When dining out, what are the main things you look for in a restaurant? For me, it's great food, great atmosphere, personalized service, all at a terrific price.
If you happen to be travelling in Turkey along the Aegean coast, you can have all of this with a 360 degree sea view to boot! It's all available on a dining boat.
Dining boats are becoming more and more popular in coastal cities, catering to locals and tourists alike. I can honestly say there are few better ways to experience local cuisine at it's freshest and finest.
On my lastest trip, we had a wonderful selection of salads and "meze," a line-up of Turkish appetizers, all made with fresh vegetables picked that morning and locally produced olive oil. The main course was the grilled catch of the day, cooked up and served simply, like most Turkish fish.
Whether you're planning a daily excursion or an extended tour, or travelling with a private boat or yacht, arranging a dining boat is easily. Just ask your hotel or tour guide for more information.
If you want to learn more about the Turkish dining boat experience, and find links to great Turkish "meze," or appetizer recipes, read the article Dining on the Sea Near Bodrum, Turkey.
For more information about Aegean and other regional Turkish cuisine, read Regional Variations in Turkish Cuisine
Photo © Elizabeth Taviloglu, 2012