Fethiye is a small coastal town in Turkey that has in recent years gained a reputation as one of the most beautiful and reasonably priced Mediterranean/Aegean destinations for UK travelers. And if the fact that The Guardian and The Times have both declared it an outstanding tourist centre doesn't convince you, you may be interested to learn that many British like Fethiye so much that they just can't leave, as the city boasts over 7000 British citizens as permanent residents.

Fehiye gained its reputation as a trading town going back 3000 years when it was called Telmessos, but today it is best known for its beaches. True, the beaches are some of the best in the Mediterranean-- and sunbathing is certainly the most popular activity -- but it has much more.

For sightseeing, there is the fort built by the Knights of Rhodes, which is perched one one of the hills overlooking the town. There are also the Lycian tombs, cut directly into the rock, which date back to first few centuries B.C. (The Tomb of Amyntas is considered the most impressive.) For those with a taste for the unusual, there is the abandoned town of Kayakoy with its stone houses that defy time.

The feel of Fethiye is decidedly 'laid back', and more popular with families and newlywed couples. There are bars and clubs, but most will find them more relaxed. Nevertheless, anyone enjoys swimming, boating, good food, friendly people and just general lazing around in the sun will find Fethiye the perfect holiday destination.