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Kalkan Discussion => Holiday Reports and Reviews => Topic started by: RosiB on July 17, 2015, 09:36:51 AM

Title: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: RosiB on July 17, 2015, 09:36:51 AM
Thought I might try writing something this year - after 17 years of visiting Kalkan, the time's probably right!

Everything's ready, but the taxi isn't coming until 13.00, so I'm running round like a headless chicken, finding all sorts of things I could have/should have done. I'll be exactly the same tomorrow morning when I wake up in Kalkan - things which look perfectly ok where they are will be moved around until I feel completely at home again. This time, we're out for a month - can I take 4 weeks of July/August heat? Worth a try!

We've made a list of things we want to do - some of which are old favourites and some things/ places we've always wanted to do or see but never quite got round to; I've a funny feeling, though, that just relaxing by the pool might take over!

We've had some work done in the apartment over the winter, so I'm really looking forward to seeing it all. Bill's been out already and says it's great, but I'll feel a bit anxious till I can see it for myself. What I'm most looking forward to, though, is just that feeling of tranquillity you get looking at the views, sitting with friends - being in Kalkan!

Anyway, won't promise to write every day, but I'll do my best!

Until later.

Rosx
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: kalkan4eva on July 17, 2015, 11:45:14 AM
Hurrah  ;D ;D ;D
I will look forward to hearing all about your stay.
If someone offered me a month in Kalkan in July/August I'd say it was worth a try too....Done 18 days at that time of year and I certainly could have stayed longer....
Have a great time
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: antler on July 17, 2015, 01:53:24 PM
I am glued to the screen, Ros!

Travel safe and tell us all about it!!
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: Lizilu20 on July 17, 2015, 01:57:50 PM
Hey Ros!!!

What a lovely surprise to find you are going to report back and for a whole month too. No pressure of course but now you've started...

Looking forward to seeing you all in August. Safe journey, Godspeed and hope you get settled back down in no time. Lucky Bill already having a sneaky peak at the renovations. Have a wonderful holiday and see you soon.  :-* :-*  :) 8)

Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: Bob & Jayne on July 17, 2015, 07:14:27 PM
Ooh yes that would be such a treat, a whole month of posts, yes no pressure RosiB, but if you have time would be lovely to share your holiday  :D
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: keith on July 17, 2015, 07:50:25 PM
Really looking forward to reading your posts as it will be like an extension to our holiday........5 weeks and counting. ☺☺☺
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: RosiB on July 19, 2015, 06:51:05 AM
DAY 1
We arrived a couple of hours later than we expected to, so straight to bed. As usual,I was first to wake up; I thought it would be a good idea to tidy the food cupboard before we went shopping, so that I'd know what we needed. Of course,that led to other cupboards being tidied, and still no one else was awake. Eventually, at around ten, there was some movement. What was for breakfast? How about the first treat of the holiday? Yelken Bistro it was! Two pots of the best coffee other than mine and I was ready to go!

Supermarket, butcher and greengrocer (how can you buy so much fruit and vegetables for so little?) and back, stopping off to pay for the car hire on the way. "No, don't pay now. You'll need your money for the holiday! Wait a few days!" Where else can you find trust like that? Bread, cheese and fresh fruit for lunch. The pool beckoned! Bill and Mia were there in seconds flat, while I cleaned up then - the doorbell! Lovely to see old friends, but by five o'clock I just couldn't find the enthusiasm for swimming and was looking forward to going out for a wander around town and a nice meal somewhere. The others came back with the news that we would be entertaining some other old friends. It won't be a problem to rustle up dinner for six, will it?! Thank goodness for the chicken man! Chickens, salad and a couple of bottles of wine - and good company! - and it was well past midnight!

Oh well, I've got a month to get brown in - and it starts today!
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: Lizilu20 on July 19, 2015, 09:04:41 AM
Sounds like a very busy first day Ros! Hope you find time to relax today.  :)
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: keith on July 19, 2015, 02:31:55 PM
Great first holiday report......you were obviously very busy but I'm sure and hope that you get plenty of time to relax and to top up the tan. Good wine and company are an intregal part of any holiday. ☺☺
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: RosiB on July 20, 2015, 04:22:38 AM
I decided yesterday that it was high time I reacquainted myself with an old friend - WH (I know, Liz, I know! Not yours, though!) As I slipped into his gentle embrace, I thought "Oh, how I've missed you!" We spent a wonderful 20 minutes together, drifting around aimlessly before I felt the combined call of Rod Stewart and Stephen King from the far side of the pool. I used to sneer at schmaltz in any shape or form, but The Great American Songbook has become synonymous with relaxing in Kalkan for me as I've got older and "Finders Keepers" was high on my list of must reads,so WH was abandoned. I can be so fickle sometimes! The rest of the day was spent in the company of these three Lotharios and I felt completely satisfied! I'm quite easy to please!

We'd decided to go down to the village to eat last night; traditionally, we like our first meal at Alternatif, but Bill suggested trying somewhere different so after a couple of drinks at Moonlight we wandered off on a voyage of discovery. We HAD to stop off at BSG en route - just for a look, you understand! - and I found the perfect case for my new phone. Duly newly encased, off we went again. We made the perfect choice for our first Kalkan meal of this holiday when we found ourselves in - Alternatif! Creatures of habit, or what?!! Bill had pepper steak, Mia had chicken shish and I had Sea Bream - all fresh and delicious. After Mia had demolished her complimentary free icecream, it was time to wander off again. Mustafa suggested that we look in the spa shop next to the restaurant, and the scents of the gorgeous natural soaps were just too delicious to resist so half a dozen soaps and a new bathrobe for Bill later and we were finally ready to go! As we passed Mini Bar, Mia decided she was tired and needed a bit of a rest - this couldn't have had anything to do with remembering the delicious non-alcoholic cocktails she had last year, could it? By the time we felt refreshed, we realized it was almost 11 o'clock - well past bedtime for 12 year olds! We made our way back to our lovely Kalkan home, got Mia (protesting all the way that she wasn't tired!) into bed and sorted all the new soaps into the glamorous new bathroom, I was ready to sleep myself!

This morning, I've wakened in time to do one of my favourite things - watch the sun rise over the mountain while I enjoy the first coffee of the day. Who knows what the rest of the day will bring?
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: Haybo on July 20, 2015, 05:59:02 AM
What a fab day! Sounds like my kind of start. We have been to Kalkan twice and havent managed to get past Hunkars on the first proper night. I can't wait to smell the delicious aroma!

Where is your apt RosiB?
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: RosiB on July 20, 2015, 06:23:59 AM
Hi Haybo! We're in the Yelken apartments; we bought it in 2000 after we'd had years of holidays there and spend as much time as possible there.
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: Bob & Jayne on July 20, 2015, 08:01:50 AM
RosieB, thank you for taking the the time to post, you sound just like me, always the first awake, even on holiday. Hope you manage to get round the pool soon and start that sun tan off.  We are out for a month in 10 days time, and reading your post this morning, has made me even more excited. Have a wonderful holiday and look forward to reading more of your posts if you have time.  :D :D :D
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: kalkan4eva on July 20, 2015, 10:35:37 AM
Oh RosiB, just think you have a whole month of this ahead of you...how wonderful :)
That water hammock is a godsend in the hotter months - we bought ours 5 seasons ago when we last came out in July/Aug and we had to have a rota for it....demand was high.
As you say, you've plenty of time to develop that tan and getting burned...as I know...can put a right downer of those first couple of days.
Looking forward to your next post...whenever you can manage it.
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: Lizilu20 on July 20, 2015, 11:27:53 AM
Aha Ros, so you've succumbed to the charms of WH and your other 2 guilty pleasures?  Good girl  ;D ;D ;D That's what I like to see. I can't wait for that wonderful feeling of total relaxation, I can feel my shoulders unknotting as I type this.

Loving your reports and dare I say it - it's about blooming time lady after all these years!  ;D ;D ;D

Have a lovely day - can't wait to find out where you end up.  8) :)
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: Babs on July 20, 2015, 06:09:44 PM
So,glad you had a lovely day of relaxation in good company!  :laugh:
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: Charlie on July 20, 2015, 07:47:54 PM
Love Minibar, perfect place for a nightcap!
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: tortoise lady on July 20, 2015, 08:02:38 PM
I have heard good things of Yelken Bistro and if you have an apartment there you must be finding it an asset to have on your doorstep.

Enjoying your blog, RosiB
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: RosiB on July 20, 2015, 10:51:06 PM
It is lovely - especially having waiter service to bring coffee to you, poolside! Saves having to run upstairs to make it yourself!
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: RosiB on July 23, 2015, 04:47:48 AM
Nothing much to write about over the last couple of days - you'd have been bored reading about our shopping sorties and visits out to pay insurance, etc, interspersed with dips in the pool! Yesterday, though, we went to Patara, which was great.
We left the Yelken at about 9.30, which turned out to be a good idea as the beach got very busy later in the day. We had some friends with us who haven't been to Kalkan before so a wander around the ruins was a must. I love being there - many moons ago, I taught history and English and Patara and places like it just remind me of why I loved doing it. I know it's a bit of romanticism, but I can easily imagine what it was like in its heyday, alive and vibrant. I love Xanthos and other places nearby, too, but Patara is particularly resonant, somehow.It also gave me a chance to try out some of the features of my new camera, so you might even get some photos! After a lot of wandering and oooing and aaahing, we decided the kids weren't just being whiney and really did need to go, so back into the car for the short drive to the beach.
Even at 10:30ish we had trouble finding a parking space, but eventually did, then trekked along the boardwalk to that glorious beach. We paid for the sunbeds and umbrellas and were escorted to a great front row position. I was a bit worried about this; last year, same position, the waves came right up under the beds and we almost lost everything we'd put down beside them, but we were reassured that the sea would be quite calm and it was. I love swimming and swimming in the sea is special, somehow, so in we all went until the lure of burgers got to be too attractive to kids who don't have junk food too often. I've spent the last couple of years with Slimming World, and have a morbid fear of putting on everything I've lost, so I was a bit worried about what I could eat; I needn't have been - they do a great fresh fruit platter in the beach cafe - watermelon, banana, nectarines, apples, pears and cherries - yum! After that it was back into the sea for a bit.
At about 4:30, we decided it was time to head back. This led to incident 1; Bill said he'd go ahead and start to cool the car down. The rest of us packed up and set off on the VERY hot march back. The car park was heaving but we were pretty sure we knew where we'd parked, only the car and Bill weren't there! Isn't it strange how the temperature rises at the same time as stress levels???!!!! 15 minutes of wandering around in the blistering heat before we found him parked in the shade at the side of the road, air conditioning on, not concerned in the least! Apparently, he thought we'd be a bit longer and was going to come closer to the front to meet us. I was not a happy bunny! Anyway, hot sticky bodies squashed in, off we set for Kalkan - and incident number 2!
We had just turned off the D400 when the car shuddered to a stop and decided not to start again. Now, you all know that, gorgeous as that view is, there's no shade at all there and it's not exactly the safest place to be but we had no other option than to wait for the rescue party! When we did eventually get home, the kids jumped straight into the pool (including the two adult men!)
Too stressed and seriously knackered after all this, we decided not to go out last night. We've got a boat trip and a cookery lesson booked for the next few days, so enough treats to look forward to.
Today's market day and Bill and Mia are going to head up there without me - I`'ll wait to go nearer the end of our holiday, as it's just too much! Me, Rod and WH have a date today, anyway!
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: Haybo on July 23, 2015, 06:11:43 AM
What a trauma! I think ee will have a day at Patara this year....if it's not too hot one day (yeah, right! ) .  Looking forward to next installment.  Only 8 sleeps now!
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: RosiB on July 23, 2015, 06:28:30 AM
You must be getting sooooo excited!!!
Traumatic but luckily we've got a sense of humour, so can see the funny side of it all!
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: Bob & Jayne on July 23, 2015, 08:04:11 AM
Fab report RosiB, living your holiday with you I can tell you! Brought back memories of Patara reading about your hot experience! Two years ago, we got back to the car, and OH realised he had left his Bloc sunglasses where he had showered at the beach. I went back to get them, and someone had already got there first, no sunglasses in sight! by the time I got back to the car, I was very hot indeed and no sunglasses for my efforts!! He made a note to self, never put sunglasses down at Patara Beach again!

Enjoy your day and look forward to another post when you have time  :D

Jx

Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: Lizilu20 on July 23, 2015, 10:21:27 AM
Another fab report Ros - you're good at this.  :)

I can just picture Bill sat in the shade in his nice cool car, and you lot sweltering thinking you've been abandoned!  ;) and then the trauma of the car breaking down at a very inappropriate place. I bet you couldn't wait to get in that pool and under the air con! I don't blame you for not wanting a sweaty trip round the market - you've got loads more Thursdays left for that treat.

3 WEEKS TODAY FOR US  8) 8) 8)

Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: clara 50 on July 23, 2015, 10:28:44 AM
Keep the reports coming, keeping my spirits up could almost be with you there especially the ruins. Love  Patara and Letoon always been the only ones there and eerily quiet but so atmospheric if you let your imagination run riot. Missing Kalkan for the first time in eight years Mum home after six weeks in hospital but still needs almost constant care now. Need to hear all about the Kalkan we love so much to brighten up the day and remember all the special times we've had in the past. So keep 'em coming, look forward to reading them. Have a wonderful time and an Efes for me, one in Wetherspoons on a shopping day just doesn't tick all the boxes lol. Cheers to you all!!
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: kalkan4eva on July 23, 2015, 10:59:21 AM
Oh RosiB, I was hot, sweaty and stressed reading that....no pool for me to jump into :(
Loving your reports, please keep them coming
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: RosiB on July 24, 2015, 05:08:39 AM
Oh, what a night! - but not for the right reasons! More of this later.

Yesterday morning, Bill and Mia went off to the market, as planned. There were a couple of things I needed and I'd given them a list as I know Bill's memory isn't his best feature. On this list - peaches, tomatoes, potatoes, onions. I'd decided to do some cleaning while they were out and, as a treat for Mia, bake some chocolate brownies. I got them into the oven before doing anything else (there are some left, Lara!) Then time to start tidying; lo and behold, on the coffee table was the list! But surely he'd remember four items, I hear you say. Well, four items did come back - DVDs, a cigarette lighter, lemon cologne and a belt! Even I can't make a meal with that lot! I was not best pleased so decided to leave them to scrabble together whatever they could find for lunch and I went off with WH.

As the day progressed, it was becoming more and more humid, and by 4 pm it was too uncomfortable to stay out. In my stroppy mood and because of the lack of basic ingredients, I wasn't going to be doing any cooking, so Bill suggested we went to Chillies. I just wanted a simple salad, but the others had chicken. Afterwards, we went up to Migros to get the missing items then back home. At about 10, we were ready for bed - lightweights, I know! Two hours later, I was wakened by a sobbing Mia, who'd thrown up all over her bedroom floor. I calmed her down, cleaned her up, mopped up and put her into bed with us. Half an hour later, we were up again - more mopping! Only this time, to make it more interesting, the power went off, too! Meanwhile, Bill slept like a baby through it all! Eventually, we got back to bed only to be wakened 20 minutes later - Bill was busy, praying at the porcelain altar!

Today can only improve, can't it????
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: Babs on July 24, 2015, 08:48:25 AM
Oh no......things can go horribly wrong even in paradise!  ???
My question would be.....what did Bill and Mia eat at the market? Hope you don't succumb (spelling??) and that everyone feels much better soon.
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: Lizilu20 on July 24, 2015, 10:54:50 AM
Oh dear, what a rotten night you all had. From bitter experience I can definitely recommend the pharmacy next to simply chic, and the one just up from Kaya for all your gastroenteritis needs. The pharmacists are excellent at both of these places and will sort them out in no time if you describe their symptoms. Really hope they are both feeling better soon. I suppose it's better to have the trots at the beginning of the holiday and get it out of the way - if you have to succumb to it.  :( :(

Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: RosiB on July 24, 2015, 11:52:52 AM
Thank you, ladies! Bill seems to have bounced back; in fact he's taken himself off to Cafe Vita for some lunch! Mia has slept most of the day but I'm sure she'll be fine before long.
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: Lizilu20 on July 24, 2015, 12:49:30 PM
That's good, hope a speedy recovery is on the cards. Meanwhile you can have fun being creative with Bill's presents from the market  ::) The male of the species definitely have a different set of market priorities than the females.   ;D Love Bill's essentials!
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: kalkan4eva on July 24, 2015, 02:05:09 PM
Oh dear...what a carry on! Sounds like something they've both eaten, although its unusual for an adult to bounce back before a child. Let's hope the Cafe Vita lunch isn't too premature  :o
Yes, Lizilu, the male version of the essentials list made me laugh too...and come on..how many of us buy lemon cologne and never use it..? I've stopped myself buying Apple Tea these days after clearing the cupboards at home of boxes of the stuff that had somehow gone rock hard over the years.
Looking forward to hearing more about your stay, RosiB...loving these reports.
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: Bob & Jayne on July 24, 2015, 03:47:01 PM
RosiB glad to hear Bill is on the mend, and am sure Mia will be better very soon, not nice at all is it, been there ourselves too! Male version of market essentials, that has just made me laugh too ladies! and as for the lemon cologne, just love that when you enter the market and the chap insists on smothering you in it, such a warm welcome when your sweltering in the market! I resisted buying it last year as we too have plenty of the stuff!

Look forward to another instalment soon RosiB.   ;)
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: tortoise lady on July 24, 2015, 06:40:04 PM
Hope Mia is now feeling better too.   

I might actually try buying the lemon cologne next visit, maybe help against the various insects?

Anyone else buys lemon salt and has it sitting there in the kitchen for a very long time?   A pinch in gin and tonic goes well so I must remember that.
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: keith on July 24, 2015, 07:06:06 PM
Is the clue in your visit to Chillies? You went for salad and the rest went for chicken!! I really don't envy anyone having to pray at the porcelain alter. Touch wood we've never experienced this in Kalkan. Good to know that there a couple of good pharmacists.......... just in case
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: RosiB on July 26, 2015, 04:36:53 AM
For the last couple of days, the weather has been a bit overcast - which hasn't been a bad thing, as it meant there wasn't much of a struggle getting Mia to stay in to get over the sickness bug. Apparently, lots of people in Kalkan have come down with it. Those DVDs Bill bought at the market have proved to be useful after all, too!
We were meant to go on a boat trip yesterday, but postponed it; the captain of the Falcon was great and said we could change to Sunday, so that's the plan for today - I'll let you know how that goes. I'm not totally comfortable with boats, but compromised with Bill - I'd do a boat trip if he'd do a cookery lesson! He agreed, so watch this space! He's good at doing barbecues, but has never attempted anything else; maybe he'll turn out to be the next Jamie Oliver!
Sunrise this morning has been gorgeous and it looks and feels like it's going to be very hot. Will update you later with all that happens.
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: pw on July 26, 2015, 10:13:48 AM
There appears to be a widespread health issue in Kalkan at the moment. See report on KTLN for details. It is very unfair to implicate Chillies in this regard.

pw
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: pw on July 26, 2015, 01:32:44 PM
Chiliies may not be fully to blame for this,however the chef is new this year and the quality leaves much to be desired.
Last year the dishes were so much more appetising and well presented and Chillies was one of our favourites.This year,they have,in my own opinion,definetly lost something and this years chef is not as good with presentation or quality...........We wont be eating there now,but there so many other fab places.

This year our big favourites are Coriander,Yelkin Bistro,Small house,Café Vita for lunch  and not to forget our consistently good Foto pizza.

Everyone to their own.

It's all about personal preference. Personally I couldn't disagree with you more. Chillies food has been excellent this year. Again, my opinion.
To say they may not be FULLY to blame for the current outbreak of ill health suggests that you think they are in some way responsible, which based on your opinion of the presentation of their food is ridiculous, not to mention harmful to their business and potentially libelous.

pw
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: keith on July 26, 2015, 02:30:27 PM
I hadn't intended to single Chillies out for any particular criticism. I was just trying to say that you would always normally just look at what and where you have eaten to try to determine if there was a common denominator. The article on KTLN seems to suggest that there may be a wider issue this year.
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: RosiB on July 26, 2015, 04:13:35 PM
PW, there is nothing in what I wrote that even slightly suggested that Chillies was to blame, and that was never my intention. I feel you're being oversensitive and presumptuous in assuming that's what I meant.
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: pw on July 26, 2015, 04:28:11 PM
PW, there is nothing in what I wrote that even slightly suggested that Chillies was to blame, and that was never my intention. I feel you're being oversensitive and presumptuous in assuming that's what I meant.

No, I'm sure you didn't mean to suggest Chillies were to blame but others picked up on the fact that the 2 members of your family that were, unfortunately, ill both ate chicken there. I felt one post in particular needed a response.

Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: keith on July 26, 2015, 04:58:35 PM
I apologise if my post caused any offence. I'm fairly new at posting to the forum and was just looking to apply the same logic as I would at home if one of the family went down with sickness and diarrhoea. From reading the update on KTLN it would appear that the quality of water may be causing the problem.
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: RosiB on July 27, 2015, 04:16:34 AM
Our boat trip was great, despite my misgivings. Part of my problem with them is that I feel trapped and that leads to me being restless - I do like to keep busy! Today, however, I managed to relax and enjoy the experience. The sea was very calm all day, and the boat were on wasn't too crowded. By the end of the day, Mia even felt brave enough to go into the water without a noodle - I didn't! Lunch was delicious - fish, mixed salad, beans, pasta, couscous, carrot and yogurt salad, a spicy tomato salad and lots of bread. Even though we've been coming to Kalkan for years, I've never been lucky enough to see any turtles, but at our last stop in Firnaz Bay we saw two; I was so excited I couldn't even take a photo!

It's strange how a day out at sea, doing nothing but relaxing, can make you tired, but by the time we'd all showered no one felt like doing very much. Bill suggested that we just go down to the Yelken Bistro to save me having to cook, so that's what we did. Bill had halloumi followed by lamb's liver, Mia had chicken fajitas and I had mucver and delicious grilled sea bass. No one had room for a dessert - until Mia spotted lemon cheesecake on the menu! She and Bill both have an incredibly sweet tooth which is usually quite well controlled (!) But they decided to share a portion between them. Then it was back up to the apartment. It was only just after nine and no one was quite ready to go to bed so out came the cards. My family is Italian, and if you know Italians you'll know how much they love a game of cards, and this is a tradition we've continued with Mia. She gets very competitive and loves winning, but last night it was my turn!

Well, that was our day - not dramatic but fun. Bring on the next one!
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: Joeyloveskalkan on July 27, 2015, 01:22:59 PM
You don't always want "dramatic" days when on holiday anyway.  Sounds like you had a most wonderful day to me.

Enjoy the rest of your holiday.

Jo
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: cocobarker on July 27, 2015, 03:38:24 PM
Hi RosiB.. Hope to see you soon.. I arrive on Friday night.. Looking forward to catching up with Bill and having a beer rather than a quick chat in the queue to pay the electricity bill like last year... Heard great things about the Elkin Bistro as well... Best wishes and hope you are all feeling better... My lot have had something too... Coco  ::)
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: Babs on July 27, 2015, 05:15:53 PM
Oh I do love a boat trip!
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: RosiB on July 28, 2015, 03:30:06 AM
Hi, Coco! Bill says he's looking forward to that beer!
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: RosiB on July 29, 2015, 05:57:34 AM
Honest, your Honour, I didn't mean to do it! They made me!

I promised not to buy another bag this year, but on Monday evening, we made the fundamental error of going into BSG with Mia and Lara and going upstairs where the sale bags are. I've tried to be practical this year and have been using a backpack but I was getting fed up with it as the others seem to think it's ok to put all their stuff in it too and I'd carry it for them. I thought I might get myself a smaller, practical bag, but the girls spotted "the one" and I walked out of there with a lovely red Mulberry. I did wrestle with my conscience a bit - for all of ten seconds - but I'm a weak woman and the girls were VERY convincing!  It's not like I won't use it, though. My second treat of the day was an iced coffee in Cafe del Mar - the best in Kalkan, I think. I MUST get back on track tomorrow!

Yesterday was the day of our cookery lesson at Guru's; I'd had a feeling that Bill might chicken out of it, and sure enough he thought that he'd better not go with us as he didn't think he was completely over the lurgy. I decided not to put up an argument - after all, he didn't complain about the bag too much!- and Mia and I had a great morning shopping and cooking with Huseyin. We even brought back some of our borek for Bill to try - and delicious they were!

Today is going to be a pool day - how very unusual - NOT!!!
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: Lizilu20 on July 29, 2015, 09:39:18 AM
ha ha ha, I'm hoping I'm going to be in your shoes too Ros re the bag, I've been squirreling away my birthday money for the very same reason. I'm fed up of being Mum the pack horse  :)

I bet the cookery lesson was really good and I bet those borek were amazing. Yum Yum. :)
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: kalkan4eva on July 29, 2015, 02:43:44 PM
First of all..excellent shopping! Straight to the BSG sale upstairs has to be everyone's first point of call when bag shopping this year....the bags are incredible value. Go with an open mind and you may pick up a bargain. We bought so many things off them this year that I even got a discount on top of the cash discount - absolutely unheard of :) Well done RosiB you make me proud!
Loved the cookery lessons with Huseyin at Guru's - does his Mum still do all the work..?
Hey you're on holiday so a bag, an iced coffee and a cookery lesson is par for the course.
Love these reports, so keep them coming...
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: Bob & Jayne on July 29, 2015, 04:27:28 PM
RosiB, so glad that you enjoyed your boat trip, it certainly is one of the best days for us when in Kalkan, and as K4E says well done on your bag purchase, and even better from the sale at BSG, so glad that you only wasted 10 seconds wrestling with your conscience, where ladies and bags are concerned, it just has to be done!  I love going in that shop, and even more so, if you manage to bag a bargain!! I already have a list to bring home 2 x hermes belts, a Mulberry clutch bag and a Mulberry messenger bag for friends before I can even think about what I might like!  :D :D

Your cookery course sounded fab, and we hope that Bill has now fully recovered and that you are having a lovely relaxing day round your pool. 

1 more sleep for us, am so excited, this time tomorrow we'll be on our way to the Airport! I may join you in a doing a blog or 2 or 3!!!!

J  :D 8)

Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: Babs on July 29, 2015, 07:04:59 PM
Why oh why did I not know that BSG has sale bags upstairs, goodness knows I spend enough time, and money, in there! The first I heard of it was K4Es blog.........now I'll have to wait I till next year!  :(
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: Lizilu20 on July 29, 2015, 07:24:33 PM
I'll tell you all about it Babs  ;)
And I'll make sure there's plenty left for you!
2 weeks tomorrow... 8) 8)
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: BarbH on July 29, 2015, 10:24:57 PM
Son't keep rubbing it in Lizzie!!! :laugh: :laugh:
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: suzyq1 on July 30, 2015, 09:44:25 PM
Hi RosiB, have just spent an enjoyable 10 minutes reading all your reports. Thanks for taking the time to post . It must be the year of the Turtle as we also saw them this year for the first time.  :)

I'm beginning to think I'm not normal? Am I the only woman that goes to Kalkan and doesn't buy a handbag?
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: Mrs M! on July 30, 2015, 10:07:52 PM
Well Suzyq1 if it makes you feel any better I too didn't buy a Handbag last year (did the previous 2 years though)! Concentrated on bits for our new house in deepest darkest Hampshire last year :)
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: RosiB on August 01, 2015, 04:46:28 AM
The weather over the last couple of days has been VERY hot and humid - the sort that drains all your energy - so we haven't done much at all. I'm sitting on the balcony at the moment and there's a bit of a breeze, so maybe today will feel a bit better.
On Wednesday, I was a bit like Old Mother Hubbard - all the cupboards were bare - so we went out to eat. We ended up going to Begonvil, where the sea bass baked in a foil parcel was great; I should be more adventurous I suppose, but I do love fish! That little street is so pretty now, with the lights strung across and music playing. We were going to wander for a while, but it was so hot and sticky that we decided a night time swim was a better option, so that's what we did. Yesterday we went to Kalkan Beach Park for the day and it felt much fresher by the sea - at least, it did to start with! We went quite early so managed to get sunbeds in a good position, but before long, it was pretty crowded. Mia managed - eventually! - to be brave enough to go down the slide but only after Bill showed her how NOT to do it, by getting stuck half way! She was also very excited to see turtles, only ever having seen them in a tank before. We had lunch there - the biggest fruit platter I've ever had! - but by then the day was just getting too hot, so by 2:30, we decided to go back via a stop at Migros to restock the larder and fridge. Shopping put away, it was straight into the pool to cool off! A quiet evening in, watching a DVD after dinner and we're ready for what ever comes next! We're halfway through our holiday now, and there's still so many things on our to do list that we haven't done; it's a good thing we didn't just come for two weeks!
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: tortoise lady on August 01, 2015, 10:32:19 AM
Great hearing your reports RosiB even if yesterday seemed rather a sticky hot day.   A good time to have all that lovely fresh fruit and be able to have a dip in sea or pool.

Susyq1 - I have NEVER purchased a bag in Kalkan, don't even take one with me.   I put all my "stuff" in an ancient canvas tote bag which can hold book, camera, torch at night, sunglasses, comb, someone else's book (you know who you are), sunlotion, coolspray etc etc.   To be honest I normally only use one handbag in UK - I do have another bag but the last time I used it I forgot to put very important things back in my normal handbag.   I don't know how ladies can keep changing their bags.

I realise I must be a real oddity for all you bag loving ladies who enjoy bag shopping in Kalkan.   I admire your perseverance in search of lovely bags.

Keep the reports coming, I envy your longer stay in Kalkan.   My next visit is only for 12 days and that will have to include discussion of any winter works to be done.
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: Joeyloveskalkan on August 01, 2015, 11:25:52 AM
I don't enjoy the bag shopping either.  I did by a little cheap one on the market last time I was in Kalkan but that is it.

I too use only one handbag at home, changing when it starts to look tatty.  I have the smaller one to use when I go for a walk and only want to put purse, phone and keys in it.

Glad you are now having a nice time Rosi after to tummy upsets.  Continue to keep up informed as we are much enjoying reading your posts.

Jo
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: Mags on August 01, 2015, 12:00:07 PM
I'm with Tortoise Lady and Jo on the issue of bags. I too have NEVER bought a bag in Kalkan. I have a mini leather rucksack that I use day and evenings when I'm there. In the UK I use the same bag all the time, until it falls to bits, whereupon I buy another. I can't understand why anyone would want more than one bag, as it's such a faff changing all the contents over.
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: RosiB on August 05, 2015, 05:08:31 AM
The last few days have flown by, even though we've not really done all that much. On Sunday, it was VERY hot so we decided to go to Bodamya Tepe in Islamlar as it would be a bit cooler up there. It's such a beautiful setting and Hassan is so welcoming that it's always a pleasure to be there. We told him to surprise us with the meze for our first course, and that was exactly the right thing to do! There was mucver, salad, halloumi sizzling in its spicy oil, village bread, aubergine with yogurt and garlic sauce and the ever present chips; I don't know anywhere else in the world that serves chips as part of a starter, but it's all part of the Kalkan experience! I think it's a bit daft to go to a trout farm to eat and not have trout, so Bill and I had very simply grilled trout. I didn't have much of the meze but could easily have eaten two trout! Bill and Mia decided to treat themselves to dessert as it was Sunday lunch, after all! They had helva, which at Bodamya is warmed up with grated apple and finely chopped walnuts; I think it's WAY too sweet, but they love it! After a bit of duck chasing and dog petting (Mia), beer drinking (Bill) and fresh herb scrounging (me),  it was time to head back to sweltering Kalkan and the pool. It really has been getting hotter and hotter every day; a friend said it's expected to reach 50 later this week! The humidity is a bit better, though.
I decided on Monday that it was time to spend some time with WH once again; when we last were together, I'd left him alone for a short while, only to return to find him cavorting about with some younger ladies; you can imagine the hurt and disappointment I felt! I didn't let him out for a few days after that; he clearly can't be trusted on his own! We had a lovely time, keeping cool together, though. Yesterday, Bill suggested going to Patara for the day; Mia vetoed that idea - I think she thought it might lead to another breakdown! Instead, we had another pool day. It's funny how all the plans we had for doing things are slowly going back on the "to do next time" list! We went out to dinner last night with some friends, to Kalamaki; I promised myself that I'd have something other than sea bass - and I almost did! Maybe next time! It was SO hot up on the roof but the view is just spectacular! Once again, Mia and Bill HAD to share a portion of cheesecake - I think they are on a mission to taste and judge every cheesecake they can find! A wander round Kalkan - via the watch shop for Bill - and it was almost midnight. I swear if he buys another watch I might scream - but he probably says the same about me and bags!!
It feels like it's going to be very hot again today and I seem to have become VERY attractive to a couple of those huge bee/wasp things - either that or they like strong coffee in the morning! - so it's time to head back in and plan the day. Will it be pool, doze, pool or pool, doze, pool????
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: Mayday1 on August 05, 2015, 06:47:31 AM
Hi Rosie,sounds like your lovely Kalkan holiday is going great guns.It does sound very hot there  and 50 degrees is a bit of a scorcher.We love the trout farms and have only tried Mahmuts terrace so far.Yes,it is cooler with different views up there,but still stunning non the less.
I expect you were deeply hurt to see WH with other ladies,and I hope he had a good explanation for you.However,it does sound as though he is truly sorry and that the two of you have now made up. I love watches as well,so yes,maybe it is the guys equivalent to ladies interest in handbags and shoes

Pool worshipping is ideal in the heat as you don't feel like doing a lot and you are on holiday to relax.

We have never been to Kalamaki but everyone we know that has been has had a wonderful time with excellent food.Love reading about your holiday experiences as it keeps me in touch with the place I love.
Have a fantastic day.
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o direct    http://www.ownersdirect.co.uk/accommodation/p8154298





Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: kalkan4eva on August 05, 2015, 11:03:26 AM
AAhh Kalamaki cheesecake  ;D ;D. They use Derman's recipe from the much missed White Table restaurant which I know is delicious - although sadly no longer on my menu :'(
I'm loving your wonderful lazy days - its just too hot to do anything this time of year and plays havoc with your hair - well my hair!
Each to their own with bags - I have more bags than Debenhams and don't even go there with shoes  :o :o :o I would like the simpler life of one bag and one pair of shoes but sadly I am not made that way. I don't know where I get it from though as my mother is a single bag person too...
I love that your "To Do" list is turning into a "To do Next Time".... great idea.
Looking forward to hearing more about your stay - cant believe you are already half way through your holiday!
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: keith on August 05, 2015, 11:58:38 AM
Another great report RosiB. I think that we still have our original 'to do list' and most of the things are still on there. When you wake up to that view every morning and there is the lure of a swimming pool it is almost impossible to find any motivation to do anything else; other than relax.
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: Lizilu20 on August 05, 2015, 12:06:30 PM
Well if you're half way through, then it must be nearly time for us! Not that I'm wishing your holiday away I promise  ;)  :)

Do you know Ros, we've never been to Kalamaki before and there is no reason why, other than, even though this will be our 9th visit, we still have not had chance to try all the ones that are on our "to do next year list" too.  :)

It sounds like you are having a wonderful time and I cant wait to be reunited with my loving Walter - hope he's  not as fickle as yours  ;) 
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: RosiB on August 09, 2015, 04:32:52 AM
I've had a great time over the last couple of days!
Thursday was our wedding anniversary; I knew that Bill wouldn't remember - he never does! - but I was determined that I wasn't going to cook that evening, so at breakfast I suggested that we would all go down to the Bistro for dinner. It didn't occur to him that that was a bit unusual! It wasn't until the middle of the day, when our friend Ken mentioned it, that Bill actually realised what day it was. Did I enjoy his guilt? You bet I did! He had a bit of shopping to do, so off he went, leaving Mia and I to enjoy the pool on our own. At about 7:30, we went down for dinner, Mia being a bit giggly. I knew that we would never drink a whole bottle of champagne, so we had champagne cocktails before the meal, and then all three of us had delicious food - and I didn't have fish! After we'd eaten, I went outside to have a cigarette; when I returned, Mia was almost dancing in her seat so I guessed that Bill had planned something to redeem himself! Sure enough, instead of the coffee I'd asked for, out came the waiter with a cake complete with sparklers! I think Mia was more excited than me! She also ate more of it than me!

Friday was a quiet day, spent doing things in the apartment and relaxing by the pool. Ken and Lynn had invited us to dinner at their apartment, so I didn't even have to think about what to cook. Ken is a very good cook, so we were looking forward to the evening. We had delicious curry and satay, and finished with a great cheesecake. I think Mia almost licked the pattern off her plate! Thanks again Ken, Lynn and Lara - it was a great evening; we'll miss you next week!

Lynn and I had decided earlier in the holiday that we would treat ourselves to a massage, so that's what we did yesterday morning. We'd booked a session at the Lykia Spa for aromatherapy massage and facials - and fabulous they were! It's a beautiful place with very skilled practitioners - well worth going again! By the time we floated our way back to the Yelken, I had a thumping headache and just wanted to sleep - so that's what I did.I couldn't believe it when I wakened up five hours later!!!!
I managed to pull myself together enough to cook dinner, then we had a quiet evening watching a DVD before bed - and, no, I had no trouble getting back to sleep!

We're going out to lunch with some other old friends today, so another lovely, lazy day to come!
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: Lizilu20 on August 09, 2015, 12:09:37 PM
Happy anniversary Ros and Bill. What a lovely surprise for you Ros, and well done Bill, you did a goid job with that cake  :)

Your massage sounded wonderful - just the job!

Looking forward to seeing you all very soon...
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: Chris_S on August 09, 2015, 01:16:33 PM
Two people, one bottle of champagne, and can't drink it all?

Some would call that lightweight!  >:D
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: RosiB on August 09, 2015, 01:51:10 PM
We are, Chris, we are!
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: Haybo on August 10, 2015, 05:40:35 AM
Happy anniversary! I had a similar surprise at Alternatif....bit emotional!
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: Bob & Jayne on August 10, 2015, 06:16:07 AM
Glad you had a lovely anniversary surprise RosiB, really enjoying reading your holiday reports too.

J&B
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: RosiB on August 13, 2015, 04:21:07 AM
We're well into our last week now, and seem to have decided to cram as much as possible into it! On Monday evening we said goodbye to Ken, Lynn and Lara, as they left to go home. We're missing you lot! On Tuesday we decided to go to Patara, even though Mia was full of dire warnings that the weather forecast said a storm was on the way.We went early again, as Bill wanted to be sure that he could park the car under a tree for shade. There was a nice breeze blowing as we walked towards the beach, but as we paid for the sunbeds, we were warned that the wind was VERY strong and the sea quite choppy. In fact, they were crashing so much that it was impossible to swim. It was fun lying at the edge and letting them crash over us, though! I think I now know what it must feel like to be inside a washing machine! By about 1:30, we'd had enough and decided to come back to the pool. Luckily, there was no breakdown on the way back this time! After we'd all showered, I realised that we
d brought half of the beach back with us; the bottom of the showers looked like mud baths! Yesterday we went on the Kaya BBQ trip. It's always so beautiful up in the mountains and it's such a fun day. I don't know how they manage to produce such an amazing array of such delicious food in such limited conditions!By the time we got back, showered and dressed, none of us felt much like going out again, so our present buying will have to wait a bit. Today is supposed to be a quiet pool day, before we try to do everything else before going home. We'll see!!!
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: kalkan4eva on August 13, 2015, 09:59:44 AM
Your last week!!!!!! How did that happen??
You know these next few days will run away with themselves but try to enjoy each moment and if you have time, please think about us poor folks back in blighty....hanging on every word!
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: RosiB on August 16, 2015, 05:23:47 AM
Friday was HOT!!!! We'd decided to go to Kas, as I wanted to buy some stuff in the market. The plan was that we'd go to the market first then have lunch in Kas and a wander around in the afternoon. Now, I know that the drive to Kas is VERY beautiful, but somehow it turns Bill from being a good driver into a boy racer - not good when you have a child who gets travel sick! By the time we got out in Kas, she was an interesting shade of grey and very shaken! I swear one day I'll drive like that and he can be the passenger! Maybe then he'll understand! Anyway, into the market we went. I find Kalkan market really claustrophobic, which was why I thought Kas was a better idea, but even so, it was almost impossible to bear so what should have been a leisurely wander with a bit of haggling thrown in, turned into something like a supermarket dash - get what you can and get out again! We decided that it was just too hot to hang around, so as soon as I'd got what I needed we jumped back in the car and drove back to Kalkan - a bit more thoughtfully!!! We stopped off to have some pide in Oz Adana then it was back home to cool down. We all felt too hot to even go down to the pool,  so spent the afternoon indoors. Bill had promised Mia that we'd go to Kaya so that she could have duck with pancakes - her all time favourite meal! - so that's what we did in the evening. A couple of days ago, Bill jumped into the pool without checking his pockets, the result being that his wallet and all its contents got soaked; the cards and money dried out ok but the wallet fell apart so after we'd eaten, he wanted to see if he could find a replacement. Where do you find wallets? In bag shops, of course!!! Fatal error, Bill!!! I resisted the temptation but Bill's guilt at making Mia sick with his driving earlier earned her a pretty pale lemon Mulberry clutch!
We'd arranged to meet Lizilu and Automan and their girls for lunch yesterday. They joined us at the Yelken Bistro and then spent the afternoon with us in the pool. It was great to spend time with you all!!
Today, we've decided to do a final trip to Patara. As I sit here on the balcony, the sea looks calm and it doesn't feel too hot, so hopefully it'll be good!! For our last dinner tonight, Bill wants to go back to Alternatif; I'll let you know how it goes!!
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: kalkan4eva on August 16, 2015, 12:18:26 PM
Oh no last dinner... :'( :'(
Loved reading your blog, RosiB. Hope you can manage another post before you leave.
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: keith on August 16, 2015, 06:26:51 PM
Enjoy your last supper and thanks for sharing your holiday experience.
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: janeb on August 17, 2015, 08:38:57 AM
 :) Thank you so much for sharing your holiday experiences with us. Really enjoyed your holiday felt I was back in our favourite place.
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: RosiB on August 18, 2015, 08:13:38 AM
Well, we're home!! We got in at about 1:30 this morning; the plane actually arrived about 20 minutes ahead of time, but we had to wait about three quarters of an hour in baggage reclaim at Gatwick - that place is ludicrous!!

Our last couple of days in Kalkan were different! On Sunday, as planned, we went to Patara. We were just settling down on to our sunbeds (front row, as usual - I think the guy in charge must think it's hilarious watching us try to hold back the waves!!) when along came a Turkish wedding party. The bride looked beautiful in a pale turquoise, diamante encrusted, very traditional and covered up gown and headdress, but she must have been soooo hot! I was able to take a photo, after asking their permission, of course, and then they insisted on having one taken with us! It looks a bit incongruous, with her so covered up and us in our cossies but, hey, it'll be easy to remember!!
About an hour later, a Turkish family came along and settled on the beds next to ours. Before long, their children and Mia had managed to communicate well enough to be happily building a giant fort and swimming together. Those of you who know Bill, will know that he's very chatty, and soon we (the adults) were quite happily talking and laughing , with Selda (the mother) acting as interpreter for her husband, Erdal, and a lovely day was had by all. They were staying at a hotel in Patara as they are on holiday from Trabzon.  At about four o'clock, we decided to head back to Kalkan; I thought she was making a joke when, as we said goodbye, Selda said "See you tomorrow!" but just shrugged it off. As we came into Kalkan, Bill said we should stop off for some shopping in Migros, as there wasn't much left in the fridge. Now, this was approximately 24 hours before we were due to leave Kalkan, so shopping in Migros was the last thing on my mind; my plan for Monday was for Bill and Mia to be in the pool while I cleaned the apartment before leaving. I should have known Bill had other plans - while I had gone to the loo at the beach, he'd invited Selda and her family to lunch, with me as chief cook and bottle washer and then had forgotten to mention it to me! After a VERY heated discussion in Migros' car park we came to an agreement - I'd make lunch for eight, if Bill paid to have the apartment cleaned after we left, as there was no way I could do both! Shopping done, we got back to the apartment and showered and changed to go out to dinner. Our final meal, like our first, was in Alternatif. Mia was desperate to have peppered steak and actually managed to eat all but the last mouthful of it. True to form, I had fish, but this time it was the Alternatif Special Casserole - pieces of fish, calamari and prawns in a lovely spicy tomato sauce. Mustafa was full of reminiscences - he'd dug out some old photos of us with many of our old friends, which he used to have pinned up in the old toilet! It was really nice to look back on the many years - and meals! - we've shared there. While Bill paid for the meal, Mia and I went into the shop next door; I wanted to buy a couple of their soaps to bring home. Ten soaps and three pestemals (well, they were on offer - 3 for 2!) later, we wandered back up to the Moonlight - via a couple of other shops - to say goodbye to Marty and the gang and then it was back home.

On Monday, I wakened up at about 5 so was able to do my favourite thing of watching the sunrise while having the first coffee of the day. I really love watching the light change and everything coming to life - it's an experience that will see me through until our next visit, which is unlikely to be before next May. Bill and Mia woke up at about 7:30 and we decided to get most of our packing done after breakfast, as there wouldn't be a lot of time later - we had visitors coming for lunch, after all! By about 10, we had done most of it and Bill and Mia were off down to the pool. I got the bathrooms cleaned and made lunch - home made pizzas for the children and slices of chicken in a lemon and caper sauce for the adults. I made a mixed salad and couscous with apricots and everything was ready just in time. When they arrived, Selda was very apologetic; she said she hadn't realised until the evening that we were leaving later today and had wanted to cancel but couldn't contact us. I assured her that it wasn't a problem and we were all able to relax. We had a lovely afternoon and they left at about four, inviting us to spend time with them in Trabzon next year. We'll have to work out the practicalities of how to do a Trabzon-Kalkan dual centre holiday! There was just time to finish packing and switch everything off, before we had to leave at about 5:30 to get to the airport. I can't bear to look out of the car window as we leave, but couldn't avoid hearing Mia shouting out her goodbyes as we drove down Kalamar road and on to the D400, so felt very downhearted.
Dalaman airport was as it always is; you can probably guess by my brevity that it's not my favourite place to be! There were no delays, for once, and so here we are, back home again.

I don't think that I'd spend a month in Kalkan in the height of summer again - it's just TOO hot! - but we have had a lovely time. It's been great meeting up with old friends and making new ones, visiting favourite places, and just spending a relaxing time together. Even the horrendous tummy bug, the subsequent water cuts and the power cuts haven't spoiled it!

Thank you all for reading my ramblings and commenting kindly. For those still on holiday, or yet to go, ENJOY KALKAN!
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: Blue Lizard on August 18, 2015, 07:12:01 PM
Thanks for sharing your time ..I have enjoyed holidaying with you and yours!! I like the sound of Bill he seems a good un!! ;D
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: Babs on August 18, 2015, 09:01:19 PM
What a lovely ending to your time away!
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: keith on August 18, 2015, 09:16:10 PM
How nice of Bill to invite the Turkish family around for lunch on your last day!! It must have been quite stressful but you have shown great British hospitality and, who knows, have probably gained some new friends for life. Can't wait to hear all about your dual centre holiday next year!! On a serious note I really thank you for sharing your holiday adventures. ☺☺☺
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: Haybo on August 19, 2015, 06:13:21 AM
What a lovely thing to do! You are an inspiration! Its been a joy to read your blog.
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: Lizilu20 on August 19, 2015, 08:49:08 AM
Glad you're all home safe and sound Ros and thanks for the brilliant reports. Trust Bill to forget to tell you about the lunch plans, but sounds like you made a delicious meal. I don't know how you did it; lunch, packing, toilet cleaning and departing at 5.30!! You are truly an inspiration. Not sure what Bill is though  ;) ;)

Look forward to seeing you all again next year and take care. Kalkan is missing you.  :-*
Title: Re: All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go ........
Post by: RosiB on August 19, 2015, 10:21:44 AM
Thanks, all, for lovely comments. Missing Kalkan already! xx
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