One of 2010’s European Cities of Culture, Istanbul is a major destination to visit this year. Conventions, fairs, arts and sports events, so much is going on, Kim Francis writes.
This pulsating city is, despite its title this year, a fascinating blend of Europe and Asia, of east and west. A good idea is to book on to a city tour to take in all the key sights in one day.
A tour gives a chance to see the striking Aya Sofya, now a museum but once an important church, as well as Topkapi Palace. Nearby attractions also include Yerebatan Sarayi (the city’s famous sunken palace), the Byzantine Hippodrome and the Blue Mosque, which is an inspirational sight when viewed in the atmospheric half-light of dawn or dusk. Fortunately, the proximity of these attractions means that visitors have plenty of time to make the most of each site.
Whether you enjoy shopping or not, a visit to the Grand Bazaar is a must. A covered market, its network of streets comprises 4,000 shops and stalls offering all manner of items, but it is most famous for its jewellery, pottery, carpets and spices. The Spice Bazaar, meanwhile, is filled to bursting with spices, dried fruits, nuts, seeds and, of course, Turkish Delight.
For more traditional experiences, you could try a Hamam — a massage treatment in ancient steam baths — or a boat trip on the Bosphorus tracing old trade routes. For a sophisticated blast of the 1890s, stop for afternoon tea at the Pera Palas Hotel.
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And finally, for a taste of modern Istanbul, head to Taksim Square, the city’s buzzing restaurant and bar-filled hub.
Less than four hours from London, Marrakesh is a vibrant cultural hot spot perfect for a short break in 2010. A destination suited to the whole family, there are attractions unique to this bohemian-vibed capital.
Perhaps the most evocative image of Marrakesh is the sight of the traditional markets. Soak up the atmosphere while wandering through the souks, bartering for jewellery, leather and and handmade goods while simultaneously people-watching.
You will be rewarded with sounds, sights and smells redolent of a Marrakesh you might have thought only existed in the literary world. Everything you have read about is brought vividly to life — and probably explains why the place has become a popular place to visit.
The culture is vibrant — a trip to the bustling Djemaa el Fna square will see you stumbling upon food stalls serving traditional cuisine, as well as storytellers, acrobats, dancers, henna tattooists and snake charmers, all of which will stimulate the senses.
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This intriguing city is home to some beautiful architecture. Include a visit to the sumptuous Hotel La Mamounia — an art deco palace once favoured by Winston Churchill and Alfred Hitchcock. And do not miss the Bahia Palace, an excellent example of 19th century Moroccan architecture.
The Saadian Tombs — the final resting place of Sultan Ahmed al-Mansour and his descendants — date back to the 16th century and make for a captivating attraction.
It is also worth taking a day trip to the Atlas Mountains to make the most of the astonishing scenery.
Need to know
Istanbul
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Currency Lira (2.37 to £1)
Top attractions Topkapi Sarayi (Cannon Gate Palace), the old palace-city of the Sultans, and the inspiring Blue Mosque
Offer Four nights, 4* B&B, includes 1 free night, from £249pp. Phone 0844 879 8036
Marrakesh
Currency Dirham (12.73 to £1)
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Top attractions Bahia Palace — 160 rooms that sprawl out in a rambling fashion — and the souks. Even if you are not buying they provide a wonderful example of people watching
Offer four nights, 5* B&B, from £429pp. Phone 0844 879 8036