Misela

Misela
founder Serra Türker, a former fine-art painter and a
designer for Tocca, has a proclivity for travel. Part of the
international jet set, when in London (and in need of a place to
crash) Istanbul-born Türker heads for members-only club, Annabel’s
in London’s Mayfair.

For the accessories label Misela’s latest collaboration (and a
first for Annabel’s), Türker presents a series of gold-chevron,
travel-centric pieces (think beach totes, pochettes, clutches and
cosmetic cases) perfect for carrying our kit from Istanbul (where the brand is
based) to the shores of Alaçatı on Turkey’s Çeşme Peninsula; that
is before drifting onwards to Spetses or Antiparos (two of the designer’s
favourite Greek Islands).

While collecting our bespoke leather-trimmed tote from Misela’s
boutique on Mount Street (flashing our Annabel’s membership card at
the till), Türker gave us the rundown on why the tiny village of
Alaçatı is summer’s hottest spot.

The best day to arrive in town is…

Weekends are very busy during high season, so if you want some
quiet time I’d arrive midweek to truly enjoy the place.

Where should we stay?

In Alaçatı town, Alavya and Manastır are both great. Outside
of town, a new hotel called The Stay is worth checking
out.

What’s Alaçatı’s dress code?

Boho chic.

Where are the best spots for shopping?

Lisa Corti, Ojarna, Taka, Haremlique and also the antique shops in Hacı
Memiş.

Must-visit markets…

Alaçatı market on Saturdays in the town are known for its
vegetables, fruits, textiles etc.

Where’s good for lunch?

The Beach clubs: Fun Beach, Spiaggia Grande, Beach of
Momo and Shayna Beach. For something local, try pide (Turkish
pizza) at Dost Pide or Kumrucu Sevki, near Ilıca, which
is known for its signature sandwiches.

How about a romantic dinner?

Asma Yaprağı.

For after dinner drinks head to…

Dokuz Buçuk, Traktör or Plaka.

The best way to spend a Sunday here is…

At the beach club, enjoying the sea and sun.

For a spot of culture head to…

Ephesus and St Virgin Mary’s House near Selçuk (about an hour
and a half from Alaçatı).

The best beaches in town…

There are so many. Fun Beach, Alaçatı 11, La Boheme, Before Sunset, Beach of Momo and Plage Isolee.

Somewhere only locals know about…

Ovacık and Alaçatı Market Place are both great for
breakfast.

Other spots on the Çesme Peninsula worth exploring
include…

Chios Island and Archaeological Site-Erythrai Ildır are must
visits.

What key pieces do you always pack when travelling?

It depends on the season but I always pack statement jewellery
and my cosmetic case is a must for me.

A souvenir to bring home…

Mastic lokum (Turkish delights), mastic jam, Turkish cotton
scarves, natural soaps and natural olive oil.