Beyond the obvious lure of Turkey's storied past as the seat of the Byzantine and Ottoman empires and the fascinating nuances from its position as the gateway between the Asian and European continents, Turkey is a modern golf and vacation paradise and one that is quickly developing as an alternative to golf vacations in Western Europe.

Climate: Turkey's southern coast, commonly referred to as "The Turkish Riviera" is a beautiful expanse of largely unspoiled coastline that not only provides beautiful views, diverse nature and interesting golf topography, but a temperate climate. The golf season in Antalya begins in October when it when most golf regions are winding down for the off season. Antalya is one of the few places where golf can be played right through the winter, in short sleaves.

Golf Courses: Would you go back in time to play a round at Valderrama or Costa Ballena 20 years ago, before the crowds arrived? A similar option is available to you in Turkey, with several world-class facilities and many more under way, it would be difficult to find an undiscovered golf destination of Turkey's caliber anywhere in the world. All professional courses have been developed by international teams of Golf architects, consultants and PGA Professionals. Course maintenance is also top notch.

Prices: It won't last long but in Turkey you can still find excellent resorts at local prices. All inclusive vacation packages for €100 per day for a family of four are not the exception, but the rule. Most resorts are a stone's throw away from some of the best and least crowded golf courses in Europe. . Since Turkey is looking to promote golf vacations, especially to first time visitors, green fees, which are usually charged separate from packages, are quite reasonable. Prices hover around the €40 mark.

Service: Turkey is a good alternative for those tired of paying a premium for a nice vacation and receiving average service. Golf resorts are largely unspoiled by mass tourism and eager to attract visitors. Therefore service is consummate with a destination looking to bring in more visitors and leave a lasting impression on newcomers. You won't find the kind of complacency and bad service all too common in areas that have become saturated with tourists. As a new player in the golf tourism arena, the 'eager to please' aspect is apparent.

Location: Turkey is no more than a 3hour flight from any point in Western Europe, close enough for even a weekend golf getaway. Australians and New Zealanders will be able to shave a few hours off of the already long journey, as Turkey is a bit closer than its Western European counterparts.