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Once the centre of the Ottoman Empire, the modern secular republic was established in the 1920s by nationalist leader Kemal Ataturk. Straddling the continents of Europe and Asia, Turkey's strategically important location has given it major influence in the region - and control over the entrance to the Black Sea.With a unique blend of Eastern and Western tradition, Turkey holidays feature resorts in seven different regions displaying facets of each influence. Turkey holidays are popular amongst holidaymakers in search of good value for money and good weather to match. Famed by its beach resorts such as Marmaris, Dalaman and Antalya as well as by Istanbul and the capital city, Ankara, this is a country where you should expect to barter in shops and markets for bargains with friendly locals, enjoy traditional Turkish cuisine such as borek, pilaf, and lamb kebab and take in the full atmosphere of this visually pleasing country.

• Full name: Republic of Turkey
• Population: 74.8 million (UN, 2009)
• Capital: Ankara
• Largest city: Istanbul
• Area: 779,452 sq km (300,948 sq miles)
• Major language: Turkish
• Life expectancy: 69 years (men), 74 years (women) (UN)
• Monetary unit: Turkish lira
• International dialling code: +90
• Main exports: Clothing and textiles, fruit and vegetables, iron and steel, motor vehicles and machinery, fuels and oils