Turkey has always been a holiday spot I consciously avoided — I’d heard a number of negative things and I suppose those just stuck with me. As a result, I’ve always opted for the familiar destinations of Spain and France for family holidays.

But I’ve been around long enough now to understand that I should experience places for myself before forming an opinion, so that’s exactly what me and my family did.

We embarked from Belfast International to fly to Dalaman, a region of Turkey I confess I’ve never heard of. As it happens, it’s a very popular tourist destination, and two flights were leaving from Belfast that same afternoon we were taking off.

I must say, departing from the newly refurbished Belfast International Airport was a fantastic start to our journey. The brand new appearance and impressive duty-free area finally look befitting of an International airport like many others I’ve visited worldwide.

It was a bustling Monday afternoon with hundreds of others also jetting out of the airport, so it was an absolute blessing to be booked into the Causeway Lounge, avoiding the extremely lengthy queues for the food outlets.

It was the ideal relaxed beginning to our holiday, with reserved seating, ample space for the children to watch the planes, a pleasant selection of soups, wraps, and sweet treats, hot drinks, and a fully stocked bar.

I’d certainly recommend booking this in advance, as the airport was packed that day. Many folks were unable to gain entry because it had reached capacity with bookings.

Our entire holiday was booked via TUI, so everything was sorted, from our flights to transfers to the hotel.

We stayed at the TUI Blue Sensatori Akra in Feithye, which was about a 45-minute transfer from the airport and situated in a really tranquil and serene spot, nestled among a forest and a beach.

Upon arrival in Dalaman, everything from TUI was very swift and straightforward, the App pinged with our bus number as we exited the plane and collected our luggage.

The TUI Blue hotel had everything we desired and so much more. With two children aged seven and three with us, it was perfect.

Upon check-in we were presented with a checklist of items for ‘Little Travellers’ that the hotel could provide if needed, it had everything from pushchairs to nappies, wipes, baby baths, baby monitors, potties, and so much more, I’ve never seen a hotel so well equipped for families with young children.

Situated right next to the beach, our room on the second floor had absolutely stunning views across the hotel. The hotel also features some incredible swim-up rooms on the ground floor, which looked incredibly relaxing.

With five pools, including a fantastic children’s splash pool, water slides, and an adults-only pool area, there was truly something for everyone. Needless to say, our two couldn’t be dragged away from the water slides, which were open daily for two hours in the morning and again in the afternoon, ideal for avoiding the peak heat of the day.

The hotel also boasts a brilliant kids’ club suitable for children aged 3 to 12, as well as a special baby club with a fully equipped nursery.

When it comes to entertainment, this hotel never lacks. The evening entertainment provided by the TUI Blue cast team was particularly exceptional, with the nightly appearance of the TUIBots being a major highlight for the children.

From Disney-inspired performances to dazzling shows filled with incredible music and dancing, this team ranks among the best I’ve ever seen on holiday. Their patience and kindness towards all the children were truly remarkable.

Regardless of your preference, there was entertainment for everyone, whether you preferred a more relaxed live music setting in the Piano Bar or cool beach vibes with a nightly DJ at the Caretta Cocktail Bar. Conveniently located next to the brilliant outdoor children’s play park, the latter was an absolutely genius idea!

Another standout feature was the food. I don’t reckon I’ve ever seen such a variety at an all-inclusive resort!

The separate children’s buffet was a massive hit, allowing the little ones to pick their own food and serve themselves.

The Restaurant offered a vast array of top-notch fresh produce for breakfast, lunch and dinner, along with special themed menus each evening. And if that wasn’t enough, there are an additional five restaurants on site, including Chinese, Turkish and Italian – you certainly won’t be short of options!

There was genuinely no need to leave this fantastic resort, as it has everything you could possibly need, including shops, a spa, a gym, tennis courts, a football pitch, and so much more. However, if you fancied a bit of exploration, the market town of Feithye was just a 15-minute shuttle boat ride away, where you could browse the shops and grab a bite in the cafes and restaurants.

You can also get there via a public bus, which picks up right outside the hotel.

The Sensatori Akra, while perfectly suited for families, is also a brilliant spot for a couples getaway or if you have older teenage children. There are specially designated rooms, a large pool area, restaurant and bar that are adult only and suitable for those aged 16 plus, allowing you to enjoy a more relaxing child-free zone.

Despite my initial reservations about holidaying in Turkey, this trip has completely dispelled any fears or concerns I had. The numerous individuals I chatted with during my stay echoed the same sentiment: once you’ve experienced Turkey, you won’t want to holiday anywhere else, and I can certainly understand why.

While other tourist hotspots in Spain seem to actively discourage tourists, Turkey embraces them with open arms and a warm disposition. I’ll definitely be returning!

TUI holiday deals

Deals for TUI BLUE Sensatori Akra Fethiye:

• 04-August-2025, All Inclusive, 7 nights from £4649 (2 adults + 1 child)

• 01-Setember-2025, All Inclusive, 7 nights £1599pps (2 sharing)

• 11-May-2026, All Inclusive, 7 nights from £3619 (2 adults + 2 children) *includes a free child place

• 08-June-2026, All Inclusive, 7 nights from £1459pp (2 sharing)

Save an extra £100 per person* on summer 2026 holidays.

Use code EARLYBIRD when logged into your myTUI account, at your local TUI store or agent. Plus, combine with a Free Child Place for even better value. Valid on summer 2026 holidays departing from Belfast between May 1st 2026 and 31st October 2026. *T&Cs apply.