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The Sun
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Sun
I made a stupid mistake on ‘holiday-mode' in Turkey – I ended up maimed, in searing agony & my son witnessed it all
AS the plane taxied down the runway, I let out a sigh of relief. With a busy job in events, and as a single mum to my son Kairo, seven, I couldn't wait to stretch out in the sun in Turkey and enjoy a bit of R&R. I'm Fia Lane, 30, from Ealing, West London and I thought our family holiday would be just the break we needed. 9 But in seconds, it turned into a nightmare that left me screaming in pain, needing 40 stitches and regretting one small detail that nearly cost me thousands. We were visiting my auntie, Diane, who owned an apartment in Fethiye, a gorgeous port city on the Turquoise Coast. So in August 2023, I jetted off with Kairo, my little sister Mischa-Leigh, 18, and our Mum Cathy, 54, for our annual summer holiday. On the first day, we lounged on the beach and enjoyed dinner at a local restaurant. The next morning, we swam in my auntie's pool, then Mischa-Leigh and I decided to have a go on her quad bike. My auntie's apartment was part of a complex surrounded by quiet roads. All the residents had a quad bike to get around on, and I'd ridden on Diane's vehicle plenty of times before. I never bothered with a helmet on the quiet local roads. So as Mischa-Leigh hopped into the driver's seat and I climbed on the back in my shorts and vest top, I didn't think twice about it. We started circling the park, where Mum and Diane had taken Kairo for a walk. As we sped past, waving to them, the warm wind whipped through my hair. I was barely aware of the bike suddenly swerving sharply. It toppled over, and I was flung off onto my side, hitting my head on the road and blacking out. I found out later that a cat had walked into the quad bike 's path. Mischa-Leigh loves animals, so she'd swerved to avoid it, accidentally hitting the accelerator instead of the brake as she did so. When I swam back into consciousness, I realised I couldn't see. It was terrifying. I could feel someone cradling my head, and the first thing I asked was, 'Where's my baby?' I knew Kairo would have seen the whole accident, which sent me into a panic. I asked the stranger holding my head – a woman who had been walking nearby – 'Am I dying?' The bang to my head had affected my eyesight, and I still couldn't see a thing. I was convinced I was taking my last breaths. Suddenly, feeling started coming back into my body and I began screaming in pain. My right arm was twisted upwards into the air, and a searing agony pulsed through it. I'd never felt pain like it before – but I found I couldn't lower it to ease the pain either. My head was also throbbing. I didn't realise at the time that there was blood pouring from a huge wound in my forehead. I heard Mum, Kairo and Diane rushing over to my side. I could hear Kairo screaming, 'Is my mum dead?' which was agony to hear. The lady looking after me told Mum to run and get my and Mischa-Leigh's passports. An ambulance had been called, but we needed them before they'd take us to hospital. Mischa-Leigh had been relatively lucky – because she'd been holding onto the quad bike, she hadn't been thrown off it. She managed to avoid hitting her head, but had a deep cut on her arm. The ambulance soon arrived, and after handing over our passports, we were taken to a local hospital. Gradually, in the ambulance, my sight started to return. I realised that my right-hand side was covered in blood, and my arm was stuck straight above me in the air. At the hospital, an X-ray showed that my arm was dislocated. Mercifully, I don't remember the pain as they popped it back into place, thanks to the painkillers I'd been given making me woozy – but Mum remembers me screaming. I also received stitches in my toe, which had been split open, and 40 stitches in my scalp and forehead. That was the moment I realised I had forgotten to buy insurance for the holiday. Every time I'd visited Diane in the past, I'd made sure I had full insurance, including cover for quad biking. But this time, it slipped my mind. As nurses stitched me up, I started worrying about just how much this accident was going to cost me. Thankfully, the damage to my wallet wasn't as bad as the physical damage – it cost £400 for my treatment, and for the 15 stitches Mischa-Leigh needed in her arm. Sent home with my arm in a sling, we decided to see out the rest of the holiday, although we avoided the spot where I'd had the accident – and where you could still see my blood pooled on the road. I took painkillers three times a day, and had to try and hide the bruising and swelling on my face from Kairo, who was still traumatised by the accident. 9 He kept hugging me, and asking if I was OK. That was part of the reason I was determined to see out the holiday, despite the pain – so he could replace those awful memories with happier ones. Back home in Ealing, West London two weeks after the accident, I moved in with Mum for three months. Because my right arm was injured, I couldn't do anything for myself or Kairo without help. She had to help me wash my hair and even help me get dressed. She also insisted I go back to hospital, where new X-rays showed that as well as dislocating my shoulder, I'd broken my arm in the accident. I was given a more supportive sling, and referred for physiotherapy. If the doctors in Turkey had spotted the break, my medical bill would have skyrocketed – but because they didn't, I still can't move my arm properly, and it gives me a lot of pain. My shoulder isn't properly aligned either. I'm currently waiting for physiotherapy, and could even face surgery. As well as my long-term health issues, Kairo still hasn't got over the accident. He's happy to go on holiday again – as long as it's not to Turkey. If I suggest visiting Diane, it's an instant, 'No way.' He still talks about it all the time, and I worry he'll never forget seeing me injured like that. I'd urge anyone reading this who is looking forward to their holiday to check they have full health insurance, including cover for any risky activities. I was lucky that my trip to the hospital didn't cost me thousands. But the biggest lesson I've learned is to always wear a helmet if you're going to ride any kind of vehicle on holiday. Whizzing around with the wind in your hair might feel like a fun, innocent activity, but quad bikes are heavy, serious pieces of machinery, and you can easily get hurt. I certainly wouldn't go on one again. I've paid a heavy price for my bit of fun in the sun – but the cost could have been far higher. 9 9 9 9 9
Telegraph
5 days ago
- Telegraph
Why Antalya offers a world-class sunshine getaway
The dramatic landscapes and vibrant culture that Türkiye (Turkey) is loved for meld with a raft of sublime beaches and stunning nature in Antalya, a province that attracts an array of in-the-know holidaymakers to the country's southwestern shores. Known by many as the Turquoise Coast, this destination has everything you need from a sunshine holiday: heart-stealing sandy beaches, boat trips that lead you to undiscovered coves and scenic treks that take in pristine nature, caves and waterfalls. Thanks to Antalya's long hours of sunshine, it's a prime spot for golfers too, with Belek now recognised as Türkiye's leading golf resort. At the heart of all this is Antalya's namesake city whose beautiful Old Town of Kaleiçi, with its ancient harbour, is a delight to explore. It's here, among the souvenir shops and lively cafes you might stumble upon a traditional Turkish restaurant, known here as a meyhane, its tables spilling out onto atmospheric cobbled streets. If you're keen to explore Antalya, book your trip with British Airways Holidays and benefit from regular direct British Airways flights, a range of hotel options and a generous baggage allowance. You'll also receive Atol protection from the moment you book, and can secure your holiday with a low deposit and flexible payment options*. All British Airways Holidays customers have access to a 24/7 holiday helpline, giving you the peace of mind to relax and enjoy your holiday. Things to do in Antalya Antalya's natural beauty is one of its finest attributes and exploring some of its 200-plus Blue Flag Beaches is a must. Coastal spots like Kemer and Beldibi treat you to long, clean arcs of sand and gently shelving waters. You'll find an array of watersports options across the region's beaches too, with the precipitous Taurus Mountains providing a captivating backdrop. Across these summits, plunging valleys and a network of ancient footpaths are bound to unlock your adventurous spirit. Its Köprülü Canyon is a spectacular place to enjoy river rafting and kayaking while The Lycian Way – a 540km-long walking route from Ölüdeniz in Muğla, famous for its lagoon, to Antalya's village of Geyikbayırı – unearths pine-clad scenery, cedar forests and ancient Lycian ruins. One section takes you to the irresistibly pretty Kaş, one of Türkiye's top diving destinations, while other spots, like Olympos and Phaselis, feature remarkable ancient ruins. The archaeological site of Patara is particularly impressive with its ruined bathhouses, temples, Roman city gate and theatre. And if you're keen to combine these historical sites with idyllic islands, you can, via a relaxing boat trip from Antalya's harbour. History aside, you'll find an array of stellar golf courses dotted along Antalya's coast, especially if you head towards Belek, Türkiye's premier golf resort, just 20 minutes from Antalya city. Belek is home to 11 different golf clubs. Within these clubs, you'll find a total of 17 different tailor-made, 18-hole championship courses, designed to meet international standards and catering to both professional and amateur players. Fifteen of the golf courses here meet PGA standards, with many greens having been designed by champion golfers, their coastal settings completing the slick and scenic experience. And while other golfing destinations might close at sunset, Belek plays home to Europe's first fully lighted golf course, which means you can perfect your swing long into the evening. With extra-long driving ranges, PGA professional-led training academies and luxury hotels to boot, golfing holidays in Belek are hard to beat. When you've worked up an appetite with the region's myriad active pursuits, Antalya offers a profusion of authentic Turkish flavours for you to enjoy. The seafood here, for a start, offers a lesson in tide-to-table freshness, with regional favourites such as grilled octopus, red mullet and stuffed mussels (midye dolma) gracing the menus. Local specialities like citrus jams and Antalya piyaz – a bean-based salad dressed with tahini – are a must-try too. The bustling Antalya Bazaar is a great place to pick up a wide selection of local preserves.
The Sun
14-07-2025
- The Sun
UK travel companies SLASH prices to lure cash-strapped Brits on holiday this summer – the craziest deals from £249
IN a last-minute push to get Brits abroad for the summer break, holiday companies like TUI, Jet2 and Easyjet are slashing prices. This is great news for anyone yet to book a break in July and August, as families can currently snap up a week in the sun for bonkers prices. 6 6 Do you have kids who love the pool and want to spend all week having a splashing time? Or are you more of an adventure family that wants a great base to stay in a location with lots to see and do? From a top spot on the Turquoise Coast to the islands of sunny Spain, these resorts are in some of the most popular areas for Brits and offer everything from splash parks to swim-up bars. This summer, the Sun Travel Team have found some don't-miss-it-deals to get you jetting off from as little as £279 per person for a week. The deals below are all for seven nights, including flights, with prices based on two adults and two children. All the resorts have availability in July and August TURKEY 6 Two Seas Hotel, Marmaris, Dalaman Coast, Turkey, £279pp This hotel is in a great location along Turkey's Turquoise Coast, within walking distance to the beach. Marmaris is a vibrant area with lively nightlife on Bar Street, and a long promenade that lines the coast with affordable restaurants and bars. The hotel is self-catering, with a little kitchenette to make lunch or dinner. There is also a decent restaurant on-site and a snack bar adjacent to the large pool. Kids also have their own splash pool and playground, making this a brilliant budget option for a family trip. The Peloponnese penninsula - an underrated Greek holiday destination Club Viva Hotel, Dalaman, Turkey, £249pp Another top hotel on the Turkish Riviera is the Club Viva Hotel. Located just outside the Marmaris area, it's a bit calmer and quieter than being in the action. There is a shuttle bus running guests into town, which takes around 10 minutes. The hotel has a large pool, complete with a water slide, plus a children's splash area. There is also a small playground for kids. Just a short walk will get you to Marmaris beach, which is busy but has lots of facilities, sun beds, cafes and bars along the sand. Guests can use the buffet restaurant at the hotel, and there is a pool bar for snacks throughout the day, which has a children's buffet that helps with the constant requests for snacks. 6 5* DoubleTree by Hilton La Torre Golf & Spa Resort, Murcia, Spain, £319pp The 5-star feels a lot more luxurious than the price suggests. Located within La Torre Golf Resort, the hotel has beautiful views over the golf course and a lake. This deal is hard to beat and a superb choice for families looking for a luxury holiday in the sun, with excellent facilities including a kids' club and children's pool. There is also a large main pool, with a bar and cafe. Murica itself has everything Brits love about Spain, but without the crowds and 18-30 vibes. The historic old town is very beautiful and you will be spoilt for choice with charismatic bars and tasty tapas bars. Sol Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife, £379pp 6 This hotel is in the north of Tenerife, offering the chance to explore a different side of the island. If you want to go out exploring, there is a lot to do around the hotel. Wander the colourful streets around Plaza de Benito Perez Galdos. The rainbow houses are very Instagram-friendly, especially for teens. Spend the afternoon at Lago Martianez, an outdoor lido with seawater pools that is also an open-air museum of contemporary art. The hotel has a compact pool, but you are also within walking distance to multiple beaches, so there are plenty of places to enjoy the sun. Breakfast is in the large buffet restaurant, and there is also a bar and nightly entertainment in the evening. GREECE 6 Village Oasis, Malia, Crete, £306pp This simple, self-catering hotel offers basic accommodation, but the location in lively Malia is excellent. You are central to the resort area, packed with restaurants, bars and clubs and 1km from the popular beaches. The hotel is relaxed with a decent-sized pool and a pool bar that is open all day, serving food and drink. Malia Beach has crystal clear water, shingle sand and plenty of beach activities, such as Banana Boats and pedalos. Despite the busy main strip, the beach is surprisingly surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens. Best deal: Seven nights self-catering, flying from London Stansted with Jet2holidays, which includes a 22kg suitcase each. Book with jet2holidays Kaloudis Village Apartments, Corfu, £357pp The Greek islands are full of character and this hotel perfectly embodies that. This family-run complex is loved by guests who often return for a second or third visit. Think lots of Greek charm, a community feel and set within beautiful landscaped gardens. It's near the beach, too. The sandy Arilas Beach is a beautiful, sheltered cove and ideal for families who want to play in the sand and the shallow waves. At the hotel, there's a pool bar that hosts quizzes and bingo in the evenings. Even if you don't win, you'll likely make a friend for life. Best deal: Seven nights self-catering, flying from Birmingham with TUI, which includes a 20kg suitcase each, £35. Book with Kavos Psarou Studios And Apartments, Zante, £349 Another resort that oozes Greek charm is Kavos Psarou in Zante. This collection of studios & apartments is quietly located in an olive-tree garden, next to the Blue Flag Psarou Beach. The apartments here, many of which have views of the sea, feel like a home away from home, so ideal for a longer stay. In the garden, guests will find BBQ facilities, wooden benches and tables, as well as hammocks and sun loungers. A playground is available for children, while parents can chill out and pretend they've swapped real life for a Mama Mia existence for a while. The town of Tsilivi and the main port of Zakynthos are just a short drive away, so there is plenty of chance to venture out and explore. Best deal: Seven nights self-catering, flying on 28th July from London Gatwick on TUI, £349 per person from
Daily Mail
12-06-2025
- Daily Mail
The beautiful destination that's a cheap and sunny swap for Dubai
A gorgeous destination in Turkey has been described as an affordable swap for a holiday in Dubai. According to new research which looked at prices in several top destinations, a five-day trip to Antalya in Turkey will cost Brits around £640. Meanwhile the same trip in Dubai could cost tourists a whopping £896, more than £250 extra. Antalya is a Turkish resort city located on the country's beautiful and sunny Turquoise Coast. Lonely Planet reveals: 'The largest city on Turkey's western Mediterranean coastline is both classically beautiful and stylishly modern. 'The old city wraps around a splendid Roman-era harbour with clifftop views of hazy-blue mountain silhouettes that are worth raising a toast to.' Antalya's best-rated attraction on Tripadvisor is Kaleci, its seafront historic district that dates back to the Roman era. Within its winding streets tourists will find Hadrian's Gate, the city's clock tower and the Tekeli Mehmet Pasa Cami, an Ottoman-era mosque. At Antalya museum, visitors will find collections spanning from the Paleolithic Age to the Ottoman era. But of course many of the millions of tourists who visit Antalya every year are travelling for the Turquoise Coast's spectacular beaches. Konyaalti Beach is the region's best-rated on Tripadvisor. Sunbathers can enjoy crystal-clear water and gorgeous views of the mountains. Another top spot on the Turquoise Coast, Lara Beach is known for its golden sand and stretches for 8km. Jet2, British Airways, easyJet, Pegasus and TUI all offer direct flights from the UK to Antalya. The flight takes around four and a half hours. Total Travel Protection, which commissioned the research, also recommends going to Prague instead of London and Marrakech instead of Bali. But if you've got your heart set on a break in Dubai or Bali, one of the team's travel experts has shared their top tips to save on a luxury holiday. Sarah Findlay, travel expert at Total Travel Protection, explains: 'Don't overlook five-star hostels. You can get rooftop pools, designer decor and private suites for a fraction of what you'd pay at a luxury hotel. 'When it comes to dining, lunch is the ultimate luxury hack. Many Michelin-starred or fine dining restaurants offer lunchtime tasting menus at a fraction of the evening price, with the same quality and service. 'It's an easy way to elevate your experience without blowing through your budget.' And if you're looking for a bargain city break, new research has revealed the cheapest destination for a holiday that won't break the bank. According to the research, Linz in Austria is one of this year's cheapest destinations to fly to with one-way trips available for under £17.
