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If you are looking for a fun and affordable way to enjoy the summer with your family, you might want to consider renting a caravan and exploring the beautiful Turkish coast. Turkey has a lot of natural and cultural attractions to offer, and traveling by caravan gives you the freedom and flexibility to choose your own itinerary and pace. In this blog post, I will share some tips and tricks on how to plan your caravan trip, where to go, what to see, and how to save money along the way.
First of all, you need to find a suitable caravan for your needs and budget. There are many options available, from small and simple trailers to large and luxurious motorhomes. You can either rent one from a local company or bring your own if you have one. The prices vary depending on the size, type, and season of the caravan, but you can expect to pay around 100-200 euros per day on average. To find the best deals, you can use online platforms like Caravan Turkey or Caravanya that compare different offers and allow you to book online.
Next, you need to plan your route and decide where you want to go. The Turkish coast is divided into four regions: the Aegean, the Mediterranean, the Black Sea, and the Marmara. Each region has its own charm and attractions, so you can choose according to your preferences and interests. Here are some of the highlights of each region:
- The Aegean coast is famous for its ancient ruins, such as Ephesus, Troy, and Pergamon, as well as its picturesque seaside towns, such as Bodrum, Fethiye, and Cesme. You can also enjoy the sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and thermal springs of this region.
- The Mediterranean coast is known for its stunning natural scenery, such as the Lycian Way, the Butterfly Valley, and the Cappadocia fairy chimneys. You can also visit the historical sites of Antalya, Aspendos, and Termessos, or indulge in the nightlife of Marmaris and Alanya.
- The Black Sea coast is ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers. You can explore the lush green mountains, waterfalls, and lakes of this region, or try some outdoor activities like hiking, rafting, or paragliding. You can also discover the rich culture and cuisine of this region in cities like Trabzon, Rize, and Sinop.
- The Marmara coast is home to Istanbul, the largest and most cosmopolitan city in Turkey. You can spend days admiring the historical monuments, museums, and mosques of this city, or shopping in the colorful bazaars and markets. You can also visit the nearby islands of Princes' Islands or Bursa for a relaxing getaway.
Finally, you need to prepare for your trip and pack accordingly. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Make sure you have all the necessary documents and insurance for your caravan and yourself. You will need a valid passport, visa (if required), driving license (international if possible), vehicle registration certificate (V5C), insurance certificate (green card), breakdown cover (optional but recommended), and travel insurance (optional but recommended).
- Check the road conditions and regulations before you set off. You will need to drive on the right side of the road in Turkey and follow the speed limits (90 km/h on motorways, 50 km/h in urban areas). You will also need to pay tolls on some motorways using an electronic device called HGS that you can buy at petrol stations or online.
- Pack light and smart for your caravan trip. You will need to bring clothes for different weather conditions (hot and sunny in summer, but cooler at night and in mountainous areas), as well as comfortable shoes for walking. You will also need to bring some basic equipment for your caravan, such as bedding, towels, dishes, cutlery, cooking utensils, cleaning supplies,