Just when you think Greece has cornered the market on Aegean chic, Bodrum steps into the spotlight with a new standard of high-end luxe.
It’s a mosaic of pale-rock bungalows shaded by pines and tumbling to a tourmaline bay of the Aegean Sea, with timbered sundecks extending into the shallows.
There are 36 villas, and whatever “lavishly serviced” means, we’re down for it.
Sign us up: Bodrum Loft Hotel, Turkey.
There are three restaurants to choose from – the high-end Italian Paper Moon, an on-site patisserie and Loftella, which is all about local ingredients.
Add a top-tier spa and this hotel might just knock the Greek Islands down a place or two on the bucket-list.
Ready to take off? Make sure you pack these essentials.
AM Eyewear Solange in Nude sunglasses.
These fabulous specs are proper statement pieces. But what we most love about AM Eyewear is the use of green energy in all its buildings, and plant-based acetates in their frames. Plus, they buy back frames you no longer want and donate them to someone who does.
ameyewear.com
Camilla Soul Searching Ghost short wrap dress.
Bodrum is all about beaches, pools and spas but Turkey as a country can be somewhat conservative, so you’ll probably want to cover up that ’kini. This wrap dress from Australia’s kaftan queen includes a detailed neckline with a suitably Byzantine influence, as well as touches of blue that are perfect for the port city.
camilla.com.au
B&O Beoplay HX Goldtone and case headphones.
Whether you’re immersing yourself in Turkish music on hols – check out Ibrahim Tatlises – or just trying to block out that crying child two rows back, these wireless headphones will more than justify the price. The combo of memory foam and lambskin leather means you can wear them for hours in comfort. You get 35 hours of play time off a single charge, active noise cancelling and seamless pairing via Bluetooth.
bang-olufsen.com
Turkey: A Short History by Norman Stone.
This deftly written account of Turkey’s history from the 11th century to the present day charts how the nation, once seat of a vast empire, defined itself in its region and the wider world. All the big players are here – Genghis Khan, Sultan Süleyman the Magnificent, Atatürk and more. Essential reading to get a sense of this multifaceted nation.
thamesandhudson.com.au
Le Labo Body & Hair Travel Set Rose 31.
All infused with a subtle rose scent, Le Labo’s shower gel, body lotion, shampoo and conditioner are just 90mls — perfect for your carry-on, and will see you through at least a week in Bodrum.
lelabofragrances.com.au
Hush Puppies Paradise Sandals.
This brand, beloved of grandfathers the world over, is ripe for a comeback. And at this price point and silhouette, it’s deserves to. These classic slides are ideal for beach, bar or burek and the ComfyCush footbed cups your heel for extra support on rocky paths. The ripple outsole also enhances grip.
hushpuppies.com.au
Saarde Turkish Beach Towel.
A huge travel asset, a Turkish towel can be a makeshift picnic blanket, a lightweight beach towel or a shawl on a chilly flight. Aussie brand Saarde’s cute offering is crafted from fine cotton.
saarde.com
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