Mallorca – 16th June

There were so many things that we could have done on Tuesday 16th June but I was aware that with only one day and another night, the best thing to do was live like a local in Santa Ponsa. My host, the Mallorca Resort Expert, had asked if I’d wanted to do a boat trip, go to the pirate show or see any of the sights while I was there – I preferred to spend time with her. I did have some work to do but we kept it to a minimum as well as working on content ideas for our social media work pages.
My friend had took the liberty of guessing what I might like for breakfast and had served it up on the balcony, overlooking the beach and sea. Our meal was a feast of yoghurt with fruit, cheese and ham on bread with garlic dip, olives, tomatoes, more bread and a hot drink. It was so good and we ate while people watching the goings on at the beach below.
We decided that’s where we would spend some time today, on the beach! We donned our swimmers, put on the suncream, grabbed our beach towels (my new one was super light) and a parasol before tackling those steps down to the beach. The sand was soft and hot but there was a lovely breeze as we sat down with a small bag of picnic type items. We had to keep an eye on the cheeky gulls who were well practiced in stealing any treats they fancied from people’s bags while they were in the sea. It was my first time this year, just lazing on the beach. Despite being so near to it in Dalyan, I rarely have a day off for beach going and thought perhaps I should do more of it.

Around 4pm we decided to head back ‘home’, after a walk along the seafront path and calling at the shop. I noticed my face was pretty pink and decided it might be a good idea to treat us to a face mask to prevent my skin looking like a typical Brit abroad, later! Here’s what we bought, with prices in Euros;

Santa Ponsa Supermarket
1.5l bottled water 0.31
Apple juice 1.00
500ml Fanta Lemon 2.00
1 can Mixed fruit cider 2.35
2 Aloe Vera face masks 3.00
Total spent €8.66 (£7.36)

I did a bit of work then we popped on the face masks and had a 10 minute lay down which turned into a cheeky cat nap but my face felt and looked loads better after it.
Back on that fantastic sea view balcony, we ate a really lovely meal of mozzarella, tomato, avocado and basil served with fresh bread, olives, rice crackers and a peach. I chatted on about how Fanta lemon in Spain is different to that in the UK. We also managed to have a croissant which we hadn’t eaten earlier. I was stuffed and feeling relaxed and happy, but not looking forward to leaving at 4am tomorrow morning. The visit had gone too quickly but I was still glad to have had some time in Santa Ponsa, which was so beautiful.

The evening plan was to simply watch the sunset at Il Chiringo, in Costa De La Calma. It was a place the Mallorca Resort Expert had been to many times before and she wanted me to see it for myself. After dinner we walked to the venue, bumping into a man with his dog on the way, who invited us to go to his house. We didn’t go but it struck me that the locals were friendly, and his dog was cute.
When we arrived we had timed it perfectly and were sat amongst the other locals who were all coming in from a swim to have a sunset drink or bite to eat. It was beautiful and I felt so lucky to get to see it, I perhaps wouldn’t have found out about this hidden gem if I wasn’t staying with my friend.
I wasn’t sure what to order to drink so I tried my first shandy made with lemon Fanta (commonly called Clara) for €4 (£3.40) and my fellow sunset watcher had an alcohol free beer which was slightly more at €4.50 (£3.83). I thought this was very reasonable given the location – the Fanta shandy was an absolute game changer.
We walked back, taking those steps for the last time where a cat watched us. He was nicknamed The Manager as he was in charge of the place. I packed my stuff in to Pauline, my petite pink under seat case, I had a full neck pillow too but this time I was flying with easyJet so there was no need for booking the exit row seat. We both set alarms on both phones so that we could make sure I didn’t miss my flight.

Gratitude List
1. Spending time, both for work and personally, with the Mallorca Resort Expert
2. An afternoon at the beach
3. Sunset at Il Chiringo

Costa Del Sol – 14th June

We all had good intentions on Sunday 14th June as the plan was to spend the morning on the beach, come back for pool or siesta time and then go out for a meal at a pre booked restaurant this evening. Claire had been looking after everyone and she had suggested a lovely loll on the Fuengirola beach.
Unfortunately, by the time we had ransacked the breakfast buffet, time was ticking on and we sacked off the idea. We went round the pool and I decided it would be good to get us some bucks fizz. I’d not paid for a taxi last night, nor had I bought any shots (which we thought were probably not the real Tequila Rosé, anyway) so it was a small gesture to show I wasn’t the cheap chaser I came across as in my blogs!
I also treated my roomies to a strawberry Calippo each. I thought the on-site shop was, once again, reasonably priced and was well stocked with cold drinks. Here’s what I paid with prices in Euros.

Ramada Hotel shop
1 carton orange juice 2.50
2 Calippo lollies 6.00
1 bottle of Cava 8.50
Total spent €17.00 (£14.43)

For lunch the gang had more munchies from the shop but I made my sandwiches from breakfast bread rolls and the left over pork knuckle – it was still amazing! I really do think not wasting food and eating more leftovers is the way forward, even on holiday.
At the Ramada by Wyndham resort there was a train to take guests around but we never quite timed it right – such a good idea when it’s sunny or for families, though. Of course, I’d made use of the washing machine facilities and done a wash ahead of my 4th destination tomorrow. By late afternoon a few of us were lounging around our room and decided to play some of the games Claire had brought. It was a great way to pass the time when we had a short shower of rain and I enjoyed having a laugh with everyone.
In the evening we ventured out for drinks and dinner in the very classy Mijas Pueblo – I even popped on a long black dress and borrowed a strapless bra from Dawn. We had some lovely wine, cocktails and sangria at Alboka Gastro – a delightful place not far from the donkeys we had been warned against riding. I’d been there a handful of times over the years and it’s never been on my itinerary to ride the donkeys or horses, it’s just cruel! We had a nice little wander around the area and got a few photos. A couple were hogging a horse statue for way too long so I ended up taking their photo.

The placeholder we had booked for dinner was cancelled and Claire went on ahead to scope out a more suitable alternative for our evening meal. She chose Restaurant El Mirador which had good views, a substantial menu, cheap house wine and lovely staff – perfect for our last night together!
Having already eaten a large breakfast and most of the other half of the pork knuckle in sandwiches for lunch, I wasn’t particularly hungry so I plumped for a mushroom risotto – it was huge! I didn’t eat it all but decided left over risotto tomorrow before our flights might not be a good idea and didn’t bother with a doggy bag this time.
Everyone enjoyed the meal but I was so full I could barely move – Carol’s Fat Club scales, when I got back to Dalyan, were not going to be favourable at all! The free limoncello nearly tipped me over the edge but we didn’t want to offend the kind staff so it was forced down.
Claire and I got a taxi back leaving the younger and wilder ones to give the ball a kick for the last night.
I’d had such a lovely weekend away and it was really good to have taken some time off. Tomorrow 6 of the gang were heading back to Bournemouth or Gatwick, while one lady was staying an extra night with a friend in Fuengirola and I was off to another exciting destination.

Gratitude List
1. A relaxing Sunday with the gang at Ramada by Wyndham
2. A classy night out in Mijas
3. Great food and hilarious company.

Photo Credit – some photos by the Costa Del Sol gang

Costa Del Sol – 13th June

After a lovely night’s sleep on the pull-out sofa bed I went outside to see what the view from our room was like on Saturday 13th June. It was lovely and I was pleased with the room we had, as we wandered to the breakfast area. I was very impressed at the choice and availability of the buffet style breakfast too and had plenty of it – all in the name of research, of course! By 10.30am 4 of us had decided that walking off the big breakfast may be a good idea and off to explore we went.

Claire, Dawn, Carol and I trotted downhill to the beach and wandered along the promenade all the way in to Fuengirola and stopped for a soft drink along the way. By the time we were headed back, the sun was shining, we were definitely getting sweaty and one of us needed to buy comfier footwear. It was all rather pleasant until it dawned on me that I was the most unfit out of the group and struggled on the hills at the end.

By 12.30pm we were rehydrated, armed with Lays crisps from the on-site shop and in our swimmers by one of the various pools. We had chosen one with less families and with a good mix of shade and sun. It was the first time this year that I had been in a swimming pool and it felt great.
A few nibbles and a couple of beverages were had in the early afternoon and everyone, but me, had sandwiches, quiches or sausage rolls for lunch. The on-site bakery and shop had such a good range of products that it would have been quite easy to survive by not leaving the resort, should we have wanted to. In the interests of not wasting food, I had the warmed up tagliatelle carbonara from last night and it tasted even better the second day.
In the later part of the afternoon, we sat out on the garden area outside our room, enjoying the sea view, drying our towels and swimmers while drinking tea or coke while we waited for the Cava in the fridge to chill a bit more and the other 5 to head over for pre dinner drinks.

Claire, who had become the one in charge by default because most of the rest of us couldn’t be bothered to step up, was the star of the evening. She had arranged some paraphernalia for each of the celebrators; Dawn who was celebrating her 50th and wore her tiara very proudly, Jamie who was less keen to sport an amazing vest top full of images of his cheeky face but loved the Gay Who? game and bracelet for his 40th, and Spawn, the bride to be was donned with more twinkles befitting her outfit and we all had a mask to show our support for her.
The Cava flowed and we laughed a lot, not having time to do the games we had ready much chance, before heading off to the delights of Fuengirola and to feed our hungry bellies. I knew it was going to be a good night and decided to draw out more cash. The ATM charged me €5 to draw out €60 which was an error on my part as I should’ve just paid on card, but I wanted it for drinks/taxis later. We promenaded our way to the port and Claire had spotted a lovely looking venue which was fairly busy (always a good sign when choosing an eatery on holiday). The waitress at Ku’ Damm stuck us at a large table at the back, surrounded by interesting memorabilia and got busy with taking drinks orders. I really enjoyed the sangria and this kind of restaurant was right up my street as it sold pork! The ceiling of the ladies toilet in this Berlin-esque restaurant was certainly unique.

My next ‘mistake’, in some people’s eyes, was to order a pork knuckle with potatoes, gravy and gherkins. When it came it was ridiculously large and had so much crackling on – we’ve had smaller joints of meat at a family Sunday roast. A lot of the girls ordered the schnitzel and that was definitely not a small portion, either. The food was incredible and I thoroughly enjoyed my pork knuckle. Obviously it defeated me and I ended up asking to take half away with me. This is much more common abroad but, again, it amused most of the gang. There is no way I could have wasted any of that pork! Our bill was split between 8 of us again and I paid €40, remarkably the same as last night!
Next, with very full bellies, we wandered (I most definitely waddled) over to a bar where it appeared it was part of the evening to be ‘forced’ to drink Tequila Rosé shots at the bar.
Ordinarily, I do love a Tequila Rosé but I had overdone it on my meal so I struggled to get the first one down. Not one to be a party pooper too early, I took a second while one of the girls had to do a tactical chunder in the bogs! I almost followed suit and decided 2 was enough after a good amount of sangria and went on to water. While the celebrators really got in to party mode, I started to feel my age and was aware just how much I can’t drink, or stay out late, like I used to. Claire and Carol were either thinking the same or had took pity on me wandering the trendy bars of Fuengirola with half a greasy pork knuckle in a takeaway plastic bag. The 3 of us got an Uber back to the Ramada and Carol paid on her app.
Back in our hotel room, having put my meat in the fridge, Claire and I tried to wait up for Dawn by watching a bit of TV but she still had to knock me up as we had fell asleep – was I turning in to a brunch friend rather than the party person I used to be!?

Gratitude List
1. Waking up to a sea view and included breakfast at the Ramada
2. Spending time on holiday with the Costa Del Sol gang
3. That huge pork knuckle!!!!

Photo Credit – some photos taken by the Costa Del Sol attendees

Dalyan – 21st May

There was excitement in store for the afternoon of Thursday 21st May as I was booked on the Captain Boris cheese and wine boat trip with my parents and Gayle from 3pm. Neil was still away but was returning later tonight. I got up early and worked so that I could finish at 2.30pm. Having consumed 4 cocktails and about half a bottle of red wine plus one for the road, last night, I was definitely feeling it this morning. My stomach was in turmoil and I needed to run some errands. I waited until 10am to call at the bank and then to Captainnet. I paid 750 lira (£12.50) for a month’s worth of home internet.
At noon I had a call booked in and then the Resort Experts team meeting. Once finished, I was off to meet the family on the boat to enjoy 4 hours of indulgence for £60 (all the food and wine included in that price).

Once on the boat, I decided to pay my £60 upfront so that it was done and we could relax, the others did the same and I noticed Ma & Pa were not as eager to get on the wine as perhaps they usually might be. I took one for the team and started us off with a nice rosé. By 3.10pm all 4 of us had a wine, my dodgy stomach had been treated with imodium and we were tucking in to crisps and dips already.
It was a full boat and we had certainly been spoiled by doing private trips previously as I had forgotten the inconvenience of having smokers onboard. Just 40 minutes in to the trip, we were anchored up and most people were in the sea, including Mom. I hadn’t even brought my swimmers on account of paying £60 to include the wine and wanted to get my money’s worth!!
I also wanted to catch up with Becky and enjoy the boat. I got a call from our friend Martha who had happened to bump in to Captain Caveman back in the UK and they were having a catch up somewhere near Kendal. I did a quick video for them and sent a couple of photos from the boat.

By 5pm we were presented with Boris’s superb spread of cheese, meats, fruits, olives, nuts, bread, crackers – all presented so well. I made friends with Monique, a Dutch lady and spoke about my friendship of over 40 years with Ingrid, also from Holland. She was surprised she had not yet come to visit me. Gayle made some new friends at the front of the boat and I recognised the accent as they turned out to be from Rotherham. We had a lovely time and it’s another one of my favourite trips. I’d love to do a private cheese trip later in the year.

It was 7.20pm by the time we got back and a suggestion to head to Boris’s new bar, Dalyan Lounge was made. Several people agreed so Gayle and I said we would see them in there. My parents were not up for staying out and went home on the pretence they were going to come back out but Ma had already tipped me the wink that it probably wouldn’t happen.
At Dalyan Lounge only Monique came from the boat, everyone else had peaked too early and gone home. Gayle and I had drinks of water, realising we took should probably have taken the example set by my parents but we don’t get together often and thought sod it. We’d been getting on really well and there was even talk of what it would be like to enter Race Across the World together. Of course it wouldn’t be much use either of us entering with our propensity to need a toilet, get lost and be far from fast on our feet. I’d not watched the last 3 series so I needed to catch up but it was a nice sentiment that we’d gone from hardly seeing each other to thinking we could spend 40 days together. I paid the bill for our waters, rosé wine for me and Bacardi and coke for Gayle which came to just 800 lira (£13.33) in total. As we were leaving, Boris gave us a bottle of rosé wine as a gift which was really good of him.
The intention was to go home so that Gayle could meet Neil once he got back from Scotland but she’d done a quick change in the loos and was out out!
We saw that Bistro Blue had some outdoor tables and plonked ourselves down. I tried to be sensible and ordered us a large bottle of water but Gayle was a bad influence and had already ordered a Pina Colada. I had a wine to be sociable and Neil arrived just as Gayle had started on the next cocktail made from Sorrel. To me it tasted like privet but she seemed to like it and Neil had a beer. When Neil was on his 2nd beer but about to order a 3rd, Gayle decided the Sorrel cocktail might be a bit strong and was recommended a Moscow Mule by the waitress. That was better but I still think the Pina Colada was the best, I stuck to the wine and ordered a second one with more water. Neil was hungry so we tried to order pizza from Pizza 48 but it was closed as it was gone 10.30pm. Our waiter at Bistro Blue made him pizza and chips and I just had to indulge as it was really good.
When we got the bill, Neil tried to pay it all but I insisted on paying 1,000 lira (£16.67) for my 2 wines and some towards the pizza and chips I shared. The rest came to another 3,000 lira (£50) and it was another midnight finish.
This week’s budget had well and truly been blown but I’d had an amazing time with the family. This week I had allowed myself a budget of £270, including the cash I had put by for the boat trips. I had spent £102.49 today alone, making it a total of £314.15 for the week, which included 2 boat trips, 2 meals out, all with alcohol but still 3 zero alcohol and zero spend days. I was already looking forward to June’s pay day!

Gratitude List

1. An amazing cheese and wine trip with Captain Boris and Rebecca

2. More time spent with Gayle, having a laugh at Dalyan Lounge

3. Getting in at midnight after Neil joined us for more drinks at Bistro Blue.

Dalyan & Ekincik – 16th May

My sister and her husband had booked a private boat trip on Princess of Ekincik on Saturday 16th May for just the 5 of us and I was really pleased to be joining. I nipped to the bank and walked through Mosque Square for a 10am departure, noticing there were lots of stalls set up for today’s fayre. I didn’t mind in the least that I would miss that, and the Saturday market, as Gayle had organised for us to do a whole day and evening on the boat.
Ivona was joining Captain Ismail and his second mate so there were just 3 crew and 5 passengers on the super comfy boat – it’s a firm favourite of ours and a real treat. It’s got one of the best toilets and has great steps for getting in and out of the water. It has also been suitable to take a wheelchair when our friends came last year. I find Ivona and Ismail a good team who work well together and do everything they can to make the trip one of the best. After a warm welcome and hellos it was time to enjoy our day out.

We set sail with a hot beverage and either a gluten free coconut biscuit or a normal Turkish one. As it was a bit choppy at Devil’s Bay we went to the Ekincik side but this time with a few different coves thrown in for good measure.
Gayle and Neil were the bravest to get in the sea first, shortly followed by Dad – it was still a bit too cold for Mom and I, though. I went on the top deck for a bit to relax and get some sun. It was great to have my phone on silent and to be able to relax.

Our BBQ lunch was incredible with 8 mezes, salad, chips, meatballs, chicken and prawns – all cooked by our Captain or made by his Mom! All of our food allergies and intolerances were catered for without any issues at all. I chose rosé wine to go with the meal, Gayle joined me while the others stuck to Efes Malt beers. It was perhaps one of the best boat lunches I’ve had so far (and I’ve had a few)!

Following the food, we all chilled out as we sailed to more stops and then to Little Dalyan for a wander on the beach. In the afternoon we had cake with fruit, always a lovely treat as Ivona makes a great cake.
The weather was a little overcast as we set sail once again, back to Dalyan to drop off Ivona. We hardly noticed the clouds as more drinks flowed and we decided to go to the mudbaths at Sultaniye. It costs 100 lira (£1.67) each to use the facilities there and you can stay for as long as you like. It’s always a good idea to wear old swimwear as the sulphur makes it smell, you also need to take off any silver jewellery to save it going black.
We didn’t bother with the mud pool as we have all done it before but Gayle and I went in the hot pools. It was so relaxing, we really enjoyed it and had a good chat and a very cold rinse off shower. Back on the boat, we dried off and I put my wintery clothes on to keep warm and ordered another wine.

To celebrate Neil’s upcoming 50th I’d organised to have a surprise bottle of Prosecco for a toast before dinner, as my parents and I wouldn’t be in the UK for his actual birthday.
Dinner was another fantastic meal; Gayle, Neil and Ma all had a fish for their main, Dad and I had steak skewers. There were 6 mezes, a salad, chips, flat bread and more prawns too – we all felt very well looked after and extremely full.
Before we arrived back to Dalyan, I bought some homemade olive oil and honey and paid my drinks bill. The total I paid for all my drinks and extras plus my share of the boat came to £128 and was a real treat of a day and night – I felt very lucky to have been able to do it.

Gratitude List
1. An excellent private boat trip with the family on Princess of Ekincik
2. Some of the best food I’d eaten in Dalyan
3. A visit to the hot pools of Sultaniye with my sister.

Photo Credit – some photos by Ivona, Mom & Gayle

Dalyan – 2nd May

On Saturday 2nd May, Vanessa was celebrating her 60th birthday, a few months early with a boat trip and I had been invited to join her, her family and friends. I was also invited to Irenea’s 79th birthday dinner at River House later. I had took the day off and was ready for celebration number 1 on the yellow boat at 10.30am.
In the news the decision to hike up the residency permit fees in Turkey had been revoked so everyone was happy again, it looked like there had been so many complaints. This was good news and it was one less thing to worry about. My next renewal would put me in a position to be able to apply for long term residency too, if I wanted it.
I had brought Vanessa a bottle of Kahlua as she’s quite partial to a cocktail which her daughter was bringing the other spirit to match. Onboard the party boat were; Vanessa & Matt, Alicia, Lucy, Damo, Liv, Ma & Pa, Julie & Gareth, Adam & Kath, Kate & Mark, Hakan (the Captain), Nilüfer (2nd mate) and me.
The boat trip was absolutely fantastic and the best yellow boat trip I’d been on so far. There was lots of delicious food (including steak that melted in the mouth) and lots of swimming for those brave enough to get in the cold water (not me). Some of the guests took the kayaks out and brought back some logs which were impressive. It was also great to see Vanessa surrounded by her friends and being spoiled – this was just the start of her celebrations for her being 60! The booze flowed and there was cake and Vanessa’s favourite shots, Blow Jobs. They started out as Baby Guinness but then we used the cream from the cake to make Blow Jobs. I poured them out and, looking back, it’s probably a bit wrong to ask Dad if he’d like another Blow Job but he didn’t say no. Luckily, we are a family with a good sense of humour which dips it’s row in the gutter every now and then!
There was a lot of laughter and later some dancing and singing – we almost purchased a karaoke machine right then when a Baileys-fuelled Kate got on to Trendyol to find one we could all have shares in! Matt had very kindly paid for the impressive boat trip for everyone so I only had to pay for my 4 white wines which I paid 800 lira (£13.33) for.

We didn’t get back until it was almost dark and I had to rush home to get to my next party while the rest sacked off a wedding in favour of more drinks at Ozzy’s bar.
I got in, got some warmer layers on, picked up more teabags for Ian and hurried to River House where everyone but me was already seated with a drink.
I sat next to Debbie (Darling) who had saved me a seat and while she had a lovely looking prawn cocktail, I ordered a mushroom risotto which was excellent.
After a couple more wines and more birthday singing and cake, I had well and truly done it! I paid 1,350 lira (£25.83) for my food, drinks and a tip and thought the River House meal was very good. I walked Sue to her taxi while some of the party animals continued to Sofra Bar for more celebrations. I was getting old and couldn’t keep up!
Back home I tried to drink 3 pints of water before bed, conscious that I had agreed to go to the beach in the morning and was working all afternoon tomorrow to make up for the day off today. I put all my devices and battery pack on charge as there had been a warning of a planned powercut tomorrow and I didn’t want to get caught out. My road was not on the list I read, but there’s always a chance it could still affect my area.

Gratitude List
1. The residency permit fee increase being scrapped due to complaints
2. Vanessa’s 60th birthday boat trip on the Yellow boat
3. Irenea’s 79th birthday meal at River House.

Photo Credit – some photos by other party goers

Dalyan to Antalya – 9th October

I was packed and ready by 10.30am on Thursday 9th October when Jamie came to pick me up. Although the Anex Fam trip included flights from Manchester or Gatwick, Jamie and I had arranged to meet everyone in Antalya. Jamie had kindly offered to drive so we could take any luggage we wanted and I had thrown in a few dresses for the fancier evenings. We were given 4 nights accommodation at the 5 Star All Inclusive Selectum Luxury Resort in Belek. On the drive there, we had the Resort Experts team meeting which we did on the move.
When we arrived at the hotel we were greeted by staff who drove Jamie’s car to the car park, took our bags and told us to be seated at the check in desk. We were given a welcome drink and told who we would be sharing a room with. Jamie was going to share with Shahid and I got a lady called Debby. All of the other Travel Agents and Anex Tour UK staff were arriving after midnight so Jamie and I went to our respective rooms and unpacked before meeting back up in the 24/7 cafe bar. On entering my room, I was struck by the red and black decor which reminded me of a bit of a tart’s parlour. I chose the bed nearest the window as I preferred not to sleep in the bed next to a massive mirror. The bathroom had all the toiletries, a separate shower and bath but no door. Just some beaded tassels on the edge of where a door would ordinarily be. There was also a well stocked fridge that took some working out how to get in. Jamie described his room as sexy, and his was not red & black. It certainly wasn’t a hotel room I would recommend for just anyone and was definitely designed for a more romantic trip away – think Moulin Rouge!
We shared a Turkish spring roll and ordered pizzas at the 24/7 cafe bar. Jamie had a beer and I chose a red wine while admiring the sea view. My mushroom pizza was good and Jamie enjoyed his chicken caeser salad one.

Our next venture was to check out the pool, the spa, the gym and the beach. There is a pier where you can pay a little extra to hire a sunbed area which has direct access, via a ladder, in to the sea. It comes with your own bar staff between 10am and 6pm – ideal for those people who really like to rinse the benefits of the All Inclusive. I took it upon myself to feet out the sunbeds, which came in single and double
Jamie and I decided to have a little rest before dinner and I rested my foot. I was finding it easy enough to get about with my crutch at the Selectum but it was just so big and I was very slow.

When we got back to our rooms, there had been a delivery of a bottle of red wine and a bowl of fruit with a message from guest relations – how lovely. I made myself a herbal tea and decided to have a bath. Unfortunately the bath plug didn’t work so I had a shower instead. There’s nothing nicer than popping on a fluffy robe in a hotel after a hot shower.
Jamie and I met back up and had a good look at the restaurant, it had such a vast selection of food to help ourselves to and we then retired to the bar area. We decided we would try to stay up for the Manchester flight which was due to have some Travel Agents arrive by 1.30am. I was still taking it relatively steady, despite the all inclusive alcohol, as I didn’t want to fall over. The hotel decor was quite dark and even the toilets were black and red. I remember thinking it wouldn’t be an ideal hotel for anyone with poor eyesight, like my dad. On a trip to the loo, Jamie returned with a goody bag from Fulya, the lady from Anex Antalya, who was organising the trip. Inside we had a handmade pot, an eye mask, a notebook and pen and a really great hooded top. Jamie and I put the tops on and were really impressed. Fulya came over to join us, to stay up for the Manchester contingent.
The Manchester lot arrived and we went to greet them at the 24/7 cafe bar. I ordered some baclava and a tea while most people were ordering alcohol but I’d had enough. I introduced myself to a man who said he didn’t drink alcohol and so he joined me with the baclava and tea. It would turn out that this fella was going to be Jamie’s room mate, Shahid!
The Gatwick Travel Agents were due to arrive around 3.45am but I decided I could not stay up for that, even though Debby my room mate was one of them. I left Jamie with the Manchester crowd and went to bed. I kept a light on so that Debby could find her way about and went to bed – I never heard Debby arrive.

Gratitude List

Getting to go on a free Fam Trip to Antalya with Anex Tours
Jamie driving us to Antalya
Great food and drink in the amazing Selectum Luxury Resort Hotel.

Photo credit – some photos by Jamie

Dalyan & Ekincik – 23rd & 24th September

After the excitement of yesterday and knowing there was an outing planned tomorrow, Tuesday 23rd September was a day spent at my desk. I had lots of bits and bobs today so I worked down the to do list and ate nice food.

In the evening Captain Caveman and I both looked for flights for him to come to Dalyan but they were looking quite expensive for the dates he needed. We were still planning on flying to Vietnam for Christmas and Captain Caveman had seen some flights from the UK.

Gratitude List
1. Nice food
2. Flight searching for ourselves
3. A fairly calm day.

I took the day off on Wednesday 24th September as Jamie had invited me on another boat trip. He had friends over on holiday and there had been a spare place for me.
Before that, I got on the home scales with it being weigh day. I had put on 0.95kg (2lb) which was hardly surprising. On my measurements, my bust had increased by 1cm, my hips had remained the same and my waist had lost 3cm.
Of course, I was about to potentially make it worse by going out for the day.
Jamie & Drew had organised another day out with Captain Ünal on Duran Duran boat to Ekincik Bay. We did the usual boat trip which never gets boring and everyone had a fantastic day. It was quite choppy in parts so I plonked myself in the shade at the back of the boat while most of the others were up the front or on the roof making the most of the sunny weather. Mick, Nick’s Dad, kept me entertained with his hilarious Sheffield banter and we had some delicious food. Nick played mother and got me my plate of food which was really lovely, as always.

I didn’t do any swimming as my foot was hurting so I just chilled out. On the way back I had to have a second sea sickness tablet and also gave a couple out to others who were feeling a bit iffy. We stopped at Little Dalyan for fruit and cake while seeing some turtles. By the time I got back, I was super tired and drowsy but everyone was going to Lukka bar so I did too. Instead of alcohol, which I’d had none of for 3 weeks now, I ordered one of their excellent milkshakes. Everyone carried on their night and I was told later most ended up in Sofra bar. I needed my bed as I was exhausted.
I’d spent a total of £45 today and had a very lovely day – I wouldn’t need any dinner and I ended up falling asleep on the sofa.

Gratitude List
1. Losing centimetres from my waist
2. Being invited on another boat trip
3. Having such lovely food and fun company.

Photo credit – some photos by others on the boat

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 & Ekincik – 11th September

Jamie had invited me to join him and some friends on a boat trip on Thursday 11th September and it had been booked long before I broke a couple of metatarsals. I had already paid my money to Sioned to go on Captain Unal’s Duran Duran boat and didn’t want to miss it because of being in pain. It has been a week since I’d not seen that very small step! It was also a good chance to catch up with my parents, Nanny Kay, Jamie, Josh & Martha, Ann & Stuart, Karen & Shaun, Julia and Evie. The boat was moored the nearest to home that it could be, which was good for me crutching to get there. I took a seasickness tablet as well as my medication and I was well away before 10am. We sailed to Ekincik and, as usual, we were served welsh cakes and other nibbles with our hot beverages. It was a lovely day out albeit limited because of my mobility but I did manage to get down the lovely disabled friendly steps to go for a swim. The lunch was great and my mom was kind enough to do the buffet run for me. The food was amazing with extra meatballs being dished out by Ünal. In the afternoon there was a delicious cake with fruit. It was probably one of the best I’d had on this boat too – I really did need to just stick to the fruit next time! I was a little sad that Captain Caveman was back at work in the UK and unable to be here for this trip. Due to my medicine it was another alcohol free day, too, and I wasn’t really missing drinking.
After the trip, I was tired and resting up on the sofa while adding stuff to my to do list for tomorrow.

Gratitude List
1. Being on another one of my favourite boat trips with lots of friends and family
2. Going in the sea and managing to get back out without further injury
3. Amazing food on the boat.

Dalyan – 6th September

Captain Caveman and I were having breakfast at home on Saturday 6th September. He was contemplating going to the dog shelter to walk some dogs. I was going to do a few bits of content editing for next week, being back at work, so that my 2 weeks off went smoothly. I also had loads of stuff to share from this holiday, with Captain Caveman, and couldn’t wait to get it on my business page.
Our friends Josh & Martha had arrived in Dalyan to join their family and they had booked the Princess of Ekincik boat for a private day trip, after I had recommended it. There had been a group chat to discuss requirements for the wheelchair user on board so I hoped it would be suitable and comfortable for all of them. For those who might need to know, a wheelchair up to 60cm wide will fit!
Martha got in touch to say that her and Josh had been delayed on their flight, after another passenger had a medical emergency, so they were super tired. She wanted us to join the trip so that we could catch up and help keep everyone lively. I was on the strong medication and lidocaine based sprays, so I was away with the fairies and said yes. I hadn’t accounted for the fact that I needed to walk all the way to the boat which took me absolutely ages. When I got there, Ismail mentioned that they do have a mobility scooter that they can collect disabled guests on, should I have needed it. I got a hot drink and sat myself down with my leg propped up until the others arrived.
When everyone got on board; Martha, her parents, brother and Josh, it was really nice to see them all and we got on great straight away. The wheelchair went on and off fine and was parked up so that Zac could see the amazing scenery as we sailed down the river to the sea.
The crew, the boat, the food, the drinks and the company were absolutely perfect and to see Zac be able to enjoy a boat trip in Dalyan was just fantastic. We had a couple of swim spots and even a visit to the back of the beach, Little Dalyan, where I kept Martha’s mom company on the boat while the others went off for a bit of adventure. I even had a cherry juice in a wine glass so that Trish wouldn’t feel alone in her red wine enjoyment – it was a real pleasure to see her have a bit of time to herself and not worry about Zac, who was in very capable hands.
When the family got back, they had enjoyed a jaunt over the beach to the sea and Captain Caveman didn’t fall for the joke of me having red wine in my glass – he knew I wouldn’t be drinking against Doctor’s orders. We then decided to go to the boat end of the beach so that we could see the tourist part and it was very busy. We saw turtles which was great as some of the guests on board hadn’t seen them before in Dalyan. We all enjoyed a really lovely lunch on board which, given that Captain Caveman and I had decided to join only this morning, was plentiful.
After spending the rest of the afternoon on the boat and enjoying ice creams, then some cake with fruit, we returned to Dalyan at gone 5pm. I’m not mentioning any names but I think more than 1 of us had a power nap, as we were just so relaxed.

That evening, after resting my foot, Captain Caveman took me for a slap up dinner at White House. We both had my favourite meal, the beef wellington, which is just so good. Captain Caveman had wine and cocktails but I had water and a friend booked our table while waiting to chat to her boyfriend. Our bill was 4,000 lira (£72.73) which I thought was reasonable. Because of having eaten so much, though, I had to take half of mine home. Tomorrow was Captain Caveman’s last day in Dalyan and I wasn’t looking forward to him leaving.

Gratitude List
1. Having such an amazing day that it was difficult to pinpoint just 3 things to be grateful for!
2. The Princess of Ekincik boat trip, being so good.
3. Beef Wellington Dinner with Captain Caveman at the White House.

Photo credit – some photos by Martha and her family

Dalyan and Devil’s Bay – 29th August

It was time for another boat trip on Friday 29th August, this time with Captain Ünal on Villa Duran Boat Trips. We had booked it at short notice when a couple of spots had become available due to a cancellation. It was going to Devil’s Bay, cost £40 each and included breakfast, lunch and afternoon cake and fruit. We were on board before 9am and the boat departed from very near to where we live so there was no falling out this time. Apo, the Captain’s mate, made us all a hot drink and we set sail towards the sea. The breakfast consisted of bread, cheeses, salad, olives, eggs, cheese rolls, jams, honey, and fruit – it was excellent. I’d took a travel sickness pill just in case. The sea wasn’t too choppy so we were moored up in a quiet bay for our first swim. On the boat were various passengers, none of who we knew already. There was a family on who were friendly and funny so we got talking to the son who was a nice young man. We gave him scores for his diving off the top of the boat.

By 12.30pm, Ünal had started the BBQ and we ate lunch around 1.15pm in a bay on our own, except for a few Turkish men who ate on the beach, having arrived by speedboat. They seemed to be quite taken with the young girls on board and went past a few times to ogle!
Lunch consisted of several mezes, bread, hot chips, chicken and meatballs – again, all excellent. Captain Caveman drank Efes Malt and I had rosé wine. There were lots more swimming and drying off in the sun before sailing to a secluded spot to scatter some ashes of the young man’s father.
I’d found myself sat in the middle of the family, so I excused myself and we gave them some space to say a few words and support each other through the tears.
Captain Caveman and I raised a glass for the poor guy as a mark of respect and kept quiet while they did what they needed to do. I didn’t know the bloke but I think he would’ve been pleased to be scattered where he was, in such a beautiful place.

Cake and fruit were served around 4.45pm and it was a very nice chocolate one.
Back home, I went for a shower and a short lay down, I was so tired that I didn’t wake up until it was very late so there was no dinner or going out!

Gratitude List
1. Getting a trip to Devil’s Bay with Captain Caveman
2. Fab food and drink on the Villa Duran Boat Trip
3. Swimming in the sea.

Köyceğiz and Dalyan – 26th August

I was back on the balcony of the Kaunos hotel in Köyceğiz at 6.20am on Tuesday 26th August, trying to see the sunrise. Captain Caveman was sick and stayed in bed. By 8.30am I had been to the chemist to stock up on cold and flu medication for Captain Caveman. I took a few photos and had a nice walk along the lake and back.

At breakfast Captain Caveman barely spoke and was blowing his nose quite a bit, I thought we would probably have to cancel today’s plans. The breakfast wasn’t bad and there was quite a selection but with Captain Caveman suffering man-flu it was a bit disappointing. We had arranged to meet Janet & Ian and Sezgin & Nur over in Köyceğiz but we hadn’t had a reply from Sezgin. I was happy to check out after breakfast and then wait until the pool opened, as I was determined to have a swim. I’d also wanted Captain Caveman to take some photos of me (or us) in the pool perhaps, but he wasn’t up for it.

Of course, the swimming pool was in the shade, it was numbingly cold to swim in at 10.15am but I suffered it. Captain Caveman lay on a sun lounger on his phone and at noon we met up with Janet & Ian for a lovely walk through the park which I didn’t even know was there. The sun was hot and I was glad I had my cycling shorts on to prevent the chub rub. We stopped for a drink at the council run cafe where there’s a small bit of beach. Captain Caveman must’ve been on the mend as he ordered a shandy! For lunch we went to Ayaklı Göl restaurant which I’d been to before with Janet and Ian. It’s located on the waterfront and has a really good choice of food, which is very tasty. The place mats are maps of the area so I kept one to bring home. Here’s what we ordered with the prices in lira;

Ayaklı Göl
2 small beers 160
1 Orange juice 170
1 large beer 205
1 potato omelette 220
1 Crab soup 250
1 Chicken Quesadillas 430
1 Chicken wrap 430
1 House salad with prawns 480
4 Turkish teas FREE
Total spent 2,345 lira (£43.43)

Just over a tenner for lunch by the lake seemed a good deal to me. Captain Caveman was definitely feeling better as he had a Belfast beer. We strolled back, feeling full and then Ian drove us all back to Dalyan. We had intended on going home, however, we decided to have a stop off at Janet & Ian’s where we all got in the pool. It had been a very hot day so it was really nice to cool off, and their pool was very lovely! After rehydrating with water, I had a glass of wine, Janet and Captain Caveman had some flavoured gin and Ian doesn’t drink alcohol. We had a really good laugh and didn’t even realise the time until it had gone dark and we thought it prudent to go home! I still had a load of cheese in my bag and all the bits we didn’t eat last night, because of Captain Caveman’s sickness.

Gratitude List
1. Getting medication for Captain Caveman
2. Finally getting to swim in the pool
3. A great afternoon with Janet & Ian.

Dalyan & Köyceğiz – 25th August

While friends in the UK had a bank holiday on Monday 25th August, Captain Caveman and I were off on another adventure from Dalyan. I’d arranged to join a friend’s boat trips to the Köyceğiz market and then I had booked a night in the Kaunos Hotel.
It did mean we had almost a full day on Adıl boat with Captain Fuat and all the lovely guests. We were meant to set off at 9.30am so I was on at Captain Caveman to be on time, he seemed to have increased the amount of times he leaves thing to the very last minute. This means he can rush there but then it always looks like I’m the late one as I can’t keep up. He wasn’t ready, so I decided to take the bin out and said I would wait for him by the bins. It was hot, I waited ages, he never arrived. I called him but he didn’t answer his phone. I walked back to the apartment and he wasn’t there so I decided to walk to the boat – he was already on it, sat playing Bridge on his phone and we had our first fall out!
Captain Caveman was annoyed that I lost my temper at being stood by the bins in the hot sun while he had gone to the boat a different way, not even passing the bin! He then retaliated by going quiet and going on his phone rather than speaking to anyone. We set off late so Captain Caveman was annoyed at me nagging him to not be late so the trip didn’t get off to a good start. I soon forgot about it when Captain Fuat got out the cake for breakfast. We sailed to Prison Island where some had a swim around it but I was conserving my energy for a swim in the hotel pool later; so we just had a shorter swim.
The lunch was a feast of many delicious dishes and Captain Caveman and I had a beverage or two! When we got to Köyceğiz, we paid our 2000 lira (£37) bar bill, in addition to the £30 each for the boat trip and said farewell. Our friends on the boat had an hour in Köyceğiz while we were going to check in to the hotel and return tomorrow.

Captain Caveman and I checked in to the Kaunos hotel, which was right on the Köyceğiz lake path and had a gorgeous pool. Debbie at Fat Club had been before and had recommended it. I’d chosen the most expensive room type to ensure we had a lake view with a balcony to sit on for sunset and sunrise. My plan was to go to the market and off licence to stock up on cheese, olives, fruit and wine so we could enjoy a romantic evening after our swim in the fabulous pool. Of course, that didn’t quite go according to plan.
I knew Captain Caveman wasn’t feeling 100% but thought it was because he’d been necking beer in the sun and was dehydrated. He wasn’t his usual speedy self as we walked to the market and he didn’t even taste all of the cheeses and olives (it’s not like him to turn down free nibbles). At the market, here’s what we bought with prices in lira;

Market
Cheese 500
Olives 80
Tomatoes & figs 50
Grapes 25
Total spent 655 lira (£12.13)

Bakery
2 Açma 40 lira (74p)

In the Carrefour supermarket Captain Caveman wasn’t in a rush to get out and was browsing slowly for snacks, while I got the last 2 bottles of Prosecco. When Captain Caveman put orange juice in the basket I assumed it was to have bucks fizz the next morning. We spent 940 lira (£17.41) on snacks and fizz which was rather extravagant for me.

We got back to the hotel around 5.15pm and went to get our swimmers on. Again, Captain Caveman wasn’t as speedy as usual and by the time we got down to the pool it was almost 6pm. Unfortunately, the pool was closed for cleaning so we were unable to use it and I was so disappointed – it was the main reason for choosing this hotel. I couldn’t believe it was almost the end of August and I’d still to swim in a swimming pool! The pool man could see my frustration and came over to show me the signs and explain that the hotel pool is always closed from 5.45pm until 10.15am for chemical treatment.
In just my swimwear I went off to the reception to check what time we had to check out. I was flabbergasted to find we had to be out by 10am, 15 minutes before the pool opened! I said to Captain Caveman that we would check out tomorrow but then come to the pool until midday and he agreed. I also insisted we sit on a lounger by the pool for half an hour now, just to get some photos of the pool and hotel grounds.

Back in the room we opened the Prosecco and I got some of the nibbles out. Captain Caveman had to be coaxed out on to the balcony and we had orange juice in our fizz. Captain Caveman was not bothered about sitting out as ‘he’d seen a sunset before’! He had also started blowing his nose and sneezing a lot and remained laying on the bed for the rest of the night, on his phone.
I sat out on the balcony drinking Prosecco, eating cheese and olives and admiring the romantic view, by myself. It wasn’t quite the day off I’d imagined for the money we had spent!

Gratitude List
1. A lovely boat trip on Adıl boat
2. A hotel stay in Köyceğiz with lovely views
3. Prosecco.

Photo credit – some photos by Captain Caveman

Dalyan & Ekincik Bay – 24th August

Captain Caveman and I were booked on the Princess of Ekincik boat trip to Devil’s Bay on Sunday 24th August with Nanny Kay. We were really looking forward to it, however, the sea was too rough out that way so the captain had to change it to Ekincik Bay. We didn’t mind as we still had time to perhaps fit in a Devil’s Bay later in the holiday. Ivona, the captain’s wife, was also on board which Nanny Kay and I were pleased about as we don’t get to see her too much during the holiday season.
We left at 10am and were given tea or coffee with some biscuits as we sailed towards Iztuzu beach. There was a convoy of boats at first as they all carefully navigated the sandbanks. We were soon in bays where there were fewer boats and we were able to get in for a dip.
The day was made up of lots of swimming, eating and drinking and the boat trip was just £35 for the whole day, including a massive lunch.

There was the usual BBQ chicken and meatballs with some really tasty dishes and mezes. My favourites were the prawns, and the grilled courgettes. Around 3.45pm we were given more food in the form of cake and fruit. I had another glass of wine and we spent a total of 2000 lira (£37) on the drinks. We’d decided to give the ball a bit of a kick, we had enjoyed it so much – the Princess of Ekincik boat is one of my favourites. The seats are comfortable, the toilet is the best I’ve seen on a boat and they have proper steps to get in and out of the water – ideal for those with mobility issues.

Back home around 6pm, we got showered and changed before venturing out about 9pm. Ordinarily, I’d be in bed by now but, as we had the day off tomorrow, we went to see Tay at Rehab bar. We had contemplated going for a meal but decided we didn’t want something too big – we were still full from the boat trip feast. I took a photo of the taxi prices and what it didn’t mention on the sign was that they charge just 200 lira (£3.70) for a Dalyan centre journey. This is quite handy to know if you’re wanting to go from one end of town to the other, or to each others’ hotels/villas. I thought that minimum fare was very reasonable but tonight we walked it back through town. We ended up at Çağrı where we had wine and beer plus a pide for Captain Caveman and a lahmacun with salad for me. It was delicious and not badly priced at 900 lira (£16.67), including a tip.

Gratitude List
1. An excellent boat trip with Princess of Ekincik
2. Swimming in the sea
3. Eating incredible food and having some drinks