The Nearest Pool for Miles

We stayed at the Ancere Termal Otel with three small children in a two bedroom suite for a very reasonable 250 Turkish lira per night. The rooms were large, there were two bathrooms and the beds comfortable. On the down side, the food - all Turkish cuisine - can get a little bit same same, but it was fine for a short stay. The staff are helpful and friendly. Llittle English is spoken but you will always manage to get by with a bit of miming. There is no English TV. The hotel is situated in Havza, a 90km drive south of Samsun. It is very cold so be prepared. The Ancere has a large swimming pool which is clean and warm BUT it is only open to women in the morning while men can swim in the afternoons and the evenings. The Turkish Hamams or Baths in the hotel (2 smaller pools, one warm and one very hot) are open 24 hours a day. There is one for women and one for men. You can also have a traditional Turkish massage which is inexpensive. It is a real experience and should not be missed. Havza is only 300km from Ankara so it might be a good place to stop on the way. If you want to see a bit of Turkey away from the tourist scene, this is a good place to try.