How often, while on holiday, have you wished you could stay there forever? The sun, the sea, the laidback lifestyle – they’re all strong motivators for deciding to make the change. Turkey is a popular choice for many seeking a move overseas, and Alanya in particular is proving a first-time buyers’ paradise.

This beautiful seaside resort in Antalya province lies on the Mediterranean coast. Its temperate climate means Alanya enjoys some 300 days of sunshine each year, while the winters are mild enough to allow for day trips, alfresco lunches and all kind of enjoyable activities. While tourism remains a major economic force, increasing numbers of foreigners are choosing to make it their permanent home.

A Lifestyle To Savour

One of the biggest attractions for those who decide to invest in property in Alanya is the thought of seaside living. The long, sandy beaches are irresistible all year round, whether you’re enjoying a solitary winter stroll or prefer to soak up the summer sun with the crowds before cooling off in the turquoise waters.

Rushing around is a thing of the past once you move to Alanya. There’s time to appreciate your surroundings, to discover its treasures, to forge new friendships and nourish your body and mind. A slower pace of life is something we crave while we’re working nine to five; you’ll find it here.

Affordable Indulgence

If you’re wondering whether to look at property for sale in Alanya, how much it costs to live there will be a key deciding factor. Don’t worry. Those who have made the move will tell you it’s possible to enjoy a high standard of living for much less than in many other countries.

Utility costs are much lower than in the UK, for example, while you’ll be able to fill your bags full of local, delicious fruit and vegetables for less than the price of a punnet of imported, out-of-season supermarket strawberries.

Whether you’re living off savings, investment income or a regular pension, you’ll find you’re able to cover the basics and enjoy regular luxuries such as eating out.

Low Property Prices

Of course, how much a villa or apartment in Alanya will cost is one of the most important questions you’ll ask if you’re considering a move. There are more than a hundred different districts and areas for homebuyers to choose from, and naturally the price of your property will depend on your requirements.

A traditional, two-bedroom apartment in the sought-after seaside suburb of Mahmutlar, for example, could be yours for under £50,000 (€57,600). A four-bedroom duplex penthouse with panoramic sea views in the centre of Alanya can cost as little as £205,000 (€236,120). You can see all our  properties for sale in Alanya here.

Excellent transport links

Whether you’re travelling for pleasure, business or need to return to your homeland quickly, good transport links are essential for overseas property investors. Alanya benefits from being close to not just one but two airports. Antalya Airport is around 114km away – a drive of around two hours. Alternatively, Gazipaşa is approximately 38km in the other direction, with a journey time of an hour.

For inter-city travel, go to the otogar. There are direct buses to destinations including Antalya, Ankara and Bodrum, and they are generally comfortable vehicles with air-conditioning and on-board refreshments.

To get around more locally, the Alanya City buses have useful PA systems to let you know where you are and what the next stop will be. An Alanya Kentkart is the easiest way to pay – top up at one of numerous locations and simply hold it up to the card reader when you board for inexpensive travel.

A mix of traditional and modern life

One of the joys of living overseas is discovering a new way of life. Alanya may be predominantly a tourist area, but you’ll still find a wealth of Turkish tradition. Explore traditional villages in the area, pass the time of day over several glasses of çay in the teahouse, or linger over kahvaltı. Shop at the markets for fruit, vegetables, fish, spices and more. Immerse yourself in Turkish life.

When you’re ready for a change, you’ll find plenty of expat groups and societies. Make new friends and join in activities from dance classes and quizzes to organised walks. You’ll soon find your tribe, and then you can have the best of both worlds.