch and the price. Here’s what we paid, prices in lira:

Soda water 70
Coke zero 110
Large water 120
Bottle of Angora red wine 950
2 Beef Sunday dinners 2200
Total spent 3,450 lira (£63.30 so £31.65 each)

On my way back home I decided to move the dead snake with my crutch in case any of the stray animals tried to eat it. It turns out, it wasn’t dead!

Gratitude List
1. Sunday lunch at Lukka with Jamie
2. Leftovers
3. Not getting bitten by a snake.

The snake was alive

Dalyan – 15th to 17th October

I took my measurements on Wednesday 15th October to find the inevitable increase; bust +1cm, waist +2cm, hips +1cm. This was to be expected with an all inclusive 5 day break then a 2 course meal out last night. My weight had also increased by 0.5kg which I’m surprised wasn’t more. Luckily, all the walking had helped keep it to a minimum. I was busy catching up with work so I didn’t do much else today. As I was so busy, I didn’t cook any proper meals, instead, I finished off the pastries I still had from our trip to Antalya. One of the gifts from the Anex Fam trip was a handmade pot and I still wasn’t sure what I would use it for. The bath towel I got, went in the cupboard and would be my travel towel – particularly useful for boat trips in the warmer months too.
Later, I had a video call with Captain Caveman who was working hard in the UK and was glad to hear I had enjoyed the Anex Fam trip.

Gratitude List
1. Lucky to not weigh and measure more after all the indulgences.
2. Not stressing about the size of my to do list
3. Speaking to Captain Caveman.

Thursday 16th October went surprisingly quickly for me. As well as lots of catching up on work and book project tasks, I managed to pay for my home internet online which was 600 lira (£11) for the month and I updated my income and expenditure spreadsheet. With hindsight, it was a good job that Captain Caveman wasn’t coming for a holiday in October as that would keep my spending lower for the rest of this month. In the afternoon, we had a team meeting where Jamie did a presentation on our trip to Antalya with Anex. We asked for Anex to be added to our quote system too as we were keen to be able to showcase Anex on QuoteAway.
I didn’t have time to go shopping so I made a mushroom and sweetcorn noodle dish for dinner, which wasn’t great but I ate it. I was trying to get back on the Slimming World plan before I got any heavier.

Gratitude List
1. Still being frugal to save money
2. Having food in the house so I didn’t have to go shopping
3. Getting back on track after being away.

I woke up on Friday 17th October after a restless night’s sleep. I also looked like I’d been dragged through a hedge backwards in my dreams! I did some work then had a catch up with a friend in the UK who usually calls me on her Friday morning walk. It was nice to talk to her and hear how she was doing well.
Before lunch I did some quotes for families looking at the price of going to Land of Legends next summer. I had a leek and potato soup followed by fruit then carried on with work for the rest of the afternoon, including helping out a family member and a webinar for some cruise training. I finished around 6.30pm and went to the supermarket – it was time to stock up. Here’s what I bought with prices in lira;

Migros Supermarket
Milk 21.80
Dido nut chocolate bar 30.00
Tomato pasta sauce 33.95
Marshmallows 39.95
Cashew nuts 95.00
Turkish ravioli (mantı) 119.95
1.1kg chicken 214.07
Total spent 554.72 lira (£10.18)

Parlak Bakery
1 potato açma
1 tahini simit
1 fresh bread
Total spent 85 lira (£1.56)

Unfortunately, the shelves in Migros were quite empty and I didn’t get everything I needed. I ate some of the bakery stuff for dinner with some olives, didn’t bother with any alcohol and went to bed early.

Gratitude List
1. A phonecall with a friend from the UK
2. Food shopping
3. Having a night in.

Antalya & Belek – 13th October

I was up early on Monday 13th October so that I had time for my last buffet breakfast at the 5 Star Selectum Luxury Resort hotel in Belek, near Antalya. Debby and I had breakfast together and we learned from some of the others that it had turned in to a late night for some of the party animals. We laughed that we were getting old as we were in bed with a hot drink before midnight. I decided to stock up on pastries and take some back to the room in case Jamie and I needed sustenance for the 4 hour journey home.

The Manchester Travel Agents were flying first, then the Gatwick ones. Check out was not until midday but I went back to pack, ready for getting back to Dalyan. Although I had managed very well with my broken foot and crutch, I was definitely tired and was looking forward to a rest – and less walking!
I met Jamie and some of the Anex staff in reception, and everyone was talking about how good a time they had been having on the Fam trip – we really had been well looked after. Before we knew it, we were heading over to the bar area where Amanda ordered a tray of Baby Guiness and offered them round to the 6 of us. Amanda and Stacey, from Anex, had the idea that Jamie and I should join them at the Kremlin Palace hotel tonight.They were already booked in for a few nights there so Jamie got on a video call to Drew to check if he minded and could he dog sit for one more night and, of course, he was fine with it. We did consider Drew coming to join us but it would not have been Norman’s cup of tea. I googled the bus times from Belek to Dalyan and the bus had already left Belek at 9.55am. There was a bus from Antalya at 11am which would mean getting a taxi to there, immediately! The bus would also take over 7 hours with stops in either Aydın, Fethiye, or both, then Ortaca. Stacey got on the phone to check availability and get us a discounted price to share a room at the Kremlin Palace while the attentive bar man placed more shots at the bar.
Our discounted price on an All Inclusive basis at the Kremlin Palace was £160 per room, so £80 each, and although not within my budget, I hadn’t spent anything in the last 4 days. We accepted the kind offer and took a Baby Guiness!
Having checked out of the Selectum, we went to wave off the Manchester lot as they boarded the bus for Antalya airport. It had been great to meet so many lovely people but we were surprised that the farewell committee consisted only of the Anex staff, Debby, Jamie and me.
I had some chocolate strawberries in reception and discovered there had been a cake bar just metres away from reception – I’m glad I’d not noticed it earlier. Jamie also found out that you could get soft drinks at any of the bars!
The Gatwick Travel Agents left next and we, of course, formed a very small farewell committee with the Anex staff. Jamie tried to convince Fulya to come with us to the Kremlin Palace but I think she was looking forward to a well deserved rest.

Once Jamie had drank enough soft drinks and coffee, we arranged to drive over to the Kremlin Palace, which wasn’t far, and meet the Anex staff there. I had work to do so I logged in at a table in reception as our room wasn’t ready until 2pm.
Jamie and I had people in mind back in Dalyan who would love a stay in the Selectum but either didn’t have a car or were unlikely enough to be sober enough to drive a hire car back to Dalyan after an All Inclusive break.
I messaged drivers in Dalyan to ask how much they would charge for a transfer. One was a bit shocked that anyone would be flash enough to pay for that and quoted £320, while the cheapest one way journey was a bargain in comparison at £200.
A hire car or the bus were still the better options.

After a few work related tasks, we had more of the Kremlin Palace’s champers and I had some Turkish delight. At 2.30pm, we went to our room which had a double and a single bed and had a bit of a sea view. There were snacks, fruit, drinks and toiletries as well as a complimentary bottle of Vodka, Whiskey and Prosecco, which was nice. I decided that as I was going to be paying £80 for an extra night, I was definitely going to make the most of it. I polished off the cookies and the baclava then we went to meet the 3 Anex staff; Amanda, Stacey and Tracey. Of course we waited at the beach bar, where Jamie was not impressed that we had to drink our all inclusive beer and prosecco from plastic cups. I spoke to the waiter and got free snacks to soak up the fizz. I tried the red wine and that was pretty good too.

The girls joined us and we had a good laugh as they had a great sense of humour and we were all on the same wavelength.
There was a shop at the Kremlin Palace that sold loads of stuff, including Salt & Vinegar crisps – ideal if you’re there with kids or drunk people, or both!
The restaurant was a bit of organised chaos and definitely had that ‘we don’t queue’ vibe from 95% of guests in there. Having said that, there was also a drinks waiter who was very generous on the wine pours and I thought the red wine was very good. As for the food options, there was so much choice and from various cuisines that it would suit even a fussy eater like me. All of the dishes were clearly labelled so that those of us with allergies could at least work out for ourselves if they were suitable. I had a chicken and rice dish with chips and some salad and it was very tasty. I didn’t really fancy a dessert but, as I’d paid for it, I got a bit of cheesecake down me – it was pretty good.
After dinner, we took a walk around the grounds where we tested out the (children’s) mini cars and had a race! It probably wasn’t wise with a broken foot but, to be honest, they were very easy to use and meant I was the speediest I’d been since I arrived in Antalya. Poor Tracey took a wrong turn and the man in charge had to chase after her. Reversing on cobbles also turned out to be trickier than it looked.
We decided, although it was technically a day off for us all, we needed to check out the Kremlin Palace indoor bar. Not everyone was impressed; the bar man was fast, abrupt and gave dangerous measures, the lighting was dim and the bar lacked atmosphere. However, there were ramps, the bar was near to the toilets, and there was a seating area with round booths which were ideal for chatting to your companions in. If you know what you want to drink, the bar man isn’t an issue – if you like your (premium) vodka and coke so strong you have to ask for a separate coke, you will love this place! There was also very few English guests so it did actually feel like you were on holiday, rather than down a Wetherspoons. I actually enjoyed the Kremlin Palace and would definitely recommend it for the right sort of person. I knew we were very lucky to have had the extra night and I’d enjoyed getting to know Amanda, Stacey & Tracey more.

Gratitude List
1. Farewell breakfast with Debby who had been a great room mate
2. Staying an extra night in another hotel, the Kremlin Palace
3. Getting to know the Anex girls and sharing some great stories together.

Photo Credit – some photos by Jamie and Amanda

Dalyan – 4th October

Saturday 4th October was not only market day in Dalyan but it was my first day without medication. It would turn out to be quite a frustrating morning but a rather lovely afternoon.
Debbie had already offered to get me some fruit and veg from the market. I’d declined her kind offer because my parents had said they were going and that we could go together. Ma agreed to give me cash in exchange for me doing a bank transfer which meant I only had to walk to the market and back. Unfortunately, I’d misunderstood about going to the market together as my parents prefer to walk to the market on a certain route and I didn’t want to walk to their’s and then through the side streets when it was easier and quicker for me to go down the main road. I thought I’d meet them there, get the money, share their shopping trolley for anything heavy and all walk back together. That didn’t happen. I got to the market fine, a bit in pain and frustrated at how slow I was. This meant my parents had almost finished their shopping and wanted to get off. I got the money from Mom and we bought some strawberries together before Dad needed to go to the loo. I’m so like my Dad in that regard as I also had wondered if I would make it there and back without a loo break. They weren’t walking back my way as they were going in to town to the supermarket so I couldn’t walk that distance yet.
I decided not to buy much else as I hadn’t even brought a suitable bag to carry the shopping back in. It was hard work walking back and the bag straps were cutting in to my shoulders. I managed to get over half way when Ali, came past on her mobility scooter and asked if I wanted a lift. I have never been so grateful for the offer of a lift.
She dropped me off just a few minutes later and she said she’d pop in next week for a cuppa and a chat. She also said to ask her to get me anything rather than struggling to get it myself. I was still pleased that I had managed it without the painkillers and I at least had something to offer my guests later. I had bought cheese, olives, butter, bananas, mushrooms and strawberries and I can’t recall how much I spent aside from the strawberries being 300 lira (£5.50). Luckily the off licence does free delivery so I could order that later.
After getting in, I was exhausted.
At midday Penny popped in for a cup of tea and brought some cakes, which were very good but a bit naughty, and some fresh bread. I took Norman out early so that he didn’t miss a walk once my next guests arrived. Captain Caveman called and we decided I would book my flights to see him at Christmas. I chose a return flight and added 15kg luggage. We also decided that, as we weren’t going to Vietnam for Christmas and New Year, we would look for a January holiday somewhere warm instead.
When The Aussies arrived I was out on the terrace waiting for them and I’d already ordered the following delivery from Yaman Büfe;
Gin
Tonic
Wine
Soda water
Ice
Crisps
Total spent 1,155.00 lira (£21.19)

I got out a few nibbles and we sat outside all evening. I had some wine with lots of soda as it was my first alcoholic drink in a month and I didn’t want to feel hungover tomorrow. My guests were on the gin and also brought some treats. We had a good laugh and Norman was glad of the company. Amanda and Greg didn’t leave until 2am and I think we had covered discussions on most topics – I even discovered Greg can do an excellent donkey impression. This was meant to have been our last goodbye but we agreed to a late lunch tomorrow afternoon.

Gratitude List
1. Surviving the market shopping
2. Getting a lift from Ali
3. Having Penny and the Aussies come over to visit.

Dalyan – 1st October

October was going to be eventful! I was awake before 7am on Wednesday 1st October and it would turn out to be a busy day. Before I even got out of bed, I had set the budget for the month at £1,000 and, now that Captain Caveman was no longer coming to visit me in October, I planned to work as much as possible on Resort Experts, my handy travel planner and the next handy travel tips book. This would mean I could turn down anything that was not aligned to my goals and my budget and concentrate on what needed to be done. I checked the data on my JOLOYOLO blog to find that it had less visitors and views last month, than in August. Vietnam readers were not in the Top 10 (again), the Top 3 countries were the UK, Turkey and Spain. I sat out on the terrace with a big mug of tea and started planning my week of looking after Norman. I also needed to get my broken foot to a point where I could walk properly again. It was weigh day, so I got weighed to find I had put on 0.25kg (0.6lb). Not great, but my measurements were more favourable; bust -2cm, waist no change, hips -3cm. I wasn’t able to walk to Fat Club today and I had too much going on with work to go, anyway.
Midmorning, I decided I would walk to the nearest shops to get some provisions. It took me about 25 minutes to get there and here is what I bought, with prices in lira;

Şevikoğlu Supermarket
Small water 5.00
Milk 13.00
1 simit 15.00
1 Loaf 15.00
1 Açma 15.00
Mints 19.00
Cherry sweets 20.00
Rice crackers 22.90
Biscuits 32.00
1 pot noodle 34.90
Digestives 45.00
Wholemeal bread 59.90
Feta Cheese 122.90
Total spent 419.60 lira (£7.63)

I was conscious that I couldn’t carry any tins, bottles or anything too heavy so I kept it to small or light items. When I got back, it had took me around 1 hour to walk the 300m and back! I still had quite a bit of improvement to make on the walking.

After eating an early lunch of an açma and a banana I worked and also started to look at holidays for Captain Caveman and I. I started a Facebook thing with a couple of colleagues, where we shared Optimistic October prompts. Today’s was to write down 3 things I was looking forward to in October. Mine were going to Antalya on a work trip, getting my handy travel planner a bit nearer to being completed and getting more content written for my next handy travel tips book.
I finally got little Norman out for a walk but we only made it as far as my parents gate and back. We didn’t go in, as they were out with friends on the yellow boat today, tomorrow they were off to Göcek. I’d asked them over for a farewell drink with the Aussies at the weekend but they weren’t able to join us as they had already been invited out with their friends for dinner and drinks on both Friday & Saturday. For dinner I warmed up a chicken dinner and then watched Netflix with Norman, before bed.

Gratitude List
1. Having good measurements despite putting weight on
2. Walking to the shops and back with actual shopping
3. Planning my own holiday.

Dalyan – 25th to 27th September

Thursday 25th September was mainly a ‘getting stuff done’ kind of a day, given that I had taken a day off yesterday – the first one in a while. I was meant to be joining my parents tonight to go on a boat to Kingfisher restaurant but we had decided to wait until I could walk a bit better. Unfortunately, my favourite pen ran out so I messaged my Mom to ask her to get me a couple more if she was passing the stationers. I also needed some medication from the pharmacy so she said she would be able to do that, which was good of her.
We had the Resort Experts team meeting where we discussed that Classic Collection were ceasing taking on any new bookings, which we were all shocked about. I had clients booked with them so it was reassuring to know that all would be fine for any holidays booked for the next year, and would run as booked.
In the evening, I had a video call with a Sheffield friend where we talked about lots of different topics, including that her and her husband would be back in Dalyan at the end of next month. What I couldn’t talk about was that her hubby was booking her a holiday as a surprise for her birthday next year and I had to keep it quiet – that was tricky! I also had a video call with Captain Caveman who was sat outside the Sun Inn, in Barnes, freezing his bits off.

Gratitude List
1. Knowing my clients who booked with Classic Collection would all still be looked after
2. Chatting to my friend without revealing the secret holiday plans
3. Speaking to Captain Caveman.

On Friday 26th September I was busy with work stuff as it was a lot of people’s pay day weekends. I had enquiries to do and I was hoping to get finished in time for a soirée I had been invited to that evening. I had more pasta bolognese for a late lunch as I was running out of time.
In the afternoon, I surprised a few of my colleagues, at Resort Experts, when I confirmed the ideal holiday for my friends. When I’d started this enquiry 37 days ago, I’d asked in the group chat for any help or advice from other Resort Experts who had more knowledge than me on USA, Canada and cruises – as these were areas I had the least knowledge in – I’d only been to New York once about 20 years ago! At the time I had replies saying that what the client wanted to do was impossible for the budget they had set. I called on friends outside of Resort Experts to help me, as well as an amazing lady at Travelpack. Over the last month, I’d contacted Norwegian Cruise Lines directly and I did endless training webinars and read up on all that I needed to know. So today, when we had confirmed the perfect holiday for the client and under the budget I was proud of myself.
I sent all the confirmation to the joint email adress as instructed by the husband booking it, then waited for his wife, my friend, to see the surprise. It took a while but when she did, we all had a video call and it was honestly the best feeling to have sorted out her birthday trip which included a 12 day cruise. She was so happy and I was relieved it exceeded her expectations.
After the call, I went over to Jamie and Drew’s where they were having a BBQ. I arrived with a bottle of Prosecco just in time for food and to find the party in full swing. I had a glass of Prosecco which got knocked over in to my chicken & salad and on to Nanny Kay’s crotch. We played loads of silly games and had a good laugh. After a couple more drinks, I ended up leaving just after Nanny Kay. It was about to get messy as I heard 3 people jump in the pool around 11.30pm. I’d taken no photos as my phone was almost dead.

Gratitude List
1. Being busy with Resort Experts
2. Getting the holiday booked for my friends
3. Having a good laugh at Jamie & Drew’s BBQ, especially when Nanny Kay had to cycle home with a soggy crotch!

Ma & Pa were off to the market on Saturday 27th September and had asked me if they could get me something. As they were coming to bring me some other stuff, I accepted their kind offer and they brought me nectarines, bananas and grapes. Mom wouldn’t take any money for the fruit so I wasn’t sure about the prices. But here’s what else they picked me up, with prices in lira;

Stationers
2 pens 200 lira (£3.64)

Şarküteri
250g Lurpak butter 345 lira (£6.27)!!!

Balcı Pharmacy
2 packs Contraceptive pills 658.36 lira (£11.97)
20 Ketoprofen 100mg 108.69 lira (£1.98)

I was shocked at the price the butter had gone up to and decided I would have to use it very sparingly. My parents didn’t stay long as they wanted to get back and rest up, ready for a trip to Ölüdeniz with friends tomorrow.
I ordered some water which came immediately and cost 100 lira (£1.82) for 19 litres.
That evening, I couldn’t be bothered to cook and I hadn’t remembered to get anything out of the freezer. I decided to treat myself to a takeaway, a first in a very long time. I contacted Onur at Simple and ordered beef noodles and a crispy chicken with fries. I decided I would eat half of each and save the rest for tomorrow. It cost 800 lira (£14.55) for the 2 dishes, including free delivery and was absolutely delicious.

Gratitude List
1. Shopping from Ma & Pa, which I really needed
2. Having a water delivery service
3. Delicious food delivery from Simple.

Dalyan & Ortaca – 22nd September

I had an appointment for my next hospital check up at 9.30am on Monday 22nd September. Ian and Janet had very kindly offered to take me, so I was up early having tea and toast before leaving at 8.45am. There were updates that the fires in the area had now been put out, which was great news.
It had been less than 3 weeks since I broke my 4th and 5th metatarsals in my foot and I was optimistically hoping to be given the all clear today. Once at the Yücelen hospital, Janet insisted on pushing me in a wheelchair. Not surprisingly, this made the whole visit so much more efficient, and less painful. Umut the translator was back, the orthopaedic doctor was pleased to see me and I was whizzed back and forth to the payment desk and x-ray room. As I had already used 80% of my 5,000 lira (£91) limit, under my outpatient provision on my health insurance, I was fully prepared to pay for my consultation, x-ray and any other costs. I’d already researched this and the girl at the desk said she would ask about getting me a discount as it was related to the same issue. While they sorted the bill, I went with Umut to the x-ray room where he took photos of my latest (and third) x-ray. When the doctor had me back in, he was very pleased and said it was healing well and I could now start to go swimming but I still needed to be careful and not walk without the crutch for perhaps another few weeks. I asked if I would now be allowed to fly and they did indeed say they could provide a fit to fly letter, should I need one. I could tell that the orthopaedic doctor wasn’t a fan of my Vietnamese porter sandals and he suggested that it might be a good idea to wear more supportive shoes. He also said to the translator that he had never had such a happy and positive patient. That made me laugh as I’d certainly not been feeling that way lately – maybe it was the painkillers which he offered me more of! I shook his hand and thanked him for all his help, I also said I would keep in touch with Umut via his Instagram so that I could follow his Japan adventure. I paid the bill of 4,375 lira (£80) not knowing at the time that I would end up being reimbursed for a chunk of it. As I’d not been able to drink any alcohol while on the medication, I had decided I would put 200 lira (£3.64) in to a glass for every day without having had any booze. That was easily what I might have ordinarily spent on drinks on average and I now had 3,800 lira (£69) saved up. Umut wheeled me back to the entrance where Ian & Janet were patiently waiting, then we left to go for a breakfast in Ortaca. At Cetem, a lovely cafe not too far from the hospital, we all had at least 1 Turkish tea, Ian ordered the menemen, Janet had pancakes and I went for the Turkish breakfast – well, I don’t get out much these days. I really enjoyed the food as well as the company and we did have a good laugh. Our waitress was really sweet and kept checking everything was ok while trying to clear the plates before we finished (not uncommon in Turkey). The bill came to just 1,200 lira (£21.82) and we were all stuffed. Janet and Ian nearly didn’t let me pay for breakfast and I had to put up a bit of a fight. Their kindness didn’t stop there, though, as Janet had got some new sandals which I’d been admiring so they even drove me to the same shop so that I could try on and buy a pair. They were Lumberjack velcro sandals which made me look like a fully fledged ramp user but, as soon as I put them on, they felt like I was walking (limping) on air. I was sold and, although I probably could’ve got them cheaper online, I was more than happy with the service of the sales assistant who made sure they fit properly and the fact that I had them straight away. I thought they were worth every lira at 1,900 lira (£34.55) and I was so pleased that Janet had recommended them to me as I would not have considered them otherwise. I must admit, I’d even tried on a pair of crocks (in desperation) but they weren’t comfortable for my foot.
We drove back to Dalyan and Ian dropped me right outside the door, Janet helped me to get inside the apartment with my new purchase and I was safely back home by 1pm. I felt a lot better knowing that my foot was healing and that I could potentially start to swim. I had some water then put my new sandals on in the house so that I could practice walking about in them. The bad foot fastened to about half way with the support bandage on which meant it was much more comfortable. I didn’t need any lunch and I did lots more cruise training in the afternoon. I was really fancying a Nile cruise in January 2027, now that I was learning all about the different types. At 8pm, Captain Caveman called me from London to have a video call. He was pleased that I’d had such a lovely morning with Janet & Ian and relieved I was getting better. At 8.30pm I warmed up more bolognese to go with pasta for dinner and then had an early night.

Gratitude List

Janet & Ian’s help and company
A good result at the hospital
New footwear.

Dalyan – 20th & 21st September

I woke up with my foot throbbing and itching at 7.15am on Saturday 20th September. The skies outside were still a little smoggy and the nearby fires were still ongoing. There were some posts on Facebook about local charities sharing, or not sharing, money donated from a recent event which involved some friends. I decided to leave all of the Facebook groups this related to as it was getting silly. I also did a sweep of any other Facebook groups or pages I followed that I no longer had time to follow and removed myself.
I had a cup of Yorkshire tea and some cheese spread on toast for breakfast then did a little bit of work and caught up on my blog posts.
Debbie very kindly went to the Saturday market for me again this week and here’s what she bought for less than 200 lira (£3.64), which I was delighted with;
2 onions
2 potatoes
Mushrooms
Red & Green peppers
4 carrots
1 lettuce
Bananas
Green Grapes
The lettuce alone was 50 lira (91p) which Debbie was unnecessarily apologetic about, given that they were cheaper last week. She also gave me more fresh figs, some black grapes and plums from her own stash. We had a drink and a chat, which was nice.
Later, Ma & Pa called in with some quark and bread for me from the shop. They didn’t stay long as they were off out with friends on a Dalyan night out. I warmed up some pasta Bolognese for dinner and spoke briefly to Captain Caveman who was working on site this weekend in North Wales.

Gratitude List
1. Cutting out the Facebook group crap made me feel better
2. Market produce brought for me by Debbie
3. Bread and Quark from my parents.

On Sunday 21st September I rested up mostly and caught up with some writing – I was quite behind. I treated myself to a bacon sandwich with the last packet of bacon from the freezer and the loaf my parents had brought yesterday.
I contemplated inviting my parents over for a meal but they were having a rest day as it had been a late one last night. Meanwhile, I was feeling the benefits of not having had any alcohol for 16 days with several more to go. Captain Caveman was in Newark meeting up with some friends for a Sunday lunch.
I reheated a roast chicken meal for my Sunday dinner and even treated myself to some gravy. I tried to have an early night, as I was up early for another hospital visit tomorrow morning, but I couldn’t sleep because of my foot pain and I had already taken the maximum amount of pain relief.

Gratitude List
1. Bacon
2. Writing
3. Sunday dinner.

Dalyan – 13th & 14th September

It was market day on Saturday 13th September and I’d offers from a few people to get me some shopping in, should I need it. I was running low on a few items so I asked Debbie if she would mind grabbing me some items. I spared my parents having to carry their own stuff and mine but did ask if they would get me some items from the shop, including a wholemeal sliced loaf for toast.
The water man came and, luckily, he always brings it upstairs and replaces it in the cooler, all for 100 lira (£1.82). Debbie arrived in the afternoon and brought me nectarines & onions from the market, figs from the garden and a Dido chocolate bar and some homemade cookies. It was a lovely treat and we sat and had a good natter over a cup of tea. I should send her to the market more often as it came to less than 100 lira. My parents arrived with shopping and it was hot outside as Dad moaned about Mom forgetting the shopping list. Ma bought me a loaf, a whole chicken and some cheese spread. They didn’t stay as they were a bit out of sorts with the heat, and Dad didn’t even notice Debbie was there.
That evening, I made a chickpea and spinach curry with steamed rice, which was very tasty and had spare for the fridge/freezer. I also had some naan bread in the freezer which I had to go with it.

Gratitude List
1. Having people who were able to go shopping and to the market for me
2. Tea and a chat with Debbie
3. Curry for dinner.

I’d toyed with the idea of inviting my parents round for a Sunday dinner on Sunday 14th September, not quite sure if I could hobble about long enough to cater. They had been here a week already and I’d only seen them twice. It turned out they were busy when I asked if they had plans but I decided if I cooked a roast chicken anyway, it would make me quite a few meals for the week.
I had fresh figs, nectarines and cheese for breakfast, which was delightful. I had beans on toast for lunch and then excelled myself on the roast dinner – I even did stuffing (but no Yorkshire puddings).
It tasted lovely but I think I’d overdone it as the washing up took longer than I thought and my foot hurt a lot. By the time I spoke to Captain Caveman at 8pm I was tired, in pain and emotional. He reminded me that it was not even 2 weeks since I broke 2 bones in my foot and that I needed more rest.

Gratitude List
1. Having nice food
2. Being able to cook for myself still
3. Knowing that things could be a lot worse and I would get better soon.

Dalyan – 7th September

Sunday 7th September was a busy day as I prepared for Captain Caveman leaving and my parents arriving. My parents’ flight was due to land at 10.20pm and Captain Caveman didn’t need to leave to go to the airport until 11.30pm at the earliest, however, I thought it would be a lovely idea to arrange for Captain Caveman to say hello (& goodbye) to Ma & Pa at the airport. My ‘crazy’ idea was that Captain Caveman and I would set off to Dalaman airport much earlier than required for his 1.20am flight on Monday morning. We could be at the Arrivals exit to jump out of their taxi, say hello and then leave Captain Caveman while the 3 of us headed back in the taxi to Dalyan. My parents last left Dalyan almost 10 months ago so I was also thinking they might need some help putting on the electric and sorting out their apartment so they could get to sleep quicker and I could perhaps help. Captain Caveman had agreed despite knowing he would be stuck in the most expensive airport for way too long, I wrongly assumed my parents would like this idea. Ma replied to say they would rather get straight off as they didn’t want to be hanging about.
My first mission for the day was to very slowly make it out for breakfast. Captain Caveman and I decided to go for a last day breakfast and treat ourselves to a large full English at Ela’s Kitchen. It’s not for the fainthearted (or those supposed to be doing Slimming World) but it is fantastic. Here’s what we had with the prices in lira – not the cheapest place in town but in my opinion it is one of the best;

1 Large bottle of water 100
1 Espresso 130
1 Yorkshire Tea 150
2 Large breakfasts 1,190
Tip 100
Total spent 1,670 lira (£30.36)

What a treat and we even asked for extra toast which we weren’t charged for – my eyes were bigger than my belly, even though I gave Captain Caveman my eggs and tomatoes (why he needed more toast). While we were at Ela’s we noticed a sign which stated they would not serve people who were half naked. This was a good move, however, a guy sat down under the sign and then took his shirt off! He didn’t get served and had to take his order away but the young waitress was clearly really embarrassed. While I crutched back home, Captain Caveman nipped to the shop for peppers and courgettes.

I rested up all afternoon while Captain Caveman sorted his packing and the moving of anything I might need/not around the house. We obviously didn’t need a lunch and I wasn’t mobile enough to do any cooking. Captain Caveman decided we should enjoy his last meal at Duble, another one of our favourite places to eat in Dalyan. Here’s what we had with prices in lira;

2 Lentil soups 250
1 Haydari 155
1 Beetroot 160
1 Hummus 170
1 Potato croquettes 165
1 Prawns 495
1 Liver & Onions 295
1 Red wine 140
1 Big Water 95
Tip 200
Total spent 2,125 lira (£38.64)

The food was fantastic and I felt so lucky to get all the prawns to myself as Captain Caveman can’t eat them. Ibo, the owner, was still chatty despite the place being really full. A couple even got turned away and told to come back later as it was so busy.
I really had been spoiled today although I was quite drowsy from the medication and the walking about when I had to say bye to Captain Caveman. Sonuç picked him up at 11.30pm but I didn’t go to the car to wave him off on account of me not wanting to come back up the stairs in the dark without any help. Hopefully, Captain Caveman would be coming back again in October, so I might get to see him soon.

Gratitude List
1. An amazing breakfast at Ela’s Kitchen with Captain Caveman
2. A wonderful dinner at Duble with Captain Caveman
3. Having had the best time with Captain Caveman in Turkey.

Dalyan – 5th September

Captain Caveman decided to treat me to breakfast at La Sorella on Friday 5th September. We ordered;
1 water
1 Espresso
1 Green tea
1 Croissant
1 Croissant with banana, berries & chocolate

I forgot how much it cost, though, I was slacking! It was very nice and, as I wasn’t able to drink alcohol for the next 2 weeks because of the painkillers, I was happy to have a food treat instead.
While I crutched back home, Captain Caveman went off to do the shopping and made sure he stocked up on items I would find hard to carry once he left Dalyan on Sunday. Here’s what he bought on the first visit, with prices in lira;

Migros Supermarket
1 Red onion 7.59
3 potatoes 10.88
4 milk 43.60
Grapes 47.36
1 Protein Quark 55.95
Wraps 84.50
Fabric Softener 116.95
Nectarines 130.85
Washing Powder 505.95
Total spent 1,003.60 lira (£18)

It was sunny in the afternoon so we went to Okyanus so that Captain Caveman could have a few beers in the sun and we could meet up with The Aussies who we hadn’t seen for a while. We ended up having some food there too – here’s what we paid;

Okyanus
3 soda waters 210
1 Lamb wrap 420
1 pizza 440
3 Efes Malt beers 450
Tip 150
Total spent 1,670 lira (£30)

While Captain Caveman went off for more shopping, I went back home to rest my foot and get more medication. Here’s what Captain Caveman bought on his evening shop;

BIM Supermarket
2 packets of pasta 25.00
1 wholemeal loaf 29.50
2 Dido Chocolate bars 31.50
400g Mushrooms 49.00
6 eggs 65.00
Basmati rice 69.50
Toilet rolls 87.00
Bananas 95.68
Total spent 452.18 lira (£8.10)

Sok Supermarket
Carrots 35 lira (63p)

Şarküteri
2 tins of beans 170
1 tin coconut milk 100
Total spent 270 lira (£4.84)

We spent the evening at home and we had more friends arriving in Dalyan tomorrow to join family who had already arrived. I was in quite a bit of pain so I needed to sleep.

Gratitude List
1. Breakfast and a late lunch out
2. Seeing our friends
3. Medication