Kemer: The Jewel of Antalya's Turquoise Coast

• HelloMerhaba
  [Mehr-hah-bah]
• GoodbyeHoşçakal
  [Hosh-cha-kal]
• YesEvet
  [Eh-vet]
• NoHayır
  [Hah-yuhr]
• Please/You're welcomeLütfen
  [Loot-fen]
• Thank youTeşekkür ederim
  [Teh-sheh-kur eh-deh-reem]
• Excuse me/SorryÖzür dilerim
  [Oz-oor dee-leh-reem]
• How are you?Nasılsın?
  [Nah-suhl-suhn]
• Fine. And you?İyiyim. Sen?
  [Ee-yee-yim. Sen?]
• Do you speak English?İngilizce konuşuyor musun?
  [Een-gee-leez-jeh koh-noo-shu-yor moos-oon]
• I don't understandAnlamıyorum
  [Ahn-lah-muh-yor-um]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMenüyü görmek istiyorum, lütfen
  [Men-oo-yoo guhr-mehk ees-tee-yor-um, loot-fen]
• I don't eat meatBen et yemem
  [Ben et yeh-mem]
• Cheers!Şerefe!
  [Sheh-reh-feh]
• I would like to pay, pleaseÖdemek istiyorum, lütfen
  [O-deh-mehk ees-tee-yor-um, loot-fen]

• Help!Yardım edin!
  [Yar-duhm eh-deen]
• Go away!Uzaklaş!
  [Oo-zahk-lahsh]
• Call the Police!Polisi arayın!
  [Poh-lee-see ah-rah-yuhn]
• Call a doctor!Bir doktor çağırın!
  [Beer dohk-tor chah-ee-reen]
• I'm lostKayboldum
  [Kah-yohl-doom]
• I'm illHastayım
  [Hah-stah-yuhm]

• I'd like to buy...Satın almak istiyorum...
  [Sah-tuhn ahl-mahk ees-tee-yor-um]
• I'm just lookingSadece bakıyorum
  [Sah-deh-jeh bah-kuh-yor-um]
• How much is it?Kaç lira?
  [Kahch lee-rah]
• That's too expensiveBu çok pahalı
  [Boo chohk pah-hah-luh]
• Can you lower the price?Fiyatı düşürebilir misiniz?
  [Fee-yah-tuh doo-sheh-reh-bee-leer mees-neez]

• What time is it?Saat kaç?
  [Saht kahch]
• It's one o'clockSaat bir
  [Saht beer]
• Half past (10)On buçuk
  [On boo-chook]
• MorningSabah
  [Sah-bah]
• AfternoonÖğleden sonra
  [Oh-leh-dehn ah-suh-rah]
• EveningAkşam
  [Ahk-shahm]
• YesterdayDün
  [Doon]
• TodayBugün
  [Boo-goon]
• TomorrowYarın
  [Yah-ruhn]
• 1Bir
  [Beer]
• 2İki
  [Ee-kee]
• 3Üç
  [Ooch]
• 4Dört
  [Dohrt]
• 5Beş
  [Besh]
• 6Altı
  [Ahl-tuh]
• 7Yedi
  [Yeh-dee]
• 8Sekiz
  [Seh-keez]
• 9Dokuz
  [Doh-kooz]
• 10On
  [On]

• Where's a/the...?... nerede?
  [Neh-reh-deh]
• What's the address?Adres ne?
  [Ah-drehs neh]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Bana gösterebilir misiniz (haritada)?
  [Bah-nah guhs-teh-reh-bee-leer mees-neez (hah-ree-tah-dah)]
• When's the next (bus)?Bir sonraki (otobüs) ne zaman?
  [Beer sohn-rah-kee (oh-toh-boo-s) neh zah-mahn]
• A ticket (to ....)Bir bilet (....'ya)
  [Beer bee-let (yah)]

Kemer's history can be traced back to ancient times, with its area believed to have been inhabited by the Lycians, an ancient civilization known for their unique rock-cut tombs and maritime prowess. The nearby ruins of Phaselis, an ancient Lycian city, reflect the rich history of trade and cultural exchange in this region. The strategic coastal location facilitated connections with other ancient civilizations, including the Greeks and Romans.

During the Ottoman Empire, Kemer was a small fishing village, and its strategic location made it a vital point for maritime activities. The Ottomans recognized its potential for trade and agriculture. The region remained relatively undeveloped until the 20th century when tourism began to take shape in Antalya, leading to Kemer's gradual transformation into a popular resort destination.

The 1980s marked a significant turning point for Kemer as the Turkish government invested in tourism infrastructure. The establishment of hotels, restaurants, and recreational facilities attracted both domestic and international tourists. Kemer became renowned for its stunning beaches, natural beauty, and vibrant nightlife, contributing greatly to the local economy and creating a new cultural identity centered around tourism.

Kemer hosts various cultural festivals that celebrate its rich heritage and the traditions of the region. Events such as the Kemer International Folk Dance Festival showcase local folk dances, music, and crafts, highlighting the diversity of cultures that have influenced the area over the centuries. These festivals not only promote local culture but also foster a sense of community among residents and visitors alike.

In recent years, Kemer has focused on sustainable tourism practices to preserve its natural landscapes and historical sites. Initiatives aimed at protecting the Mediterranean coastline and promoting eco-tourism have gained traction, reflecting a growing awareness of environmental issues. This shift not only enhances the visitor experience but also ensures that Kemer's cultural and natural heritage can be enjoyed by future generations.

Kemer is located approximately 40 kilometers southwest of Antalya city center. You can reach Kemer by taking a direct bus from Antalya's main bus terminal (Otogar), which operates regularly throughout the day. Alternatively, taxis are available for a quicker, though more expensive, option. If you’re arriving at Antalya Airport, shuttle services can also take you directly to Kemer.

Kemer is a compact resort town, making it easy to navigate on foot. Local minibuses (dolmuş) run frequently and connect you to nearby beaches and attractions. Bicycle rentals are also popular and provide a great way to explore the scenic coastal paths. For longer distances, taxis and ride-hailing apps are available.

Kemer is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping your belongings secure. Areas such as the beach after dark can occasionally attract petty crime, so it’s best to stay vigilant. Scams targeting tourists can occur, so be cautious of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited assistance.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for ambulance services or 155 for police assistance. The local hospital is equipped to handle medical emergencies, and it’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers health issues. Pharmacies are readily available for minor health concerns.

Fashion: Do wear light, breathable clothing suitable for warm weather. In religious sites, avoid wearing shorts or sleeveless tops. Religion: Do respect local customs, like removing shoes when entering mosques. Public Transport: Do be polite and offer your seat to elderly passengers. Don't engage in loud conversations on public transport. Greetings: Do greet with a smile and a handshake; Turkish people appreciate friendliness. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like 'pide' and 'kebabs'. Don't drink alcohol in public areas where it may be frowned upon.

To experience Kemer like a local, visit the bustling Kemer market on Mondays for fresh produce and local goods. Engage with local fishermen at the marina for a taste of the day’s catch. For a unique experience, take a boat tour along the coast to explore hidden coves and secluded beaches that are less frequented by tourists.