While it boasts plenty of opulent hotels and yachts, there’s still traditional food and culture to be discovered. Here, Fairfax-Wayne shares how to enjoy the best of both worlds.

Where to stay

Maçakizi is the place to be in Bodrum. It’s a temple for laid-back luxury. I think there’s nowhere in the world quite like it. As soon as you step out of your room you’re overcome by a sense of beauty. The glorious gardens and stone steps are one thing, but the view of the crystalclear blue waters of Türkbükü Bay will make your heart sing. If you want to wind down and relax, there are outdoor massage rooms and a super-chic marble hammam. Bliss out by kicking back on the sun loungers set on an over-water wooden deck, from which you can jump straight into the sea.

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Where to eat

There’s a small place in Türkbükü called Sheanai, which is named after the owner – a fabulous woman whose home-cooked Aegean favourites are the only thing on the menu. In fact, there isn’t a menu in the traditional sense, as Sheanai decides what to cook on the day, using locally sourced produce. Think fish caught daily, handmade meatballs (a family recipe), jams made with fruits from the garden, hand-rolled pastry, fresh herbal teas and more. You can get a taste of truly classic Turkish cuisine here. My suggestion is to go in with an open mind and a hearty appetite. Did I mention it’s also set right on the water? Staying in the Türkbükü region, head to Garo’s. The food here is simple, but tasty. The restaurant has been around for 11 years and the tables and chairs are set up right by the sea, so the views are second to none. If you’re in the mood for something a little more upmarket, hop in the car and head to Orfoz. The 30-minute drive to the restaurant is worth it. Freshly caught seafood is its specialty. From lobster and crab to octopus and prawns, whatever is caught on the day is delicately cooked and plated up. Like most good restaurants in Bodrum, Orfoz has been dishing up delicious meals for decades.

What to do

How do you like to spend your time? There’s something for everyone. There’s plenty of traditional village life around the peninsula to be discovered. The food is seriously delicious and the people are so warm and welcoming. It’s a very authentic place to visit. If you want to spend the day on the water, I suggest boarding a traditional Turkish gulet to explore the numerous cerulean blue bays. Wanting to wrap the trip up with a bit of a health kick? Then I can recommend The LifeCo. This wellness and detox centre will tailor a program to address whatever ailments you may have.

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