The Kalkan Regency is far more than a hotel. It’s a family-run property, and that family spirit shines through in everything it does. From the moment I started working here, I was struck by how many members of the team had been with the hotel for years, even decades. That says a lot. There is genuine pride, commitment and warmth throughout the hotel, and guests quickly become part of that extended family.

Many of our returning guests have been visiting for 20 years or more, with some now returning for an incredible 28 years. Over four seasons, I have had the pleasure of welcoming back familiar faces time and again. It often feels less like checking guests into a hotel and more like greeting old friends. I'm incredibly lucky to be part of that experience.

One of the things guests love most about the Regency is the sense of space and tranquillity. The family has carefully protected that feeling by purchasing neighbouring land, ensuring that the beautiful open surroundings and endless views will remain untouched for future generations of guests to enjoy.

The gardens themselves are a real labour of love. Masuda spends countless hours planning and planting every year, and the results are spectacular. Mature bay hedges, colourful jacaranda trees and fragrant frangipani create a setting that becomes more beautiful with every passing season. Many guests tell me that simply sitting amongst the flowers with a morning coffee is one of their favourite moments of the day.

Another highlight is the hotel's connection to the land. The Regency has its own smallholding in nearby Islamlar, where much of the produce used in the kitchens is grown. One of my favourite sights is Chef Gürcan arriving at the poolside restaurant carrying a huge crate of freshly picked greens, ready to prepare vibrant salads and dishes just hours after harvest.

I have even been lucky enough to share lunch with owner Nuri on occasion. His favourite salad combines fresh greens, figs and oranges from the region. It's beautifully simple, wonderfully refreshing and perfectly captures the flavours of Mediterranean living.

Another recent labour of love has been the refurbishment of our beautiful 32-metre gulet, Poseidon. Having seen the care and attention that went into every detail, it has been wonderful to watch her emerge looking absolutely stunning. Many of our guests tell me that their day aboard Poseidon is one of the highlights of their holiday. There is something very special about exploring the coastline, swimming in crystal-clear bays and enjoying lunch on deck while watching the mountains and sea drift by. Whether joining a leisurely day cruise or one of the magical sunset and moonlight trips, Poseidon offers guests a chance to experience the beauty of the Turkish coast from a completely different perspective.

The attention to detail throughout the hotel is exceptional. The team has an uncanny ability to anticipate what guests need before they even ask. Whether it's arranging a special table, remembering a favourite drink or helping celebrate an important occasion, nothing ever feels like too much trouble. That willingness to go the extra mile is something guests frequently comment on.

There's also a wonderful sense of fun. Over the years, traditions have developed that guests look forward to just as much as the warm sunshine. During one memorable moonlight swimming trip, the crew played the theme from Jaws while guests swam beneath a sky full of stars. Many of our regular guests have become such good friends of the hotel that favourite dishes on the menu have ended up being affectionately named after them. It's these personal touches that make the Regency feel unique.

The hotel continues to evolve too. The poolside Standard Rooms were beautifully refurbished last year and have been extremely popular this season. Looking ahead, the remaining Standard Rooms will undergo their own transformation this winter, ensuring that guests continue to enjoy the high standards of comfort the Regency is known for.

Perhaps that's why the hotel enjoys such remarkable loyalty. Guests return for the beautiful setting, the excellent food, the gardens, the spa, unforgettable days aboard Poseidon and the stunning views across Kalkan Bay. Many also rave about the outdoor wellness cabana, where there can be few better ways to spend an hour than enjoying a relaxing massage surrounded by birdsong and fragrant gardens.

But above all, I think they return because of the people.

Simpson Travel first introduced holidaymakers to Kalkan 20 years ago, and since then countless guests have discovered what makes this corner of Turkey so special. The Kalkan Regency has remained at the heart of that story, combining genuine Turkish hospitality with a level of care and attention that is increasingly rare. Every week I say goodbye to guests who promise they never return to the same place twice, only to find themselves booking again before they've even reached the airport.

And honestly, I completely understand why.

If you've never visited Kalkan before, I hope we've given you a glimpse of what makes the Kalkan Regency so special. Whether it's the stunning views across the bay, long lazy lunches overlooking the pool, a day cruising aboard Poseidon, a relaxing massage in one of the wellness cabanas, or simply being welcomed like an old friend from the moment you arrive, there's something here that stays with you long after you leave.

We would love to welcome you and share a little of the magic that has kept guests returning for decades... hope to see you soon!

Laura Bulut
Concierge, Kalkan Regency Hotel