A Relaxing Getaway in Antalya, Turkey

This autumn, my wife and I decided to escape the chilly weather in Lithuania and head to the sunny shores of Antalya, Turkey. Flying from Vilnius to Antalya took around three hours, and before we knew it, we were soaking up the Turkish sun.

Our Stay in Kemer: Dobedan World Palace

We chose to stay at a 5-star hotel in Kemer called Dobedan World Palace. While the hotel boasted a great reputation, I must admit that the room we stayed in could have used some renovation. It was evident, though, that the hotel was undergoing improvements, so I’m optimistic they’ll address these areas soon.

That said, the food didn’t disappoint. The buffet offered a wide and varied selection every day, catering to almost every palate. Starting each morning with a trip to the sauna quickly became my favourite ritual — there’s nothing like relaxing in the heat to prepare for a day of sun and sea.

Lazy Days by the Pool and Beach

Most of our days were spent lounging by either the beach or the pool. Both areas featured incredibly comfortable sun loungers, making it all too easy to lose track of time as we soaked up the rays. For a special treat on our final day, we splurged on a private pavilion by the beach. It was well worth it for the added privacy and luxury.

The beach itself was a mix of beauty and practicality. While the water was clear and inviting, the pebbly shore made beach shoes a must when venturing to and from the sea.

Exploring Antalya City

For a change of scenery, we took a day trip to Antalya city. The old town, Kaleiçi, was a charming place to wander with its narrow, cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and vibrant atmosphere. However, one thing I didn’t enjoy was the abundance of stray dogs roaming around. While they all appeared to be in good health, it’s something that made me feel a little uneasy.

One of the highlights of the city was the stunning harbour area. We admired it from above at Kecili Park, which provided breathtaking views of the yachts and sparkling turquoise water below.

A Trip to Paradise: Suluada Island

The highlight of our holiday, without a doubt, was a boat trip to Suluada Island, often referred to as the "Maldives of Turkey." The boat ride itself was part of the adventure, with loungers on the roof of the boat offering a relaxing spot to enjoy the sea breeze.

After about 45 minutes, we arrived at Suluada, and I was completely awestruck. The sea was the bluest I’ve ever seen — almost unreal in its vibrancy. The waves were quite strong, which made swimming even more fun for my wife and me as we played in the surf.

We had about an hour to enjoy the island before heading back, but it was an experience I’ll never forget. If you visit Antalya, don’t miss Suluada Island — it’s truly paradise.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a relaxing holiday with everything you need at your fingertips — great weather, comfortable beaches, and plenty of opportunities to unwind — Turkey is an excellent choice. However, if you prefer a more active trip with lots of historical sites or cultural exploration nearby, you might find it a little limiting, as most historic towns are over an hour away.

For us, this trip was all about relaxation, with a few exciting adventures thrown in. Between the sun, the sea, and the stunning landscapes, Antalya was a beautiful escape from our busy lives in Lithuania.