I pack up and head south on Monday, officially escaping just in time — it’s forecast to be a brisk -2°C here, which feels like a very good cue to leave. Saying goodbye will be a little bittersweet, but the thought of my next adventure makes it easier — especially knowing it comes with dogs. Lots of dogs. I’ve been seriously missing that dog energy 🐾
The plan is a couple of nights in Afyonkarahisar, right in the heart of central Turkey, followed by two nights in Antalya to ring in New Year’s Eve on the southern coast — sunshine, sea air, and celebrations about 100km from Alanya. On 2 January, I start at a Pet Hotel in Alanya, where I’ve committed to two weeks… with the tempting possibility of extending if it feels right.
And if the weather plays nicely, I may even sneak in some walking along the Lycian Way. This ancient coastal trail stretches for over 500km between Fethiye and Antalya, weaving past dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, and Lycian ruins — often described as one of the most beautiful long-distance walks in the world. Not a bad way at all to welcome the new year.
