October in the Mediterranean

In 1332, a traveller from Tangiers called İbni Batuta described the city of Alanya in his travelogue. He extolled the beauty of its weather, its people, its costumes and its cuisine. Although 700 years have passed, his vivid praise of the city still rings true. Only its name has changed from Korakesion as it was called in Strabon's "Geography" to Alaniyye or Alaiye after the Seljuk Sultan Alaettin Keykubad who took the city in 1221.

Beaches with Blue Flags

In the past, Alanya was important enough to be the winter capital of the Seljuks. Today, it is a major tourism capital. With its clean blue flag-bearing water and its pristine beaches, it is a pleasure to swim anywhere in Alanya. The best beach is perhaps golden Damlatas beach while İncekum and Ulaş are also lovely. Escape the hottest hours by taking a trip to the cool and atmospheric Damlataş and Dim Caves.The Damlataş Cave was found by accident in 1948 and is said to be good for people suffering from asthma. The Dim Cave located 12km from Alanya is 350m long and filled with stalactites and stalagmites. The Dim Creek in the valley below the cave is lined with fish restaurants where you can enjoy the flavour of fresh trout. You should also visit the Alanya Fort and Kizil Tower, especially at sunset. The Alanya fort has been around since the days of Korakesion. Its finishing touches were made by the Seljuks. The 33m high Kizil Tower is the symbol of the city and was also built by the Seljuks in 1226.

Alanya's streets are wide and well kempt. It even boasts bicycle paths. Thanks to the strict Alanya municipality, you won't be bothered by hecklers touting their wares. You should also head to the Alanya Archaeological Museum, in particular to see the broze statue of Hercules. The museum also carries Hellenic, Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk and Ottoman works. Now that the oppressive heat of summer has passed, this is an ideal time to experience the calm, quiet and peace of Alanya.

Triathlon in Alanya

The 12th International Alanya Triathlon will be held on October 23rd. See www.triathlon.org.tr.How to get thereDirect buses from all major cities. You can also come via Antalya. Antalya-Alanya by road takes 2 hours. Alanya Bus Station: 0242-513 26 50. You can also fly from Antalya. Call THY: 444 0849.

Alanya Hotel

Kleopatra Beach Hotels: 22 hotels on the Kleopatra Beach. www.kleopatrabeachhotels.com Grand Kaptan Hotel (5*): In the city centre. Tel: +90242-514 01 01 www.kaptanhotels.com Club Paradiso Hotel & Resort (5*): 7km from Alanya. Tel: +90242-51822 01 www.club-paradiso.com Panorama Hotel (4*): In the city centre. Tel: +90 242- 513 11 81 . www.panoramahotel.com.tr Krizantem Hotel (3*): Central and on the shore. Tel: +90 242-514 06 68. www.krizantemhotel.com Gortur Beach Hotel (2*): Central with private beach.

Where to eat

Ottoman House: 100 year old Alanya house. Garden, live music, Turkish food. Address: Damlatas Cad.No: 31. Tel: 0242-511 14 21. Kaptan's Filika Restaurant: Italian and Med fare on Damlatas beach. Tel: 0242-513 10 94-513 49 00. Green Beach Restaurant: Seafood on Kleopatra beach. Tel: 0242 512 54 89. Jozef's Platz: Meat and fish with salad. Tel: 0242 513 92 96. Address: Muftuler Cad. Demir Sok. No:5/A. Mahperi: Established 194. Seafood. Tel: 0242-512 54 91. E-mail:info@mahperi.com

Helpful hints

* Try the 100% natural Bamyaci icecreams. İskele Cad. No: 88.

* Alanya is famed for its accessories made from gourds. Buy some as gifts.

* Silk shawls are a traditional Alanya craft. You can buy shawls and gourds on the road to the fortress.

* See the municipal website for more information. www.alanya.cc

* You can take day trips to the Manavgat Waterfall and to the Alara Fort.

* The Alanya Archaeological Museum is open daily from 09.00-12.00/13.30-18.30. Tel: 0242-513 12 28.