The Call of the Turkish Maldives

The allure of the so-called “Turkish Maldives” had been whispering in my ear for some time. As someone who has spent years amidst the icy expanses of the Arctic, the idea of a volcanic island voyage in the warm embrace of the Mediterranean was a siren song I could no longer resist. My wife and I found ourselves in Antalya, a place where the sun kisses the earth with a warmth that is foreign to the polar regions I know so well.

Our journey began with a hotel pick-up near Lara Beach, a convenience that was much appreciated given the distance to Adrasan. The drive was long, and the anticipation built with every mile. We stopped for a quick meal on the highway, a simple affair that reminded me of the utilitarian meals I had during my Arctic expeditions. By the time we reached the marina, the sun was beginning its descent, casting a golden hue over the landscape.

The boat awaited us, a vessel that promised a day of relaxation and exploration. As we boarded, I couldn’t help but draw parallels between this journey and my past adventures. The sea, though warmer and more inviting than the icy waters of the north, held its own mysteries and challenges.

A Voyage to Suluada

The boat set sail, and we were soon cruising along the Antalya Bay coastline. The views were nothing short of spectacular, with the “Lycian Way” and its untamed beauty stretching out before us. The music on the top deck was loud, a stark contrast to the silence of the Arctic, but it added a certain vibrancy to the experience.

Our first stop was Suluada, the “Maldives of Turkey.” This uninhabited volcanic island was a sight to behold. The white sands and crystal-clear waters were a world away from the harsh, icy landscapes I was accustomed to. As I swam in the warm waters, I felt a sense of freedom and exhilaration that was both familiar and new.

The island was stony, a reminder of the rugged terrains I had traversed in my past. I was grateful for the sturdy footwear I had brought along, a habit ingrained from years of navigating treacherous ice fields. The beach was small, and the presence of other boats added a sense of camaraderie to the experience.

Reflections on a Day Well Spent

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to the adjacent coast. The shade was a welcome respite from the sun, and I found myself reflecting on the day’s adventures. The staff on the boat had been friendly and accommodating, their warmth a stark contrast to the often harsh conditions I had faced in my previous travels.

The return journey was a reminder of the unpredictability of travel. The minibus driver navigated the dark roads with a speed that was both thrilling and unnerving. It was a far cry from the slow, deliberate pace of travel in the Arctic, but it was an experience in itself.

Back at the hotel, I found myself grateful for the day’s experiences. The “Turkish Maldives” had offered a glimpse into a world that was both foreign and familiar. It was a reminder of the beauty and diversity of our planet, a testament to the wonders that await those willing to venture beyond their comfort zones.

In the end, the trip was more than just a day of relaxation and exploration. It was a journey of discovery, a chance to see the world through a different lens. And as I settled into the quiet comfort of my hotel room, I knew that this was a story worth sharing, a tale of adventure and wonder that would resonate with those who, like me, are drawn to the beauty of the unknown.