Timler in Turkey (Part I)

It's the first of September, which is probably a fair date to call time on the British summer. Fortunately, I was able to send off our fleeting spell of warmth with a bang - in an entirely different country no less...

Tales of Timler comes to you this week from Turkey, and 7 days in glorious Dalyan. Famed for the nearby turtle beach, Dalyan is a quiet tourist destination which it's fair to say has been developed but not spoiled. Of course, there's plenty to spend your time and money on, and first on the checklist was a trip to the traditional Turkish baths. We visited a local hamam which offered a relaxation package consisting of a spell in the steam room, before a cleansing scrub down and a massage of choice.

While I can't bring you pictures from inside, the hot room (sikaclik) is an experience to trump an afternoon in the gym sauna. Natural light beams in through small windows in the domed ceiling, and the large marble tablet in the centre of the room offers a relaxing hot plate to reduce any tension pre-massage.

Around the room, there are ornate washing basins to rinse and further steam yourself with. From there, it's time for a slightly vigorous scrubdown with an abrasive mit (kese). The kese removes any dead skin which should prep for any holiday tanning/burning (gingers don't do well in the sun).

Free of all the dirt and grime of everyday life, the exfoliation is followed up by a healthy soaping. I won't pretend to know too much about the technicalities here, but the soap is collected in a linen bag to resemble a giant bag of candy floss which is then poured and rubbed all over.

And if that giant bubble bath isn't enough, a traditional full body massage wraps up a truly authentic and relaxing experience.

Traditional British embarrassment is also compulsory so try to feel horrendously awkward when being handled and towelled!