E L T I P S A V R T

Ancient Greek hero Odysseus encountered sirens near where I was staying, off the west coast of Turkey.

Somehow he found the strength to sail past the islet called Sirens’ Rocks, located a stone’s throw from the busy fishing village of Foca.

And that showed some astonishing willpower.

Because Foca, on the shores of the Aegean and surrounded by small coves and quiet sandy beaches, is irresistible to mere mortals.

Perhaps this may explain why my husband Matt and I found ourselves dragged at high speed towards this infamous island, screaming and hollering.

Bobbing up and down as a giddy speedboat driver treated the throttle with all the care of a gardener pulling up weeds, I was heroically trying to stay upright on two long skis.

Thankfully, within moments of arriving back on dry land at the wooden jetty, we replaced the salt water with cocktails while boasting of our bravery.

This was a highlight of our trip and one of the many terrific activities on offer at the newly opened Phokaia Beach Resort.

North of Izmir, Foca, also known

While she was happy playing with new friends, Matt and I played intense games of tennis on the nearby courts, lazed by the sea on jetty-side beanbags and ate at the beach restaurant – an ideal spot to see stunning sunsets across the bay. The Phokaia Beach Resort oozes proper old-world charm while also serving up the best in modern rooms and catering. Our comfy beachside room offered more than enough shade and privacy to allow for a sneaky siesta after we had tired ourselves out in the water. And staff will stop and talk as ENJOY a romantic stroll along Foca marina and watch the fishermen unload their catch as the sun sets over the Aegean coast. TAKE advantage of the water sport classes, such as learning to water ski or sail your own boat. SAMPLE a belly full of delicious Turkish desserts, such as sweet baklava stuffed with pistachio.