If you are considering a holiday abroad in a place that is warm, sunny and steeped in history, why not head to Lara in Turkey? Lara is a district of the city of Antalya, which is often considered the most popular destination on what is known as the “Turkish Riviera”. A quick transfer with Shuttle Direct will drop you in the heart of Lara, where you can explore the unique world of themed hotels and spend some relaxing time on Lara Beach, one of the longest sandy beaches in Turkey. After spending time by the water and experiencing the unique resort feel, head into the heart of nearby Antalya and explore some of the area’s rich history and culture.
Las Vegas of Turkey
When you arrive on your Shuttle Direct transfer to the heart of Lara, you may feel like you’ve been transported to a distinctly Turkish version of Las Vegas. The area gets its nickname due to the many themed hotels, built to replicate the look and feel of many major world landmarks. In addition to seeing hotels that imitate the Kremlin, Topkapi Palace and even the Titanic, you can take a walk through the Venetian-themed resorts and dine in true Italian style, overlooking the blue waters of the Mediterranean instead of the lagoons and Venice canals. !
Visiting Antalya
As you travel to Lara on a Shuttle Direct transfer, via the city of Antalya, you’ll get a glimpse of some of the historically interesting places that you might want to re-explore. The heart of Antalya is a short taxi or bus ride from Lara Beach and it is well worth spending an afternoon exploring this city. It was thought to have been founded by Attalos II, the king of Pergamum around 150 BC. C., but recent excavations at Dogu Garaji have dated the settlement to the 3rd century BCE. C. As one of the main cities of the Byzantine Empire, it was very important as a fortified and port city. You can explore history at the Antalya Museum and visit the old heart of the city at the Kaleici. Until modern times, the entire city was contained within the strong walls that protected it, and the walls still stand as an interesting testimonial to Roman and Byzantine architecture.
Be sure to take some time to see the Hidirlik Tower, built by the Romans in the 2nd century AD. C. and used as a fortress and lighthouse. Walk through Hadrian’s Gate and then continue on to see the Yivli Minare Camii, known as the Fluted Mosque. Erected in 1230 and rebuilt 150 years later, you’ll see the emblems of the mosque’s minarets – which have become the adopted symbol of the city – as you approach Antalya on your direct transfer from the airport.