Turkey’s capital is an excellent alternative to Istanbul (and a little less hectic), for those wishing to discover the country’s culture via a city break, or en route to a beach holiday. It contains the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, a Byzantine citadel and Atatürk’s mausoleum, as well as more museums, art galleries and archaeological sites relating to several different eras. Spend an evening in the company of the Turkish State Opera, Turkish State Ballet, or Turkish State Theatre companies and eat your way around the city, sampling the finest local baklava, doner, grilled fish and Turkish milk desserts.
JW Marriott Hotel Ankara
Boasting the largest ballroom in the capital, the JW Marriott in Ankara is a five-star sanctuary. Here, Turkish tradition is blended with European facilities. It accommodates the Karma Spa Wellness and Fitness with indoor and outdoor pools and 17 meeting rooms. 413 suites and guest rooms have soundproofing, USB sockets, iPod docks, robes, slippers, light-up make-up mirrors, marble bathrooms and floor-to-ceiling windows. Enjoy a meal in the Fires and Flavours all-day dining venue with its open kitchen, in the JW Steakhouse (do try the cheesecake, it’s legendary), in the spa cafe and with epic views at the Skye Vue Cocktail Bar and Terrace. The elegant JW Lounge serves a traditional afternoon tea.
Lugal, a Luxury Collection Hotel
Found in Kavaklidere, Lugal has 90 bedrooms and suites with great views, state-of-the-art technology and butler service. The on-site restaurant, Aruni, serves indigenous a la carte dishes, allowing international guests to experience a taste of Turkey in-house. And a room service menu caters to those of all ages, with a selection, especially for kids. Those staying here have access to the health club in the Sheraton Ankara Hotel (access is via a private lift and tunnel) which offers a roof-top tennis court, a large gym and massage services). Lugal is Green Key certified and committed to sustainability within the hotel industry.